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.

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Lahore ; The 11th edition of JA Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship teed off at Lahore Gymkhana Golf Club on April 6, 2025.

It is organized by the Zaman family in loving memory of their patriarch, Mr. J.A. Zaman, the tournament has become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s golfing calendar.

The Zaman family, known for its commitment to excellence and advancement of golf in the country, has once again set a new benchmark in promoting inclusivity, competition, and player development.

The tournament started with future stars of Pakistan golf. This category is run in partnership with Ace Junior Golf League (AJGL), Pakistan’s first premier league for children of all ages.

The senior amateurs launched their campaigns on day 2 on the lush fairways of Gymkhana in which Brig Masood Qureshi from Rawalpindi posted a staggering 74 Gross, 3 under his handicap followed by Ahmed Zafar Hayat with 75 Gross, Sardar Murad with 77 Gross and Col. Asif Mehdi with 78 Gross. With such closely matched scores, the stage is set for an intense showdown in the second round among these elite senior amateur contenders.

This year’s edition promises heightened competition in professional category with total purse of PKR 9.0 million at stake over 72 holes, and elite amateurs including lady amateurs to compete across 54 holes, with results contributing to the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).

Perhaps the most groundbreaking feature of this year’s championship is the bold new format introduced for women golfers. For the first time, lady golfers are competing on 6000+ yards course. A total of 27 registered and 21 participants opted to play the championship course setup, recommended for WAGR events. It is highly important that the players prepare themselves for international golfing stage through such events.

One of the standout moments of this year’s championship is the enthusiastic participation of juniors from the Ace Junior Golf League (AJGL), which continues to nurture some of the brightest young talents in the country. Among them, Maria Waqar, only 11 years old, is making headlines as she competes in her first-ever WAGR (World Amateur Golf Ranking) event, bravely taking on the challenge of 54 holes over three days, a feat rarely attempted in the country, at such a young age.

Equally inspiring is Zoay Qureshi, also 11, who returns for her second WAGR tournament, showing remarkable dedication and poise well beyond her years. Joining them are Meerab Rizwan and Areeba Rizwan from Rawalpindi Golf Club, both stepping up to test their mettle on this prestigious platform.

These young golfers, all products of AJGL’s developmental efforts, share a common vision, to sharpen their skills, reduce their handicaps, and evolve into disciplined, competitive golfers capable of representing Pakistan on the international stage. Their presence at the 11th J.A. Zaman Championship is not only a testament to their courage and commitment but also a sign of a bright future for golf in the country.

This powerful gesture of competitiveness and determination marks a turning point for women’s golf in the country. With the backing of visionary organizers, the J.A. Zaman Championship is proving to be a progressive platform, encouraging women to step forward with confidence and grit.

Mr. Hamid Zaman, the driving force behind the championship, expressed his optimism for the future of the tournament, saying: “We are proud to see such enthusiastic participation, especially from our lady golfers. This year is a leap forward, and we believe next year’s competition can be made even more competitive and inclusive.”

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The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) successfully concluded the ADT Rumanza Open Pakistan at Rumanza Golf and Country Club. The prestigious championship, featuring a total prize purse of $85,000, witnessed participation from 37 international players alongside Pakistan’s professional card holders recognized by PGF.

The four-day event, played over 72 holes, saw Ahmed Baig successfully defend his title, clinching the championship trophy once again with a remarkable performance.

Project Director Brigadier Ahmed Ghumman extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, PGF sponsors, Asian Tour and the management of Rumanza Golf and Country Club for their unwavering support and contribution towards the successful conduct of the championship.

A significant highlight of this year’s championship was the inclusion of five TARS-qualified referees from Pakistan who became part of the Asian Tour officiating team. The referees included Maj Rao Muhammad Ismail, Omar Javed Rao, Col Tahir Ayub, Col Zahid Iqbal, and Malik Mohammad Kamran from PGF.

The closing ceremony was graced by Lt Gen Qazi Muhammad Ikram Ahmed, President of PGF, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest and congratulated all participants, officials, and organizers for hosting an international event of such high standard.

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Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) Announces Four-Member Contingent for Asian Amateur Championship in Japan

The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) is proud to announce that a four-member contingent, including Pakistan’s No. 1 ranked amateur golfer will represent the nation at the prestigious Asian Amateur Championship.

Organized by the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), the event will take place from October 3 to 6, 2024, at the Taiheiyo Golf Club, Gotemba, Japan

Players includes: – Numan Ilyas (Pakistan Number 1) Hussain Hamid ; Salman Jehangir ; Qasim Ali Khan

The Asian Amateur Championship is one of the most significant stroke play events in the region, featuring 72 holes of competition. Pakistan’s golfers, who are ranked among the top 100 players in Asia according to the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), have earned their place in this prestigious event through their exceptional performances.

The President of the Pakistan Golf Federation, along with all executive members, extends their best wishes to the team. The PGF expresses full confidence in the abilities of these players to perform admirably on this highly competitive international stage.

“We are extremely proud of our team heading to Japan and are hopeful that they will showcase their best skills. This championship is a great opportunity for our players to further enhance their experience and represent Pakistan with honor,” stated the President of PGF.

The PGF continues its commitment to supporting and promoting the development of golf in Pakistan, ensuring that the nation’s best talent competes at the highest level on global platforms.

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Successful Conclusion of APGC Senior Team Trials by Pakistan Golf Federation

Lahore, 29 September 2024 – Sports Link

The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) has successfully concluded the trials for the APGC Senior Team at Lahore Garrison Greens, held from 26th to 29th September 2024.

The event witnessed the participation of the Top 50 Senior Amateur Men (55 years and above), showcasing their talent and competitive spirit.

For the first time in Pakistan’s golfing history, the PGF is proud to announce the inclusion of a three-member Senior Ladies’ team that will represent the country at the Senior APGC Women Team Championship.

This historic step is a testament to PGF’s commitment to promoting golf among women in Pakistan. In the Senior Amateur Men’s category, the following players have emerged as the top contenders for selection:

• Brig Omer Ejaz (Margalla Greens) • Cdr Rizwan Rashid (Margalla Greens) • Tariq Mehmood (Lahore Garrison Greens) • Asim Tiwana (Royal Palm Golf Club) These players have demonstrated exceptional skill and performance during the trials.

On the women’s side, Mrs. Tahira Nazir and Mrs. Ghazala Yasmin have been selected, while the third team member is yet to be nominated by PGF.

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