First Tee RBC Canadian Open

Oakdale Golf and Country Club makes an impact beyond the course

temp fix empty alt images for attachment

Oakdale Golf and Country Club is not only the host of the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, but with a goal to make an impact beyond the championship, it has also opened its gates to children and non-golfing families in the community. By the end of this year, Oakdale will have introduced nearly 150 local youth to golf through First Tee – Ontario, at no cost to the participants, due to the generosity of the club’s membership.

First Tee is a youth development program that provides children with life-enhancing experiences through golf. First Tee – Ontario offers accessible introductory golf programming at golf courses, schools, and community centres, striving to ensure that the sport of golf reflects the diversity of Canadians.

Golf Canada partnered with First Tee in 2020 to launch First Tee – Canada, which is operational in nearly every region of the country, apart from Alberta, which is set to launch this summer.

As a private golf club, Oakdale’s access is typically reserved for members and guests. But with First Tee, Oakdale is setting itself apart from other private clubs by providing inclusive access to the game for high-density, lower-income neighbouring communities. Nearly 70 children from the nearby Oakdale Community Centre participated in First Tee programming last summer. This summer, more than 50 children from the Boys and Girls Club of Jane and Finch will be taking a short bus ride to the course to experience all that the sport has to offer.

“Our goal is to introduce golf to children from all backgrounds,” says Amaya Athill, Program Manager, First Tee – Ontario. “Together, we are actively addressing barriers such as affordability and accessibility by leveraging our resources to provide opportunities for meaningful access to golf.”

First Tee prides itself on providing empowering environments where children feel welcomed, safe to fail, and excited to grow. The curriculum is designed to introduce golf to children as young as five and incorporates a life skill component while focusing on having fun. Activities are modified to the age and ability of the participants and can include familiar sports such as baseball or bowling, but with a golf twist, while weaving in the continued development of skills such as confidence, perseverance, and integrity.  

temp fix empty alt images

The junior golf coaches at Oakdale, Bob Beauchemin (Ontario Golf Hall of Famer and 2022 recipient of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award), and Izidor Markic, underwent First Tee training through the PGA of Canada last year. They have since immersed themselves in the brand and mission of introducing youth to golf, especially those who would not have otherwise had the opportunity and making a positive influence in their lives.

“It’s rewarding to be a part of this program, and a bigger movement to grow the game of golf. For most of the children, it’s their first time on a golf course,” said Bob Beauchemin, First Tee – Ontario Coach and Oakdale’s Director of Instruction. “To be a part of that first introduction to golf and then to see them progress through the program and gain confidence and skills, with a smile on their face, is amazing. We look forward to the continued success of First Tee in years to come.”

This year at the RBC Canadian Open, First Tee – Ontario and Golf Canada will host over 1,000 children from local community centres and the Toronto District School Board for behind-the-scenes tours and golf activations. The hope is to introduce children to golf in a fun and positive environment and expose them to the opportunities that are available in the world of golf, in addition to playing.

Beauchemin and his accompanying volunteer coaching staff have upheld Oakdale’s mission of making family the heart of their operations. Through First Tee – Ontario, Oakdale has created its own small family of golfers from the course’s very own backyard.

To date, First Tee – Ontario has nearly 20 golf facilities, 16 community centres, and 20 schools delivering programming across the province. To learn more about programming near you, or to donate, visit firstteeontario.ca.

PGA TOUR RBC Canadian Open

Final field released for 2023 RBC Canadian Open

temp fix empty alt images for attachment

Two-time defending champion Rory McIlroy along with international stars Matt Fitzpatrick, Sam Burns, Cameron Young, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, Sahith Theegala and Justin Rose will be joined by past Major champions, in-year winners and Canadian stars led by Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, Adam Svensson, Nick Taylor, Adam Hadwin and Taylor Pendrith at Oakdale Golf and Country Club

20 Canadians set to compete in 112th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship

RBCxMusic Concert Series to feature Grammy Award-winning artists The Black Eyed Peas (Friday, June 9) and Alanis Morrissette (Saturday, June 10) performing live onsite at Oakdale Golf & Country Club in Toronto

Toronto (Golf Canada) – Golf Canada and RBC are pleased to announce the final field vying for the US$9 million purse at the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, June 6-11 at Oakdale Golf and Country Club in Toronto, Ont.

Two-time defending champion and world no. 3 Rory McIlroy returns to Canada looking to defend his title and make history as no player has even won three straight Canadian Open titles.

Other fan-favourites in the field for the 112th playing of Canada’s National Open Championship include reigning US Open and RBC Heritage champion and world no. 8 Matthew Fitzpatrick and world no. 17 Tyrell Hatton, along with fellow European stars Tommy Fleetwood (world no. 23), Shane Lowry (world no. 26) and Justin Rose (world no. 28). 

The group will compete alongside Team RBC ambassadors Sam Burns (world no. 13), Cameron Young (world no. 16), Sahith Theegala (world no. 27), seven-time PGA TOUR winner Webb Simpson, and nine-time PGA TOUR winner Matt Kuchar.

A 20-player Canadian contingent will challenge for the national championship led by PGA TOUR winners Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont. (world no. 29), Adam Svensson of Surrey, B.C. (world no. 61), Mackenzie Hughes of Dundas, Ont. (world no. 66), Nick Taylor of Abbottsford, B.C. (world no. 69), and Adam Hadwin of Abbottsford, B.C. (world no. 74) as well as fellow PGA TOUR members Taylor Pendrith of Richmond Hill, Ont. and Michael Gligic of Burlington, Ont.

A trio of young rising stars representing three of the top-five players on the World Amateur Golf Ranking will also compete at Oakdale – world no. 1 Ludvig Aberg, world No. 3 Michael Thorbjornsen and world no. 5 Sam Bennett. Aberg, the Texas Tech senior and two-time Ben Hogan Award winner who finished atop the final PGA TOUR University standings to earn a tour card for the rest of the year, will make his professional debut at the RBC Canadian Open. Bennett, the 2022 US Amateur winner who was in contention at The Masters earlier this season, made his professional debut this week at The Memorial.   

In addition to world class golf, fans at the 2023 RBC Canadian Open will be treated to the two-night RBCxMusic Concert Series onsite at Oakdale Golf and Country with Grammy Award-winning pop group, the Black Eyed Peas performing on Friday, June 9 and Canadian Grammy Award-winning icon Alanis Morissette performing on Saturday, June 10.

“We are very pleased with our field of world-class competitors that are making their way to Canada to join us at Oakdale Golf and Country Club and challenge for the 112th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship,” said RBC Canadian Open Tournament Director Bryan Crawford. “Led by our two-time defending champion Rory McIlroy, this year’s championship features a strong mix of stars from all around the world and the deepest field of Canadian talent ever to challenge for our National Men’s Open title. Along with great golf, fans will be treated to an incredible festival environment with terrific on-site activities including The Fare Way featuring The Keg and the RBCxMusic Concert series featuring the Black Eyed Peas (Friday, June 9) and Alanis Morissette (Saturday, June 10).” 

In total, 156 players will compete for the US$9 million purse next week in Toronto when the RBC Canadian Open makes its first ever visit to the storied Oakdale Golf and Country Club. Oakdale, a 27-hole course (Thompson / Homenuik / Knudson) located near the heart of Toronto, will play as 7,264-yard (par 72) composite course, using 9-holes designed by Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Robbie Robinson and an additional nine holes designed by fellow Hall of Famer Stanley Thompson.

Click here for a full field list for the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.

PGA TOUR Season Winners…

Eight in-year PGA TOUR winners will compete at Oakdale including Mackenize Hughes ((Sanderson Farms), Rory McIlroy (CJ Cup), Adam Svensson (RSM Classic), Sahith Theegala (QBE Shootout), Justin Rose AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am), Davis Riley (Zurich Classic of New Orleans), Nico Echavarria (Puerto Rico Open) and Corey Conners (Valero Texas Open).

Major Winners….

Six major winners are represented in the field including four-time major winner Rory McIllroy (2011 US Open, 2012 & 2014 PGA Championship, 2014 Open Championship) along with Matt Fitzpatrick (2022 US Open), Shane Lowry (2019 Open Championship), Webb Simpson (2012 US Open), Jason Dufner (2013 PGA Championship) and Mike Weir (2003 Masters).

Past Champions…

Four past RBC Canadian Open champions will compete at Oakdale including Chez Reavie (2008), Sean O’Hair (2011), Brandt Snedeker (2013 ) and two-time defending champion Rory McIlroy (2022, 2019).

Twenty Canadians to compete for their National Men’s Open Title…

Current PGA TOUR players Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor, Adam Svensson, Taylor Pendrith, Michael Gligic, and will lead a talented roster of 20 Canadians competing in the RBC Canadian Open. The 2023 event welcomes home a legend as 8-time PGA TOUR winner and Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Mike Weir will make his 30th start in the RBC Canadian Open. Other Canadians competing on exemption include David Hearn, Aaron Cockerill, Ben Silverman, Wil Bateman, and Roger Sloan, along with Team Canada members Stuart MacDonald, Myles Creighton, and Johnny Travale. Three other Canadians earned exemptions through RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifying including Taylor Durham of North Vancouver, B.C. (BC Regional Qualifier at Ledgeview Golf Club), Daniel Kim of Toronto, Ont. (Ontario Regional Qualifying #1 at Oshawa Golf & Curling Club), and Sebastian Szirmak of Toronto, Ont. (Ontario Regional Qualifying #2 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley). Team Canada pro Etienne Papineau of St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu has also joined the field on a tournament exemption.  

Final Tournament Exemptions to be Named…

The final four tournament exemptions into the field for the 2023 RBC Canadian Open will be handed out at the Final Qualifier on Sunday, June 4 at Coppinwood Golf Club in Goodwood, Ont. A record number of players attempted to gain entry into the field by competing at five Regional Qualifying sites last month. A total of 124 players including 107 Canadians will compete at Coppinwood. Click here for a field list. 

Golf’s Longest Day – U.S. Open Final Qualifying on Monday June 5….

A total of 29 players including 10 Canadians will compete in the U.S. Open Final Qualifier on Monday, June 5 at Lambton Golf and Country Club in Toronto. Players competing in Golf’s Longest Day will battle over 36 holes at Lambton for one of the spots in the field for the 123rd US Open, June 12-18 at LA Country Club. The total number of spots available will be confirmed in the coming days. Click here for pairings.

RBC Hall of Fame Day Returns on Tuesday, June 6…

Golf Canada and RBC are pleased to welcome the return of RBC Hall of Fame Day as an official kickoff event for the 2023 RBC Canadian Open. RBC Hall of Fame Day will include the induction ceremony for former PGA TOUR player Jim Rutledge as well as the late legendary golf writer, Robert Stanley Weir as the 84th and 85th honoured members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Joining the celebration will be a several honoured members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. The event gets underway at 11:00am ET on Tuesday, June 6 at the SiriusXM stage located in The Fare Way featuring The Keg onsite at Oakdale Golf and Country Club.

MOBILE APP EXPERIENCE…

Experience the RBC Canadian Open like never before by downloading the Golf Canada Mobile App on your iOS or Android device. Essential features include a live map, leaderboard & pairings, tickets, breaking news, and special events. Plus, use the Golf Canada Mobile App to enhance your experience while playing! Find golf courses, track your game, set up matches against friends, access GPS yardages and more. Click here to download.

Click here for the full current list of competitors competing in the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, June 6-11 at Oakdale Golf and Country in Toronto.

Canadian University/College Championship

UBC Thunderbirds win sixth straight women’s team championship, Victoria Vikes win first men’s team championship at the University/College Championship

temp fix empty alt images for attachment
KOMOKA, ON – June 2, 2023 – Team Champions - 2023 Canadian University/College Championship, presented by BDO at FireRock Golf Club. (Christian Bender/Golf Canada)

Sonja Tang goes back-to-back in women’s individual championship while Jackson Jacob wins men’s individual championship

Komoka, Ont. –  The University of British Columbia Thunderbirds women’s golf team has added to their remarkable success, capturing their sixth consecutive championship and sixteenth title in the 19-year history of the event at the 2023 Canadian University/College Championship presented by BDO at FireRock Golf Club in Komoka, Ont.

Following an outstanding final round, the UBC Thunderbirds concluded their strong week on Friday, showcasing their talent with a collective score of 6-under, 870, giving them a commanding 63-shot victory.

“We had a lot of success last week winning the U.S. championship that we play for in the NAIA but this one is equally as special because its Canada. It’s where we’re from and most of our players are from Canada so it’s a really exciting experience for them to go out and play against their friends and travel around the country and see more parts of it, so I think its really exciting,” said UBC Thunderbirds Head Coach Chris MacDonald.

After leading wire-to-wire, Sonja Tang (UBC Thunderbirds) claimed her second consecutive women’s individual championship, finishing at 4-under, 288 for the tournament. Tang shot a 1-over, 74 in the final round. Notably, Tang’s teammates Élizabeth Labbé and Grace Bell also made their mark in the final round, finishing tied for second at 1-over par, 293 for the tournament. Teammate Bo Brown finished tied for sixth at 14-over, 306 for tournament.

“It definitely feels amazing to be winning yet again. Definitely today, I struggled coming back on the back nine, but I think I kept myself calm and patient out there, I think that was how I maintained my nerves a little bit,” said Tang.

“I think we’re just a very special group, we are all pretty close with each other. It’s always fun to travel with these girls and we also played a couple division one tournaments which kept us humble. We practice really hard at home, so I think it’s all just really amazing,” added Tang.

The Victoria Vikes emerged victorious in the men’s team division after a tough battle all week. The Vikes held a one-shot lead heading into the final round and shot 10-under on Friday to finish the tournament at 14-under, 13 shots clear of the Université Laval Rouge et Or. The University of Victoria men’s team was comprised of Robin Conlan, Zachary Ryujin, Liam Mosher, Aiden Craig-Steele and Chase Basanta.

“I was really proud of the guys on the back nine today. They pressed pretty hard, and our game plan today was to play aggressive. We only had a one-shot lead but 17-under is doable here as Fraser Valley did yesterday. The guys deserve it, they work really hard, they were really motivated. It took us ten years to get one since I’ve been coaching so it feels pretty good,” said Victoria Vikes Head Coach Justin Clews.

Clews is happy to add this win to the team banner hanging in the school’s gym. “I definitely look at that banner when we’re in the gym and know that we’re due. Whether it’s the men or women’s team but our men’s team has been pretty strong the last 15 years. It’s a huge accomplishment for our program and I know our university is going to be ecstatic to put that 2023 on the banner.”

After holding the lead for the week, Jackson Jacob was crowned the men’s individual champion, shooting a final round 3-under to finish 17-under, 271 for the tournament.

“You never expect to have a nine-shot lead going into the final round. I would have rather not had that big of a lead because I’ve never been in that position before, so the first nine holes were really challenging to keep my foot on the gas and keep it steady,” said Jacob. “It was a bit of a rough go at the start, but I sorted it out and I’m really proud of being able to shoot under par again today. All things considered that’s probably what I’m most proud of this week is finishing strong.”

With their individual titles, both Tang and Jacob have earned exemptions into their respective Canadian Amateur Championships. The 109th Canadian Women’s Amateur takes place at the Ashburn Golf Club in Halifax from July 31 to August 4 and the 118th Canadian Men’s Amateur takes place August 5-10 at The Pulpit Club in Caledon, Ont.

For the final standings from the Canadian University/College Championship click here.

Top-5 Women’s – Individual

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Sonja Tang68, 70, 76, 74-4
T2Élizabeth Labbé71, 79, 71, 72+1
T2Grace Bell71, 77, 72, 73+1
4Lexie McKay72, 75, 80, 73+8
5Sukriti Harjai78, 71, 76, 78+11

Top-5 Men’s – Individual 

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Jackson Jacob68, 71, 63, 69-17
2Liam Mosher72, 68, 72, 67-9
3Justin Allen73, 67, 71, 70-7
T4Andrew Rouble71, 69, 71, 74-3
T4Zachary Ryujin74, 72, 69, 70-3
T4David Tweddell73, 70, 70, 72-3

Top-5 Women’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of British Columbia Thunderbirds210, 225, 216, 219-6
2University of Victoria Vikes237, 222, 237, 237+57
3University of British Columbia Okanagan Heat230, 234, 234, 239+61
4Humber College Hawks232, 234, 244, 241+75
5University of the Fraser Valley Cascades237, 237, 233, 246+77

Top-5 Men’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of Victoria Vikes290, 283, 287, 278-14
2Université Laval Rouge et Or289, 284, 288, 290-1
3University of the Fraser Valley Cascades299, 292, 271, 302+12
T4University of British Columbia Thunderbirds295, 287, 285, 299+14
T4McMaster University Marauders295, 292, 286, 299+14
Hole in One Report

Golf Canada Hole-In-One Report – June 2, 2023

temp fix empty alt images for attachment

Each week we write to Golf Canada members who record a hole-in-one, congratulating them and asking if they’d tell us how it happened. These are their stories (edited for length and clarity).

Have you recently accomplished the feat of a hole-in-one? Tell us about it! Share your story, picture / video and course information with us at holeinone@golfcanada.ca.

Al Gibson, Highland Country Club, Hole #10

temp alt for theme iandt

It was on hole #10 which is 165 yards. I used a 5 hybrid, and it was during our men’s league play. Thanks.

Alice Melanson, East Bay Golf Club, Hole #4

temp alt for theme iandt

It was quite a surprise and a good feeling to make my second hole-in-one in eight months. My first one was on August 1, 2022, on hole #4 at Pine Needle. This second hole-in-one was on hole #14 at East Bay in Florida.  I was golfing with my husband Mike Melanson, my sister-in-law Claire Roy and her husband Garry Roy. It was 128 yards over water, and I used my 5 hybrid (the same club as my first hole-in-one). I really like that club! The ball bounced once and then into the hole it went. 

Anna Caron, Larters at St. Andrews, Hole #12

temp alt for theme iandt

Thanks for letting me share this great experience which I never thought would happen! It was a very windy day, and I used my 5 wood. I hit my ball up in the air and when it landed on the green it was heading right for the hole. Three of us saw it go in, my cousin Darlene Caron, my friend Maureen Switzer and myself. Wow, what a feeling! Once up on the green, I was still hesitant to look in the hole. I play in a travelling league and on May 23rd we were playing Larter’s at St. Andrews. I hope everyone who loves the game of golf as much as I do will be lucky enough to get a hole-in-one someday.

Brad Sammon, Renfrew Golf Club, Hole #4

temp alt for theme iandt

I made my hole-in-one at Renfrew Golf Club in Renfrew, Ontario on May 28th, 2023. I was playing with my sons, Carter Sammon and Jackson Sammon. The yardage was playing about 200 to a front hole location. I hit a 4 hybrid that rolled my Bridgestone ball into the cup!Thanks for sharing my story!

Bretten Roissl, Inglewood Golf and Curling Club, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

It was the 17th at Inglewood Golf and Curling Club in Calgary, Alberta. The first real round in Alberta since moving here, first tournament as well. It was 198 yards, and I used my 6 iron. We couldn’t see the ball it was so bright and didn’t know until we got to the green. However, I had a weird feeling about it. I asked my playing partners if they ever got a hole-in-one on the way up to the green. After checking the cup, they couldn’t believe it!

It was in the YYC Open which is an Alberta golf tour event. What a time to do it! With a customized TaylorMade TP5x.

 

Cross it off the bucket list!

Bruce Rowsell, Kanata Golf and Country Club, Hole #13

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing with my wife, Mary Rowsell, and David and Sheila Reeve. The 13th hole is 143 yards from the white trees but played a little longer with a blue flag. It’s a raised green which has a ridge running across the middle which means that I could not see the hole. I was searching for the ball on the downslope beyond the green when my wife found it in the cup. I used a Titleist 7 wood for the shot.

Bruce Rowsell

Carolyn Gorrill, McKenzie Meadows Golf Club, Hole #7

temp alt for theme iandt

It was certainly an amazing moment for me to get a hole-in-one at McKenzie Meadows Golf Club. It was on my bucket list and now I can put a checkmark beside that accomplishment. I was playing with my husband Gregg Koenig and a single golfer who joined us by the name of Cody Dean. We were on the 7th hole, and I was playing my shot from 142 yards. We saw it land on the green but didn’t see it go in the hole. Both Gregg and Cody were on the green before me and as I walked up to the green, I knew something special happened. Both Gregg and Cody turned and looked at me with a huge smile! Funny story about the club I used, I’ve had my 7 wood in my bag for 25 years. I continue to hit it consistently 150-160 yards. After I purchased new clubs two years ago my husband and son said to me “never get rid of that 7 wood” so I didn’t and now I never will. 

Best regards,

Carolyn

Charlene Doucet, Hampton Golf Club, Hole #7

temp alt for theme iandt

I don’t think I’ll ever forget my hole-in-one. It was really exciting to see the ball drop into the hole from behind after watching it sit there for a few seconds. The club I used was my new Callaway Max OS Lite 8 Iron from a distance of 109 yards. I have a group of girls that golf every Thursday and they were my witnesses. I had been saying to them “okay girls…let’s get a hole-in-one today”. Power of positive thinking. Also, yesterday I shot my best round of 77 (it’s my year). Thanks again for acknowledging my hole-in-one.  

Chris Buffi, Coal Creek Golf Resort, Hole #4

temp alt for theme iandt

Thank you so much for the email. I was playing with two coworkers, Kyle and Russ. The hole had a middle-left pin, and it was playing 142 yards. I used a 46-degree wedge.

Curtis Whelan, Glendenning Golf Course, Hole #4

temp alt for theme iandt

In the wind and rain, I hit a 9 iron into the wind that took one hop and rolled straight into the cup. The first hole-in-one of my life and I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited. The worst part is that I was so excited I flubbed my next tee shot about 20 yards off the tee.

Dale LaGrange, Turner Valley Golf Club, Hole #5

temp alt for theme iandt

I played with Larry Porier, Ron Zastre, and Rick Quine. It was on hole #5, 147 yards and used a 9 iron.

David Barry, Tobiano Golf Course, Hole #12

temp alt for theme iandt

Wow…what an exciting moment. I’m nearly 60 and I have golfed on and off since my teens. But I have really picked up the game again in the last 10 years. My ace occurred May 21st on the 12th hole at the beautiful Tobiano Golf Course. It was 149 yards and I hit an easy 5 iron. The ball landed six paces in front of the pin, bounced once and then rolled nicely before disappearing into the cup. I’m a 20 handicap…so I don’t know who was more surprised, my partners Mike and Trevor, or I. We had an early tee time, and no one was in the clubhouse when we wrapped up. So, I bought a round for everyone there…Mike, Trevor and myself!

Dennis Finch, Barcovan Golf Club, Hole #11

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing with three of my teammates on our Monday men’s league. I scored the ace on #11 which is 120 yards with a 9 iron.

A picture was not taken that day; however, this is a picture taken on the same day, May 22, two years ago when I aced another hole at Barcovan! Lucky date for me!

Dennis Finch

Donna Davis, Garrison Golf Club, Hole #13

temp alt for theme iandt

I got my hole-in-one on hole #13 at Garrison, in Kingston, Ontario.

Douglas Corrigan, Guelph Lakes Country Club, Hole #2

temp alt for theme iandt

On May 22nd, I achieved my first hole-in-one at Guelph Lakes Country Club, Guelph, Ontario.

It was on hole #2 using a gap wedge. 104 yards after a 45-minute frost delay. It was witnessed by Michael Mahony and two late joiners visiting from Calgary.

Eugene Shereshevsky, Lakeview Golf Club, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing Lakeview Golf Club with my friends Patrick Booth and Tyler Hall. Lakeview’s 17th hole is a short par three (95 yards) but with a tricky green that slopes from the back to the front.

It was a front pin playing 90 yards that day. I used a lob wedge, hit it right at the pin, the ball landed close, took one hop past the hole and spun back into the hole. We all celebrated; I think the whole course could hear us. I went on to shoot my best round ever of 70.

Fred Yack, King’s Riding Golf Club, Hole #16

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing with two old friends Chris Giannou and Ron Bartucci. Chris and Ron were buddies from the old Board of Trade Golf Course. We moved over to King’s Riding when they closed down our beautiful Country Club after 45 glorious years. By the way, I will be celebrating my 85th birthday on June 8, 2023. I have played this marvelous game for roughly 67 years and hopefully for a number of years to come. The actual date of the hole-in-one was Victoria Day May 22, 2023. The yardage on the hole was 140 yards. I used a Callaway Big Bertha 8 hybrid purchased specifically for that distance. I got rid of my 4 iron, 5 iron and 6 iron and replaced them with a 4 hybrid, 6 hybrid, 7 hybrid and 8 hybrid. I might add I was very surprised that the shot was as good as it was. It was high, straight and was not a degree off line. Another interesting point to my hole-in-one was that the ball used was a TaylorMade ball that had been found by Ron and he gave it to me.

I am not bragging but this is my sixth hole-in-one that I’ve had. Even though it was a great shot we all know there is luck involved in getting that little ball in the hole. Thank you for commemorating my event.

Fred

Gerry Tresierra, Big Horn Golf Course, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

I got my first hole-in-one after 45 years of golfing. It was gratifying to get this before I get too old to golf and it was special to get it on men’s night! It was 100 yards, slightly uphill with an aiding wind on #17 at Big Horn Golf Course in Kamloops!

Holly Chandler, Chester Golf Club, Hole #2

temp alt for theme iandt

Thank you very much, it was a lovely day. It was my second hole-in-one and was very exciting. It was on hole two, which is 128 yards. I used a (Calloway Rogue) 4 hybrid. I was playing with Barb Bond, Brian Bond and Gary Graves. It was a lovely day at our beautiful Chester Golf Club.

Have a wonderful day,

Holly Chandler

Irene Ottenhof, Landings Golf Course, Hole #15

temp alt for theme iandt

It was a lovely day. I was golfing with Astrid Barber and Maija Burton. It was the 15th hole and about 111 yards into a hefty wind.  My club was a Ping 5 hybrid.

Jason Mabley, Innerlip Highlands Golf Course, Hole #2

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing with two longtime friends, Derek Adam and Dave Vogel. This was my third hole-in-one, and it was 140 yards with a 9 iron. This was my second hole-in-one with a 9 iron. The other was a 4 hybrid 190 yards. Innerkip is one of our favourite courses.

Thanks again.

Jason Mabley

Joel Reilly, Wildfire Golf Club, Hole #15

temp alt for theme iandt

Hey! I hit a low flighted 6 iron into the wind about 168 yards.

John Miholics, Chedoke Golf Club, Hole #8

temp alt for theme iandt

Thanks, much appreciated!

John Usher, Lac La Biche Golf and Country Club, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

Well, it took 37 years to get another one but a different spin on this one. It was at Lac La Biche Golf & Country Club on the 17th par 4 hole which is 257 yards. It must have been my new Titleist TSI driver. The hole-in-one was witnessed by Gary Harman and Tony Nowicki. Never would I have thought that my second hole-in-one would be on a par 4. Always a nice feeling.

Kevin Magill, Riverside Golf Club, Hole #14

temp alt for theme iandt

I was delighted with my effort on May 17th (which also happens to be my son’s birthday!) I’ve been playing golf since I was 13 years old, so it only took me 45 years to achieve this milestone! I played last Wednesday in the Riverside Senior Men’s Wednesday draw, as I do each week (I am also the webmaster for the club). I played with Derek Edwards, Randy Talbot and Ken May (the latter leaving us after the front nine, so he missed my Michael Block emulating shot).

Although a short and supposedly ‘easy’ par 3, a mere 125 yards and a stroke index of 18, the 14th at Riverside in Edmonton has an elevated green, some 20 feet higher than the tee box. With a transverse slope, the hole is quite challenging. It’s fair to say I hardly ever put the ball on the deck, making this effort all the sweeter! I celebrate if I’m within ten feet of the pin on my second shot, let alone my tee shot.

On this occasion, the pin was in the middle of the green and the hole was playing around 135 yards. I took my wedge, teed up my Titleist 2, and hit it flush. My shot tracked straight as an arrow for the pin. My playing partners both congratulated me on my shot, and I figured it would be close, but being an elevated green, I could not see the landing or where it ended up.

Once I got up to the green, I saw a ball about 10 feet from the pin which I assumed to be mine. Upon checking, it was not. I then looked along the fringes of the green thinking my ball must have rolled off and settled in the second cut. My playing partner, Randy, checked the hole and low and behold, there she was – Titleist 2 smiling up at me from the bottom of the cup! No need for the putter. An eagle on that par 3 was nice, but unfortunately didn’t help my overall score, I shot 99 on the day.

Thanks for your interest.

Kevin Magill

Kyle Rossiter, Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club, Hole #13

temp alt for theme iandt

It was quite a day. It was Victoria Day, and I was playing with my wife, Dena Rossiter, but just behind us were my three regular golf friends, Jason Jenkins, Ziad Sheena and Jeff Alliston. 

The 13th tee box is directly perpendicular (separated by a small pond) from the 12th fairway. So, as I was teeing off my close friends were in the fairway and watched me hit. They couldn’t see it go in, but I was able to turn to them and started yelling that it was in. My wife didn’t know what to do. I asked her to tee off and then we will check the cup. Sure enough it was in.

The hole was 120 yards from the blue tees. I hit a 60-degree wedge and it landed about three feet short right with draw spin (I’m a lefty). I heard the audible “click” and watched it disappear. 

I was so lucky to have some of my friends with me and my wife to enjoy some beers after. Sadly, I dunked that ball into the water on the next hole on the approach. Win some, lose some.

Leo Burns Scully, Donalda Club, Hole #3

temp alt for theme iandt

My story actually starts about a week before my round when I found a very fresh looking ProV1x that said “NICE” on the side of the ball while playing a round. I thought that this would be a good ball to get my first hole-in-one with, so I stored it in my bag and only used it on par threes moving forward. I played one or two more rounds after that day but still no hole-in-one with the special ball.

However, over the long weekend I was playing with my partner and two of our friends. On hole #3, (the first par 3) I teed up with my normal golf ball only to realize I had forgotten to get my “NICE” golf ball out for the par 3. I explained what I was doing to my playing partners, and they laughed at me, but I went back to my bag and teed up the “NICE” ball. It was 184 yards, and I hit a lovely 8 iron draw. It landed about eight feet short of the pin, and it rolled in. It was written that I would get my hole-in-one with that ball! We celebrated well!

Linda Wilson, Highwood Golf & Country Club, Hole #6

temp alt for theme iandt

I recorded my third hole-in-one at my home course in High River, Alberta on May 24th. I was playing in our regular Wednesday ladies’ group with Carol, Arlene and Lee Anne.

I hit a nice 7 iron 100 yards and it landed on the green and rolled toward the hole. It looked like it was going right in, and the ladies all said it dropped, but I didn’t want to get too excited until I saw my pink Bridgestone ball in the bottom of the cup. 

It was very exciting as it had been 22 years since my last one and I wasn’t sure it would ever happen again. 

Luca Dichio, Oakville Executive Golf Course, Hole #11

temp alt for theme iandt

I was playing with three of my buddies from Etobicoke and wasn’t having the greatest of rounds. I strolled up to the 11th and shot a pitching wedge from the tee (151 yards) and watched it fly straight at the pin. It took one hop and rolled right in. One of the best feelings ever! I didn’t believe it until I saw it in the hole!

Mario Demello, Ashburn Golf Club, Hole #5

temp alt for theme iandt

It was hole #5 playing 160 yards and I used a 6 iron. I played with Garry Paton, Dwayne Gaudet and Roger Sinclair.

Mark Acheson, Legends on the Niagara, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

I was with Josh Snoek and Austin Kuiack and we were paired with Anthony Gladue. The pin was at the front, so I had 141 yards slightly into the wind and I used a wedge (47 degree). 

Thanks,

Mark

Maurizio Camilletti, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Hole #14

temp alt for theme iandt

This was a great and special feeling to experience for the second time in less than a year. The yardage was 157 yards, and I used an 8 iron.

Thank you and best regards!

Maurizio Camilletti

Mitch Davis Mann, Dragons Fire Golf Club, Hole #17

temp alt for theme iandt

It was a great day for sure! I was playing with my friend Cyril. It was the 17th hole at Dragons Fire Golf Club. A small hole surrounded by water; I believe the yardage was 116 that day. I used my 60° wedge and landed it about a foot past the pin and it spun back and dropped right in the hole.

All the best,

Mitch

Norma Columbus, Banff Springs Golf Course, Hole #8

temp alt for theme iandt

I had a hole-in-one on #8 of the Stanley Thompson Course at Banff Springs Golf Course during the Alberta Golf Upswing event.

Paul Madgett, Nanton Golf Club, Hole #3

temp alt for theme iandt

I was golfing with Cameron King as well as the town of Nanton hockey, music and golf legend Felix Endres. The hole was 162 yards and Cameron had just hit his shot to three feet. I then hit it and incredibly it went in. I was using an old Ping G10 28-degree hybrid that once belonged to my dad.

Randy Yee, Delta Golf Club, Hole #13

temp alt for theme iandt

It’s the second hole-in-one I’ve had, but the first since 1993. I was playing with a group of 12 but Todd, Chad and Jeremy were in my group. It was the 13th hole, 90 yards but playing about 100 into a slight breeze. I used my gap wedge, landed it about 12 inches in front of the hole and the ball rolled in.

Ray Barkwill, Cowichan Golf and Country Club, Hole #13

temp alt for theme iandt

I hit a hole-in-one at Cowichan Golf and Country Club. On hole #13 I used a gap wedge from 119 yards.

Cheers,

Raymond

Richard Lim, Sleepy Hollow Golf & Country Club, Hole #6

temp alt for theme iandt

Thank you for the congratulatory note. It was indeed a special moment. I was playing with my wife, Bella, and a Korean couple, Miyung Kim and Mikyung Song, who are very skilled golfers. It was quite surreal to watch the ball hop a couple of times and roll into the hole. The sixth hole at Sleepy Hollow Golf and Country Club plays 170 yards from the white tees. I used a 5 iron on the shot.

Riley MacIsaac, Antigonish Golf and Country Club, Hole #12

temp alt for theme iandt

Hey there,

I was playing with my brother, Patrik MacIsaac. We always compete against each other as we are really similar golfers. The yardage was 165 yards, and I used a 7 iron.

Thanks!

Rob Brown, Paragon Golf and Country Club, Hole #7

temp alt for theme iandt

I recorded my hole-in-one at Paragon Golf & Country Club in Kingston, Nova Scotia. It was on hole #7, with a 7 iron, during Men’s League. The distance was 179 yards, playing slightly downhill and down wind.

Scott McCharles, Willow Ridge Golf and Country Club, Hole #5

temp alt for theme iandt

I got my hole-in-one (the first for me) on April 27th on hole #5 at Willow Ridge. We were playing from the blue tees. The laser said it was 142 yards and I hit an 8 iron. I was playing with my golf buddies Doug King and Ken Pickering. Lunch that day was on me!

Shane Dyck, Pine Ridge Golf Club, Hole #14

temp alt for theme iandt

It was a 177-yard par 3 with a 6 iron.

I became an adaptive golfer after I was initially paralyzed from below the neck and given a 1% chance to walk again. My whole spine was fused with metal after a 12-hour surgery and doctors said I would be in a power chair for the rest of my life. I am beyond grateful for how the game of golf has helped me throughout my injury, both mentally and physically.

Tammy Kondryshyn, Transcona Golf Club, Hole #8

temp alt for theme iandt

Good day!

My hole-in-one was my very first in thirty years of golf. Approximately 128 yards away, I selected my 9 iron and there was a slight cross wind. I hit the ball and it was not my best strike at it as it was going towards the sand trap.

It hit the edge and started going towards the pin. We were watching it and it looked like it was going towards the back sand trap. We both looked at each other and said, “do you think it went in?”

We start to video as we roll up to the pin and then boom the ball is in the cup! We both screamed and laughed! What a way to end my round at ladies’ night.

Into the club house we went to celebrate, and I bought shots for everyone. As I walk in, the girls behind the bar say congrats! Thank you for listening to my very exciting hole-in-one story.

Terry Rockwood, Eaglequest Grandview Golf & Country Club, Hole #7

temp alt for theme iandt

My hole-in-one happened on the 150-yard seventh hole at Grandview Golf Course in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. I used a 4 hybrid for the shot from a pushed back tee box to a blue flag. I was playing with Paul Gallivan, who is the nephew of the famed Hockey Night in Canada announcer Danny Gallivan. A few years before, Paul was playing with my buddy Cordell Poirier when he got a hole-in-one on the same hole. As Cordell’s ball was in the air heading toward the flag, Paul was doing a play-by-play of the event. When my ball went in the hole, I turned to Paul and said, “You didn’t do the play-by-play”. We had a laugh and proceeded to the green to retrieve the ball from the hole. Like many long-time golfers, I have been close multiple times, but it took 56 years to finally get a hole-in-one.

Tim Salisbury, Carne Golf Links, Hole #5

temp alt for theme iandt

Carne Golf Links is in Belmullet, Ireland. It was the first round of our golf trip (six total rounds) in which 20 of us went. It was the fifth hole, a 155-yard par 3. I was playing alongside Bryan Rothery, Chuck Hitchen and Rick Meyers. I hit a pitching wedge and not one of us, including the forecaddie, saw it go in. The forecaddie thought it might have rolled to the back of the green. When we approached the green, we didn’t see it and started to look around. It wasn’t until the other three started playing out the hole that one of the guys’ went to pick out his ball from the cup and discovered it. Amazing start to an unforgettable trip to Ireland.

Willie Bruce, Race Brook Country Club, Hole #12

temp alt for theme iandt

It occurred on Saturday, May 27 at Race Brook Country Club. It was on hole #12, a 195-yard par 3 and I used a Ping G425 5 hybrid. I was playing a Taylor Made TP5x golf ball. My playing partners were my son, Steve Bruce, and Dave Germain.

Canadian University/College Championship

UBC Thunderbirds hold lead in women’s division, Victoria Vikes take lead in men’s division after third day of the University/College Championship

temp fix empty alt images for attachment
KOMOKA, ONT — 1 JUNE 2023 CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP AIDEN CRAIG-STEEL AND ÉLIZABETH LABBÉ AT THE CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP AT FIREROCK GOLF CLUB (PHOTO: BOB GENTILE/BILL BOSWELL)

Jackson Jacob fires a 63 to maintain lead in men’s individual division

Komoka, Ont. –  As temperatures continue to soar in Komoka so does the action at FireRock Golf Club. Jackson Jacob (Fraser Valley Cascades) recorded two eagles and five birdies on his way to a 9-under, 63 to continue to hold the lead in the individual men’s division after three rounds of the 2023 Canadian University/College Championship presented by BDO on Thursday.

Jacob got off to a hot start with an eagle on the opening hole. He followed up the front nine with three birdies for a 31. “Today, I didn’t do anything super crazy, I hit a lot of greens, hit a lot of fairways, let the putter do the work and add a chip in here and there,” he said with a smile.

Both the Fraser Valley Cascades and Université Laval Rouge et Or are trailing the Victoria Vikes for first place. The Vikes hold a one-shot lead on Laval heading into the final day. The Cascades had a day to remember, firing a combined 17-under, 271 to move into third place in the men’s team division. Jacob and his teammates have been looking forward to this tournament for a while, “it means a lot, this is the last nationals that Aaron (Pauls), our head coach is going to be with us so we’re all just trying to do our best and win it for him,” said Jacob.

Élizabeth Labbé (UBC Thunderbirds) shot a 2-under, 71 on Thursday. She currently sits in third with teammates Sonja Tang leading at 5-under and Grace Bell in second at 1-over to round out the top three in the women’s individual division.

“This course sets up really well, not just for me but for our whole team,” said Labbé. “I just try to stay patient and know that the birdies are coming. It’s nice because there’s five par 5’s, definitely good opportunities. Overall, just staying patient and the birdies will come.”

In the women’s team division, the UBC Thunderbirds will be taking their lead into the final round on Friday after shooting a combined 216 on Thursday and currently sit at 6-under with a 45-shot lead.

“I think we just want to keep doing what were doing, we’ve had a really great season overall. I think just sticking to our game plan, having fun, and we’ll manage,” added Labbé ahead of tomorrow’s final round.

The field has now been cut to the top ten (10) men’s teams and the top six (6) women’s teams. Individuals within ten (10) shots of third place have made the cut, in addition to any players in the top ten (10) men’s teams and top six (6) women’s teams.

Full the full leaderboard click here.

For final round tee times click here.

Top-5 Women’s – Individual

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Sonja Tang68, 70, 76-5
2Grace Bell71, 77, 72+1
3Élizabeth Labbé71, 79, 71+2
4Sukriti Harjai78, 71, 76+6
T5Victoria Tse79, 76, 72+8
T5Lexie McKay72, 75, 80+8

Top-5 Men’s – Individual 

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Jackson Jacob68, 71, 63-14
T2Andrew Rouble71, 69, 71-5
T2Justin Allen73, 67, 71-5
T4Nicolas Dessureault71, 73, 68-4
T4Liam Mosher72, 68, 72-4

Top-5 Women’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of British Columbia Thunderbirds210, 225, 216-6
2University of Victoria Vikes237, 222, 237+39
3University of British Columbia Okanagan Heat230, 234, 234+41
4University of the Fraser Valley Cascades237, 237, 233+50
5Humber College Hawks232, 234, 244+53

Top-5 Men’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of Victoria Vikes290, 283, 287-4
2Université Laval Rouge et Or289, 284, 288-3
3University of the Fraser Valley Cascades299, 292, 271-2
4University of British Columbia Thunderbirds295, 287, 285+3
5McMaster University Marauders295, 292, 286+9
19th Hole

Puma golf releases new Maple Leaf collection for 2023

temp fix empty alt images for attachment
Maple Leaf Collection

ADDITION OF 20 NEW STYLES;
NOW AVAILABLE IN WOMEN’S OPTIONS;
ALL TOPS FEATURE MATTR OR CLOUDSPUN FABRIC

temp fix empty alt images

TORONTO, Canada (June 1, 2023) – Following a successful launch last season, today PUMA Golf is thrilled to release its 2023 Maple Leaf Collection and expand its lineup of special gear designed for Canadian golfers. The fresh collection features 20 new styles of apparel and headwear inspired by Canada’s iconic symbol – the Maple Leaf.

The nation’s classic colours of red and white are infused across the lineup to create several bold designs in multiple colourways. A mix of polos, hats, t-shirts and sweaters are available, including a special MATTR Natural Hoodie. It features an all-over print of maple leaves naturally laying on the golf course and is one of a few pieces in the range to showcase the graphic.

“We initially launched a dedicated, uniquely Canadian collection to serve the millions of passionate golfers in our country, and that objective hasn’t changed,” said Dwayne Boecker, Head of Golf, COBRA PUMA GOLF CANADA. “All the positive feedback we received from our debut styles validated that national pride lives on the golf courses in Canada too.”

Also new for 2023 is the addition of women’s styles into the collection. Multiple dresses and polo options were produced this season for women to celebrate Canada in style and comfort too. The Maple Solid Dress is one of the highlights, with its lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, zippered hand pockets and a subtle nod to the maple leaf on chest. A pair of stylish women’s ponytail hats cap off the look with an embroidered maple leaf emblem.

“We worked closely with our Canadian team to tap into the culture and stories the country is known for while also delivering the fashion-forward designs PUMA Golf is known for,” said Chris MacNeill, Team Head, PLM- Golf Apparel & Accessories, PUMA Golf. “We believe we’ve nailed both with this new collection and that it will resonate with all the golfers up north.”

Each piece in the Maple Leaf Collection is produced with PUMA’s signature premium-quality materials, including tech-forward MATTR fabric to address climate and moisture and the ultra- soft, four-way stretch CLOUDSPUN fabric.

PUMA Golf is the Official Apparel and Headwear Partner of Golf Canada’s National Team Program. Athletes and coaches named to Team Canada for the 2024 Olympic Golf Competition in Paris will wear apparel and headwear from PUMA as part of the field-of-play uniform kit.

The collection will be available beginning today at select retailers and online. Visit ca.pumagolf.com/collections/maple-leaf for more information.

Details of the new products in the collection are below:

MATTR Natural Hoodie ($119.99) – a hoodie that will turn heads on the tee with its all-over print of maple leaves. A perfect performance layer to extend the Canadian season as long as possible.

MATTR Pastimes Polo ($109.99) – designed with an all-over print that highlights some of Canada’s cultural emblems, this performance-ready golf polo features hockey sticks, beavers and maple leaves among others. Available in three colourways.

MATTR Natural Polo ($109.99) – a performance-ready golf polo with a special all-over print of maple leaves as if they were naturally laying on course. Available in three colourways.

CLOUDSPUN Maple Solid Polo ($89.99) – a comfy CLOUDSPUN polo with a clean look highlighted by an embroidered maple leaf on chest. Available in three colourways.

Canada P Cap ($39.99) – back by popular demand, this special-edition P Cap includes a humble nod to the Canadian flag. Available in two colourways.

Maple Printed Snapback Cap ($44.99) – a special-edition, two-tone P Cap to perfectly complement the Natural maple leaf printed tops. Available in three colourways.

W MATTR Maple Polo ($99.99) – a performance-ready golf polo with a special all-over print of maple leaves as if they were naturally laying on course. Available in two colourways.

W Natural Dress ($129.99) – a vibrant red and white golf dress with an all-over print of maple leaves. With zippered hand pockets and lightweight material, it’s a fun and functional style.

W Maple Solid Dress ($109.99) – an easy-to-wear, comfy dress with a hint of Canadian pride. Made with our lightweight and stretchy moisture-wicking material to move with women on or off the course. Available in two colourways.

W Maple Ponytail Cap ($39.99) – a simple and stylish, low-profile cap with our special Maple Leaf emblem. Also features a criss-cross elastic backing that ensures a comfortable fit for any ponytail. Available in two colourways.

About COBRA PUMA GOLF

COBRA PUMA GOLF is a corporate division of PUMA, one of the world’s leading sports brands, designing, developing, selling and marketing footwear, apparel and accessories. COBRA PUMA GOLF is an inclusive company, promoting game enjoyment for golfers of all abilities, attitudes and styles. The brands full- range portfolio includes COBRA Golf’s high-performance drivers, fairways, hybrids, wedges, putters and irons, as well as PUMA Golf’s sport lifestyle inspired footwear, apparel and accessories. Fusing performance and style, COBRA PUMA GOLF brings a focus on innovation, technology, compelling design and superior performance with an edge to the global golf marketplace. For more information, visit cobragolf.ca and ca.pumagolf.com.

Canadian University/College Championship

Victoria and Laval tied in men’s division, UBC Thunderbirds maintain lead in women’s division after second day of the University/College Championship

KOMOKA, ONT — 31 MAY 2023 CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP LIAM MOSHER AND DAVID TWEDDELL AT THE CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP AT FIREROCK GOLF CLUB (PHOTO: BOB GENTILE/BILL BOSWELL)
KOMOKA, ONT — 31 MAY 2023 CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP LIAM MOSHER AND DAVID TWEDDELL AT THE CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP AT FIREROCK GOLF CLUB (PHOTO: BOB GENTILE/BILL BOSWELL)

Komoka, Ont. –  The warm temperatures equalled the performances on the course on Wednesday. The University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds women’s team continue their lead, while the University of Victoria Vikes and Université Laval Rouge et Or (Laval) are tied atop the men’s division after two rounds of the 2023 Canadian University/College Championship presented by BDO.

Despite the warm conditions, Western University’s Lexie McKay shot 2-over, 75, on day two at FireRock Golf Club in Komoka, Ont., to hold her spot in second place on home turf. “It’s really nice to be in London and at home, I get to sleep in my own bed which is really nice. I was able to come out here last week and play a few rounds so it feels good to be at home,” said McKay.

Yesterday, McKay shot 1-under, 72, to get off to a comfortable start in the championship, “My goal this week was to try and stay calm and stick to one hole at a time which seemed to work for me yesterday. Then today I seemed to get a bit ahead of myself around the turn. I slowed down and was able to make it back on 18, but it was definitely a grind today out here with the weather,” said McKay.

McKay added, “I plan to not get ahead of myself. Go home, hangout with the team, try not to think about it too much because if I get ahead of myself then things don’t go right. It’s kind of just getting through it as best as you can with the weather, focus on nutrition and do your best.”

McKay and the rest of the field are chasing Sonja Tang (UBC Thunderbirds) who followed up a strong opening round with a 3-under, 70 on Wednesday. Tang currently sits atop the women’s individual leaderboard at 8-under, nine ahead of McKay who sits at 1-over.

The UBC Thunderbirds women’s team continue to lead the team championship, sitting at 3-under after two days and hold a 24-shot lead heading into Thursday.

On the men’s side the University of Victoria Vikes shot a collective score of 283 to sit 3-under for the championship and are tied with Laval going into the third round on Thursday.

Liam Mosher (Victoria Vikes) shot a 4-under, 68 to move himself into a three-way tie for second in the individual men’s standings. Mosher teed off on the back nine to start his round and got hot, recording four straight birdies and six in total for an opening score of 30. “Sometimes you get in the zone and I’ve made four-in-a-row before and just really tired to stay out of my own way,” said Mosher.

“I liked that back nine, it set up well, I found that if I could put it in the fairway, I could have a few wedges and finally made putts,” added Mosher.

Jackson Jacob (Fraser Valley Cascades) maintains his place atop the men’s individual standings after recording a 1-under, 71 to move himself to 5-under for the tournament and a one shot lead.

After the third round on Thursday, the field will be cut to the top ten (10) men’s teams and the top six (6) women’s teams, including any team within 15 shots of the lead. Individuals within ten (10) shots of third place, including any player within the top 10, will also make the cut.

Full the full leaderboard click here.

For third round tee times click here.

Top-5 Women’s – Individual

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Sonja Tang68, 70-8
2Lexie McKay72, 75+1
3Grace Bell71, 77+2
4Sukriti Harjai78,71+3
T5Khushi Hooda79, 71+4
T5Élizabeth Labbé71,79+4

Top-5 Men’s – Individual 

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Jackson Jacob68, 71-5
T2Justin Allen73, 67-4
T2Andrew Rouble71, 69-4
T2Liam Mosher72, 68-4
5Trey Ross72, 69-3

Top-5 Women’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of British Columbia Thunderbirds210, 225-3
2University of Victoria Vikes237, 222+21
3University of British Columbia Okanagan Heat230, 234+26
4Humber College Hawks232, 234+28
5University of the Fraser Valley Cascades237,237+36

Top-5 Men’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
T1University of Victoria Vikes290, 283-3
T1Université Laval Rouge et Or289, 284-3
3University of British Columbia Thunderbirds295, 287+6
4McMaster University Marauders295, 292+11
T5Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks303, 288+15
T5University of the Fraser Valley Cascades299, 292+15
RBC Canadian Open

Fans will be able to play so called Hole Zero at upcoming RBC Canadian Open

temp fix empty alt images for attachment

Fans will be able to play a hole at Oakdale Golf and Country Club when it hosts the RBC Canadian Open next week.

The unique spectator experience is possible because the club in Toronto’s northwest corner has 27 holes on its property, but the PGA Tour event needs just 18 of them.

“It’s going to be a legit 150-yard plus par-3, that you get to play like a real hole,” said Aubrey Levy, senior vice-president of marketing and content for theScore, which is sponsoring the hole through its betting service. “It’s not just come up and take a swing at a simulator or range. You play an entire hole.”

Stations will be set up around Oakdale during the Canadian Open where fans can sign up for a time slot at the so-called Hole Zero. Golf carts will pick them up at the station and take them to the extra hole.

“We’re going to have coaching on site for you, we’re going to have a caddy, we’re going to kit you out with a locker room,” said Levy. “The hope is to make you feel like a pro for a 20-minute block, whether you play like a pro or not.”

This is the first time that fans will be able to play at a PGA Tour event, albeit on an extra 19th hole, according to theScore Bet.

At last year’s Canadian Open theScore Bet sponsored Skyline seats, a dining table that was raised 100 feet into the air by a crane, allowing for a view of St. George’s Golf and Country Club and Toronto’s downtown core.

Levy said that the goal with Hole Zero was to create almost an opposite experience to the Skyline seats.

“We thought ‘OK, if (Skyline) was well received, creating a unique vantage point, then what can we do to bring them even closer to the action?”’ said Levy. “That led to the thought of actually taking them on the course and giving them the opportunity to play a hole during an actual event, like the Canadian Open.”

The RBC Canadian Open starts June 8 and stretches to June 11. The week includes concerts by the Black Eyed Peas and Alanis Morissette on Friday and Saturday, respectively.

19th Hole

NGCOA aims to help new adult golfers get started on their golf journey

temp fix empty alt images for attachment

Do you know someone interested in golf but aren’t sure how to get them started? We can help!

Welcome to Golf is a new initiative organized by the National Golf Course Owners Association Canada that aims to help new adult golfers get started on their golf journey. We believe that the key to an enjoyable first golf experience is ensuring that the golf course is a welcoming, positive, comfortable environment for everyone!

Starting May 22, golf courses across Canada are hosting open house events where new golfers will be introduced to:

  • Where/how to check in upon arrival at the course
  • The features and function of a Clubhouse/Golf Shop
  • How to use the practice area prior to playing
  • How to know when it’s time to start playing
  • What to be aware of during your round… and more importantly what you DON’T have to worry about!
  • Where to start and finish each hole
  • Where to enjoy some great food and a cold drink after your round!

The Open House events may vary slightly from course to course but will all have a common theme: creating a welcoming, positive, comfortable environment for all new golfers in attendance.

Visit www.welcometogolf.ca for further program details and to find a participating course near you.

Canadian University/College Championship

UBC Thunderbirds and Laval Rouge et Or lead team competitions at the Canadian University/College Championship

temp fix empty alt images for attachment
KOMOKA, ONT — 30 MAY 2023 CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP JONATHAN VERMETTE AND SONJA TANG AT THE CANADIAN UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP AT FIREROCK GOLF CLUB (PHOTO: BOB GENTILE/BILL BOSWELL)

Komoka, Ont. – The drive for six straight team championships for the University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds women’s team couldn’t have started any better after the opening round of the 2023 Canadian University/College Championship presented by BDO.

The Thunderbirds were powered by Sonja Tang who shot a 5-under, 68, while the team shot a 9-under, 210 and lead by 20 strokes after day one at FireRock Golf Club in Komoka, Ont.

Tang’s impressive round featured an eagle on 16 (back nine start) and five birdies, “I think today I was just following my game plan. I was hitting greens and then on longer putts just lagging it up there for a two putt so there were opportunities, and I took advantage of them. Overall, I’m really happy with how I played,” said Tang.

The Thunderbirds are seeking their sixth straight team championship and Tang credits the team’s spirit for their strong start on Tuesday, “We push each other all the time, on the course, off the course, in the gym, and its just really fun playing with these girls and they really push me to be better.”

Université Laval Rouge et Or currently lead the men’s team division after recording a 1-over, 289 collective score and take a one shot lead over the Victoria Vikes into the second round on Wednesday.

Jackson Jacob (Fraser Valley Cascades) and Jonathan Vermette (Laval Rouge et Or) sit tied atop the individual leaderboard in the men’s division after opening with rounds of 4-under, 68.

“Going into this week, I saw all the guys were peaking at the same time with their game. We all knew that we’d be close to the top of the leaderboard after round one and hopefully it’s still going to be the same thing tomorrow and the next couple of days because even though our score is good, we can all play better definitely. It’s going to be fun to watch,” said Vermette.

Jacob, coming off a win at the SWOCC Invitational earlier this month, recorded two eagles during his opening round, “Not very often you make two eagles in a round, that was fun to do. The wind picked up for the last five holes and things got a lot more challenging than they did in the morning, but I kept it together,” said Jacob.

After hitting two consecutive drives out of bounds on the back nine Jacob was able to battle back for bogey on both, “That to me was almost bigger than the two eagles because you can lose a lot of shots there and those are huge momentum savers,” he added.

Another highlight during the morning flight saw Ryan Massicotte, representing Bishops’ Gaiters record a hole-in-one on the par three, 8th hole. Massicotte finished with a 1-over, 73.

After the third round on Thursday, the field will be cut to the top ten (10) men’s teams and the top six (6) women’s teams, including any team within 15 shots of the lead. Individuals within ten (10) shots of third place, including any player within the top 10, will also make the cut.

Full the full leaderboard click here.

For second round tee times click here.

Top-5 Women’s – Individual

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Sonja Tang68-5
T2Élizabeth Labbé71-2
T2Grace Bell71-2
4Lexie McKay72-1
5Lucy Park74+1

Top-5 Men’s – Individual 

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
T1Jackson Jacob68-4
T1Jonathan Vermette68-4
3Robin Conlan69-3
T4Jack Deighan70-1
T4Andrew Rouble70-1
T4Nicolas Dessureault70-1

Top-5 Women’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1University of British Columbia Thunderbirds210-9
2University of British Columbia – Okanagan Heat230+11
3Humber College Hawks232+13
T4University of the Fraser Valley Cascades237+18
T4University of Victoria Vikes237+18

Top-5 Men’s – Team

POSNAMESCORESTOTAL
1Université Laval Rouge et Or289+1
2University of Victoria Vikes290+2
T3University of British Columbia Thunderbirds295+7
T3McMaster University Marauders295+7
5University of the Fraser Valley Cascades299+11