The prestigious Willingdon Open 2025 saw some of the best amateur golfers from across Western India converge at the iconic Willingdon Sports Club for an intense two-day championship. With players representing renowned golf clubs from Western India, the tournament featured top-tier competitors battling it out for the title, as well as several separate handicap categories for Willingdon members, including Ladies and Seniors. There were a few international players also who participated in the Tournament.
One of the standout features of the Willingdon Sports Club golf course is its reputation of being one of the most formidable short courses in the country. The course, known for its strategic design with water bodies, out-of-bounds areas, thick rough, and undulating greens, was playing at a challenging 11.0 on the Stimp meter, putting the golfers’ skills to the ultimate test.
The Leader Board was electrifying, with a mix of emerging young talent and seasoned veterans. Amongst the front-runners were ambitious youngsters like Armaan Thapar, Manav Bharani, and Jai Thakker, each with aspirations of turning professional. Adding to the excitement of the event was Khushaal Thackersey, a veteran golfer and 10 time Club Championship Winner who has been dominating the amateur golf scene in Mumbai for over a decade, who gave the young guns a run for their money. The Willingdon Open Trophy has been instituted in memory of his father, Late Mr. Chandrahas Thackersey.
The event reached a thrilling climax, with 17-year-old Armaan Thapar clinching a nail-biting one-shot victory over Manav Bharani on the 36th hole. The final few holes were nothing short of dramatic, with the picture-perfect gallery watching in suspense as Armaan made his last putt.
Congratulations to the winners across all categories:
Birla Niyaara Gross Champion – Mr. Armaan Thapar
Toro Nett Champion (0-10 handicap) – Mr. Rahul Dalwani
Campa Cola Nett Champion (11-15 handicap) –Mr. Abhishek Parekh
Four Seasons Nett Champion (16-21 handicap) –Mr. Anuj Bhasme
Birla Niyaara Nett Champion (Seniors 70+) – Mr. Chakor Doshi
IPI Ladies Nett Champion – Ms. Radha Mathai
