11th JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship concludes in grand style
Shabbir Iqbal lifts the coveted trophy for record sixth time
11th JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship concludes in grand style
Shabbir Iqbal lifts the coveted trophy for record sixth time
LAHORE: The 11th J.A. Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship came to a spectacular close at Lahore Gymkhana, marked by passion, fierce competition, and an unforgettable celebration of the game of golf.
The championship lived up to its reputation as one of Pakistan’s most prestigious golfing events, bringing together over 500 golfers from across the country in a display of talent, sportsmanship, and tradition.
In the men’s professional category, golfing legend Shabbir Iqbal once again stamped his authority on the national circuit, winning the title for a record 6th time at the JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship. Leading the field with an impressive score of 274, for three consecutive days, Shabbir’s remains the most decorated golfer in Pakistan’s history.
It was a truly iconic moment to see the legend lift the trophy once again amidst loud applause. Following him closely Muhammad Ashfaq won 2nd place at 277 and joint 3rd place held by Muhammad Minhaj and Matloob Ahmad, both at 278.
The Amateurs added to the excitement, with Mr. Wazir Ali Khan claiming 1st net with a score of 141. Mr. Abdullah Farooqi finished closely behind in 2nd net, also with a score of 141, while Mr. Ghulam Qadir finished 3rd net with the same score of 141. In the gross category, Mr. Qasim Ali Khan took 1st gross with an impressive score of 143, followed by Mr. Irtaza Hussain at 145 and Mr. Hussain Hamid also at 145.
The ladies competition showcased exceptional talent as well. Affifa Yawar took home the 3rd net (238), while Saqiba Batool was just ahead in 2nd net at 230. The top honors in ladies net went to Bushra Fatima, who matched the score of 230 but earned the 1st position due to a better tiebreaker. In the gross scores, Parkha Ijaz captured 1st gross at 234, followed by Dr. Aania Farooq Syed and Ana James Gill in 2nd and 3rd gross with scores of 247 and 262, respectively.
The Junior categories, run under the Ace Junior Golf League (AJGL), witnessed incredible performances from the future stars of Pakistan golf. In the girls categories, Haman Irfan won the elite category, Aliha Amjad topped the albatross category, Noor Bano Ch claimed the eagle category and Noor Farid Rao won the birdie category. Among the boys, Yahya Ahsan clinched the elite title, Rayyan Faraz won albatross category, Barik Ayub earned eagle title and Shahzain Iftikhar was the winner of the birdie category.
The senior professionals category saw Muhammad Tariq securing 1st place, scoring an impressive 142. Joint 3rd positions were held by M Naseer, Tahir Naseem, and M Akram, all tied at 146. In the seniors amateur category, Gen Azhar Naveed Hayat achieved 3rd net at 148, followed by Mr. Ahsan Ghias in 2nd net at 146, and Tariq Usman claiming 1st net with a score of 142. In terms of gross scores, Mr. Ahmad Zafar Hayat won 1st gross with a score of 150, while Brig. Masood Qureshi and Sardar Murad Khan placed 2nd and 3rd gross with scores of 156 and 158, respectively.
The grand prize distribution ceremony was graced by the entire Zaman family, led by Hamid Zaman and his sons, celebrating the legacy of the late JA Zaman, a true golf lover and single handicapper whose passion for the game lives on through this championship.
Hamid Zaman expressed heartfelt appreciation for everyone who played a role in making the prestigious event a resounding success. He praised Convenor Golf Wajid Aziz for his exceptional planning and vision, and Club Captain Taimoor Shabbir for his great support and leadership throughout the event.
He also acknowledged Tournament Director Raza Said for his meticulous coordination and attention to detail that ensured every aspect of the tournament ran smoothly.
A special tribute was reserved for Chief Referee Munazza Shaheen, Pakistan’s first lady referee, whose dedication, professionalism, and presence on the course from dawn till dusk set a shining example for all. Hamid Zaman further applauded the tireless efforts of Tournament Organizer Aahyan Mumtaz, whose 24/7 commitment, passion for the game, and flawless execution were instrumental in delivering a championship of the highest standard.
He also extended his gratitude to the entire organizing team, volunteers, and ground staff, whose collective efforts behind the scenes created a memorable experience for all participants, truly honoring the legacy of his late father, J.A. Zaman.
Mr. Hamid Zaman warmly acknowledged Dr. Asma Shami and her team’s relentless efforts in promoting golf amongst ladies and juniors. He noticed that her dedication to the sports growth and future of Pakistan was truly unprecedented.
Dr. Shami, in her address, applauded Mr. Hamid Zaman and The Zaman family’s vision for seamlessly integrating AJGL into the championship, thereby, Pakistan’s golfing future. Praising Mr. Hamid’s generosity, she noted,
among the winners at the PDC, unprecedented 27 prizes were awarded to junior participants. She emphasized the significance of WAGR only categories differentiating elite golfers from club level players, deeming it an urgent necessity.
It is pertinent to mention, to bring quality in the ladies’ category, it was kept open. The ladies braved 3 days of competition, played from white tees with a distance of 6000 yards, 54 holes. Two 11 years old, Zoay Qureshi and Maria Waqar, also participated in WAGR Category.
Tournament Director Ayyan Mumtaz proudly shared that this year’s championship was the largest in Pakistan, was streamed live on YouTube, a first for Pakistan golf. He announced that the 12th edition of the J.A. Zaman Memorial Championship will aim to go international.
The 11th edition of the event will be remembered not just for its champions but for the spirit of golf it celebrated – passion, competition, family legacy, and a commitment to the future of the sport in Pakistan.
As the sun set on Lahore Gymkhana, one thing was clear – the legacy of J.A. Zaman continues to grow stronger, inspiring golfers of all ages for years to come.
