The Assam Open Golf Tournament, offically known as the All-Assam Amateur Invitational Golf Championships (AAAIGC) is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious amateur golfing events. Held annually at the historic Digboi Links, it is a cornerstone of the sporting heritage in North-East India.
The history and legacy:
Establishment: The tournament is organized under the aegis of the Upper Assam Golf Association (UAGA). This year’s edition will be celebrating the 48th edition, tracing its roots back to the early 1970s.
The venue: Digboi Golf Links. Established in 1888 by the then British led Assam Oil Company, the course is the first 18-hole golf course in Assam. It was redesigned in 1943 by James Walker Watt, incorporating unique historical features.
War Heritage: The course is famous for its “World War II legacy”. The 5th fairway was once an airstrip used by Allied Forces, and anti-aircraft pillboxes still stand on the grounds today. One of the holes – the 35d, is aptly named the “Firing Line- Pillbox.”
Industrial connection: The tournament is closely linked with the Oil Industry. It is hosted by the Indian Oil Corporation (Assam Oil Division) and often features the “Captain’s Well 992” at Hole 11, marking a site where oil was historically sought.
Tournament highlights:
Format:
36-hole (2 days) stroke play for Best Gross Score.
Participants:
Usually features 130+ golfers, including top amateurs from across India and occasional international players.
Categories:
Ladies, Gentlemen, and Senior (65+) categories, plus Handicap divisions (0-9, 10-16, 17-24)
Caddie golfers:
A unique aspect of the tournament is its promotion of talented local caddies, who are given a platform to compete in a special category.
Details:
The course rating is 71.0 and the slope rating is 113.
The undulating topography will test your skills as a golfer to keep the ball on the fairway, while ‘nullah’s challenge you to go long or lay-up. The greens are fast-paced but true, and every aspect of this naturally blessed course will test your golfing skills to the limit.
Recent winners and milestones:
1. 2025 (47th Edition): The tournament saw intense competition with players likes M.P Chaliha and Varun Pamar leading the field.
2. 2024 (46th Edition): Jakir Hussain was the overall gross winner, while Ajoy Baruah received the Sentinel Trophy in the veteran’s category.
The “Assam Open” name:
While often referred to as the Assam Open, this tournament is distinct from the professional Indian Oil SERVO Masters, which is a PGTI event also held at Digboi. The AAAIGC remains the premier amateur focused, invitational event.