The prestigious Askari Bank 11th Vice Admiral HMS Chaudhry Amateur Golf Cup 2025 is set to begin tomorrow, Thursday, at the renowned Defence Raya Golf Course in Lahore. This premier national event will see the country's finest amateur, senior, and ladies golfers vying for top honors in one of Pakistan's most respected amateur golf competitions.
National Enthusiasm and Championship Legacy
At a media briefing held at the PN War College on Tuesday, Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmad Azmie, Commander Central Punjab, emphasized the tournament's growing stature. He confirmed that the championship has become a major highlight on the national golf calendar, consistently generating widespread enthusiasm and showcasing exceptional performances from participants in its previous editions.
Rear Admiral Azmie reported high motivation among players for this year's event, with registration already open and golfers from various cities eagerly securing their spots. "This cup has gained remarkable importance over the years," he noted. "The players consistently perform with excellence, and we have arranged valuable prizes for the top performers this year as well."
Gratitude and Collaborative Support
The Rear Admiral expressed his sincere gratitude to the management of the Defence Raya Golf and Country Club for their continued collaboration. He highlighted their essential support as a key driver behind the tournament's ongoing growth and success.
"I appreciate the hard work of our team and extend my thanks to the players travelling from other cities to participate," he added. "I am confident that the championship will provide a highly satisfying experience for all." He also praised the media for its positive coverage of Navy-hosted amateur golf tournaments and expressed hope for continued support.
Competition Categories and Pathway to Professional Golf
The championship is structured into three primary competitive categories to cater to different golfer groups:
- Amateurs: Competitors with a handicap of 10 and below will play 54 holes over three days (18 holes daily).
- Ladies: Golfers with a handicap of 24 and below will compete in an 18-hole contest.
- Senior Amateurs: Players with a handicap of 12 and below will play 36 holes across two days.
Highlighting the tournament's legacy as a proven launchpad for professional careers, Rear Admiral Azmie pointed out that past winners of CNS Amateur events, such as Ahmad Baig and Ghazanfar Mahmood, have successfully progressed to the professional circuit and now hold strong positions in the Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) rankings.
Pakistan Navy's Commitment to Sports
Rear Admiral Azmie also underscored the Pakistan Navy's long-standing commitment to promoting sports, particularly golf. He revealed that Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf takes a personal interest in fostering sporting excellence and has issued special directives to ensure the successful conduct of this year's championship.
"The Pakistan Navy has consistently prioritised the growth of sports nationwide," he stated, "with the uninterrupted hosting of this championship in Lahore since 2011 serving as a proof of that commitment." This sustained effort solidifies the event's role as a cornerstone of Pakistan's amateur golf scene.
