KARACHI: The Karachi Golf Club (KGC) came alive on Wednesday as the 27th Chief of Naval Staff Open Golf Championship teed off in spectacular fashion. Hailing from Lahore, the talented golfer Ahmed Baig, and the seasoned Matloob Ahmed, both showcased their prowess as they surged to the top of the professional category leaderboard, finishing the opening round with an impressive gross total of four-under-par (68). In the first nine holes, it was Matloob Ahmed who was leading the charge, posting a remarkable four-under-par (32). Baig, on the other hand, had a strong start but settled for a one-under-par score on the front nine. However, it was the back nine where the dynamics of their performance shifted.

During the final nine holes, Matloob seemed to lose his earlier focus, recording a par score of 36. Meanwhile, Ahmed Baig was on fire, scoring three-under-par on the back nine, which allowed him to catch up with Matloob Ahmed and share the lead.

Hot on their heels are Muhammad Munir and Muhammad Alam, who also turned in a strong showing on the challenging KGC course, finishing the opening round with a gross total of three-under-par (69). The competition is already fierce, promising an exciting tournament ahead. In a surprising twist, the defending champion Shabbir Iqbal concluded his first round with a score of one-under-par (71). While he may have some ground to make up, it's clear that he remains a formidable contender in this year's championship.

The championship, played over four rounds, has attracted golf enthusiasts and professionals from all over the country, and today's performance by Baig and Matloob did not disappoint the fans in attendance. This year's Chief of Naval Staff Open Golf Championship features a diverse range of categories, including professionals, senior professionals, junior professionals, amateurs, senior amateurs, veterans, ladies, and juniors.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 14 2023

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