The opening round of Bank AL Habib’s 15th Rashid D. Habib Memorial National Professional Golf Tournament teed off today at the Karachi Golf Club, setting the stage for an intense battle among the country’s finest golfers.
Out of 120 professionals who took to the greens, Muhammad Minhaj Maqsood Waraich (RGC) surged ahead with a brilliant round of 68 (-4), claiming the top spot on the leaderboard. Close behind, Muhammad Shabbir (MGGC) and Hamza Taimur Amin (RGCC) finished tied for second at 70 (-2), keeping the competition tight.
A cluster of contenders including Matloob Ahmad (LGG), Waheed Baloch (KGC), and Ansar Mehmood (MGGC) followed at 71 (-1), while defending champion Ahmed Baig (RPG) carded 73 (+1), leaving him with ground to cover in the coming rounds.
With pleasant weather and strong attendance, the first day showcased both seasoned champions and promising new talent. This year’s edition has already drawn praise for the inclusion of educated golfers in the professional cadre, reflecting the evolving face of golf in Pakistan.