SWAT - Ashfaq emerged as victorious of the coveted trophy of high-profile Swat Open Golf Tournament 2013 which concluded in a colorful ceremony held here at the Cedar Golf Club on Saturday evening.
Imdad hussain grabbed second position in the tournament which started here from August 29 and concluded on 31st. In all, 200 spirited golfers featured in various categories including the country's top 100 professionals. The coveted tournament was organised by Pakistan Army in collaboration with civil administration. The players played in cedar golf club and it is for the first time in the past 20 years that a high-profile golf tournament was being held at Swat valley. Golfers from across the country played very well on the 1st day at cedar golf ground and enjoyed the beautiful weather of Swat.
On this occasion, an impressive prize distribution ceremony was held where Minister for Sports and Museum Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Mehmood Khan was the chief guest while Commanding Officer Malakand Division Maj Gen Sanaullah Khan Niazi, dignitaries of the valley, other civil and military officers were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Mehmood Khan said: “We acknowledge Pakistan Army efforts to hold such a spectacular golf tournament in Swat valley. Everyone knows about the past period of Swat where some people tortured our locals and wanted to impose their own law by challenging government writ owing to Pakistan Army successful operation which dispelled them from the valley so we can never forget the role of Pak Army in restoring peace in this region.”
Mehmood said golf was the game of peace and due to this golf tournament at Swat, a bright image of peace and love would be promoted to the entire world. The minister announced Rs 500,000 grant for the cedar golf club.  Addressing the prize distribution ceremony, Brig Ijaz Mirza said: “Pakistan Army will organise this tournament every year and after the restoration of peace in the area, Army will also take part in the restoration of tourism by playing their significant role.”
Later, Minister Mehmood and Maj Gen Sanaullah distributed prizes among the players and officials.