Superb Ahmed takes lead in CAS Open Golf at Airmen course

KARACHI: When Ahmed Baig turned professional last year, hopes were high that the talented youngster from Lahore will soon be dominating the national professional circuit wresting control from the likes of Shabbir Iqbal and Muhammad Munir. But contrary to expectations, Ahmed’s progress has been a bit slow.

However, at the wind-swept Airmen Golf Club course on Friday, Ahmed exhibited his true mettle with a stunning round of five-under 67 to take a three shot lead in the 39th CAS Open Golf Championship.

Ahmed who shot an impressive round of 70 on the opening day was in his element in the second round as he made seven birdies on his way to 67, the tournaments best score so far. With an aggregate of 137 (-7), Ahmed now enjoys a three-shot lead over his nearest rival Muhammad Munir.

The seasoned Munir followed his opening round score of 69 with 71 to take the second spot on the leaderboard with an aggregate of 140 (-4).

Placed at the third spot was M Alam who carded a superb round of three-under par 69 for a two-day aggregate of 142 (-2). Just one shot behind him is Pakistan No. 1 Shabbir Iqbal who carded two-under par 70 for an aggregate of 143. He is followed by M Tariq, M Naeem and Sajid Khan.

In the junior professionals category, Muhammad Insaf won the title with a two-day gross score of 150 (6 over par). The second position is shared by Muhammad Saqib and Faizan Ali with the total score of 155 (11 over par), leaving Bilal Khan at third position with the score 158 (14 over par).

Leading golfers from all over the country including five ladies are participating in what is one of the biggest events of Pakistans golf calendar. Although the playing conditions for the game are ideal due to the pleasant weather and cool breeze, yet the treacherous course is causing lot of difficulties for the competitors.

In the amateurs category, PAF’s Taimoor Khan carded an impressive round of 71 to share the op spot on the leaderboard with Zubair Hussain (150). Trailing the duo by three shots was M Sharif followed by Adnan Khan, Zohaib Asif and Raja Israr.

In the ladies event, Daniah Syed took a one shot lead against national champion Humna Amjad. Daniah carded 83 while Humna returned with 84. Placed in the third spot was former champion Aanya Farooq (85).