Soni Wali Ladies Amateur Championship empowers women’s golf in Pakistan
LAHORE: The 5th edition of the Soni Wali Ladies Amateur Championship, held at Peshawar Golf Club, has become much more than a tournament, it stands as a symbol of five years of unwavering commitment, growth, and rising standards in women’s golf across Pakistan.
Under the auspices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Golf Association (KPGA), this championship has firmly established itself as a premier national event, drawing top amateurs, juniors, and seniors from across the country to compete in a fiercely competitive environment.
The Ladies WAGR Open Category was fiercely contested, with Amna Malak claiming the 1st Gross title after three rounds totaling 254 strokes. Hot on her heels was Jannat Jami, with 256 strokes,
demonstrating impressive consistency through two rounds of 83, followed closely by Zarmina Khan, who finished third at 258. In the net competition, Noor Farid Rao’s outstanding performance saw her claim 1st Net with 158, slashing her handicap from 36 to 18.5, a clear reflection of how competition accelerates improvement. Dua Farid Rao and Shazmina Khan rounded out the top three in net standings.
Other categories echoed this depth of talent: Shabana Waheed and Sumrah Adnan led Category B in gross and net, respectively, while Wareesha Shahid and Sundas Zeeshan topped Category C. Junior golfer Maham Bukhari dominated the Girls Category, and in the Seniors, Rafaqat Abjad and Nasira Shaheen secured top honors.
This championship’s steady rise owes much to Dr. Asma Afzal Shami, whose visionary leadership and steadfast commitment over five years have shaped its unique focus on gross-only competition, demanding real skill, strategy, and mental resilience from participants.
Beyond competition, Dr. Shami’s dedication to honoring Pakistan’s golfing heritage has imbued the event with a rich sense of history, paying tribute to legends like Ghazala Ansari, Taimur Hasan, and upcoming tributes planned for Mohammad Shabir, Tahira Nazir, and Ghulam Nabi.
Strong institutional backing further bolstered the event’s success. Peshawar Golf Club, expertly managed by Wing Commander Rizwan Ali, offered a pristine course. KPGA Secretary Taimur Durrani and Lady Captain Bushra Aimal ensured a warm and professional atmosphere.
Tournament Director and Chief Referee Munazza Shaheen, with on-ground coordinator Shezil Farid, guaranteed smooth operations throughout the three-day event. Rani Wali, sister of the late Soni Wali, maintained her invaluable patronage, preserving the championship’s legacy.
Adding emotional depth, professional golfer and Soni Wali’s contemporary Tahira Nazir graced the event as a special guest, bridging the tournament’s past and present. The closing ceremony’s chief guest highlighted the social significance of women’s participation in sports, emphasizing Islam’s values of justice, respect, and empowerment
