Ahistoric chapter in Pakistan’s sporting journey was written in Rabat, Morocco, recently as nine spirited young golfers, ambassadors of the Ace Junior Golf League (AJGL), competed in the inaugural ISF World School Golf Championship.
Held at the prestigious Royal Golf Dar Es Salam the event became a defining moment for junior golf in Pakistan, not because of podium finishes, but for the pride, poise, and purpose these young athletes carried onto the world stage.
Pakistan’s participation, amidst 62 competitors from 17 countries, symbolised more than just a debut, it signaled intent. It was a declaration that Pakistan’s grassroots golf is alive and evolving, ready to embrace international arenas with professionalism, potential, and poise.
Facing brutal tournament yardages, 6,454 yards for boys and 6,047 yards for girls, green speeds touching 11, and dense rough that could unsettle even seasoned professionals, these youngsters held their ground. From the U15 girls’ division, 13-year-old Zoay Qureshi stood out with a steady finish in 8th place, while U-18 golfer Shazmina Fatima Khan displayed grit in placing 9th despite challenging rounds.
On the boys’ side, Muhammad Musa Khan and Muhammad Wajahat Anwer remained composed over four rounds, finishing mid-table in their respective age groups. But the real victory wasn’t in numbers. It was in resilience.
It was in how Pakistan’s young golfers adjusted, adapted, and rose to meet global standards after only three months of structured preparation under AJGL’s rigorous framework.
This wasn’t just a tournament, it was a transformation. Players participated in ISF Academy workshops on anti-doping, injury prevention, and athlete safeguards. They engaged in cultural exchanges during the Nations’ Night, building camaraderie that transcended borders.
The world took notice. Tournament Director Mounya Amalou, a former LET professional, was visibly impressed by the commitment and infectious energy of the Pakistani contingent. Coaches from Chinese Taipei, Morocco, and Bangladesh applauded the discipline, and some even extended invitations for future joint training initiatives.
Yet this momentous opportunity didn’t happen by accident. Behind it was the unwavering vision of AJGL’s leadership. Lt Gen (retd) Hilal, Patron-in-Chief of AJGL, praised Dr. Asma Shami, the tireless force behind the league, and Rules Official Munazza Shaheen, whose expertise and commitment helped orchestrate this bold international step. He emphasized that international exposure is key to developing elite talent, adding that hosting international junior tournaments in Pakistan could multiply the impact at home.
Dr. Asma Shami, Chairperson AJGL, echoed this sentiment. “I am overwhelmed by the success and proud participation of our juniors on such a global platform. It’s a humble but meaningful step toward developing golf in Pakistan. I extend heartfelt gratitude to Gen. Hilal for his constant guidance, to Munazza Shaheen for her relentless dedication, and to Mr. Umar whose support made AJGL’s international dream a reality.”
The vision is clear: nurture juniors, empower them with structure, provide exposure, and invest in golf’s long game. These children returned not just with scorecards, but with inspiration. They’ve seen the bar, touched the standard, and now know what it takes.
This is where federations, sponsors, and policymakers must step in. Let this not be a one-off. Let it be the launch-pad of a generation that sees golf not as a pastime of privilege, but as a path of purpose.
Pakistan’s junior golfers have teed off their international journey. The fairway ahead is long, but with the right backing, their next destination could well be the podium.
kinzaazhar3@gmail.com
