The desert swing

If your name is Charl Schwarzel then January must be your favourite month. Back to back victories at the Joburg Open have meant another flying start to the season, and not surprisingly, a distinctly South African feel at top of the Order of Merit.

The Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen leads the way after the Tour's traditional run of four events in the Southern hemisphere.

With all due respect to the Royal Trophy, the Joburg Open and the European Tour's habit of making New Year a month or so early, the 2011 season really begins this week in Abu Dhabi as the Race to Dubai road show rolls into town for the Desert Swing.

The Abu Dhabi Golf Championship provides an impressive start to the Desert Swing and in a short span of five years, since the tournament began, it has established itself as one of the most anticipated stops on the European Tour international schedule.

Many of Europe's top players will be starting their 2011 campaigns this week, with the real coup for the event being the presence of all four Major winners from 2010. Phil Mickelson makes his regional debut alongside Graeme McDowell, Martin Kaymer and Oosthuizen forming part of a field that includes World Number One, Lee Westwood.

It all makes for an exciting tournament and a fine beginning to the Desert Swing. From Abu Dhabi the Tour arrives here in Bahrain for the first time with the Volvo Golf Champions event at the Royal Golf Club.

It is amazing to think that the course has only been open for two years and shows just how far the game has come locally and regionally. It a prospect that is exciting all golf fans across the kingdom and beyond as we head in to tournament week.

The confirmation of a field for a first event that includes Major winners, Ryder Cup captains, new young stars and established campaigners is one that should ensure a fantastic week and a great launch for the new tournament.

With a TV audience of millions around the globe tuning in, all eyes will be on the kingdom as it takes its place amongst its more established neighbours in the golfing world.

Personally I can't wait it will be a week never to forget and to be a part of it is an absolute privilege.

From Bahrain the Tour bus will roll on to Qatar and Dubai before it heads back to Europe ... but we here in Bahrain aim to give them a week to remember. Enjoy!