UBC’s Una Chou sets new course record to take lead in women’s division; Aidan Schumer maintains top spot in men’s division

SUDBURY, Ont. – The University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds Men’s and Women’s teams continue to strengthen their hold on the lead following the second round of the 2024 Canadian University/College Championship, presented by BDO.

The UBC Thunderbirds Women’s team were led by Una Chou of San Diego, Calif. on Tuesday. Chou fired a 5-under 67 to set a new women’s course record at Idylwylde Golf & Country Club in Sudbury, Ont. The previous record was held by Canadian Golf Hall of Famer, Marlene Stewart Streit who shot a 68 during the 1974 Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship at Idylwylde.

Chou opened with four birdies on the front nine and recorded three consecutive birdies on holes 15 through 17 to help erase two earlier bogeys on the back nine. Chou credited her work on the greens to help her score so well on Tuesday.

“My putting, I was able to make most putts within 15-feet,” said Chou.

Teammate Grace Bell of Calgary, Alta. has moved into second in the individual standings following a 2-over 74 on Tuesday. Bell is now six shots behind Chou. Julia Alexander-Carew of Oakville, Ont. (UBC Okanagan Heat) is solo third at 4-over for the tournament following a 75 in the second round. UBC Thunderbirds’ Bo Brown of Mississauga, Ont. and Jessica Ng of Vancouver, B.C. round out the top five.

The UBC Thunderbirds Women’s team, who are seeking their seventh consecutive national championship, have opened a sizable lead after two days. The Thunderbirds shot a collective 4-under 212 on Tuesday to improve to 2-under for the tournament, 27 shots clear of the UBC Okanagan Heat who are at 25-over. Chou said with this being the team’s final tournament of the season, they want to end on a high note.

“We have so much faith within each other, and I think that’s why we are playing well as we know we have each other’s back. We still have two more rounds so I think if we can just continue what we have been doing we will be great,” she added.

The UBC Thunderbirds Men’s team are looking to win their eighth national title and second in the past three years are currently 33 shots ahead of the Montreal Carabins. The Thunderbirds shot a collective score of 8-under 280 in today’s second round to get to 22-under for the tournament.

Aidan Schumer of Columbus, Ohio continues to lead the way for the Thunderbirds and the men’s individual leaderboard. Schumer followed up a strong opening round with a 6-under 66 on Tuesday to move to 11-under for the tournament. Schumer started strong with an eagle on the opening hole and went on to record five additional birdies during his round.

Behind Schumer are teammates, John Paul Kahlert of Maple Ridge, B.C. who posted another round at 3-under 69 to move to 6-under for the tournament and is five shots back. Mackenzie Bickell of Richmond, B.C. dropped one stroke following a 73 to sit at 3-under and is tied for third with Owen Croft (Victoria Vikes) who improved to 3-under overall after posting a 5-under 67 on Tuesday. There is a three-way tie for fifth with William Forgues (Laval Rouge et Or), Dylan MacDonald (UBC Thunderbirds) and Anthony Jomphe (Montreal Carabins) all at 2-under.

In the team championship, four daily scores count towards the team total with three scores daily in the women’s division. After the third round, the field will be cut to the low nine (9) men’s teams and the low six (6) women’s teams, including any team within 15 shots of the lead. Individuals within ten (10) shots of third place, or any player within the top-10, will also make the cut.

For the leaderboards following play on Tuesday, please click here. For Wednesday’s pairings and tee times, please click here.

Men’s Team Championship – Top 5

Women’s Team Championship – Top 5

Men’s Individual Championship – Top 5

Women’s Individual Championship – Top 5

Stewart Cink, Justin Leonard and Kevin Kisner to join Furyk in Montreal

MONTREAL, Quebec, Canada – U.S. Team Captain Jim Furyk announced Stewart Cink, Justin Leonard and Kevin Kisner as captain’s assistants for the 2024 Presidents Cup, which will be played at The Royal Montreal Golf Club in Montreal, Canada, Sept. 24-29. Furyk has the option to name up to two additional assistants prior to the competition.

“I am excited to announce Stewart, Justin and Kevin as my captain’s assistants for the 2024 Presidents Cup in Montreal,” said Furyk. “The three of them have a tremendous history with this event, but more importantly, they will be trusted voices in the team room and on the course for our guys. I look forward to working with them closely as we build a 12-man U.S. Team that is ready to compete at Royal Montreal this fall.”

Cink, an eight-time PGA TOUR winner, has appeared in four Presidents Cups (2000, 2005, 2007, 2009), compiling a 9-7-2 record in four U.S. Team victories, including a 4-0-0 performance in his debut in 2000. The only time Cink and Furyk were paired together in Presidents Cup competition was in 2007 at Royal Montreal, where they notched a 2-up victory over Angel Cabrera and K.J. Choi during Saturday’s fourball matches. The 51-year-old will be making his first appearance as a captain’s assistant in 2024.

“Jim is a longtime friend and it’s an honor to be named as a captain’s assistant for the 2024 Presidents Cup. This event has meant so much to my career and it’s a thrill to get to return to Montreal, where I have such great memories from 2007,” said Cink.

Leonard, 51, has competed in the Presidents Cup five times (1996, 1998, 2003, 2005, 2009), compiling an 8-11-4 all-time record. The 12-time PGA TOUR winner, who currently plays on PGA TOUR Champions, was paired with Furyk four times between the 2003 and 2009 Presidents Cups, where the pair combined for a 2-1-1 record.

“It has been incredible to watch this U.S. Team grow and develop in team competition over the years, and I can’t think of anyone better than Jim to lead this talented group into Montreal in a few months,” said Leonard, who will be making his debut as a captain’s assistant. “My history with this event goes back nearly three decades, so I was honored to receive the call and I’m excited for a great week of golf in September.”

Kisner will also be making his debut as a captain’s assistant in 2024 after competing for the U.S. Team in 2017 and 2022. The four-time PGA TOUR winner, who owns a 2-2-3 career record in Presidents Cup competition, built a reputation as a tenacious match play competitor, winning the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play in 2019 and finishing runner-up in 2018 and 2022.

“Match play is my favorite format in golf and I’m looking forward to adding some expertise and insight to our team room as we lead an incredible contingent of players into Montreal,” said Kisner, 40. “Jim is someone I’ve looked up to throughout my career and is naturally just a great leader, so it was a thrill when he called and asked me to serve as a captain’s assistant this fall.”

For more information about the Presidents Cup, or to purchase tickets, please visit PresidentsCup.com. 

UBC’s Aidan Schumer and Grace Bell lead men’s and women’s
individual championships

SUDBURY, Ont. – The University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds Men’s and Women’s teams find themselves in familiar territory following the opening round of the 2024 Canadian University/College Championship, presented by BDO.

Both teams hold the lead heading into the second round on Tuesday. The UBC Thunderbirds Women’s team are seeking a seventh consecutive national championship which would mark 17 total in the tournament’s 20-year history. The men’s team will be looking for their eighth title.

Played was initially delayed by 90 minutes on Monday due to heavy fog at the Idylwylde Golf & Country Club in Sudbury, Ont. Once play began the UBC Thunderbirds Men’s team got off to a flying start and finished the day with a 20 shot lead over a pair of teams after a collective score of 14-under. Aidan Schumer of Columbus, Ohio led the way for the Thunderbirds, firing a 5-under 67 which also leads the men’s individual standings.

“I could tell the guys were really calm before the round and I think we all sank in really easily to our rounds and the boys had an awesome day today,” said Schumer. “Really looking forward to trying to keep the pace up these next three days for myself and the boys as well.”

Schumer opened his round with three straight birdies from his first nine and two more to open his second nine, recording eight in total on the day. He credited his fast start to a good warm-up and work with a trainer, allowing his body to get into action on Monday.

“I took it one shot at a time and stayed in the present. When I made a mistake, I didn’t let it bother me and had a lot of opportunities. I was in some tough places today, but I had great opportunities to practice aspects of my game I don’t usually encounter out on the west coast. The golf course is in great condition,” said the opening round men’s leader.

Behind Schumer are teammates Mackenzie Bickell of Richmond, B.C. at 4-under 68 and John Paul Kahlert of Maple Ridge, B.C. at 3-under 69. Maguire Lines (Victoria Vikes), Anthony Jomphe (Montreal Carabins) and Samuel Breton Gagnon (Champlain St-Lawrence Lions) are also tied for third with Kahlert at 3-under.

The race in the women’s individual championship is shaping up to be one to watch this week. Grace Bell of Calgary, Alta. (UBC Thunderbirds) currently holds a one-shot lead over three other competitors. Bell ended her round with nine consecutive pars to shoot an even-par 72. Teammates Bo Brown of Mississauga, Ont. and Una Chou of San Diego, Calif. are one back after both posting rounds of 1-over 73. Julia Alexander-Carew of Oakville, Ont. (UBC Okanagan Heat) also sits at 1-over.

UBC Thunderbirds Women’s team take a ten-shot lead over their provincial rival, UBC Okanagan Heat. The Thunderbirds sit with a collective score over 2-over, while the Heat are 12-over.

Added excitement on Monday evening came courtesy of Bryden Dilley of Barrie, Ont. (Georgian Grizzles). Dilley recorded a hole-in-one on the par-3 4th hole; she finished her day T13 at 8-over.

In the team championship, four daily scores count towards the men’s team total with three scores daily in the Women’s division. After the third round, the field will be cut to the low nine (9) men’s teams and the low six (6) women’s teams, including any team within 15 shots of the lead. Individuals within ten (10) shots of third place, or any player within the top-10, will also make the cut.

For the leaderboards following play on Monday, please click here. For Tuesday’s pairings and tee times, please click here.

Men’s Team Championship – Top 5

Women’s Team Championship – Top 5

Men’s Individual Championship – Top 5

Women’s Individual Championship – Top 5

HAMILTON, Ontario — Robert MacIntyre, with father Dougie at his side as his caddie, held on to win the RBC Canadian Open on Sunday for his first PGA Tour title.

Four strokes ahead entering the final round at Hamilton Golf and Country Club, MacIntyre shot a 2-under 68 to beat playing partner Ben Griffin by a stroke. On the par-4 18th, the 27-year-old Scottish left-hander two-putted for par from 12 feet, holing out from 1 1/2 feet.

“Goose bumps. It’s incredible,” MacIntyre said. “It’s a dream of mine to play golf for a living. It’s been a dream of mine to win on the PGA Tour. … I just can’t believe I done it with my dad on the bag. The guy’s taught me the way I play golf.”

MacIntyre finished at 16-under 264 for the breakthrough victory in his 45th career PGA Tour start. The former McNeese State player was a member of Europe’s winning 2023 Ryder Cup team and has two European tour victories, the 2020 Aphrodite Hills Cyprus Showdown and 2022 Italian Open.

“I was in a dog fight there,” MacIntyre said. “Obviously, Ben made it difficult coming in the stretch. He played well. It’s just incredible to do this with my dad on the bag and have my girlfriend here and I’m sure there’s a party going on back home in Oban.”

Griffin had a 65. He parred the 18th after birdieing the previous three holes.

“I fought hard,” Griffin said. “It felt like there was a lid on the cup for most of the day for me. I hit so many pretty good putts, I wouldn’t say like striped putts, but pretty good putts and just kept burning edges. A couple bad putts, but stayed patient.”

Victor Perez of France was third at 14 under after his second straight 64.

Two-time Canadian Open champion Rory McIlroy also shot 64 to tie for fourth with Tom Kim (64) at 13 under. McIlroy won in 2019 the last time the tournament was in Hamilton and again in 2022 at St. George’s in Toronto.

“Three really good rounds of golf, one not so good one,” McIlroy said. “Felt a little out of sorts on Friday. Did a good range session and sort of rectified it.”

Corey Conners was the top Canadian, shooting a 65 to reach 12 under.

“Definitely something to be proud of,” Conners said. “Yeah, obviously disappointing to not win the big trophy, but, yeah, it’s a cool honor.

Fellow Canadian Mackenzie Hughes, tied for second entering the day, was another shot back after a 70.

Last year at Oakdale in Toronto, Nick Taylor made a 72-foot eagle putt on the fourth hole of a playoff against Tommy Fleetwood to become the first Canadian to win the event since 1954.

Mackenzie Hughes had the dream scenario of winning the RBC Canadian Open in his hometown within reach but then it all slipped away.

Hughes started the final round of the men’s national golf championship tied for second, four shots back of Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre. Hughes had three birdies on his first four holes and MacIntyre bogeyed No. 1 to lift the Canadian to the top of the leaderboard.

The final 10 holes were tough on Hughes, with three bogeys dropping him back down as MacIntyre found his rhythm and surged to his first PGA Tour victory.

“Pretty gutted,” said Hughes, pausing to collect himself. “Yeah, I wanted this one pretty badly.

“I don’t know. This one will sting for awhile. I obviously got off to the start I needed to get off to but I just didn’t.”

Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., ended a 69-year drought for Canadians at their national championship last year after a thrilling four-hole playoff at Toronto’s Oakdale Golf and Country Club. It has been 110 years since Canadians won it in consecutive years, with Albert Murray (1913) and Karl Keffer (1914) the last to accomplish the feat.

Hughes spoke all week about trying to stay mentally present and shelve any pressure he might feel. Not just because he was aware of the importance of keeping the championship in Canada, but because this year’s event at Hamilton Golf and Country Club was essentially in his hometown.

Billed from Dundas, Ont., just eight kilometres away from the course in Ancaster, Ont., — both towns were amalgamated into the city of Hamilton in 2000 and 2001 respectively — Hughes allowed that the pressure of the final round did weigh on him.

“Today I felt sort of the enormity of a few of the putts I had and a few of the shots,” he said. “Kind of felt like I was running out of holes at times and that I needed to make something happen. 

“In this game you can’t really force things or feel like you need to start pressing, it’s kind of a hard game to be pressing.”

Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont., actually leapfrogged Hughes on the final leaderboard to win the Rivermead Cup, the trophy for lowest scoring Canadian at the men’s national championship. Conners shot 5-under 65 on the day to finish 12 under in sole possession of sixth.

“I guess it’s a nice consolation prize,” said Conners, who also won it in 2022. “Definitely something to be proud of but obviously disappointing to not win the big trophy. It’s a cool honour.”

There was a small silver lining for Hughes. His performance earned him a spot in the upcoming British Open at Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland.

“It’s a great, I guess, bonus after not getting what you want, but kind of hard to think about that at the moment,” said Hughes. “It’s always great to get a major start under your belt and to play at Troon.

“I’ve played there before, so it’s a really fun golf course and looking forward to getting there in July.”

Taylor Pendrith (69) of Richmond Hill, Ont., tied for 21st at 7 under. He is projected to move three spots up to 30th on the FedEx Cup standings, making him the highest ranked Canadian on the PGA Tour.

“A good step in the right direction,” said Pendrith, who went to Kent State University with Hughes and Conners. “I felt like I did a lot of good things, I putted awesome today, saved me a lot.”

Ben Silverman (68) of Thornhill, Ont., tied for 35th, Adam Svensson (70) of Surrey, B.C., tied for 51st. Myles Creighton (70) of Digby, N.S., tied for 57th. Edmonton’s Will Bateman (74) tied for 62nd, and David Hearn (76) of Brantford, Ont., finished 69th in his 20th Canadian Open appearance.

Al Riddell was going to go have a quiet Sunday afternoon coffee with his family when his dad asked if he had heard that Mike (Fluff) Cowan, C.T. Pan’s caddie, had slipped during the fourth round of the RBC Canadian Open and that a fan had started carrying his bag for him.

Riddell put his own caddie gear back on and headed back to Hamilton Golf and Country Club to see if Pan, an old friend of his from the Mackenzie Tour, needed some help.

“I don’t live too far. I’m from here. I live 15 minutes away. So we just got changed, got ready,” said Riddell. “I just went over to see him and if he was OK, if he needed someone and I jumped in for the back nine.”

Riddell usually caddies for Paul Barjon, who missed the cut on Friday, and so he was available to be the last of Pan’s four caddies in the final round of the Canadian Open. Pan shot a respectable 1-under 69 in the rain.

Cowan, Pan’s regular caddie, went down in the middle of the third hole. Paul Emerson, a fan watching the tournament, stepped inside the ropes to carry Pan’s clubs through the fourth hole.

The Taiwanese golfer birdied No. 3 but bogeyed No. 4.

Mike Campbell, who works in caddie services at Hamilton Golf and Country Club, took over for holes five through nine. That pairing grabbed birdies on the eighth and ninth holes.

Riddell and Pan’s wife Michelle — who has caddied for him before — were waiting to spell Campbell at the 10th hole. Pan ultimately chose Riddell for the final nine holes of the round.

“I just brought my yardage book and if he needed info, I had info,” said Riddell. “And if he didn’t, he just wanted me to be quiet which most people do. I just was quiet. So it worked out.”

Pan eagled the par 4 No. 12 hole, but also bogeyed Nos. 11 and 16.

The 76-year-old Cowan was not seriously injured after the fall.

Mackenzie Hughes is having fun, he really is. He’s just trying to stay focused as he chases the RBC Canadian Open title.

Shouts of “atta boy Mac!,” “Let’s go Canada!” and “We got you, Mac!” rang across Hamilton Golf and Country Club on Saturday as Hughes shot a 3-under 67 to sit in a tie for second with New Zealand’s Ryan Fox and American Ben Griffin. All three are trying to catch Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre, who shot a 4-under 66 to build a four-shot lead heading into the final round of Canada’s men’s golf championship.

“I never get cheered for like this really ever, because when I’m playing in the U.S., I’m pretty much a nobody,” said Hughes, who is from Dundas, Ont., just eight kilometres away from the course. “Being here at home you feel like they’re really pulling you across the line.

“I made a putt on 10 and it was just like, it was like chills. The putt went in, the crowd went nuts, and just some of those moments and things I felt I’ll remember for a long time.”

If Hughes can catch MacIntyre in the final round it will be the first time in 110 years that Canadians have won the men’s national golf championship in back-to-back years.

Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., ended a 69-year drought at the home open at Toronto’s Oakdale Golf and Country Club in 2023.

As long a wait as it was for a Canadian to win the national title — Pat Fletcher was the last to do it in 1954 — it has been even longer since Canadians won it in consecutive years. Albert Murray (1913) and Karl Keffer (1914) were the last homegrown back-to-back champs.

Hughes has said all week that he’s trying to shelve any pressure to keep the title in Canada and just stay present when he’s on the course, even as the crowd is very vocally in his corner.

“For me, it’s about not trying too hard, not forcing things,” he said. “For the most part I would say I did a pretty good job. 

“There were a few things I would like to do over again, but, yeah, for the most part playing near the lead in your National Open I felt like I did a pretty good job handling everything and kept myself within distance for tomorrow.”

At the hockey-themed No. 13 hole, dubbed The Rink because of the hockey boards surrounding the tee box, Hughes did allow himself to get personal. For a second time at the tournament he pulled on the hockey jersey of family friend Bill Bath, who died April 23.

“I just feel like he was a huge part of my life and my journey to this point,” said Hughes of Bath, who caddied for him in 2019 when the Canadian Open was last in Hamilton. “We walked these hills the last time I was here and it’s just nice to kind of keep him out there with me, if you will. 

“I know we’re in the midst of a lot of chaos and competitiveness on that Rink hole and it’s actually a super hard shot with like a 6-iron or 5-iron, but there are bigger things than golf and he was a really close friend of mine and I’m thinking about him a lot.”

MacIntyre was 1 over on the day through 13 holes, allowing Hughes to briefly take the lead, but he reeled off three consecutive birdies and eagled No. 17 to pull way ahead of the field.

“I didn’t have it great at the start, but I feel like whenever I dropped a shot I bounced back with maybe two good shots into the green, and I would pick up a shot back,” said MacIntyre. “It never got away from me.

“A bit of luck, a bit of myself staying in the moment, staying calm. I got my reward with the putter in the end.”

Two-time Canadian Open champion Rory McIlroy remained an obvious fan favourite on Saturday. Roars could be heard every time he made a birdie putt as he fired a 5-under round to bounce back from a disappointing 2-over struggle on Friday. That lifted him into a four-way tie for 11th at 7-under overall.

“I feel like an honorary Canadian at this point and the support I get here is amazing,” said McIlroy, who won his first Canadian Open on the same course in 2019. “I keep saying it, but just a pleasure to play in an atmosphere like that.

“The crowds are so good, they’re so supportive, so enthusiastic, looking forward to one more day of it.”

Corey Conners (67) of Listowel, Ont., was in that group with McIlroy. Taylor Pendrith (66) of Richmond Hill, Ont., was a shot back in a five-way tie for 15th. 

Hughes, Conners, and Pendrith were all on Kent State University’s men’s golf team together.

When Ben Silverman was announced in the 13th tee box at the RBC Canadian Open, the fans at the feature Rink hole knew just what to do: rise and sing “O Canada,” in its entirety.

The ovation was the highlight of Silverman’s day, as the golfer from Thornhill, Ont., one of eight Canadians left in the men’s national championship, shot an even-par 70 on Saturday to sit in a tie for 49th at 1-under overall.

“I didn’t expect that,” said Silverman of the patriotic serenade. “I kind of was getting pumped up for it. It’s just a fun environment. It’s cool to be around.”

Silverman had five birdies in Saturday’s third round at Hamilton Golf and Country Club, but also had three bogeys and a double bogey on the par-4 No. 3 hole to finish his day no better or worse than the previous day. He liked how he’s played through the first three rounds of the Canadian Open, however.

“No major adjustments,” said Silverman on how he’ll prepare for Sunday’s final round. “Just keep doing what I’m doing and hope that all balls stay in the fairway and then I can have a better chance to score.”

Silverman is ranked 112th on the FedEx Cup standings with 229 points this season, having made 10 cuts at 16 events with four top 25s. The Canadian Open is his third consecutive made cut and given his position on its leaderboard it’s projected that he’ll hold his position on the PGA Tour rankings.

“Making cuts just cements the fact that I’m playing well, which I know I am,” said Silverman after coming off the course. “But honestly, the way the FedEx Cup points work unless you’re finishing top 20 at full field events like this, you’re not building enough points to make playoffs. 

“So it’s bittersweet at the same time because T-40 essentially doesn’t mean much. You need to climb up to top 20, top 10 and contend for wins.”

Taylor Pendrith (66) of Richmond Hill, Ont., fired a 4-under 66 on Saturday afternoon to move 15 spots up the leaderboard and into a tie for 15th. He did it all with a new caddie as Mitch Theoret, who usually carries his bag for him, was in a wedding party on Saturday. 

Instead, “Dynamite” Dean Emerson, who usually caddies for Patton Kizzire, stepped up.

“Dynamite Dean! He was great,” said Pendrith. “We had a fun time out there. Kept it pretty light. 

“He kept me hydrated, made sure I was eating my bars, and gave me some good numbers, so, yeah, he was awesome.”

Anaheim Ducks centre Ryan Strome was also in contention to carry Pendrith’s clubs for him.

“We joked about it,” laughed Pendrith. “I didn’t know how serious he was, because he was supposed to be at the same wedding that Mitch is in. 

“He said he would do it if I needed him, but he’s realizes that it’s my job and I should probably take a professional caddie, so it’s all good.”

Mackenzie Hughes (67) of nearby Dundas, Ont., was the low Canadian after three rounds, sitting in a tie for second at 10 under, four shots back of leader Robert MacIntyre of Scotland.

Corey Conners (67) of Listowel, Ont., was tied for 11th at 7 under and Edmonton’s Wil Bareman (72) dropped 23 spots into a tie for 36th at 2 under. 

Adam Svensson (69) of Surrey, B.C., was tied with Silverman at 1 under. 

Myles Creighton (71) of Digby, N.S., was tied for 58th at even-par 70 and David Hearn (72) of Brantford, Ont., was tied for 64th at 2 over.

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.

Ron Macdonald, Legends, Hole #8

On Masters Sunday, cI alled and asked Legends if they had room for a single. So I was a walk on with a twosome, Griffith and Luke.

Second round of the year, it was about a 35-40 km wind directly into my face on the 8th hole it was playing at 171 yards. Plus the wind. I used a 7th heaven wood and it was on line right off the tee and landed about 12 feet short and then rolled in.

My first hole-in-one!

Cameron Weir, Two Eagles, Hole #15

I was playing with a nice couple as my friend was too “sick” to make it for our tee time. It was 163 yards with a cross wind. I hit a stock 7 iron. Watching it land left of the pin and start rolling towards it, knowing it was getting better and better, great to have a short birdie putt. But all of a sudden, the ball disappeared. Quite a surreal experience!

Jason Porter, Devon and the Devon Golf and Country Club, Hole #9

I was golfing at Devon Golf and Country Club on April 29th with my wife Chantelle and Isabella, my 10 year old daughter, for her first round ever. Got to hole #9 and drained it with my 5 iron. Was a great memory for my daughter. She loves the game and now wants to get one herself!

John Hamilton, Windsor Park Golf Course, Hole #16

I got my first hole-in-one on April 21, 2024 at Windsor Park Golf Course in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Hole #16, 160 yards with a 7 iron into the wind. Landed in front of the flag stick and we watched it role back and disappear! I was golfing with three others (one Golf Canada member) and had them sign the scorecard and attest the round.

Marilyn Webster, Carnoustie Golf Club, Hole #8

I was playing with fellow ladies club members Irene Clarkson, Denise Pineau and Janine Wilson on April 5th when I got my second hole-in-one on the 8th hole at Carnoustie Golf Club. It was 115 yards to the pin over water. I pulled out an 8-iron, but as I had been pulling my irons that day and didn’t want to end up in the bunker on the left, I put the 8-iron back in my bag and pulled out my trusty 7-hybrid and teed it up higher than normal. As it bounced and rolled towards the hole Irene grabbed my arm and said, “It’s going in’” but I thought I could see my ball sitting just past the pin. As we walked up to the green and my ball was nowhere to be seen, I started to think that maybe it had gone in the hole and sure enough, it had! We had to have a shot of birdie juice to celebrate the occasion before heading to the next hole to finish our round.

Andy Alcock, Summit, Hole #2

– Played with Stew Smith and Nick Yuen

– Was 165 yards into the wind, hit a 6 iron

– Was my fifth hole-in-one

James Finlay, Riverside Country Club, Hole #18

I was playing with two other new members and friends, Andy Jay and Nick Demerchant. We got out early for a quick nine holes and opted to play the back nine.

The hole was the 18th hole at Riverside Golf and Country Club. The hole was 195 yards, a bit into the wind, but downhill. I opted to use a 7 iron, as the previous day I used a 6 iron and proceeded to lose two balls into the woods left of the hole.

I hit a straight shot that landed just short of the green and rolled up and into the cup. Thankfully we had a great view of the ball rolling into the hole. After celebrating what we were confident was a hole-in-one, I ran down to the hole to collect my ball.

What an experience!

Rob Connell, Mall River Golf Club, Hole #3

It was 138 yards. I used an 8 iron. My playing partners were Gerard MacDonald, Peter Johnston and Zach Connell.

Joey Fabing, National Pines Golf Club, Hole #4

I was playing with Shane Quinlan and Sentilar Sebastian. The yardage was 114 yards and hit a pitching wedge. It flew pass the hole and spun it back. We got to see it all the way.

Matt Knox, Georgetown Golf Club, Hole #8

On Saturday, May 4th, Georgetown Golf Club hosted their men’s opening golf tournament. My brother Bradley Knox got a hole-in-one on the 16th hole. The following day, Sunday, May 5th, I was golfing with my wife (Courtney Knox), as well as a friend of ours (Dima Babych). We got to hole #8, and it was playing 142 yards (adjusted to about 135 yards downhill). I hit a 52 degree wedge and it landed behind the pin and spun back into the hole! All in all, a very memorable weekend for the Knox brothers!

Zach Vanderlee, Settlers’ Ghost Golf Club, Hole #11

My playing partners for the day were Brett Way and Danny Kalfus. We were playing the gold tees that day and the yardage was about 145 up hill with a right to left cross wind, I grabbed my 9 iron and hit it about as well as I’ll ever hit a golf ball and the rest was history! Funny enough Brett and I were just talking about how poorly we had been playing up until that point where I tol him, “I just need to make a good swing here to get back on track.” Unfortunately, due to the hole design I didn’t watch it go in the hole from the tee, but we were elated to walk up to the green with my ball playing a disappearing act in the hole! Needless to say the celebrations would begin immediately after with some loud yelling and cheering that grabbed the attention of groups ahead and behind.

Anne Moore, Loyalist Country Club, Hole #8

I had my first hole-in-one on hole #8 September 5, 2016. On Monday, May 6, I played with my two regular golf companions – Jackie Nesbitt and Lorne Sarmiento. It’s a short par 3 (85 yards), but with the gusty crosswind I used more club than normal. My Ping 425 7 did the magic. I’m in my 70’s, so age doesn’t matter in golf for hole-in-ones!

Lynn Pavlik, The Pulpit Club – Pulpit, Hole #3

I was playing with my husband, Jim Cambell, on Monday, April 29th and the hole-in-one occurred on hole#3 at the Pulpit. The distance was 144 yards that day and I used my 7 hybrid. It was later in the day with gloomy weather so there were only a handful of members in the clubhouse to celebrate. I would have happily bought the entire club a round! My husband was extremely excited for me too and was texting all his golf buddies. Jim is my favourite golf partner so it was extra special that he was with me that day. I have also been struggling with a very damaged knee so the hole-in-one was a wonderful gift from the golf gods.

Chad Hauser, Highwood Golf & Country Club, Hole #17

Last year I had my first hole-in-one on a par 3 at The Canal at Delecour Golf Club in my second round of the season in May. This year it was another great start to the season and my fourth round of the season at the Highwood Golf & Country Club. It was the 17th hole, 306 yards. I pulled out my 9 degree Taylormade Stealth Driver and knew that I needed to go over the trees and water to go straight at the green. I had a line and told my playing partners Mike Grainger and Cory Williams that I need to go right over the tip of the tall pine tree but need to tee it a little higher so that it will land soft if I hit the green. I choked down my driver a couple inches and teed it up a little higher and let it go. It came off the face absolutely perfect. Once it went over the trees we couldn’t see it. My one partner Mike said, “I think it should be just left of the green.” and my other partner Cory said, “How about more like just left of the pin.”

We drove up the fairway and they hit there second shots and I was looking through my laser and couldn’t see anything on the green or around the green. We pulled up and automatically went to the back of the green and checked the bunkers because I have driven over this green before. Cory didn’t see anything, so I decided I would just go look at the hole. Sure enough as soon as I got towards the hole I saw the ball. We went absolutely crazy! Everyone within two fairways of us heard us! I had always wanted to get a hole-in-one on a par four. I have been inside of 3’ a few times in my life, but never thought this was going to happen. It was definitely an awesome day!

So now I have two hole-in-ones, par 3, par 4, and an albatross on a par 5 as well. Definitely things I didn’t think I would be able to do.

Dawson Gilgan, Prince George Golf Club, Hole #10

I was with Golf Canada member Tyler Smith and his friend who’s name I don’t know. It was a 7 iron.

Josh Kerychuk, Blue Devil Golf Club, Hole #12

It was my first hole-in-one and I was pretty excited. It was hole #12, 172 yards and I used a 7 iron. I was playing with my buddy Carman Penner. The best part was there were two maintenance guys at the back of the green that started celebrating before I did! They were very excited and kind, and even notified the pro shop on my behalf. The team in the pro shop had a nice souvenir waiting for me when we finished our round. The whole team at Blue Devil deserves kudos for how awesome they were.

Scott Miller, Murray Municipal, Hole #9

– Played with Joe Bladyko and Shaun Koroluk

– 160 yards

– 22 degree hybrid

– Third career hole-in-one

 

Michael Karasinski, Twenty Valley Golf & Country Club Inc, Hole #7

It was great! Played with a few members here at the club, Mal Smithson, John Gardner and Ed Devries! It was playing 181 yards into the wind and I hit a 5 iron! Initially, I thought it was long and then I heard Mal from the other tee block yell over to say it was in! I couldn’t believe it! There was excitement and fear knowing it was our Men’s League opening dinner that night and it could get expensive! All in all, it is a moment I will never forget!

Francis Macdonald, River Hills Golf Club – Shelburne, Hole #18

Happened at River Hills Golf and Country Club on hole #18 using a 8 iron. Bounced twice than rolled into the hole. It was about 115 yards. Playing with Bobby Stoddard Sr. and Don Dares.

By the way Bobby had a hole-in-one about a week and half earlier. I missed his as I wasn’t there but two of us in our regular group has an ace. His was on hole #10.

Michael White, Oshawa Golf & Curling Club, Hole #12

Thanks for the email. I was playing with Rob Ford a buddy of mine. Played in the rain and into the wind, I hit a seven iron high draw, it rolled five feet into the hole from 156 yards. My friends were playing in front heard it hit the pin. Our pro was playing behind us and heard the cheers. This was my fourth hole-in-one.

Maurice Robert, Stony Plain Golf Course, Hole #12

– Playing with Ian Mccreath and Gord Duckering

– 148 yards

– Big Bertha 8 hybrid

 

Bruce Card, Craigowan Golf Club, Hole #14

I did get a hole-in-one on April 22nd my first round of the year after being away in Florida for the winter. I had it on hole #14 at Craigowan it was playing 180 yards and I hit a six iron. I was playing with Dean Olson, Mike Aggerholm and Gord Munro it was the third one that I have had.

Brian Kebic, Conklin Players Club, Hole #2

I was with ClubEG on their annual trip to Binghamton, NY at the Conklin Players Club. On the Saturday, April 27th outing I was playing with Owen Preston from ClubEG along with Jack Kenny and Keith Blake from Brockville Country Club. It was hole #2, playing 111 yards. I hit my pitching wedge and was asking for it to get a big bounce so it would get up and on the green. The ball landed just short of the green and rolled up to the hole, breaking from right to left. We watched as the ball went behind the pin and then disappeared, obviously falling backwards into the hole.

Louis Forbes, Timber Ridge Golf Course, Hole #17

The yardage was 117. Used a Ping G15 9 iron. Was playing with Brad Little, Paul Whitley and Ron Romard.

Jeremy Spence, Bear Creek, Hole #15

The hole-in-one was Friday, April 26th. It was on Island course, hole #6, par 3, 154 yards and I used 8 iron. Playing partners/witnesses: Paul Shervill and Dan Babins.

William Garbarino, Greyhawk Golf Club, Hole #12

This was my first hole-in-one after 15+ years of playing golf. The yardage was 161 and I played a 7 iron. Ball landed five and half feet before the hole, took one bounce and rolled in. The rest of my foursome are all GreyHawk Golf Club and Golf Canada members (Jim Neubauer, Tim Smith and Chris Seidl).

A very exciting moment! The group photo includes a fifth person who was a prospective member driving by, he stopped to congratulate me when he witnessed the hole-in-one shot.

Derrick Tuyl, National, Hole #5

It was hole #5 at The National Golf Club of Canada, 8 iron, 168 yards with two of my closest buddies: Danny Mauti and Danny Tersigni.

Jamie Bagan, Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Hole #9

Here are the details of my hole-in-one; golfing with Perry Mogus, Ron Pacholko and Adi Lintner (part of a group of 16 that golf every Friday at Arbutus Ridge Golf Club). Hole #9. Approximately 110 yards and the club used was a pitching wedge.

Nick McBride, Oakfield, Hole #15

Been playing for over 30 years and this was my first ace! Such a great experience. It was hole #15 at Oakfield Golf and Country Club. 160 yards from the white with a 7 iron. Playing partners were Mike Juurlink, Kyle Millen and Ryan Millen.

Trish Snowdon, Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Hole #13

This was my first hole-in-one ever so needless to say I was pretty excited. I was playing with my partner, Jayne Boyle, and her two sons Jonathan and Michael Cramton. The day was overcast and rain had been falling for a few holes. The 13th hole has an elevated green with water directly in front. We were playing the white tees, so it was about 140 yards. I pulled out my 5 hybrid and just thought, “get it over the water.” My shot went up directly in line with the flag and landed on the little crest right before the green. We saw it roll off the hill and Jonathan immediately said, “Oh, this has a chance.” Then it disappeared. Because it’s elevated, we couldn’t see where it went after it came off the hill. We jumped in the carts and took off for the green. I fully expected it to have rolled past the pin and be on the far side of the green. But as we got closer, no ball was in sight. I sprinted up to the flag, still holding my club and sure enough, there it was at the bottom of the cup. My TaylorMade TPS 5 was staring back up at me. Let the whooping commence. Even some guys a couple holes over were cheering and giving air high fives. Definitely a hole to remember! 

Ingrid Kim, Langara Golf Course, Hole #2

On Langara Ladies Club Day last April 30, Anne Findlay-Shirras, Geordie Stowell, Shelley Sluggett and I teed off in group six. On the 130-yard second hole, after hitting the tee with a 5-wood club, I came down from the tee box after seeing that my ball had landed well on the green and was rolling toward the hole cup. I arrived at the green and couldn’t find the ball right away on and around the green, but eventually, we found my ball sitting in the hole cup and shouted “hole-in-one!” Everyone shouted in unison.

Rylan Isaac, Valleyview Delisle Golf & Country Club, Hole #4

Sunday, May 5th 2024 I was golfing with my brother, Corey, at Delisle Valley View Golf Club. It was a cool, windy day. We stepped onto the fourth tee and I lasered the flag. 169 yards with a roughly 30km/h wind dead into. I estimated it was playing about 190 yards to the flag which was cut left centre of the green. I grabbed a 6 iron and flighted it down into the wind. The ball started at the right/centre of the green and began working right to left, pitching about 15 feet short of the pin. Just before the ball reached the green I heard Corey say, “Get in the hole.” This got the attention of a buddy of ours who was in his backyard, which backs the tee box, with his family. We all watch as the ball continues to roll towards the hole, breaking right to left, and then disappears! Everyone starts cheering and I turn around to look at Corey in disbelief! It was my first hole-in-one and an incredible feeling as I was starting to believe it may never happen. I then proceeded to three putt bogey the next hole (of course), but still finished the round with a one over par 70. Fun fact, my buddy who was in his backyard with his family also recorded a hole-in-one on this same hole last year while his family watched from the deck! 

Jeff Reader, Whispering Pines, Hole #5

On hole 5, I used an 8-iron to get my hole-in-one. The blue tees are under repairs and we shot from the red tee box. The yardage from the red tee off is 116. I was golfing with Eric Belanger and Carl Berends who are also members at Whispering Pines Golf and Country Resort.

Andrew Crow, The Oaks of St. George Golf Club, Hole #5

It was the first week of my men’s league at The Oaks of St. George Golf Club. I was having a bad round but having fun as it was the first week for my league foursome to be back together. Blaine, Tony and I played simulator golf all winter but hadn’t played with Teddy since last summer. There is nothing like the verbal abuse Teddy brings to the game. On to the game, I hit a great drive on the par 5 hole #4 but managed to stick handle my way to bogey. We came up the hill to the tee box on hole #5 downed our birdie drinks because Tony drained his birdie putt on hole #4. Hole #5 at The Oaks is a Beautiful Downhill shot with a pond and bunker to the left and a big bunker to the right with a Big Willow tree at the back left. The green is an upside down “L” shape bending to the left with a small bunker at inside of the bend. It plays 127 yards to the front and 143 yards to the back. The pin placement was in the hardest spot on the green four feet from front the edge just past bend and the bunker at about 135 yards. Tony went first and didn’t hit his 9 iron well and ended up pin high. I also had my 9 iron in hand but was too lazy to walk back up the hill to my bag and grab my wedge so I tee’d up my 9 iron and hit a 75% shot really clean. It landed just clear of the bunker slowly rolled in. Of course most of my group was still celebrating Tony’s previous birdie and weren’t sure it went in. I was pretty sure but have been close in the past and didn’t want to get too excited. As we came up to the green Tony ran up to hole and started screaming. At that point my legs got a little wobbly. I couldn’t believe it, it finally happened.

Bill Hillis, Trillium Wood Golf Club, Hole #14

– May 3, 2024 at Trillium Woods Golf Club – Hole #14

– Playing with Richard Bough

– 130 yards with #6 hybrid

– Elevated tee over a swamp to the green

– First hole-in-one at 70 years old, 55 years of playing the game.

Stan Loach, Mississipi Golf Club, Hole #5

I was playing with Ray, Mark and Verne; all members of the Mississippi Golf Club. The hole-in-one was on the fifth hole, a short par 3 of about 107 yards. I used a pitching wedge. This was my second hole-in-one on this hole and of the three that I’ve had, the only one I have seen actually go in. 

Fraser Sutherland, Fort McMurray Golf Club, Hole #8

I was playing hole #8 on our Black Bear nine at Fort McMurray Golf Club. It was playing 171 yards and I hit a 5 iron. My playing partners were from left to right: Barry Reid, Claude Howse, me (Fraser Sutherland) and Brian Goodale.

Cameron MacPherson, Two Eagles Golf Course & Academy, Hole #15

My hole-in-one was the 15th hole at Two Eagles, which was playing 152 yards to a front pin. I used an 8 iron to get there. I was playing in a junior tournament with three others around my age. The round started with torrential rain which seemed to ease off right after hole #13.

Sherri Carroll, Kawartha Golf Club, Hole #8

It was a cool, breezy morning, golfing with my ladies Diane Johnson and Krista Thompson, my second round of the season that started at the pro shop looking to sign up for a refresher lesson with Shanna as my first round was so bad! After this hole I thought, “maybe I will just stick with what I know.” Big surprise and great start to my season.

Robert Hindle, Credit Valley Golf & Country Club, Hole #7

I was playing with my buddies, Ken Johnson, Jim Carmichael and Bob Babensee. On hole #7, at 143 yards, managed to hit a pure 7 iron. It flew high and straight at the pin, landed and rolled about 10 feet, and disappeared into the hole. I started playing golf as a 12 year old, and now, 64 years later, I finally got my first ever hole-in-one!

Shamin Babul, Mayfair Lakes Golf Course, Hole #8

It only took me 22 years to get my very first hole-in-one. On Saturday May 4, I was playing with three other lady members at Mayfair. (Lynne, Judy and Gin). The yardage to the hole, as per my watch was 111 yards. I used my 9 wood which normally hits about 105-107 yards. It was a great shot. Flew high and landed about four feet from the flag. We could see it rolling towards the hole. My playing partners got all excited, but I reassured them that it was probably sitting behind the pin. Low and behold, it was in the hole. What an amazing feeling it was. One to remember forever. 

Lillian Zeng, Fraserview Golf Course, Hole #3

I got a hole-in-one on hole #3 , which is a par 3, at Fraserview Golf Course in B.C. on May 3rd. I used a 6 iron aiming for 130 yards and I did it perfectly. I also made my best score of my three years of golfing.

Mark Whitwam, Greensmere Golf Club, Hole #3

I was playing with my golf partner Chris Koch in the Nortel (Northern Telecom) golf league against Dick Keilty and Bill Allan. (Nortel went bankrupt almost 20 years ago, but the golf league lives on with 45 two man teams in three leagues playing Monday and Wednesday evenings at three different Ottawa golf courses). Chris and I have been partners in the league since 1992 and we have won six times including last year. Playing last Monday at the Greensmere golf and country club, from the white tees I hit a 7 iron at the 150 yard 3rd hole on the Premiere course. The ball bounced once in front of the pin and then disappeared. Hole-in-one? When I got to the green, I checked the hole and my ball was at the bottom of the cup. It is my 2nd hole in one. The first was also in the Nortel golf league in 1998.

Jackson Fabris, Mickelson National Golf Club, Hole #3

I was playing with Mateo Kern, Alex Adler and Max-Hamel-Balaski. It was 74 yards and I hit a 54 degree.

Cole Fedorvich, Westlock Golf Club, Hole #17

The moment I watched the ball roll out of site I knew it had gone into the hole. Then like everyone’s worst nightmare I remembered I was golfing alone so to the world it might not be official but to myself and all my family and friends it does. I was playing a par three on the back nine. It was about 135 yards as I didn’t range it specifically and I used my pitching wedge to carry the distance.

Bill Dettweiler, Stone Tree, Hole #16

My first and only hole-in-one at Stone Tree Golf Owen Sound. Mens night June 16, 2022 on hole #16 using an 8 iron, 124 yards to the pin.

Brae Rogalczyk, Ponoka Golf and Country Club, Hole #17

I was playing with my dad and grandpa, as we usually do every week. It was an amazing experience, and a memorable one to have that happen with my family. With my 7 iron in hand looking at the tee box sign I thought about how cool it would be to get a hole-in-one on #17 considering 17 is our family’s lucky number. I was 210 yards out and as soon as the ball landed on the green close to the pin I heard my Dad yell, “It’s going in” then roll about four feet and drop in the cup! We all jumped in the air together in joy sharing the amazing moment together with my dad and grandpa! Special thanks to Ponoka Golf and Country Club for having the course ready in great condition as this was my practice round for my upcoming Alberta Men’s Amateur Central Qualifier.

Grady McDougall, Stone Tree, Hole #16

Par 4, hole #6, blind tee shot over the hill about 310 yards playing more like 295 hit one in line with the left side of the green we thought went and looked in the grass bunker left and to the back and then finally checked the hole.

John Pagotto, Islesmere Blue Course, Hole #5

– Yardage: 135

– Club: 8 iron

– Ball: Titleist ProV1

– Date: May 15, 2024

– Summary hit an 8 iron to elevated green, ball hit three feet to left of the pin, side spin and rolled into the    hole

– First ever hole-in-one

– Amazing feeling!

Pat Peden, Sunnydale, Hole #10

How exciting to score a hole- in-one on #10 while golfing on Sunday afternoon, April 14th, in Courtenay, B.C. at our home club of Sunnydale. I must say I hit a pretty good 8 iron 117 yards and was just happy to hit the green. My friends Jen Zbinden, Kathy Binns and Kim Haaf were yelling that it went in the hole as well as the foursome on the next tee. I couldn’t believe it as I never even get a KP on ladies day! To make it even more fun I was playing with Kathy when she got a hole-in-one the year before at our ladies Tillicum tournament. Plus, a couple years earlier I was with another friend Linda Broadbent when she got a hole-in-one. It was the second time for me as I had scored one in my first year of golfing 40 years ago in the early 80’s. Guess I’ll be an old golfer when I score the next one.

Lori Seward, Playa Dorada Golf Club, Hole #17

I was having a not so great round, but it soon took a turn for the better! I was with my fiancé, John Taylor, and our friends from Lindsay, Ontario, John Walsh and Leigh Amyotte! It was hole #17, a par 3, 115 yards. I used a pitching wedge. I’ve only been golfing since May 2023, thanks to the COVID pandemic! It’s something I have always wanted to learn but just didn’t have the opportunity. I have to thank my guy, John, for guiding me and always pushing me to be better, but most importantly, to be honest with my scoring, “No gimmes.” I am obsessed with the game and love trying to get better with every single round. Some are good, some are not. But that’s golf! It only takes one great shot to bring you back! 

Heng Phosy, Olympic View Golf Course, Hole #4

I made a hole-in-one on May 20, 2024, on hole #4 at Olympic View Golf Course in Victoria, B.C. The hole was playing 139 yards from the white tee. There was a slight breeze against us. I used a 7 iron, usually my 150 yard club. The ball landed short of the hole, ran out, breaking right as it did and went into the hole. We did not see it go in but thought it was going to be within 15 feet of the hole. Frank Mikkers and David Tobacco were my playing partners. This was my second hole-in-one. The first one was also on this hole years ago.

Blythe Comer, Watson’s Glen Golf Club, Hole #6

I got my first ever hole-in-one while playing in our LPGA Durham Chapter league Wednesday night on May 15th, 2024 at Watson’s Glen GC, hole #6, par 3, hitting a gap wedge approximately 78 yards and witnessed by Rosemary, Nicola and Sandy. Posted round to Golf Canada on May 16th scoring 40 for nine holes.

Greg Parker, Kedron Dells Golf Club, Hole #8

I hit an 8 iron from 141 yards out on hole #8. The ball landed just to the left of the pin, spun to the right and disappeared. At first, we weren’t sure if the ball just rolled off the green and out of sight. But we also thought, “I think that went in the hole.” As we walked closer to the green, the ball was nowhere to be seen. Sure enough, we get up to the hole and there’s the ball. Unbelievable feeling and one that I won’t ever forget. I’m still in disbelief that it happened!

Alexander Nemeskeri, Sherwood Golf & Country Club, Hole #16

Got an ace in 2019 (September 19th) at the Sherwood Golf & Country club on hole #16. 182 yards. 6 iron. Witness was My Oma (Austrian for grandmother).

Sharon Dunn, Viewpoint Golf Resort (Championship), Hole #3

Hole-in-one I got in Mesa, Arizona on March 10, 2024. My first hole-in-one.

Neil Washer, Roundel Glen Golf Course, Hole #1

I got my first hole-in-one at 60 years of age! Roundel Glen Golf Course, CFB Trenton, Ontario. Hole #1, approximately 120 yards, witnesses were Cathy and Ian Taggart alongside Mike Griffiths. Taylormade Stealth pitching wedge and yellow Taylormade distance golf ball.

Joan McFarlane, The Landings Golf Course, Hole #11

Recorded my fourth hole-in-one on Tuesday, May 28th at The Landings Golf Course in Kingston, Ontario with my friends Sharon, Diane and the waiting grass cutter. A perfect shot on hole #11 on a not so perfect weather day!

Peter Renaud, Arundel, Hole #5

Hole #5, 155 yards with a hybrid 4. The hat I was wearing was the first time that I wore it. It’s a gift from my son who is in a Broadway musical in New York called Water for Elephants. You can clearly see the logo. So now it’s my new lucky hat.

Mackenzie Hughes first competed in the Canadian Open at the Hamilton Golf & Country Club when he was a bright-eyed 21-year-old.  Today, 12 years later, the 33-year-old from Dundas, Ontario is a seasoned veteran and has two PGA TOUR victories to his name – and is contention to potentially add one more victory to his resume on Canadian soil.

While some things have changed, the thing that remains the same is the support Hughes receives when he returns home – and his eager desire to play his A game in front of the appreciative and energetic Canadian golf fans.

“I remember doing it at 21 years old and being pretty wide eyed and maybe caught off guard by how big the moment was,” said Hughes, who won the Canadian Men’s Amateur both in 2011 and 2012.

He speaks about watching Canada’s National Open as a young kid in 2003 and 2006 and wanting to get close to the players to get photos and autographs. Today, he’s the one being asked for photos and autographs.

Hughes says the Canadian players competing at the tournament have to multi task with other commitments besides golf during tournament week – but he personally wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I try to relish the fact that I’ll have some extra cheers out there and a lot of friends and family (in the crowd),” said Hughes during his pre-tournament presser.

This year, there are a record number of Canadians competing at the RBC Canadian Open. In total, there are 28 Canadians competing including defending champion, Nick Taylor, and two of Hughes’ former Kent State University teammates, Taylor Pendrith and Corey Conners.

“Amongst the Canadians we talk about this a little bit just in the fact that when we come back for this one week a year you kind of feel like a little bit of a star. You go next week and it feels different – even though it’s a big tournament next week as well,” said Hughes, a long-time member of the Canadian National Team.

“Coming here feels different. The support and the way the fans are behind us is really cool. It’s probably one of the most fun tournaments to kind of get in contention for just because of how much support we have,” he continued.

Hughes acknowledges the significance of Nick Taylor’s dramatic playoff victory last year and strives to achieve his own version of greatness.

“While we’re not answering the question of who will be the first Canadian to win since Pat Fletcher, but I still think that when we come here, we’re all pretty eager to do well close to home,” said Hughes.

“I put a lot of pressure on myself to do well every single week but coming here I really enjoy playing well in front of the home crowd.”

Hughes has certainly brought his A game for the hometown crowd and enjoyed a stellar second round, firing a six under 64. 

“When I started the day obviously, I’m just trying to get myself in position for the weekend. Then I kind of got off to a start where I felt like I kind of had some good juices going early,” he said.

As a teammate of Hughes from the Canadian National Team program and during their collegiate days at Kent State University, Corey Conners knows what Hughes is capable of doing when he’s playing his best golf.

“It’s fun to watch. I’m a little bit jealous sometimes how well he rolls it,” said Conners with a smile.

“(Mackenzie) can get on a good roll, and the greens here are rolling beautifully.  No surprise he’s rolling a bunch of putts in,” he added about his good friend and former teammate.

At seven under par, Hughes has positioned himself as the top Canadian in the field heading into the weekend.

“I had a few minutes to process the round and kind of the whole day and while the finish was disappointing, I look at the whole body of work. Starting today if you told me I was going to shoot 64, I would have taken it,” noted the Dundas, Ont., native during his post round presser. “It gets me into contention for the weekend and that’s all I can ask for.”