Tight contest begins at Zaman Memorial Open Golf

LAHORE: 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 as the 11th edition of J.A. Zaman Memorial Open Golf Championship teed off here at Lahore Gymkhana Golf Club course on Tuesday.

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).

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.

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. 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.