The 5th Ghazala Ansari Ladies Open Golf Championship stands today as a proud milestone in Pakistan’s golfing calendar, celebrating five remarkable years of commitment, consistency, and class in promoting ladies golf. What began as a tribute has now evolved into a championship of stature – a platform that continues to uplift the women’s game, inspire emerging talent, and keep the spirit of competitive excellence alive.
A press conference was held at the prestigious Gymkhana Golf Club to formally announce the championship. The occasion was graced by Mian Misbah Ur Rehman, Chairman Gymkhana Club; Mr. Wajid Aziz, Convener Gymkhana Golf Club; Mr. Sarmad Nadeem, Committee Member and Ex-Convener Golf; Dr. Asma Afzal Shami, Chairperson Organizing Committee; Mamoona Azam, Tournament Coordinator; and Munazza Shaheen, Tournament Director, Chief Referee.
Speaking at the conference, Dr. Asma Afzal Shami paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Ghazala Ansari, whose name remains etched in Pakistan’s golfing history as an icon of brilliance and dominance. Dr. Shami highlighted:
“History is a window through which we nurture the future. Ghazala Ansari was not merely a champion, she is an inspiration for future junior golfers.”
A six-time National Champion, Ghazala Ansari holds an unbroken record in ladies golf, a feat that reflects her talent, mental strength, and authority on the course. For nearly two decades, she ruled the golfing arena with such command that she practically owned the fairways, humbled the greens, leaving competitors chasing her shadow.
“This championship,” Dr. Shami noted, “is not only a dedication – it is the continuation of her mission. Ghazala Ansari did not merely play golf; she empowered women with the confidence to believe they also belonged on the course.”
Mamoona Azam expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the management of Gymkhana Golf Club and its dedicated staff for their continued cooperation and unwavering support in the conduct of the championship. She appreciated the professionalism that has ensured the event remains a model tournament year after year. She proudly pointed out that this championship is entirely managed by ladies – from conceiving the idea to organizing, conducting, sponsoring, and now, with Munazza Shaheen’s qualification, a lady is also refereeing the match.
Tournament Director and Chief Referee Munazza Shaheen explained that the championship features seven competitive categories, ensuring inclusivity across age groups and skill levels. These include Professionals, WAGR Open Category, Category B (Handicap 13-24), Category C (Handicap 25-36), Senior Lady Golfers, and two junior categories – ages 11-14 and below 10. She highlighted that this is the second consecutive year the championship is being held as an Open event, welcoming professionals alongside amateurs – a major step forward in raising competitive standards.
A total of 45 players have registered this year, including 7 professionals and 9 WAGR participants, reflecting the growing prestige of the championship.
Mr. Wajid Aziz reaffirmed Gymkhana’s firm commitment to ladies golf, stating that the club takes pride in supporting platforms that nurture female players and expand opportunities for women and juniors in sport. He observed, “Some may have put an effort to support juniors in a small way. Dr. Asma Shami, I vouch is a Pioneer in Pakistan who has established an organized, well-structured platform for developing Junior Golf, at the grassroots in Pakistan. It is because of her initiative that others are taking a lead into this area,” he reaffirmed his full support in her venture to support ladies and juniors in Golf.” Mr. Sarmad Nadeem recalled: “I was the Convener when the first Ghazala Ansari Championship took place. I was amazed at the enthusiasm and the overwhelming participation, which exceeded 100 ladies, who came together to honour Ghazala Ansari, One of their own. We opened doors to facilitate the efforts that were put in to bring this mega event together.”
Mian Misbah Ur Rehman, Chairman Gymkhana Club, praised Dr. Asma Shami and her organizing teams of their dedication and relentless efforts in the development of ladies and women Golf and reaffirmed Gymkhana’s support in honoring Ghazala Ansari, a golfer who truly belongs to Gymkhana. Expressing his desire, he stated: “I would like to see the Ghazala Ansari Championship go international next year. We will not only extend material support but also financial support. Such an event will not only bring honour to the club – it will bring honour to Pakistan.” As the 5th edition tees off, the Ghazala Ansari Ladies Open Golf Championship continues to symbolize progress, opportunity, and excellence – honoring a legend who redefined women’s golf, while shaping a brighter future for generations to come.