Imperious Shabbir retains CNS Open Golf title

Pakistan legend proud of historic win after carding three-under-par (69) in final round

KARACHI:

The 27th Chief of Naval Staff Open Golf Championship reached its exhilarating climax on the fourth and final day, and it was Muhammad Shabbir Iqbal who stood tall once again, successfully defending his title in the professional category.

Iqbal, a golf legend with a history of victories in this prestigious championship, showcased his unwavering skill and composure on the challenging Karachi Golf Club (KGC) course. On the final day, he carded a three-under-par (69), bringing his four-day aggregate score to a remarkable 14-under-par (274).

Speaking about his historic win, Shabbir commented, "Winning this championship is always special, and defending the title adds an extra layer of satisfaction. The competition was fierce, but I'm grateful for the support of my fans and sponsors. It's an honour to have won this championship once again."

Iqbal's final round featured four birdies on the 2nd, 4th, 14th, and 17th holes, with a lone bogey on the 15th hole. His consistent performance throughout the tournament earned him the top spot and solidified his status as one of Pakistan's greatest golfers.

Muhammad Shehzad, who had led the scoreboard after three rounds, struggled on the final day, carding a three-over-par (75) in the last round. His four-day aggregate score of nine-under-par (279) placed him in the sixth spot, a slight setback after an impressive start.

The standout performer on the final day was Muhammad Ashfaq, who shot a scintillating six-under-par (66). However, his efforts were not enough to clinch the title, and he finished in the third spot with a four-day aggregate score of 12-under-par (276).

In the junior professional category, which consisted of 36 holes, Rashid Baig and Abid Iqbal secured the top positions with their two-day aggregate scores of nine-over-par (153). Rashid posted three-over-par (75) in the first round and six-over-par (78) in the second round, while Abid scored six-over-par (78) in the first round and three-over-par (75) in the second. They were followed by Ashass Amjad, who finished with 10-over-par (154).

In the senior professional category, also played over 36 holes, Muhammad Tariq emerged as the victor with his two-day aggregate score of four-under-par (140). He posted a remarkable five-under-par (67) in the first round and one-over-par (73) in the second. Muhammad Akhtar secured the second spot with one-over-par (145), while Javed Inayat claimed the third spot with two-over-par (146).

As the curtains fell on the 27th Chief of Naval Staff Open Golf Championship, Shabbir's name will once again be etched in the annals of golf history. His victory served as a testament to his enduring skill and determination, and he left the golfing world with a memorable quote, "In golf, as in life, consistency and a passion for the game are the keys to success."