Franco Botha | Director of Golf
Background: Originally from Pretoria, South Africa I moved abroad shortly after finishing high school to start what has been an amazing journey working for Troon Golf. Since joining the prestigous Saadiyat Beach Golf Club designed by Gary Player in 2010 as a 20 year old, I have gained invaluable experience in all areas of the operation of some world class golf facilities. In the time spent at Saadiyat Beach Golf club I have been honored to work with some amazing people and building some lifelong friendships along the way. In 2015 I was given the oppourtunity to further grow within the Troon family moving to The Els Club, Dubai where I spent another 4 years before joining the team at The Royal Golf Club, Bahrain.
Interests: I welcome new challenges and have a passion to improve on yesterday’s achievements while meeting new people and building strong relationships with those around me.
Darrow Thomas | Golf Operations Manager
Country: South Africa
Background: Having grown up in Johannesburg, an area known for its numerous and diverse golf courses as well as year round golfing weather, I picked up the game at the relatively late age of 14. I quickly fell for the unique nuances and challenges of the game we all know and love. I completed my PGA training at the University of Pretoria and began working as a junior teaching professional at Country Club Johannesburg where I continued honing my craft as a golf instructor for four years. In 2019 I moved abroad to Bahrain to continue as a teaching professional with The Academy at RGC. I was able to take the lead role of Head Teaching Professional in early 2021 and after an eight year coaching career, in early 2023 I made the transition to the Operations Department as Golf Operations Manager. While I will miss the time on the lesson tee, I am excited for the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Interests: I enjoy various sports and time in the gym. Like many South Africans I enjoy outdoor activities and nature. Another hobby I have is playing instruments including guitar, piano and bass.
Sam Hobday | Tournament Coordinator
Country: United Kingdom
Background: Moved to Bahrain in 1997 and have played golf my whole life. Went through the collegiate system in the United States, before returning to Bahrain and becoming a professional golfer in 2016. I became the ambassador to The Royal Golf Club in January 2017 as a touring professional, playing many different golf tours all over the world. In September 2022 I was given the opportunity to become the Golf Club’s Tournament Coordinator and I am excited to begin my journey within the Troon family.
Interests: Playing golf & football, and watching any sport under the sun.
Masooma Hayat | Member Relations Coordinator
Country: Bahrain
Background: I was born in Muharraq but raised in Safrah in the south of Bahrain, close to The Royal Golf Club. I started work at The Club in 2008 as a Receptionist and was promoted to Senior Reservationist in 2011. I became the Reservations Supervisor in 2015 and as of 2022 I am in the role of Member Relations Coordinator in which I assist with all member related needs. I thoroughly enjoy my work as I have the opportunity to meet such a wide range of people from different countries and cultures.
Interests: Cinema, dining out, cosmetics & spending time with my family.