Parkha wins title, Shabbir sets pace amidst rain drama at JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf
Parkha wins title, Shabbir sets pace amidst rain drama at JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf
Lahore: The 11th JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship 2025 delivered a compelling mix of skill, strategy, and resilience as players battled both fierce competition and unpredictable weather at Lahore Gymkhana Golf Course.
Parkha Ijaz Claims Ladies Amateur Title with Clinical Precision
In the Ladies Amateur Division, Parkha Ijaz delivered a masterclass in consistency and control, clinching the top gross honors with an impressive total score of 234. Her dominance was particularly evident during the second round, where she fired sublime rounds of 71 and 70, setting herself apart with composed putting and sharp course management. Bushra Fatima (239) and Aania Farooq Syed (247) secured second and third place in the gross category, rounding off the top-tier performers.
In the net category, Saqiba Batool emerged victorious with a net score of 230. Leveraging her 17-handicap with smart decision-making, she outpaced her competitors. Aleesa Rashid (262) and Ana James Gill (238) followed in second and third place, respectively, showcasing grit and determination.
The dual focus on gross and net categories highlighted not only pure golfing prowess but also the strategic edge that handicaps bring, offering a well-rounded celebration of talent.
Shabbir’s Stellar 65 Headlines Men’s Professional Division
Despite challenging weather conditions and rain-induced delays, the second round of the Men’s Professional Division produced electrifying performances. Foremost among them was Muhammad Shabbir, who fired a sensational 65—four strokes better than his solid opening round of 69. His dominance in the wet, softened conditions was underscored by impeccable drives and a clinical short game, reasserting his status as a championship favorite.
Talib Hussain and Asif Ali made remarkable comebacks, each carding 67s after difficult opening rounds. Their nine-stroke improvements were a testament to mental resilience and technical adjustments. Muhammad Minhaj also stood out, improving to a 68 and moving into second place, displaying calm under pressure and consistency across both rounds.
Conversely, players like Kamran Shafiq (74 from 70) and Muhammad Zubair (73 from 70) faced setbacks as the demanding conditions exposed flaws in precision and adaptability. Interestingly, six of the top ten players improved their scores in Round 2, with the average top-10 score dropping from 71.8 to 70.7. Meanwhile, the overall field saw a 1.5-stroke increase in scoring average—underscoring that adaptability and mental strength separated the elite from the rest.
Rain and Resilience: The Unsung Heroes Behind the Scenes
The tournament’s opening day was marked by rain that forced the postponement of the amateur division’s first round. Yet the championship was kept alive thanks to the tireless efforts of greenkeepers and course staff. Armed with blowers, rollers, and relentless dedication, they restored playability and ensured a fair contest despite nature’s disruption.
“We can’t thank the ground crew enough,” said a senior tournament committee member. “Their efforts often go unnoticed, but they made this event possible.”
Organizers and Referees: The Backbone of Fair Play
Tournament organizers issued a statement applauding the players’ professionalism and patience. “This championship is not just about scores; it’s about spirit. From players to staff, everyone rose to the occasion. The show went on because of you.”
A quiet yet crucial figure throughout the event was Chief Referee Munazza Shaheen, who upheld the tournament’s integrity with diligence and fairness—particularly in managing rain-affected zones and maintaining consistent rule enforcement.
