Muscat – The Grand finale of the Oman Golf Trophy concluded in the stunning surroundings of Al Mouj Golf in Muscat on Tuesday, with Barbara Morati claiming the Oman Golf Trophy title for the women with 29 points and Enrico Bardazzi clinching the title for the men with 32 points. Barbara qualified for the Final by winning at Circolo Golf Villa d’Este in Italy, which was played on October 2, 2022. The men’s winner, Bardazzi, qualified for the final by winning at Circolo Golf Rapallo, which was played on November 13, 2022. The Italian leg of the Oman Golf Trophy was played on seven of the most prestigious courses in Italy between September to November 2022, culminating in this week’s finale in Muscat, with 14 of the Italian leg qualifying winners competing head-to-head for the title. The tournament reached its conclusion after an action-packed week for the players who were treated to a tourism and investment awareness program to complement their golf interests while in Oman. Al Mouj Golf, which played host to some of the best golfers in the world recently in the International Series Oman event, once again glistened in the Omani sun proving a tough test for golfers for Oman’s guests from Italy. On March 5, Al Mouj Golf welcomed a friendly practice round which included Omani businesspeople and club members, as well as Omani sports icons to enjoy the afternoon and network. Barbara relished the opportunity to compete in the event and on presentation of the trophy, by H E Mohammed al Wahaibi, Undersecretary for Administrative and Financial Affairs in Foreign Ministry, said, “It’s been a great experience to be a part of the Oman Golf Trophy, and have the chance to play such a fantastic golf course. The location is wonderful – on the coastline and next to the mountains. The people in Oman have been amazing. I am very honoured to be here and to experience all the destination has to offer. ” Bardazzi, added: “What a golf course. It was a great challenge and the people of Oman have been so welcoming. Hopefully this can be the start of a great partnership between Italy and Oman and encourage others to come and experience the beauty of the Sultanate that we have witnessed this week. ” The Oman Golf Trophy, a unique golf diplomacy initiative, aims to promote investment and tourism opportunities in Oman in line with Oman Vision 2040, with the Sultanate of Oman aiming to leverage golf as an elegant ambassador to highlight the natural beauty of the country for travellers and strengthen diplomatic ties between Oman and Italy with such people to people initiatives. The Oman Golf Trophy concluded at the spectacular Royal Opera House in Muscat at a closing ceremony with H E Wahaibi, as the guest of honour. Guests enjoyed a tour of the stunning venue, followed by the trophy giving ceremony and a celebratory dinner. The evening had a unique music set by Oman’s own premier harpist Badr al Busafi harmonising with Italy’s Matteo Andreini on the piano. The music was thoroughly enjoyed by the officials and OGT participants and sponsoring entities alike. During the closing ceremony Foreign Minister H E Sayyid Badr al Busaidy’smessage was clear, “Oman is known as a land of peace and neutrality, principles which align closely with the spirit of sportsmanship. But we always consider it the highest compliment when told that we are also known for our hospitality. ” He continued, “Our culture has been enriched by centuries of engagement with people from around the globe. This tournament has, without a doubt, provided an invaluable opportunity for such engagement. We hope the intersection of business and leisure, and Oman’s sport and adventure portfolio, has helped to further promote our trade and investment relations, as well as people to people connections. ”.