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In a world where the value of history often fades with time, the preservation of a nation’s or institution’s legacy serves as a testament to its enduring spirit. The legacy of KPGA is further highlighted by the Frontier Amateur Championship, which dates back to the pre-partition days. Originally known as the North West India Amateur Championship, this tournament’s historical significance is embodied in its trophies.
The Challenge Cup, 1929, for the gross champion, The Bolton Cup, 1939 for the net champion and the Gai Cup, 1934, for net champion amongst ladies, are reminders of a bygone era, where the spirit of competition transcended borders. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Golf Association (KPGA) stands as a beacon in this regard, holding a remarkable 95-year golfing history that speaks volumes of its commitment to honoring tradition and excellence. The Challenge Cup, donated by Major Wirren, is presented to the player with best gross score.
The Bolton Trophy, is presented to the best Amateur Player. The trophy is named after Major Vernon Bolton, a figure whose influence extends beyond the greens to Peshawar’s Lady Reading Hospital, where the Bolton Block bears his name. The Gai Cup has an especially rich history, being named after the distinguished Lady Gia, a prominent member of the respected Parsi community in Peshawar.
Her remarkable contribution to women’s golf in the 1930s laid the groundwork for the sport’s development in the region, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the Parsi community, not only on many institutions in Pakistan, though, particularly, on ladies golf. A Commitment to History through Excellence has been displayed by successive KPGA officials and secretaries. However Col.
Imtinan, the Tournament Director and the serving secretary, KPGA, is in a league of his own. Under his stewardship the association has not only preserved its heritage but also elevated the standard of golfing events. His meticulous attention to detail and organizational prowess were on full display during the recently concluded 53rd KP Amateur Championship, held from November 8th to 10th.
The event saw participation across various categories, including professionals, amateurs, ladies, and juniors, demonstrating KPGA’s inclusive approach to the sport. All the players played enthusiastically all 3 days of the championship. The winner of the championship was Rafi Azam, he was presented with Bolton Cup.
The KPK Amateur challenge cup was presented to the Amateur winner Usman Khattak winning gross championship. And the Gai Cup was presented to Zainab Umer winning the the lady amateur net competition. In professional category, 1st position was, Muhammad Sharif with 211 strokes, 2nd position won by Muhammad Asif scoring 214 on back count and 3rd position winner was Roman Khan playing 214 shots as well.
In main amateur men category of handicap under 12, the net winner was Rafi Azam with a net score of 203, 2nd net was Shumail Aziz with a net score of 216 and 3rd net was Ilyas Ahmed with a score of 218. The gross winner was Usman Khattak playing 219 gross. The 2nd gross position won by Umar Ali Shah playing 224, 3rd gross was Irtiza Hussain with a score of 228.
Lady Amateurs played really well with Zainab Omer playing 199 net and Sara Amin was 2nd net with a score of 209. She played the best gross score as well. His role in Empowering Women in Golf is unparalleled, in recent times.
Since 1934 The KPGA’s progressive legacy includes a long-standing tradition of promoting women’s golf in the region. Remarkably, women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been playing competitive golf since as early as 1934. This is a testament to the resilience and determination of the region’s women, who have been breaking barriers and excelling in a sport traditionally dominated by men.
One of the most celebrated figures in this journey is Ms. Soni Wali, a national champion from Peshawar and a proud representative of KPGA. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Golf Association’s unwavering dedication to preserving its rich golfing history is a testament to the value it places on tradition and excellence.
From its historical trophies to its inclusive tournaments, KPGA has set a high bar for others to follow. With leaders like Col. Imtinan at the helm and initiatives honoring champions, the KPGA is not just a golfing institution but a custodian of history.
As KPGA looks ahead, it remains committed to honoring its past while inspiring a new generation of golfers to carry forward its legacy..
