The 7th EVA Inter Alumni Golf Tournament demonstrated how sport continues to unite generations, strengthen alumni communities and create a lasting culture of excellence.
There are sporting events, and then there are occasions that transcend competition to become celebrations of legacy. The 7th EVA Inter Alumni Golf Tournament, organised by the Ex Vivekite Association in association with GB Legends, belonged firmly in the latter category.
Bringing together nearly 150 golfers representing 24 prestigious educational institutions from across North India, the championship once again highlighted the unique ability of golf to connect people across generations, professions and backgrounds. More than a contest played across 18 holes, the tournament emerged as a powerful reminder that some of the strongest communities are built not in boardrooms or social gatherings, but on the fairways where camaraderie, discipline and shared memories intersect.
At a time when professional lives have become increasingly demanding and social interactions increasingly fragmented, alumni platforms serve a critical purpose. They preserve relationships, nurture mentorship and reinforce a sense of belonging that extends well beyond school years. The EVA Inter Alumni Golf Tournament has steadily evolved into one of the region’s most respected sporting gatherings precisely because it succeeds in achieving all of these objectives while celebrating the spirit of healthy competition.
The growing stature of the event was evident in both participation and prestige. Alumni associations from renowned institutions including Vivek High School, St John’s High School, Yadavindra Public School Mohali, Bishop Cotton School Shimla, Mayo College, The Doon School, The Lawrence School Sanawar, Carmel Convent School, Modern School Barakhamba Road and several others assembled on a common platform, creating an atmosphere where institutional rivalries were matched only by mutual respect.
Central to the success of this year’s championship was GB Legends, an initiative by GB Realty dedicated to promoting golf and fostering a culture of sporting excellence. As golf continues to gain prominence among India’s business leaders, professionals and young athletes, initiatives such as GB Legends are playing an increasingly important role in expanding the sport’s reach and relevance.
Golf occupies a unique position among modern sports. It rewards patience over haste, strategy over impulse and consistency over momentary brilliance. These are qualities that extend far beyond the game itself and resonate deeply with leadership, entrepreneurship and personal development. By supporting events that encourage these values, GB Legends is helping cultivate a broader ecosystem where sport becomes a vehicle for character building and community engagement.
The tournament itself witnessed exceptional performances across categories. The coveted Inter Alumni Trophy was won by the Old Yadvindrian Association team comprising Maj. R.S. Virk, Sukirat Singh and Vikram Bhagwan. Their victory reflected both skill and teamwork, qualities that remain central to success in golf and in life. The Ex Vivekite Association team featuring Varun Rao, Avirat Sundra and Rabbiya Gill secured the runners up position, while the Sector 16 Model School Alumni team, represented by Justice Amit Rawal (Retd.), Deepak Bhardwaj and Navjot Mann, finished second runners up.
Individual brilliance was equally evident throughout the competition. Dilsher Grewal of the St John’s Old Boys Association claimed the Gross title with an impressive score of 72, while M.P. Singh of AYOSA, YPS Patiala, finished close behind. In the Double Peoria Stableford category, Rao Birender Singh of the Old Sanawarian Society emerged victorious after a closely contested round, followed by B.S. Gill of the Old Cottonians.
The championship also showcased moments of remarkable precision and power. Manteg Veer Singh captured the Longest Drive award with a spectacular 311 yard effort, while Col. S.D.S. Baath earned honours for Nearest to the Pin. Aman Bhaika demonstrated exceptional control to secure the Straightest Drive award.
Among the most anticipated contests was the prestigious EVA Cup, reserved exclusively for members of the Ex Vivekite Association. The competition underscored the strength of the school’s golfing community, with Angad Matharoo clinching the title after carding a gross score of 77. Karman Singh finished as runner up after a closely fought battle decided on the back nine. In the Double Peoria category, Arnav Sundra emerged victorious, further reinforcing the depth of talent within the association.
The Ladies Category reflected the growing participation of women in competitive golf and added another dimension to the championship. Mehar Dhillon secured the top honours, while Rabbiya Gill finished runner up. Hanima Grewal and Aashi Jain delivered standout performances to win the Longest Drive and Nearest to the Pin awards respectively.
Adding further prestige was the special GB Legends category, where Anurag Chopra emerged as winner and Naunihal Singh secured the runners up position. The category served as yet another example of how the initiative continues to encourage participation while recognising excellence within the sport.
The prize distribution ceremony brought together several distinguished personalities, including Member of Parliament Manish Tewari, Haryana Advocate General Pravindra Singh Chauhan, Punjab ADGP Naunihal Singh and Gurinder Bhatti, Founder and Chairman of GB Realty. Their presence reinforced the significance of the tournament as an event that extends beyond sport and into the broader domains of leadership, public service and community building.
Corporate partnerships also played a pivotal role in elevating the event. Alongside GB Legends, organisations such as Divine Group, Alchemist and Ultralite contributed to the success of the championship. Their support reflects an encouraging trend in which responsible corporate entities are investing in initiatives that promote wellness, networking and social cohesion.
Speaking on the occasion, EVA President Dr. Harkirat Sethi reiterated the association’s commitment to strengthening alumni relationships through meaningful engagement. Vice President Tarun Vir Lehal highlighted the growing enthusiasm and participation witnessed with every edition, while Treasurer Gurdarshan Singh acknowledged the unwavering support of sponsors and participants who continue to contribute to the tournament’s success.
Yet the true sig
nificance of the event cannot be measured solely through trophies, scores or accolades. Its greatest achievement lies in creating a space where friendships are renewed, professional networks are strengthened and institutional pride is celebrated. Every conversation between former classmates, every shared memory and every new connection formed during the tournament contributes to a larger legacy that extends far beyond the game itself.
As the final putts were sunk and the champions celebrated their victories, the 7th EVA Inter Alumni Golf Tournament once again demonstrated why it has become one of North India’s most anticipated alumni sporting events. More importantly, it showcased how organisations such as GB Legends are helping shape a future where sport serves not merely as recreation, but as a catalyst for community, leadership and enduring relationships.
In many ways, that is the true victory. The scores may be recorded in history, but the bonds forged on the greens will continue long after the tournament concludes.