Death of Caddie halts Omega Dubai Ladies Masters

from VIREN VARMA

DUBAI, Dec 7 — First round play was suspended at 10.30am on Wednesday at the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters following the tragic death of caddie Maximillian  Zechmann at Emirates Golf Club.

The 56 year old Dubai based Austrian was caddying for France's Anne- Lise Caudel when he collapsed on the 13th fairway

After being immediately attended to by the on-site medical team, the caddie was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Ladies European Tour CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh commented: “Everyone at the Ladies European Tour is extremely shocked and saddened today by this sudden death and therefore we have taken the decision to suspend first round play as a mark of respect. On behalf of our membership, we offer heartfelt condolences to the individual’s family and loved ones.”

Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of this caddie. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”

Round one will resume on Thursday at 8:15am and the tournament will now be played over 54 holes.