Saudi course elevates agronomy standards with the appointment of Harry Wells and Pat Samonte to senior leadership roles.
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Shura Links has enhanced its agronomy leadership team with the appointments of Harry Wells and Pat Samonte, who bring more than three decades of international experience from preparing venues for DP World Tour events as well as overseeing elite courses in the UK, Dubai, Oman and Bermuda.
The arrival of Wells as Golf Course Superintendent and Samonte as Assistant Golf Course Superintendent marks the next chapter in the evolution of Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, as the destination continues to build its reputation for exceptional playing conditions and a premier golfing destination at The Red Sea.
Wells joins Shura Links from Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, where he served as Golf Course Superintendent and oversaw the maintenance and presentation of one of the Middle East’s most prestigious golfing venues. Originally from Hertfordshire, England, Wells grew up in the industry, inspired by his father who spent many years as a golf course manager in the United Kingdom.
Wells built his experience at leading golf facilities across the UK, Australia, and the United States before joining Dubai Golf in 2020. After moving to Dubai Creek as Assistant Superintendent, he was promoted to Golf Course Superintendent in 2022 and later oversaw preparations for a DP World Tour event.
“Shura Links is a truly unique golf destination, and the opportunity to oversee agronomic operations at Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course is both an exciting challenge and a responsibility. Our focus will be on continuing to deliver exceptional playing conditions, developing the team, and implementing sustainable practices that support the long-term success of the facility. I look forward to working closely with Pat [Samonte] and the wider team as we continue to enhance the golf experience for our guests.”
Joining Wells is highly respected turf professional Pat Samonte, who brings more than 16 years of experience in golf course construction, irrigation management, and course operations.
Samonte began his career at Port Royal Golf Course in Bermuda, where he played a key role during the renovation and grow-in phase before being appointed Lead Irrigation Technician. Since 2011, he has been part of the team at Al Mouj Golf in Oman, initially serving as Irrigation Foreman during the construction of the acclaimed Greg Norman-designed course before being promoted to Assistant Golf Course Superintendent in 2022.
Throughout his career, Samonte has developed a wealth of expertise in irrigation systems, agronomic programmes, staff development, course renovations, and operational management. He has also contributed to the successful delivery of several international tournaments, including events on the European Tour and the Asian Tour’s The International Series.
Jon Brook, General Manager at Shura Links, said: “Harry and Pat bring an outstanding combination of leadership, technical expertise and international experience to Shura Links. Both have built impressive careers at some of the industry’s most respected golf facilities and have demonstrated a commitment to excellence throughout their professional journeys.
“Their appointments reinforce our ambition to attract top talent and continue building a team capable of supporting the long-term success of Shura Links as a leading golf destination in the Kingdom.”
Designed by Brian Curley and located on Shura Island at The Red Sea, Shura Links opened for play in September last year.
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