Born in Scotland, Gaughan won the Paul Lawrie Par 3 Tournament a few years back, as well as a few PGA of Scotland events while back in May 2016, he achieved a top-20 finish in the Tartan Tour’s inaugural P & H 54-hole championship at the Renaissance Club.

Four years ago, Gaughan became two-time winner on the UAEPGA Order of Merit surviving a 3 way play-off to pick up victory at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club.

As mentioned, winning the 2023 Emirates UAE PGA Championships presents Gaughan an Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) invitation to tee-up in the $300,000 Abu Dhabi Challenge.

“It was never really a target or in my thoughts. I am looking forward to next week and see if my boss will give me a little time off for at least a practice round,” said Gaughan in speaking with good friend and Dubai-based Nick Tarrant.

“I always try and play once or twice a week during the season. I will definitely practice a bit more before next Thursday. I have played the National Course at Abu Dhabi Golf Club a few times in Emirates UAE PGA events. I have just seen the published entries for the event and it will be good to catch-up with a few friends who are also playing, including Stephen Gallacher, who comes from Bathgate Golf Club, the same golf club that I grew up at.”

Stephen Wilson, Golf Operations Manager, Jumeirah Golf Estates, said at the conclusion of the presentation, “Thanks to the Emirates UAE PGA for inviting Jumeirah Golf Estates to host this prestigious event on the UAE golfing calendar. Both our golf courses are in excellent condition. It was a challenging, but fair set-up with today’s course a combination of both Green and Blue Tees playing at 7,127 yards. We congratulate Louis and all the leading players for their excellent golf.”