Hamza in front as Punjab Open Golf gets underway

LAHORE: Hamza Amin of Islamabad was in front on the opening day of the 43rd Punjab Open Golf Championship at the par-72 Royal Palm Golf Course on Friday.

Displaying exceptional skill and precision, Hamza Amin carded an impressive four-under-par 68 in the main professional competition taking the top spot on the leaderboard. Hamza edged ahead of prominent golfers such as Shabbir Iqbal, Matloob Ahmed, Muhammed Alam, and Muhammed Munir, solidifying his reputation as a top contender.

Trailing closely was Tahir Bashir from Defence Raya Club, who delivered a strong performance with a gross score of 69. The competition remains intense, with seven golfers tied at one-under-par 71, including seasoned players like Minhaj Maqsood, Muhammed Shabbir (a 200-title veteran), Talat Ijaz, Muhammed Saqib, Anser Mehmood, M. Zubair, and Muhammed Munir.

In the amateur category, Muhammed Abid of Royal Palm leads with a score of gross 72, demonstrating consistency and skill. Following him are Muhammed Arsalan, Qasim Ali Khan (both of Gymkhana), and Shamir Majid (Defence Raya), tied at gross 74. Shahid Abbas (Royal Palm) and Nauman Ilyas (Garrison) also delivered steady performances with scores of 75 and 76, respectively. The event, being organised by the Punjab Golf Association, began with senior professionals, junior professionals, senior amateurs and lady amateurs competing over the first two days.