SRINAGAR: The inaugural Khyber Cup Golf Tournament at the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar brought together over 100 top golfers from across India, marking a significant new addition to the country’s golf calendar.
The event was organised by The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, with the aim of promoting golf tourism in the scenic landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir held on September 20-21.
Sponsored by American Express and managed by Rishi Narain Sports Marketing (RNSM), the tournament showcased the region’s potential as a premier golfing destination, combining the sport with Kashmir’s stunning natural beauty. Khalil Tramboo, Director of Pinnacle Resorts and promoters of The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, emphasised the vision to establish the Khyber Cup as an annual event that meets international standards, highlighting Kashmir’s ideal golfing landscapes.
The tournament, set against the backdrop of the Zabarwan Range featured two rounds of 36 holes, with winners determined by total scores across various categories. The event received positive feedback from participants, and Rishi Narain, Tournament Director and Managing Director of RNSM, noted the high standards set by the Royal Springs Golf Course and The Khyber Resort’s hospitality.
The tournament’s winners included Vijay Kumar Jha, who won Division A in the Visitors Category with a score of 145, and Amit Khansaheb, who finished as the runner-up with a score of 146. Anil Arora won Division B in the Visitors Category with a score of 150, securing the title on a tie-break, while Vineet Rastogi was the runner-up, also scoring 150. In the Royal Springs Golf Course Members’ Category, Shabbir Bhat won Division A with a score of 143 on a tie-break, and Ghalib Shah was the runner-up with the same score. Zaman Sheikh won Division B with a score of 144, again on a tie-break, with Ishifaq Hussaini as the runner-up with the same score. Chandana Raju emerged as the winner among the ladies with a score of 151. Special contests saw Bharat Sharma win the Closest to Pin with a 6-inch shot, Ahmed Mir take the Longest Drive with a 315-yard strike, and DP Singh and Haya Trumboo win the Straightest Drive and Ladies Straightest Drive, respectively.
The Khyber Cup not only showcased golfing talent but also underscored the potential of Kashmir as a premium golf destination, offering players a unique blend of sport and relaxation amid the region’s breathtaking natural scenery. Organisers hope that the success of this debut will help the Khyber Cup grow into one of the most prestigious tournaments in the country, drawing more attention to Kashmir’s allure as a golfing hub.
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, is a luxury ski resort situated at an elevation of 8,825 ft in the Pir Panjal range, offering stunning views of the Affarwat Peaks, an internationally renowned spa, and access to the world’s highest golf course. Since its opening in 2012, The Khyber has become known for its exceptional service and hospitality, attracting visitors from around the globe. The Royal Springs Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is considered one of India’s premier golf destinations, known for its challenging layout, pristine fairways, and picturesque surroundings. Opened in 2001, it consistently ranks among the top courses in India and hosts numerous national and international tournaments.