The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, hosted the inaugural Khyber Cup at the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar from September 20-21, 2024. The two-day event attracted over 100 golfers from across the country, competing at one of India’s most scenic golf courses, nestled between the Zabarwan Range and Dal Lake.
Sponsored by American Express and managed by Rishi Narain Sports Marketing (RNSM), the tournament aimed to promote golf tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, an emerging destination for adventure sports. The Khyber Cup is envisioned as an annual event designed to highlight the region’s potential as a golf destination, combining sports with the natural beauty of Kashmir.
“We aim to make this tournament a yearly event that meets international standards,” said Khalil Tramboo, Director of Pinnacle Resorts, the promoters of The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa. The resort, known for its world-class amenities, has committed to promoting sports and wellness in the region.
Rishi Narain, Tournament Director and MD of RNSM, praised the course and the event, stating, “The feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive. The Khyber Cup is set to become a sought-after annual event.”
The tournament winners across various categories were:
Visitors Category (Nett Format): Winner Div A: Vijay Kumar Jha (Score 145), Runner-up Div A: Amit Khansaheb (Score 146), Winner Div B: Anil Arora (Score 150, won on tie-break), Runner-up Div B: Vineet Rastogi (Score 150)
RSGC Members’ Category:
Winner Div A: Shabbir Bhat (Score 143, won on tie-break), Runner-up Div A: Ghalib Shah (Score 143), Winner Div B: Zaman Sheikh (Score 144, won on tie-break), Runner-up Div B: Ishifaq Hussaini (Score 144)
Ladies Winner: Chandana Raju (Score 151)
Special Contest Winners: Closest to Pin: Bharat Sharma (6 inches), Longest Drive: Ahmed Mir (315 yards), Straightest Drive: DP Singh, Ladies’ Straightest Drive: Haya Trumboo
The event culminated with a gala dinner and award ceremony at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg, marking the successful conclusion of the first-ever Khyber Cup.
