KITCHENER, Ont. – Team Québec and Team British Columbia were neck-and-neck coming down the stretch, but it was the latter who escaped victorious in the interprovincial team competition at the 108^th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO.

With half a hole remaining, Mother Nature decided to make her presence known by way of lightning and thunder, forcing officials to suspend play. After a short delay, the final group of Leah John (B.C.), Céleste Dao (Québec), and Erin Kim (Ontario), returned to hole their final putts and officially put a stamp on the interprovincial team championship.

B.C. entered the day one stroke up on Québec and the lead barely budged for most of the round, but in crunch time it was the team from Canada’s west coast – composed of Yan Jun (Victoria) Liu, Leah John and Ha Young Chan – who prevailed, winning by five strokes to capture the Interprovincial Team Trophy.

Vancouver’s Liu and John captained the ship for B.C., firing rounds of 73 and 75, respectively, in Wednesday’s second round to secure the 36-hole team championship title. Individually, Liu ranks T3, while John is positioned T5 heading into day three.

The player they are chasing is Katherine Muzi – the highest ranked competitor in the field on the World Amateur Golf Rankings. Muzi, 22, waited, and waited and waited to make her move but when she did, there was no stopping the American. After an opening round two-over par 74, the Newport Beach, Calif., native carded a four-under par 69 to vault atop the leaderboard through two rounds.

Muzi, who started her day on No. 10, birdied hole No. 5 to spark a four-hole birdie streak and a back nine rally that helped her leapfrog the field ahead. The University of South Carolina Trojan sits at three-under par for the tournament and owns a one-shot advantage halfway through the national championship.

Alissa Xu had a day of her own, firing a three-under par 70 on a wind-howling afternoon at Westmount Golf & Country Club. The Richmond Hill, Ont., native withstood gusts of up to 60km/h and climbed 13 spots up the leaderboard into sole possession of second place.

“I really just tried to just focus on the process and not the score because I find that distracting at times,” said Xu. “Just [wanted] to pick the right clubs and pick the right targets to shoot at.”

That she did. The 16-year-old poured in five birdies to join the leaders on the front page of the leaderboard. She says her goal is to simply stay level-headed entering the final rounds and focus only on what she can control.

Rebecca Kim made one of the biggest splashes in round two, jumping 23 spots on the leaderboard and into the top-10 with a one-under par 72 on a day where birdies came few and far between.

“I was able to handle the wind well today; it was definitely really gusty, so I think that was definitely something that was to my advantage,” said the Victoria, B.C., native. “I was a lot cleaner with my approach shots [today]. I gave myself more looks; I was just kind of tighter to the pins and I got more stuff up-and-down,” she added.

Kim says she focuses on staying resilient through the adversity and that playing ‘gritty’ will be the payoff to success the rest of the way.

First round leader, Leigh Chien, struggled on day two, shooting a six-over par 79. The American remains in a tie for third place, however, and very much in contention with 36 holes left to play.

With the cutline set at 13-over, 73 players advanced to the ‘weekend’ in Kitchener. The third round is scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday morning. The leaders will tee off in the final group at 9:30 a.m.

For complete results click here.

In July 2022, Golf Canada and Osprey Valley announced a major partnership and bold vision to build a new Home for Canadian Golf – a momentous project that will see the National Sport Federation relocate its corporate base of operations to TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont.

In addition to Golf Canada’s national headquarters and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, the vision for the Canadian golf campus on the grounds of TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley will feature the national headquarters for First Tee – Canada which will include a publicly accessible 18-hole community putting course and next generation high-performance training amenities.

Golf Ontario and the Club Management Association of Canada (CMAC) have committed to having corporate presence at the headquarters, collaborating with Golf Canada to embrace the golf community and develop a dynamic home campus for Canadian golf.

The invitation for Canadian golf industry partners as well as government stakeholders, and long-time global affiliates at the R&A, PGA TOUR, and LPGA Tour to be part of the Home for Canadian Golf, will be significant towards the advancement of the sport of golf in Canada.

“Our vision to be a world leader in golf contemplates more than just a physical building—culture, collaboration, and innovation are critical elements,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “Establishing a new headquarters and a Canadian golf campus with our partners to meet, play, train, plan, celebrate and collaborate, represents a transformative moment to advance the sport.”

TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley is a renowned 54-hole golf facility in Peel Region, located in the heart of Caledon, Ont. The property is currently undergoing a significant privately funded expansion and commercial development that includes the construction of two new clubhouses and conference amenities as well as improvements to the practice facility and guest experience with accommodations and hosting facilities onsite.

For Osprey Valley President Chris Humeniuk, partnering with Golf Canada and industry partners to bring a Canadian golf campus to life is part of the ongoing story of Osprey Valley becoming a signature destination for Canadian golf and an effort to uplift the game of golf in Canada.

“We’re thrilled by the vision presented by the entire Golf Canada team and are elated to collaborate with partners who share our vision of elevating golf to new heights in this country,” said Humeniuk.

TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley is welcoming a number of signature events in Canadian golf including the Osprey Valley Open on PGA TOUR Canada, the 2024 Fortinet Cup Championship on PGA TOUR Americas, as well as acting as the annual host of Team Canada’s selection camp. The facility has also hosted qualifier events for both the RBC Canadian Open and the US Open and has committed to host the 2026 Canadian Junior Girls Championship, presented by BDO.

In 2021, the Humeniuk Family Foundation and TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley made a major chapter-founding gift to Golf Canada Foundation that aligns with the property serving as the national headquarters for First Tee – Canada.

Phase one of the Home for Canadian Golf project—which will include the corporate headquarters, a reinvigoration of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, and a 30,000 square foot community putting course designed by golf course architect Paul Jansen – will break ground in 2024 with an expected completion by 2025.

The vision for phase two includes the creation of a stand-alone, world-class training centre for a variety of Golf Canada’s sport development programs including First Tee – Canada that will support coaching education and programming for First Tee chapters across Canada. The training centre will double as a national talent identification hub for the next generation of Canadian players, bolstering Golf Canada’s goal to advance 30 Canadians to the LPGA and PGA Tours by 2032.

For the leadership group at Golf Ontario and the Club Management Association of Canada, joining forces on the Canadian golf campus was an opportunity for deeper collaboration across the sport.

“We are thrilled to rally and support this tremendous project and new home for Canadian golf, helping to unify and provide the golf community a true base which will no doubt create efficiencies, inspire collaboration, and help introduce more participants to our great sport,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle MacFarlane.

“Our purpose is to develop, promote and support the profession of club management by providing educational and networking opportunities for our members, including golf, city, multi-sport, yacht, faculty and social clubs,” said Suzanne Godbehere, CEO of the Club Management Association of Canada. “Integrating CMAC’s operation into the Canadian golf campus really is a special opportunity for thought sharing with our partners.”

The cost for phase one of the Home for Canadian Golf project is estimated at approx. $23M and the financial funding model will be led by Golf Canada along with a donation from Osprey Valley. Phase two of development is will proceed upon successful fundraising campaigns supported by the Golf Canada Foundation and private donors as well as through naming rights, contributions from industry partners, and government support.

The Home for Canadian Golf project aligns with a $70 million-dollar Drive Campaign launched by the Golf Canada Foundation to fund First Tee – Canada chapters and programming along with enhancements to Team Canada’s high-performance program.

“We’re excited to partner with the Humeniuk family, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, and Golf Canada on a new Home for Canadian Golf,” said Golf Canada Foundation CEO Martin Barnard. “Our major donor Trustees have a long history of supporting up-and-coming Canadian players and have now also put substantial support behind launching First Tee in Canada, ensuring broad access for all young Canadians to the character-building life lessons the sport of golf can provide.”

“We’re excited to partner with the Humeniuk family, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, and Golf Canada on a new Home for Canadian Golf,” said Golf Canada Foundation CEO Martin Barnard. “Our major donor Trustees have a long history of supporting up-and-coming Canadian players and have now also put substantial support behind launching First Tee in Canada, ensuring broad access for all young Canadians to the character-building life lessons the sport of golf can provide.”

Van Groll & Associates Inc. has been selected by Golf Canada as the architect of record to bring the Canadian golf campus to life.

The announcement of the Home for Canadian Golf follows several years of due diligence by Golf Canada to explore a long-term solution and forward-looking vision for the relocation of its corporate headquarters as well as the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, which are currently located on the grounds of Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.

The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame has called Glen Abbey Golf Club home since 1977 with the museum constructed in 2003 providing visitors the ability to walk around the fixed displays while learning about the history of the game and Honoured Members. Over the last 20 years, the collection has continued to grow and the need to evolve with new displays, outreach and interactive content has reached its pinnacle.

The move by Golf Canada, along with the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum to TPC Toronto, will allow the museum to refresh and refocus on celebrating and preserving golf history. Canada’s rich golf history will be prevalent when visitors submerse themselves within the TPC Toronto property.

History and memories will be abundant as nearly 60,000 annual visitors roam the halls, locker rooms, and facilities of TPC Toronto’s development with permanent displays and galleries custom built for the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Launched and opened to the public on May 9, 2024, visitors can expect to experience rotational exhibits, including trophy and memorabilia displays, historical photographs from the museum’s archives, and curated lockers of some of the best golfers in the sport. These lockers will first include collaborations with current Hall of Fame members such as Lorie Kane, Marlene Streit, Mike Weir, Nick Taylor, and Bob Vokey, highlighting special mementos from their careers.

In addition, seventeen (17) villas across the property are scheduled to open with each individual villa being named after a Canadian golf legend and the interior design of each villa focused on celebrating that individual’s legacy.

“TPC Toronto is proud to recognize the importance of golf heritage and those who have shaped the game,” exclaimed Chris Humeniuk. The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame is excited to share that TPC Toronto will grant honorary memberships (or playing privileges) to all Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

Finally, the revitalization of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame will also be prominent in the new Golf Canada headquarters, Community Putting Course, and phase 2 development. Numerous in-house displays will showcase some of the country’s most treasured artifacts and untold stories including the RBC Canadian and CPKC Women’s Open trophies.

A brand-new library inside the main atrium of the Golf Canada headquarters will be accessible to visitors and researchers where they can experience the vast collection of publications, periodicals, and rare books curated by the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. The 18th hole of the Community Putting Course, situated on Main St. in the village of Alton, will replicate the now infamous putt sunk by Nick Taylor on the 18th hole of the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.

Once complete, the Home for Canadian Golf will be a multifaceted, world-class tourist facility that will support community recreational benefits; drive inclusivity and community among equity-deserving youth; and become a foundational pillar that supports grassroots participation and high-performance golf.

Watch the full announcement

KITCHENER, Ont. – American, Leigh Chien, birdied early and often en route to a seven-under par 66 and four-stroke lead in the opening round of the 2022 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO.

Scoring conditions were at a premium for the morning wave at Westmount Golf & Country Club and Chien wasted no time pouncing on the opportunity. The 16-year-old rolled in five birdies over her opening eight holes and never looked back, as she continued to distance herself from the pack with an additional three birdies on the back nine. Her lone blunder came on the par-4 No. 15.

“I feel pretty good going into tomorrow,” said Chien. “I just tried to make as many birdies as possible and as few mistakes as possible and I was able to do that [today]. Westmount is really nice; the conditions are great [and] the greens are really smooth. I think that really helped me shoot low.”

Team Canada’s Monet Chun paced the rest of the pack with a three-under par 70 for sole possession of second place, The Richmond Hill, Ont. native carded three birdies and an eagle for the low-Canadian score of the day.

“Putting myself in a good position early is ideal, because it’s such a long four rounds,” said Chun. “Continuing what I’m doing; hitting lots of greens, lots of fairways and making as many putts as possible,” said the 18-year-old on what she thinks it will take to win the tournament.

Five other Canadians ended round one inside the top-10, including Team Canada member Céleste Dao. Dao, who plays her college golf at the University of Georgia, got off to blistering hot start, making three birdies through five. The middle part of the Quebec native’s round caused her headaches, as she fell back to even par with a stretch of bogeys. The 21-year-old bounced back brilliantly, however, with a birdie on her 17^th hole to get back into the red numbers.

The highlight of the day – and quite possibly the tournament – belonged to Élizabeth Labbé. Labbé, the runner-up at this year’s Canadian University/College Championship, carved an iron into the 149-yard par-3 No. 17 at Westmount and watched her ball drop for a hole-in-one. The ace helped the UBC Thunderbird to a round of two-over par 75. She sits T23 heading into the second round.

Team British Columbia leads the interprovincial team championship by one stroke over Team Québec. B.C., made up of Ha Young Chang, Leah John and Yan Jun (Victoria) Liu, fired a combined two-under par on the day. Team Ontario (+10), Team Alberta (+13) and Team Manitoba (+19) follow in third, fourth and fifth place, respectively.

For the full leaderboard click here.

KITCHENER, Ont. – The 108^th installment of the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO, gets underway this week at Westmount Golf & Country Club in Kitchener, Ont. from July 19-22.

The championship, which was first held in 1901, is one of the longest standing amateur events in the world. The inaugural tournament at Royal Montreal Golf Club in Montreal, Que., featured only three players. Fast forward over a century later and 140 players will look to etch their name into the Duchess of Connaughton Gold Cup in 2022.

“Golf Canada is excited for the return of not only a marquee event in Canadian golf history, but also one of the premier amateur events in the world,” says Tournament Director, Mary Beth McKenna. “We’re confident Westmount Golf & Country Club will offer a challenging yet fair test for the players as they showcase their talents on an elite golf course.”  

Practice rounds are scheduled for July 18, before the official 72-hole stroke play competition begins on July 19. Play is scheduled to wrap up on July 22, followed by an awards ceremony and champions reception. The field will be cut to the low 70 players (including ties) after 36 holes.

For the first time since 2019, the tournament will welcome the return of international players following complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten players from the United States, two from Mexico and one from Australia are slated to tee it up north of the border this week, including Katherine Muzi and Bentley Cotton, ranked No. 127 and 250 on the World Amateur Golf Rankings, respectively.

Also being re-introduced this year is the inter-provincial team competition. The inter-provincial championship will be played in conjunction with the first 36 holes of the competition, with three-player teams vying for the team title. Team Ontario – composed of Sarah Dunning, Emily Zhu and Tiana Cruz – are the reigning champions from 2019. Dunning and Zhu are both in the field in Kitchener this week.

Four members of Team Canada’s National Amateur Squad are pencilled into the draw at Westmount: Brooke Rivers (Brampton, Ont.); Céleste Dao (Notre-Dame-de-Ile-Perrot, Que.); Monet Chun (Richmond Hill, Ont.); and Sarah-Eve Rhéaume (Québec City, Que.).

The National Junior Squad will also be well-represented at the 18-hole championship course west of Toronto, with seven members of the team slated to compete: Angela Arora (Surrey, B.C.); Anne-Léa Lavoie (Québec, Que.); Emily Zhu (Richmond Hill, Ont.); Lauren Kim (Surrey, B.C.); Luna Lu (Burnaby, B.C.); Martina Yu (Coquitlam, B.C.); and Yeji Kwon (Coquitlam, B.C.).

Red Deer, Alta.’s Eileen Park is the youngest player in the field at the age of 13; Katherine Hou and Sophia Xu are also only 13 years old, but Park’s date of birth is the latest of the three. Rhonda Orr, out of Winnipeg Man., is the oldest competitor in the field at 60. There are four members of Westmount Golf & Country Club teeing it up this week: Sarah Dunning, Angela Lee, Madeline MacMillan and Laura McIntosh.

New to this year’s tournament is a purse payout. To align with the modernized Rules of Amateur Status, players at the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship will now compete for a purse of $8,000 CAD. Amateur golfers may accept prize money up to a maximum of $1,200 CAD, and payouts will be awarded to the top-10 finishers and ties.

Westmount Golf & Country Club was designed by world-renown architect Stanley Thompson and opened in 1931. Since then, it has played hosts to a number of national and provincial championships, notably the 1957 Canadian Open, 1969 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship and 2009 Canadian Junior Boys Championship. Known for its undulating fairways and sloping greens, the championship course is set up to play fast and firm as it tests an elite field of amateur golfers this week. Westmount last hosted the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship in 1965.

“We are very excited to host 108^th Canadian Women’s Amateur at Westmount this coming week,” said General Manager, Brad Duench. “Our Tournament Committee has worked very hard leading up to this week and I know our membership will be out to support these accomplished athletes. [I] do sense we have a buzz in the community about the event and we are excited to welcome everyone to Westmount this week,” he added.

The Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship was last played in 2021 at Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club in Spruce Grove, Alta. Team Canada National Junior Squad member Lauren Zaretsky was crowned champion, finishing at two-under par to win by as many strokes.

The last time Canadians won in back-to-back years was in 2013 & 2014, when Brooke Henderson and Augusta James captured the national titles. 

Along with the championship’s storied history comes its coveted cast of competitors. Marlene Stewart Streit, a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, sits atop the class with 11 victories and five runner-up finishes at the national event. Since then, the tournament has proved to be a breading ground for some of golf’s brightest young stars. Ariya Jutanugarn (2012), Brooke Henderson (2013), Jennifer Kupcho (2017) and Yealimi Noh (2018) are previous winners who now find themselves competing on the LPGA Tour.

The winner of the championship will earn an exemption into the 2022 CP Women’s Open, August 22-28, at the Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club, as well as the 2022 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship, August 8-14, at Chambers Bay in University Place, Wisc.

More information about the 2022 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship can be found here.

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.

Adam Reilly, Chilliwack Golf Club, Hole #17

Thanks so much for the congratulations! I also had one 9 months ago.

Alex D’Angelo, Pitt Meadows Golf Club, Hole #3

We were the 3^rd or 4^th group out and I was playing with two buddies I play with often and two more visitors from Vancouver Island. It was playing 143 and I hit a 9 iron with a 5-yard draw. Ball bounced in front of the hole and jumped past and then spun back in. When it dropped, I blacked out and simply took off running as fast as I could before being captured and taken down by two of my playing partners. I went on to shoot 80 with a hole-in-one and two birdies due mostly to the fact my hands didn’t stop shaking until the turn. 

Thank you very much for your kind words. 

Best,

Alex

Andrew Walewski, Piper’s Heath Golf Club, Hole #13

Thanks very much for your letter. It’s been a long 35 years coming.

I was playing my daily early morning round with my good friend, Bill Bratt, who is also a Golf Canada and Piper’s Heath member, Wayne Randall and his friend Kieth. 

I used a seven iron from 141yds. We all saw the ball bounce once and then it disappeared so we weren’t sure if it rolled through or not. Sure enough, when we arrived at the hole…eureka!

I took a picture of the 13th hole last year because of the magnificent 400+ year old White Oak. Coincidently the picture shows the exact pin position of my lucky feat.

Cheers.

Angela Ross, Timber Ridge Golf Course, Hole #14

Thank you!

It was hole 14, 115 yards from the red tees and I hit a 9 iron. I was playing with family – my dad Roger Cole, Mark Leavoy and MaryAnn O’Connor.

Thanks,

Angie Ross

Ben Squicciarini, Cambridge Golf Club, Hole #13

I really appreciate you reaching out to congratulate! Also, thank you for the awesome graphic, it looks great! 

I was playing with my dad. The yardage to the pin was 203. I used a 5 iron and hit it right of the flag, it found the line and rolled left into the hole! Definitely was special and something I’ll remember for a long time! Especially doing it alongside my dad who was there all those years ago when I scored my first ever goal in hockey to now being there with me for my first hole-in-one!  

Blessings,  

Ben 

Bill Stone, Bayview, Hole #8

Thank you for the kind words on finally getting my first hole-in-one after 62 years of golf!

I was golfing with Jeremey MacRae, General Manager of Bayview, Stephen Lloyd, our current President, and Dominic Calce!

I used a Titleist Pro V1 #7, a Taylor Made P790 – 8 iron, for #8 hole, measuring 149 yards.

Regards,

Bill

Bill Warren, Grande Meadows Golf Club, Hole #12

I was playing with my brother, Sam, and two other friends. I used the 9 iron. Yardage was approximately 132 yards.

Thank you.

Chanthy Yang, Royal Regina Golf Club, Hole #7

My hole-in-one occurred on July 1, 2022 at the Royal Regina Golf Club.

Christine Elliott, Windemere Golf and Country Club, Hole #2

Hole-in-one was at Windermere Club, hole #2, 128 yards using a five-wood. Golfing with Cynthia Watada, Julie Didone and Lisa Fay.

Cliff Beattie, The Pulpit Club, Hole #3

On Saturday, June 23rd 2022, my son (Jason Beattie) hosted myself, my younger brother (Spark) and his wife Sharon at his Pulpit Club. My brother and his wife were visiting us for the first time in 14 years.  

It was a beautiful day to be playing the Pulpit Course – an amazing course with a challenging layout and beautiful vistas. After starting with a par and a bogey, I approached the par 3 third hole with some trepidation. During my last round at the Pulpit course, the tree guarding the left side of the green robbed me of my first hole-in-one! At least, that is what I told everyone. As I approached the tee box on this day, I noticed that the pin was located in the same general area of the green – tucked in behind that same tree. I actually told my group that I was not going to be robbed again. 

I used an 8 iron to attack the pin located 168 yards away. Playing slightly uphill with very little wind, my ball headed directly towards that “tree” and dropped out of our sight somewhere up around the green. As we approached the green, I looked short of the green (thinking the tree knocked it down again). While walking towards the back of the green to check the sand trap, my son gestured that I should check the cup! There it was – a “hole-in-one” on the 3rd hole at the Pulpit Course! I could not believe my eyes! The experience made even more special by playing with my son, my brother and my sister-in-law! It does not get any better than that! 

Colin Stevenson, Cardinal Lakes Golf Club, Hole #18

I played with RJ YEO and Norm Janitz. It was 166 yards into the wind. I used a 7 wood.

Curtis Martell, Dundee Resort & Golf Club, Hole #7

I was pretty pumped! It was hole number 7 at Dundee. Elevated tee box. 154 yards and I used a pitching wedge. I was playing with Kelly Pottie at the time. Thanks for reaching out! Much appreciated!

Curtis

David Broda, The Okanagan Golf Course, Hole #14

Thank you kindly. It was a thrill to get an ace from 120 yards with a smooth 9 iron, on the Bear in Kelowna. My wife Kathy witnessed it and was perhaps more excited than me. The pro-shop staff were enthusiastic in acknowledging the shot as were fellow golfers.

Thank you.

Dennis Chambers, Clear Lake, Hole #3

What a thrill. I got a hole-in-one. It was on the 119-yard third hole at Clear Lake. I used an easy eight iron. The ball landed about 5 feet from the hole and rolled right in the heart of the cup. My playing partners were my son, Spencer Chambers, and Trevor and Laura Troyen. It was extra special because Spencer could share the moment with me.

Glenn Delaney, Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa, Hole #8

I wanted to thank you and Golf Canada for reaching out.

After playing a mediocre first round in a club sanctioned tournament, I was looking forward to playing a pretty stress free second with my buddies. I arrived early Sunday morning, stretched, hit a few balls, and met up with Rodney Phillips and Barry McEwen, my good friends and playing partners for the final round.

We came up to the 8th at the Digby Pines Golf Resort, a Stanley Thompson designed local treasure and after chipping in on #2 for birdie and a bogey on the Legendary 566-yard par 5, 7th, I had a pretty good round going. We got down to 8 which is a downhill par 3. I had 154 yards on my range finder, the Sun had the green just a shimmering with not much of a breeze when I took my new PXG, 0311 XP 7 iron and started my routine. I picked my spot, took a 3/4 swing and was lucky enough to hit it. Both Rodney and Barry said, “that’s got a chance”. Ball lands on the green, short and to the left of the hole. Barry says, “that’s tracking” and it rolls 6 or 7 feet down over the hill breaking left to right and drops into the cup. Another buddy, Robert Cummings, and his group were waiting to hit on 9 so were watching all the action on the 8th green and starts saying “it’s in the hole, it’s in the hole”. By now, the three of us on the tee are all jumping up and down and hugging when I do my best Bill Murray, “CINDERELLA BOY FROM WAVERLEY NOVA SCOTIA…IT’S IN THE HOLE!!! ITS IN THE HOLE”! I’m betting half the course heard me. Just as exciting as my first and another fantastic day on the golf course, playing the greatest game in the world with your buddies! That my friends, is what life’s all about!

Cheers! 

Helen Knowlton, Olds Central Highlands Golf Course, Hole #7

I was golfing with my husband, Lorne, and dear friends Ron and Chris Thorpe at Olds Central Highlands Golf Course on hole number 7, approximately 110 yards. So surprised as this was the second one in 6 months and 1 day! Had one in Mesa Arizona Superstition Springs Golf Course. I also had a hip replacement a year ago so, I call it the results from my bionic hip. The guys never saw it and Chris was cheering so they thought it was her hole-in-one! Very exciting day for me to say the least.

Jacob Kang, Cherry Downs, Hole #6

Hope you are well and thank you for your email.

I was participating in a charity golf tournament last Saturday, playing with my father-in-law, In-shik Hwang, Pastor Min and Pastor Kim. Uphill, 140 yard out so I hit a 9 iron. It went in after first bounce as per witnessed by the group who were waiting to be on the next tee box, hole 7.

It was my first hole-in-one and a truly exciting experience.

Thank you,

Jacob

Judy MacDermott, Listowel, Hole #5

Thank you for recognizing my hole-in-one! It was very exciting. I was playing with my husband. It was a beautiful sunny morning! The par 3 is 78 yards from the red tees so I used a pitching wedge. It was a very pretty shot, landed about 5 feet short of the hole and rolled right in! I was watching it then it disappeared, and I said to my husband, “oh my goodness, did that go in”! He said, “wow, hole-in-one”!

Thanks again,

Judy MacDermott

Kristen McIntosh, Westmount, Hole #12

Thank you for the congratulations!

I was playing with my husband, sister-in-law and another friend. The yardage on #12 from the golds was 93 yards with the pin on the front left. I hit a 9 iron and it bounced off the front left once and rolled in. Since the tees are elevated, we all had a perfect view of the ball rolling into the hole! The best part of all – I am currently 29 weeks pregnant so it’s a great story to tell our new baby!

Kristen 

Lisa Linders, Legends on the Niagara, Hole #5

I was playing with my husband and our two friends who are new to golf. We play quite a bit at the Chippewa course at Legends of Niagara, a 9 hole par 3/executive style course. My hole-in-one happened on the 5th hole which from the red tees measures 115 yards. I hit my 6 hybrid and hit it straight towards the green. The ball hit the front of the green and started rolling towards the pin which was about in the middle of the green. As it was rolling towards the hole, everyone in my group was saying “great shot” and then as it got close to the cup my husband yelled out “go in the hole” and then the ball disappeared, and everyone started screaming and cheering. I was sort of dumbfounded and almost couldn’t believe it. My husband teased me because he said it took him 45 years to get one and I got mine in my third year. When we got back to the pro shop some other golfers overheard us talking about it and congratulated me as well. It was a lot of fun and a memory for a lifetime.

Mark Merritt, Rattlesnake Point, Hole #15

I was very excited to get my first hole-in-one! I was playing with my good friend Tom Morita. It was the 15th hole on the Copperhead course at Rattlesnake Point. It was 155 yards and I hit an 8 iron. It hit about 10 feet short and rolled right in.

I have played golf for 55 years and this is my first hole-in-one.  I am very lucky, because a few years ago I got an albatross. Not many people can say they have both!

Thanks,

Mark

Mark Taciuk, Carlisle Golf and Country Club, Hole #4

I was lucky enough to get a second hole-in-one last week. 

Was playing Carlisle on Tuesday night (July 5th) and a got a hole-in-one on North #4. It was playing 104 yards from the white tees, and I hit my 46 degree gap wedge. I was golfing with my buddy Adam Lewington from Century Pines. 

It’s been a pretty lucky season for me so far. 

Thanks,

Mark Taciuk

Matthew Errington, Fairview Mountain, Hole #3

Thank you very much for the congratulations and for acknowledging my hole-in-one. It was just another day out on the golf course. Smashed a 52-degree wedge six feet above the hole, which rolled back into the hole. Couldn’t believe it. 

Matthew Howard, Victoria Golf Club, Hole #2

Thanks for this!

I was playing with my dad, Doug Howard, and my nephew, Sam Howard – both playing VGC for the first time. Unfortunately, my son couldn’t play with us that day because he was preparing for his graduation ceremony the next day. I’ve only ever had one other eagle, on the par 5 7th at Uplands, and my dad was there that day too. We don’t play together often because he lives in Vancouver, so that’s quite a coincidence.  

I’m not sure what the precise yardage was, but the pin position was blue – near the back. I was actually already slightly discouraged by then because I hadn’t been playing well lately and I doubled the first, so I was kind of thinking “here we go again”.  My nephew hit first, using a 9 iron, and hit a great shot but it squirted over the back, so he helped me choose my pitching wedge! That was a good choice for me because if the pin was forward, I should use my new gap wedge, which I had used last time out to shank the ball into the backyard of a neighbouring house!

I knew the shot was okay when I hit it, but to be honest I was a little concerned there was too much draw – I’m always trying to correct that with my short irons. I could see it land and was relieved it was right of the pin, so still okay, but I couldn’t see it roll in. When I got to the green, I was surprised I couldn’t find it and was worried it rolled off the back as well, or into a bunker left. After looking for a while and checking all the bunkers I finally looked into the cup – thinking, like probably everyone does: “nah, it can’t be”.

The next day at my son’s graduation ceremony, I was able to discuss it with one of his teachers and close mentors, an avid golfer. We both agreed that although the grad was indeed special, the really big event had definitely occurred the day before!

Here are some pictures: my nephew is being a good sport even though I probably should have told him 9 iron is too much. 

Michael Rider, Sunset Ranch, Hole #8

Thanks, most definitely a highlight of my life and a memory I’ll never forget.

#8 has an elevated tee box so all four of us were able to watch the entire shot, made it even more sweet, especially as you see the ball tracking towards the hole. The yardage was 122 yards (measured with a range finder before tee off). I used a pitching wedge. Landed on the green 10 yards or so under and slightly right of the hole, the ball caused quite a divot and gently rolled towards and in the hole. Another 4 inches and it would not have had the distance, I’m sure. The guys I regularly play with who were in my foursome are: Barry Kaechele, Edward Villeneuve and Gerry Villeneuve. All of us are golf Canada members.

Have an awesome day,

Mike

Mike Graves, Maple Creek Golf Course, Hole #6

My name is Mike Graves and I golf in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan at the Maple Creek Golf Course. I’m 73 years old. I golf 9 holes daily at around 06:30 AM. On June 30, 2022, my tee shot went into the hole on hole #6, which was playing at 133 yards. I used my 7 iron Ping G425. The ball landed about one foot onto the green and ran another 13 feet into the hole. I wasn’t sure it went in until I rolled up closer to the hole. (73-year-old eyes). What a great feeling that allows me to cross off one big one on my bucket list. Thanks for your acknowledgements.

Geezer Graves

Mike MacDonald, Chedoke Golf Club, Hole #8

Really appreciate you reaching out. I had no idea Golf Canada did anything like this. I’d be happy to share. 

Unfortunately, I wasn’t playing with any of my friends but was teamed up with another gentleman to make a two-some. I measured the hole at exactly 140 yards, that’s a 9 iron for me. Once I hit the ball, I knew it was close. I even said “get in the jar”. Haha. To my surprise, the ball landed right in the cup. No bounce, no roll. Crazy. Along with my partner I was playing with, the group on the tee block ahead of us witnessed and joined the celebration. I think I’m still shaking. 

Thanks for the graphic! 

Mike MacDonald 

Mike Richling, Canadian Golf and Country Club, Hole #7

I got the first hole-in-one of the season, May 10, 2022, at the Canadian Golf and Country Club. I used my 5 iron on hole #7. With the sun in our eyes and the pin tucked in behind a sand trap, we didn’t even see it go in. This is my career third. I also got a very nice coffee mug that says, ‘I aced the Canadian’.

Muthanna Subbaiah, Le Diable Golf Course, #16

I live in Ottawa and was in Mont Tremblant with family to celebrate my birthday. I was playing Le Diable with my friend Andrew and had just three putted hole #15 to go from a 20 foot eagle opportunity to a par. I walked up to hole #16 and it was 155 yard, par 3. Teed up against a gentle but noticeable breeze. I picked up my 7 iron. I remember the feel and sound being perfect, the ball landing two inches from the hole, hitting the flag and rolling in. I could not believe it, was ecstatic and have replayed the shot many times since. Could not have asked for a better birthday gift. Every time I golf, my son asks me if I got a hole-in-one. Finally, I could say yes. 

Muthanna

Nigel Pollard, Glacier Greens Golf Club, Hole #12

My hole-in-one was on hole #12 at Glacier Greens Golf Club. The yardage was 101 and I used a 50 degree wedge. I was golfing with Perry Lucas, Tom Mann and his son Owen. This was my second hole-in one on this hole, I got one last year on August 27, 2021. This is my 4th hole-in-one overall.

Noel Ananthan, The Club at North Halton, Hole #9

My first hole-in-one occurred at my home course, The Club at North Halton, in Georgetown, on June 24, 2022. The ninth hole is the course’s signature hole with a picturesque pond laying in front of the green and the clubhouse and balcony forming a perfect backdrop. I had the pleasure of fellow members and pro shop staff actually seeing the ball drop into the hole. However what made the hole in one truly memorable is one of the fundamental aspects that make golf such an enriching activity: I was able to share the moment with so many of my friends. I am a part of a Friday morning group and we happened to be the last foursome of the group that day. The entire group, about 30 golfers, stayed until I finished the round to help me celebrate.

Dr. Noel Ananthan

Peter Blandy, Glencoe Golf and Country Club, Hole #8

It was a great moment for sure. 

It was July 4. Alberta Golf Tour event. Calgary Premier Open at the Glencoe Golf & CC. Hole #8 on The Lakes Course. 184 yards with a 4 iron. I was playing with Fred Zdanowicz and Barry Galenza. It was my 85th round for 2022.

Some other interesting pieces to this are that this is actually my 4th lifetime hole-in-one. My first was at Colonial Golf Course around 1995, second at Edmonton Springs Golf Course in 2016, and my third was in this same tournament (Alberta Golf Tour) in 2018 at the Jasper Park Lodge course. 

Thanks so much,

Peter Blandy

Philippe Morisset, Hautes Plaines, Hole #9

Thank you for the congratulations. 

My foursome for the round was: Philippe Morisset, Marie-José Lacroix, Mario Luneau and Lise Lafontaine.

The hole-in-one was on July 4th, on the 9th hole at Hautes-Plaines Golf Club. The flag was 130 yards away and I used a 9 iron. When I hit the ball, I thought it would be very close but did not see the ball roll in the hole because of the shadow on the green. Mario also hit a very nice shot, but it seemed too strong.  When I saw only one ball on the green, I thought it was mine and that Mario’s had rolled off the green. Mario was first on the green and noticed that it was his ball that was 15 feet from the hole. He was surprised and yelled where is your ball, Phil? He walked to the hole and …the rest is history. 

There is a star in the sky shining for me on July 4th. This is my second hole-in-one. The first also occurred on a July 4th, which happens to be on my mother’s birthday.

Ravi Narula, Malone Golf Club, Hole #14

Playing golf with Greg Doyle, Dave Ariel and Andrew Hawel on Saturday July 9th, 2:30 p.m, hole number 14 East at the Malone Golf Club. I hit a 7 iron on the 146-yard hole. The ball landed on the green behind the pin which was placed at the bottom of the slope leading to the lower tier of the two-tier green. Once it landed on the green, I stopped looking at the ball. Andrew who was still looking at the ball, announced that the ball had started moving down and then exclaimed that he was not sure but thought the ball went in the hole. We drove down on the carts while Dave ran down the hill. Once at the bottom of the elevated green, we all ran up the slope to the green and then to the hole. Dave, who was first reaching the hole, yelled out the first scream. We all reached the hole and joined in the high fives and the rejoicing then I removed the ball for my first ever hole-in-one!

Rob Aitcheson, Springfield, Hole #12

I was golfing with Joe Franczek. 12th hole was playing around 145 yards to the middle, back flag. Slight breeze from the left. Used an 8 iron and hit it perfect. The three guys all said it was in, but I was not sure. It looked like it hit in front of the pin and bounced over the back. I was happy to see I was wrong. Used a Taylormade TP5X number 1, kept the ball. It was my first.

Thanks,

Rob

Robin Love, Eagle Creek Golf Course, Hole #15

Thank you for your interest. It was about 155 yards and I used a Callaway hybrid 5 iron. It was witnessed by Harry Dickson, Ken Maughan and John Thomas.

Robin

Scott Basler, Elmira Golf Club, Hole #6

It was beautiful Friday night at Elmira Golf Club. A nine and dine with some close friends, a few drinks and some great tunes.

With the 6th hole playing just short of 180 yards, I thought a six iron would be a safe play. If I ended up short, I would stay out of trouble.

I struck it well, landed short and got a big bounce. Rolled up onto the green and fell into the cup. A big yell and a hug from partner Chad Dawson it didn’t take long for word to spread through our 20-person group. The most expensive 9 & dine I’ve ever had but also the most memorable.

Funny how I always glance through your stories. Never thought I’d get one myself.

Scott Basler

Sonny Ennis, The Gander Golf Club, Hole #6

Playing the 154-yard 6th hole at The Gander Golf Club during the Iron Man tournament (27 holes). I hit a 6 iron into a right to left 50km wind. As soon as it left the club, I knew it was going to be good, but never imagined it would be my first ace. I bent to pick up my tee and my playing partners Chad Yetman, Rick Sheppard and Bill Molloy said, “that’s in the hole!”. I didn’t even see it go in! Great moment that I’ll never forget! 

Spence Palmer, West Haven Golf and Country Club, Hole #15

I was golfing with three friends Mike, Moe and Jim. It was about 165 yards, and I used my trusty 7 wood.

It was quite exciting. It was my second hole-in-one at West Haven. I also aced #6 a few years back. 

Spence Palmer

Stephen Freiburger, Westmount, Hole #3

Westmount Golf and Country Club

Sunday, July 10, 2022

Tee Time: 9:15

Stephen Freiburger with William Wilson and Iain Thomson

Third Hole: Between 9:40 and 10 a.m.

Tee Blocks: Blue, White, Red and Gold with all set at same distance: 165 yards

The prefect club for the third hole today was my new Hybrid 6.

I was the first to tee off! I reminded myself to just swing easy, but it had to be a full swing! I swung nice and easy exactly like I told myself! My ball’s flight was right at the pin, it landed, bounced, rolled and then it disappeared. I wasn’t totally sure, but Bill and Iain were celebrating that it was in the hole. 

Steve Freiburger

Steve Kinsey, Shannon Lake Golf Club, Hole #16

Thank you for your e-mail.

I’ve been sort of golfing for about 20 years and became a member at Shannon Lake Golf Club in 2021. I turned 78 on July 11, 2022 and am trying to become a better golfer as I really enjoy golfing with a group called “The Loonies” on Mondays and Fridays.

The hole-in-one came after a rough front nine and was from the blue tees as we were playing Blue/White tees that day. I used my Taylormade rescue 6 from approximately 158 yards and my ball landed 3 feet from the front of the green and rolled in.

Chris Young, Dave Clare, Dave Munroe and I were in the foursome.

Thank you,

Steve Kinsey

ANTIGONISH, N.S. – Albeit contrasting flight paths, Abbey Baker and Ethan Efford landed in the same destination on Thursday: in the winner’s circle at the NextGen Atlantic Championship, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards.

It was steady cruising for Baker, who turned it to autopilot and let the wind take her to the finish line at Antigonish Golf Club; and while Efford hit turbulence along the way, he, too, made it to ground safe and sound with a championship, to boot.

Baker opened the tournament with a nine-over par 81 but rebounded wonderfully in the second round with a one-under par 71 – the only round under par on the Junior Girls side all week.

“I’m really happy with how I recovered after a very rough first round. I came back after shooting 81 and worked on my putting for a while and I definitely saw a lot of improvements which is nice,” said Baker.

With breathing room to spare, the 17-year-old sailed to the stopping place, closing out the tournament with a five-over par 77 for a 13-stroke triumph – the largest margin of victory at any NextGen Championship this year.

“It wasn’t really in my head that much,” said Baker of the large lead. “I was just trying to make birdies out there and play good for myself.”

Though it was hardly ever in doubt, Baker’s win in Antigonish officially landed her a spot on Team Nova Scotia for the upcoming 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ont., August 17-20 at Legends on the Niagara (Battlefield Course).

“I’m super excited; it’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I’m just happy it’s a go this year.”

The leaderboard on the Junior Boys side was as packed as sardines. On any given hole, the name atop the leaderboard changed, but when the final ball dropped on the 54^th hole, it was Ethan Efford who prevailed.

In good Canadian form, Efford completed the hattrick on Thursday, carding his third consecutive round of four-over par 76 to capture the title by one stroke over Dimitri Mihelakos, Gavin Ives and Owen Canavan.

“I told myself on the first tee that I wanted to get through this whole round and commit to every single shot,” said Efford. “I knew it was tight and I knew that if I go out there and commit to every shot and maintain the confidence that I have in myself, I know that at the end of the day, whatever my score is I’ll be content with it.”

Since he tee’d off this morning, it took, in his words, a lot of grit and grind to come out victorious but the hard work paid off.

 “I knew that no matter what, I just [had] to stay in it and never give up, and that’s just how I took it – one shot at a time and in the end I was happy with the result.”

Efford says the win proves his game is in a much better spot than he might feel it is and looks to build off the momentum as the season progresses. Though in a different uniform, he, like Baker, will represent his province (Newfoundland and Labrador) at the Canada Summer Games in August.

The pair have one more stop to make before that, however: Nationals.

Baker, a native of Halifax, N.S., will travel to the Canadian Junior Girls Championship at the Marshes Golf Club in Ottawa, Ont., July 26-29, while Efford, out of St. Johns, Nfld., will fly coast-to-coast to compete in the Canadian Junior Boys Championship, August 7-10, at Rivershore Estates & Golf Links in Kamloops, British Columbia.

Including Baker, the top six players (including ties) in the Junior Girls division have earned exemptions into the 2022 Canadian Junior Girls Championship:

From the Junior Boys division, the top six players have earned exemptions into the 2022 Canadian Junior Boys Championship, August 6-10, at Rivershore Estates & Golf Links in Kamloops, British Columbia.

About the NextGen Championships series, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards

The NextGen Championships, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards is a high-performance junior golf series which totals eight competitions. From May to July, six championships will take place across Canada where the region’s best junior golfers will compete to earn exemptions into their respective 2022 national championships. NextGen Championships provide junior players an opportunity to develop and showcase their skills at the highest level of tournament golf. 

Who was the first person to be intimidated by golf? Hint: It wasn’t you.

Little-known fact: He was the second person to take up the game about, oh, 600 years ago in Scotland.

“Och, Geordie, I could never hit that stone as far as you can with your shepherd’s crook. Look, it’s almost in the rabbit hole in one stroke! Why are you walking so fast? I can’t find my stone! Who is that behind us?” Versions of those plaintive bleats have echoed down through history and continue to be heard today, in one fashion or another.

There is no denying that golf can be perceived as intimidating, especially for beginners who may whiff, foozle and shank their way around the course, unaware of the basic rules and etiquette.  Most likely, especially if they are adults, they are very conscious of two things: They are most definitely not having fun and they are holding up the group or groups behind them. And chances are that those groups are making their displeasure known at every opportunity.

Whose fault is that? There is enough blame to spread around when discussing the intimidation factor in golf, believe me.

First, it is an inescapable reality that many beginners who complain about being intimidated on the golf course must shoulder some of the blame. Expecting to do well the first few times they step onto a course is unrealistic. Hallucinogenic, actually. If they want to make golf a regular part of their lives, a few lessons should precede that first round, or at least several visits to the driving range with an experienced golfer. Once that first step has been taken, choose a course that is appropriate for your basic skill level and play the most forward tees.  Try to avoid peak times when the course is busy.

Many courses offer inexpensive beginner lesson packages and clinics. It is money well spent. If your spouse plays, find a couples’ “nine-and-dine” outing and make it a date night.  More and more courses have “family nights” where basic instruction is followed by a few holes on the course. Most of the time, these are scrambles where the onus is on fun, not competition. Don’t even think about score until you can hit the ball more consistently. Focus on fun, the beauty of the course, the company of friends, and the opportunity to enjoy a nice meal and a beverage after.

Second, more experienced golfers have to give their heads a collective shake. All of you were, at one time, beginners and no doubt intimidated. Although it is difficult, think back to how frustrated and, perhaps, embarrassed you felt then and how much you appreciated some understanding from other golfers.  As old hands now, it is your responsibility to welcome new players into the game that has brought you so much pleasure.

Intimidation is not unique to golf and it should not be a reason to give up or never take up the game.

For example, when you join a gym, you do so to get more fit or build muscle. Even though you may be “intimidated” by some bulked-up specimens working out there or by that annoyingly athletic person who runs the treadmill for hours, you stick with it, because you are focused on improving. And, eventually, with persistence, the results are obvious and well worth the effort.

Think of golf in the same way: As a process.

Believe me, it remains a lifelong process but one well worth pursuing.

(There are lots of options to ease your intimidation factor like The First Tee junior program, Golf Fore the Cure and many more. Check online or go to your local course to get into the game for a lifetime.)

The game of golf is booming like never before and, if you’re reading this, you likely are one of the thousands who are taking up the game for the first time.

The allure of golf is obvious: it’s fun exercise, it’s a chance to enjoy the outdoors and it’s very social. Like any sport or recreational pastime, it requires you to learn a bit about the fundamentals and to practise if you want to enjoy the game to its fullest.

Here are nine tips to help you enjoy the game. (Coincidentally, nine holes is just the right number for beginners.)

Let’s go!

1. Go online.

There are lots of websites that offer helpful tips for beginners of every age on every topic from the basic rules and etiquette to the fundamentals of the swing.

2. Go to a course.

Even before you head to the tee for the very first time, do a little online research about the courses in your area. You will want to find a public or “semi-private” course (one that has members but also welcomes the public golfer). Drop into the golf shop, introduce yourself as a new golfer and have a look around. Ask if they have a program to introduce new golfers to the game. If they do, sign up! Find a course near you here.

3. Go to a pro.

Just about every course has a PGA of Canada professional. They’re helpful and knowledgeable. Even a half-hour lesson with a pro will get you started on the right path.. Taking a lesson is the best investment you can make if you want to enjoy the game and improve your skills. Many courses offer group lessons that include playing a few holes at a very reasonable cost.

4. Go get some clubs.

Although most courses have clubs you can rent, you will want to have your own set. Visit your local pro shop or chain store to find a preferred set. As long as you follow the course’s dress code (often published on their website), you don’t even need golf shoes at this point. Running shoes will suffice.

5. Go to the driving range.

If you’re taking lessons at a course, you no doubt have taken advantage of the practice facility, also called the driving range. If not, head for a public driving range with a friend and hit some balls. Many facilities also have a practice putting green. As you will find out, putting is a very important part of the game!

6. Go to the first tee.

You’ve hooked up with some friends or new acquaintances from your introductory program. You’ve asked the folks in the golf shop from which tees you should play as a beginner (generally, the most forward set of tees is appropriate).

7. Go hit the ball.

Assuming you’ve followed these first few tips, you should be hitting the ball in the right general direction. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not as proficient as your more experienced companions. Just relax, swing, and don’t forget to breathe! From a safety perspective, make sure you are aware of where your friends are and when they are hitting. From a “pace of play” viewpoint, always be ready to hit your next shot when it’s your turn. Most importantly, don’t get frustrated if you’re not proficient immediately. You will improve the more you play and practise. Remember, the object of the game is to have fun!

8. Go to the clubhouse.

Much of the appeal of golf is the social aspect following a round. Reliving the game, good shots and not-so-good, with friends and family is an integral part of the game.

9. Go back.

Golf has been called “the game for a lifetime.” You can play this game at whatever level you wish, from recreational to competitive, for years and years. It’s healthy, fun and a great way to meet new friends.

So there you go! Nine tips, just like the nine holes you will likely play the first few times you’re at the course.

But there is so much more!

Although you can learn the fundamentals of the swing, course etiquette and rules online, golfcanada.ca is the best resource for anyone who enjoys the game at any level.

As you play more golf, you’ll want an official handicap index and the other benefits that come with a Golf Canada membership.

And remember: The object of the game is to have fun!

ANTIGONISH, N.S. – The NextGen Atlantic Championship, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards is set to begin at Antigonish Golf Club, July 12-14 in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. 

Practice rounds are scheduled for July 11, before the official 54-hole tournament gets underway on July 12. Play is scheduled to wrap up on July 14. 

The top six (6) male competitors (not including ties) will earn a spot in the upcoming Canadian Junior Boys Championship, presented by BDO, August 7-10, at Rivershore Estates & Golf Links in Kamloops, B.C. The top six (6) female golfers (including ties) will also earn exemptions into this year’s Canadian Junior Girls Championship, July 25-29, at The Marshes Golf Club in Ottawa, Ont.  

The starting field will feature 63 players – 42 Junior Boys and 21 Junior Girls – vying for a spot in their respective Canadian Junior Championship later this summer. 

The NextGen Atlantic Championship is the last of six regional junior championships presented in partnership with JOURNIE Rewards. Most recently, Yasmine Qureshi and Cameron Pero were crowned champions at the NextGen Quebec Championship at Club de Golf Hemmingford in Hemmingford, Que. For the full schedule of 2022 NextGen Championships, click here. 

There are two additional NextGen Championships scheduled for the fall – the NextGen Fall Series East Championship in Hampton, N.B. and the NextGen Fall Series West Championship in Golden, B.C. 

For past results of the 2022 NextGen Championships, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards: Pacific | Ontario | Western | Prairie | Quebec 

The Antigonish Golf Club opened in the mid 1920’s as a six-hole golf course and was originally laid out by its founding members. Soon later, an additional three holes were added to complete the nine-hole design in 1926. As the popularity of the sport grew, so did the golf course. In 1990, the 18-hole layout was achieved and this week it will test some of the best junior golfers in the Maritimes.  

Additional information about the 2022 NextGen Atlantic Championship can be found here.  

About the NextGen Championships series, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards 

The NextGen Championships, fueled by JOURNIE Rewards is a high-performance junior golf series which totals eight competitions. From May to July, six championships will take place across Canada where the region’s best junior golfers will compete to earn exemptions into their respective 2022 national championships. NextGen Championships provide junior players an opportunity to develop and showcase their skills at the highest level of tournament golf.  

Mike McCoy and Terrill Samuel were crowned winners of the R&A Senior Amateur and Women’s Senior Amateur championships at Royal Dornoch.

With both championships played concurrently for the first time, McCoy was almost able to enjoy a lap of honour in the final round of the Senior Amateur.

Samuel, a member at Weston Golf Club in Toronto, handled the tough conditions at the renowned venue in the Scottish Highlands better than her competitors to join McCoy as Senior Women’s Amateur champion.

Samuel is just the third Canadian winner after Alison Murdoch in 2007 and Diane Williams in 1994. McCoy is the second consecutive Iowa golfer to lift the trophy, following close friend and fellow Des Moines native Gene Elliott. The 2021 champion was on hand to spray his next door neighbour with champagne when McCoy holed out on the 18^th green.

McCoy began the final round with a nine-shot lead, the only player in red figures on five-under-par. He extended his lead to 12 shots after just four holes and was never in any danger of being overtaken. He had the luxury of an eight-over 78 in strong cross winds to post a three-over 283 total and win by seven shots over fellow American Lee Porter.

“Up until the end I played some of the best golf of my life in this wind,” said McCoy. “My round yesterday (one-under 69) was one of the best of my life.

“I knew I had a big lead and I was maybe protecting it a bit today. I was patient all week, which was key. I probably lost a little bit on the back nine today but I just kept my chin up. I grinded hard at the start and when I made the turn after nine I knew I had a lot (of shots) to work with.”

The 59-year-old, who will lead next year’s Walker Cup team for the United States of America at St Andrews, credited Elliott for inspiring him to victory. 

He added, “After Gene won, I definitely made it a goal this year to win this championship. I thought if I worked hard maybe it would become my turn. I worked hard over the winter, played well this Spring and was in decent form before I got here. It’s a big honour to have won this championship on such a great course, in tough conditions against such a strong field.”

Samuel won the battle of attrition that was the women’s championship in the first year in which The R&A staged both the senior men’s and women’s championships together on the same course.

Joint 36-hole leader with Peru’s Anna Morales, Samuel struggled to a third round 85 in the strong winds that sent scores sky rocketing. However, the 61-year-old English-born Canadian never gave up. She returned a closing three-over 75 for a 22-over 309 total to defeat 2019 champion Lara Tennant by two shots. Emma Brown from England was third.

Samuel said, “It’s unbelievable to do win on this course, in such tough conditions. I played poorly on the front nine yesterday, but today I made a great start and that helped me mentally. It made me hang in there and I just battled hard over the back nine.

“This is my biggest win in golf because I was born in the UK. I was born in Twickenham and moved to Canada with my parents when I was two months old. I used to come over every year and spend time with my grandparents in Cornwall and play amateur events over here so it feels like a home win.

“I know Diane Williams, so to get my name on the trophy with hers and become the third Canadian winner is a huge honour.”