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.

Jeff Soltesz, El Rio Golf Club, Hole #7

I was playing in a weekly get together with friends from a condominium community in Fort Myers, Florida. We play El Rio in North Fort Myers every Thursday morning while us snowbirds are here in Southwest Florida. The same group of 16-24 people get shuffled about, so they try to have everyone play with everyone at least once. I cannot recall who precisely I was playing with that day, but I had three witnesses. 

The hole was #7. It was playing 162 yards into a strong headwind. I hit a 5 iron and watched it land a little front and to the left on the green then it rolled for about 30 feet into the cup. 

I’m on average what one would consider a bogey golfer…this was the second hole-in-one of my life. 

I did take note of the fact that I was playing a higher quality ball that day (Taylor Made TP5) that was gifted to me and things just felt different/better. I normally play a more budget friendly ball (Noodle) because I didn’t think I could feel the difference, but now I’m starting to think differently. We’ll see how things go from here. 

Stuart Dickinson, Penticton Golf & Country Club, Hole #16

It was a 9 iron from 137 yards, little baby draw and spun it back into the cup. My first hole-in-one. I played golf from 14-19 and then took it up again at 40 when I joined Fairview Mountain Golf Club.

Nicole Hunt, Yuma Golf & Country Club, Hole #12

I was playing with my husband. The hole is 145 yards to the middle and the flag was in the back so the yardage was closer to 150. I teed off with my driver. I could see I hit the green as was excited about that. As we are walking towards the green I could no longer see my ball and assumed I over drove the green. My husband started looking in the bunker in the left and I went off the green expecting to have to chip on. We couldn’t find my ball so I said to myself “no way”, I decided to go check the hole and there it was. I spend a lot of time on golf. We winter in Arizona and usually golf every day of the week except Saturdays.

The ball behind me in the picture is my husband’s ball. It’s my first hole-in-one.

Diana Kirkland, River Strand Golf & Country Club (Tributary/Estuary, Hole #5

I started golfing casually with my husband’s old set of golf clubs back in 1989 participating in friendly games and tournaments with our family and friends, I never played more than two or three rounds per year. In 2004 I was started playing in corporate events while working as a sales representative, again only an additional two or three rounds a season.

In 2016 I purchased my first set of golf clubs so that I could play regularly at our winter residence at River Strand Golf and Country Club in Bradenton, Florida. Upon my retirement in 2017, I joined the private golf club that my husband was a member at, York Downs Golf and Country Club in Unionville, Ontario and started playing regularly during the 2018 season.

When golfing I am typically very relaxed but a rather fast golfer, I rarely take a practice swing and cruise quickly up the fairways in order to hit my next shot. On the greens I am not very good at reading putts so I typically just aim for the center of the hole and hope for the best result.

Generally, I am a very positive person and have a very optimistic view on life. Over the years I joke with my family and friends that on every par three I am going to get a hole-in-one. Everyone would laugh or smirk and my husband would shake his head indicating that “sure you are good luck once again.”

At 4:15 pm on Monday, January 1, 2024, my wish came true while playing in a foursome with my husband, Stephen Kirkland and our friends, Laurie Gain and her husband Roger Kennedy. We were playing at the River Strand Golf and Country Club, on the Tributary course, on the fifth hole, from the gold tees at 128 yards to the hole. I teed up a water-logged green Titleist “Velocity” golf ball that I pulled from the bottom of my bag so as not to lose one of my better balls into the lake that ran up the entire right side of the hole. The club I used was a TaylorMade Aero Burner 4 Rescue.

I hit the ball in the air right down the middle to the elevated green and watched the ball climb up onto the front of the green and roll down into a depression that runs horizontally across the center of the green. The ball tracked to the right side of the green and then disappeared. Roger Kennedy then announced that he heard the ball hit the pin, my husband indicated that he did not hear anything so we were all intrigued to find out where the ball ended up. I started walking along the shoreline of the lake with my ball retriever looking for stray golf balls in the lake while my friend, Laurie Gain started walking quickly to the green, curious to discover the final resting place of my tee shot. Laurie arrived at the green and did not see a ball on the green so while walking briskly to the hole she pulled out her mobile phone so she could video my reaction if indeed the ball was in the hole. At this point in time, I picked up my pace and started sprinting to the green while dragging along my pull cart. Laurie peered into the hole and then she threw her hands in the air and screamed, “It’s in the hole.” Everyone stated yelling and screaming and jumping around in a circle hugging each other while whooping it up until I finally bent over and pulled the water-logged golf ball out from the hole. Exhilarating is all I can say.

We completed the round and headed back to the Clubhouse to report the event to the Pro-Shop staff and have a drink in the Grill Room to celebrate my achievement. Upon our arrival back to the clubhouse we were disappointed that the Pro-Shop had closed, the Grill Room was closed and the Clubhouse Dining Room was closed because it was New Year’s Day. We packed up our golf equipment and we all headed back to our home and celebrate with a shot of Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey.

That night I woke up at 4:00 am in the morning and could not get back to sleep until I researched the odds of getting a hole-in-one. Apparently, the odds for getting a hole-in-one, according to Google are 12,500:1 for an amateur golfer and 2,500:1 for a professional golfer.

I guess that I am one of the lucky one’s!

François Lépinay, Avondale Golf Club, Hole #15 & #8

The poster that was put on the boards at Avondale for my two, yes two, holes-in-one in two consecutive days.

 

Mel Hennigar, Forty Niner Country Club, Hole #8

I was playing with two other members of the Forty Niner Golf Club, Tom Koester and Frank Balcom. New Year’s Day. It was 161 yards and I used a 6 hybrid (Taylormade Stealth). It was one of those shots that felt good right as soon as I hit it. We watched it land on the green and roll straight to the pin and drop. This is my second hole-in-one within six months. My third overall.

Wendy Larson, Golf Club at Terra Lago, Hole #6

My hole-in-one was on the par 3, sixth hole. About 100 yards. I used my 5 hybrid as I am not a long hitter. I hit the front of the green and the ball rolled to the left a few feet. I heard the ball hit the flag and thought I would have a short birdie putt. My husband Jim saw it roll in. I was also golfing with Michael, a gentleman that joined us.

Karen Anderson, The Links of Spruce Creek South, Hole #16

Back in 2008, I had two holes-in-one at our home course, along with an Eagle on our par 5 hole #10 at West Haven G&CC in London, Ontario. My husband also happened to have two holes-in-one that year and we were written up in Golf Ontario magazine. Quite a thrill. However, it’s been a long 16-year draught for me since then. On January 7th we played at my favourite course just outside of The Villages, FL. It’s the Links at Spruce Creek and my husband and I played with very good friends Nan and Chuck. I was having a killer round with three birdies and then came to the 16th par 3. It was 117 yards and I used my 7-wood. When the ball left my club, it felt so pure. We watched it travel up the elevated green, heard it rattle the pin and then watched it disappear in the hole! I then went on to have my personal best round EVER, with a 76. Definitely a day to remember for a long time.

Caroline Calderone, Lambton Golf & Country Club, Hole #8

Thursday, June 21, the start of Summer Solstice was super exciting at Lambton Golf Club! I am somewhat of a new golfer and member at Lambton since 2019. I have been taking lessons from Ann Carroll, one of Lambtons amazing golf pros, to help me improve my game for my ladies Valley league.

My friend, and Lambton member, Mary Fernandes were enjoying the gorgeous afternoon when I teed off on the 8th hole about 130 yards using my Taylor Made M2 driver. The sun made it difficult to see where my ball landed but Mary said wow I think it went in the hole. Of course I started laughing with a no chance disbelief but when I approached the green and could not find my ball, I looked in the cup and could not believe my eyes! I screamed with excitement and another golfer came running over to take pictures. A truly incredible moment I won’t forget!!

The funny part is afterwards I was sitting with my husband Michael and people were coming up to congratulate Mr. Calderone with big smiles I was able to correct them and say sorry it was Mrs. Calderone.

James Stuart Barkwill, Oshawa Golf & Curling Club, Hole #10

In August 2021, my 16-year-old son was lucky enough to have shot a hole-in-one at Oshawa Golf & Curling Club in Oshawa, Ontario.

Three women’s pairings among those set to compete for the inaugural
BDO National Golf League Championship as part of the
2024 RBC Canadian Open in Hamilton

The inaugural season of the BDO National Golf League welcomed over 1,500 women competitors in 2023, and three women-only pairings are among the fifty-two teams of two (104 golfers total) who qualified to compete at the historic Hamilton Golf and Country Club for the chance to be crowned the first ever BDO National Golf League champions.

The BDO National Golf League Championship takes place on Saturday, May 25, just days before the start of the 2024 RBC Canadian Open at the historic Hamilton Golf and Country Club layout.

Among those set to compete in the national final are Donna Manning and Deborah Delaney from the GlenDenning Golf Club in St. John’s, Nfld. The pair secured their spot after finishing atop the leaderboard in qualifying from their regional playoff at the Twin Rivers Golf Club at Terra Nova in Port Blandford, Nfld.

“We arrived at the regionals with no expectations, both of us were pretty nervous, and then realizing we were playing against mostly men. We ended up playing some of our best golf and as a result, captured that first spot.

“I feel very honoured to be representing GlenDenning Golf Club and Newfoundland. The staff at GlenDenning are very proud and excited for our accomplishment and wish us good luck in Hamilton. I’m beyond excited and I can’t wait for May. This event will be awesome and one of my proudest moments,” said Donna Manning.

Delaney echoed her teammate that a mix of excitement and nerves came about during qualification. Added incentive for Delaney was competing against her brother, who also advanced to the regional playoffs in Port Blandford, Nfld.

“Donna and I didn’t calculate our course handicaps for Terra Nova so we didn’t keep track of the Stableford points. We decided that we would just play our game as best we could and see how it all played out with no pressure. Fortunately, we played well and won the tournament. We are beyond excited to represent Newfoundland in Hamilton this coming May and hopefully play some fantastic golf.”

Across the country, Karen Cairns and Lynne Godfrey are one of three teams from the Harvest Golf Club in Kelowna, B.C. that qualified in the regional playoff.

“It will be terrific to share the experience and to meet other players from across the country, no matter the outcome,” said Cairns.

“We were stunned. We knew we played good ham and eggs but didn’t think we would tie for first place. We are so excited to attend,” added Godfrey.

La Belle Province will be represented by Martine Dusault and Sylvie Desroches from Le Maître de Mont-Tremblant in Mont-Tremblant, Que. who were among the eight teams to qualify from Quebec.

“Very proud to have qualified for this tournament. We’re the only women in Quebec. We can’t wait to play this magnificent golf course,” said Dusault.

“My teammate and I are very proud of our performance, being the only two women in Quebec to qualify for the final. We didn’t think we’d make it playing the men’s tees, so we played for fun! What a nice surprise! We’re very proud to represent our club, Le Maître de Mont-Tremblant! Thank you NGL!” added Desroches.

In addition to the national finals taking place at Hamilton Golf and Country Club in the leadup to the 2024 RBC Canadian Open, the winning team will receive an expenses-paid trip to represent Canada at The R&A 9 Hole Challenge at Royal Troon in Troon, Scotland, one-week prior to the 152^nd Open Championship. This will mark the first time that Canada will participate in the 9 Hole Challenge. For more information on the R&A 9 Hole Challenge, please visit randa.org/en/nine-hole-challenge.

The BDO National Golf League was launched by Golf Canada ahead of the 2023 season as a nationwide, season-long competition to enhance weekly recreational league experiences for men, women, and junior golfers. Scoring follows a 9-hole net stableford format that takes place during a six-week period of a club’s league season. Within those six weeks, the best four scores are used to determine the individuals that would advance to the next stage of the competition – the provincial championships. The BDO National Golf League points system is designed to level the playing field for players of all skill levels. The competition is about making golf fun as the first priority.

Registration is now open for the 2024 BDO National Golf League, to sign-up or for more information, please visit nationalgolfleague.ca.

According to the Canadian Women & Sport National Study, one in three girls will drop out of sports by adolescence – three times more likely than boys – and over 60 percent of adolescent girls are not participating in any kind of sport. Some of the most common barriers preventing girls from trying, and staying, in sports are low confidence, not feeling welcomed, and perceived lack of skill.

That is where First Tee – Canada steps in. 

First Tee is delivered in three settings—golf courses, schools, and community centres, with over 70 percent of programming offered at no cost to participants. The goal is to introduce children, especially those who may have otherwise not had the chance or interest, to golf, and through a life-skills-focused curriculum, foster the continued development of skills like confidence and perseverance.

First Tee – Canada has six chapters operating programming in every province. Since launching in 2021, over 80,000 Canadian youth have been introduced to golf through First Tee – Canada. In 2023, nearly 40 percent of participants identified as female and nearly 50 percent identified as BIPOC.

What sets First Tee apart from other junior golf programming is not its focus on building life and golf skills simultaneously, instead, it is the effort made in communities to provide accessible and inviting pathways to the sport for equity-deserving groups including girls, BIPOC communities, newcomers, and individuals with exceptionalities and disabilities.

First Tee staff are intentional when onboarding new program locations and forming relationships with community organizations that serve the surrounding communities.

“Our goal is to build a community hub of First Tee programming offered at a golf course and nearby schools and community centres,” said First Tee – Ontario Program Manger, Amaya Athill. “Most of the time, we are responsible for a child’s first time on a golf course. We partner with a community organization like Big Brothers Big Sisters or a school in an identified deserving area and host ‘try-golf’ events for children to create a positive association to the sport.”

In 2023, First Tee – Canada held nearly 200 chapter-led events including try-golf days or school field trips, some of which were all-girls events, including participants and coaches.

“These events are so important,” said Athill. “We are striving to ensure folks, especially those in underrepresented groups, feel golf is a sport for them. We found that hosting all-girls events helps break down barriers that would typically prevent girls from trying golf. It is an even playing field where most, if not all participants are trying golf for the first time, they are surrounded by positive female coaches and role models, and most importantly the focus is to just have fun.”

On the east coast, First Tee – Atlantic plans to host at least one all-girls event per Atlantic province this summer with all-female coaches and volunteers. Emily Nickerson, First Tee – Atlantic Program Coordinator is spearheading this chapter’s initiative.

She plans to collaborate with organizations to introduce golf and incorporate a workshop or activity outside of golf, too. For example, First Tee – Atlantic has partnered with She is Active New Brunswick, which will provide a confidence-building exercise for the participants during their event(s) in NB. Additionally, Nickerson’s goal for these events is to ensure the girls leave excited to try golf again. She hopes to provide more participation opportunities through First Tee programming or range passes to courses in their area, for example.

“Best case scenario, a few girls enjoy themselves so much they enroll in other First Tee programming, continuing to develop their skills and become golfers for life,” said Nickerson. “Or the girls learn something new about themselves, they meet a new friend, have a coach to look up to, or apply what they learned to another sport or at school. Any of that is still a win in my books. If we can make a positive impact on even one girl and encourage her to stick with golf or any sport, I’m happy.”

That is where First Tee – Canada stands out. It is a program led by staff, coaches and volunteers who understand the power of sports and believe that every child deserves the opportunity to try golf, to believe they fit in, and trust there is space for them in the sport.  

“This is more than a golf program,” said Nickerson. “It’s changing the future of golf. I hope one day, you won’t feel judged being a woman on the golf course. Judged for playing ‘too slow’, what you’re wearing, or how your swing looks ‘for a girl’. I hope through First Tee and our focus on female participation, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and comfortable environment for girls and women in golf.”

2023 Annual Report & Financial Statements are now available.

Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Member Doug Roxburgh Named an Honorary Life Governor with Golf Canada in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the sport.

CPKC Women’s Open Volunteers Cheryl Lee & Carolyn Naylor recognized as 2023 Co-Recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award

Longtime Volunteer and junior golf supporter Duncan Mills, Industry Veterans Tiffany Gordon, and the late Denzil Palmer along with former SCOREGOLF Publisher Kim Locke to be recognized with Golf Canada’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award

Golf Canada’s 2024 Annual Meeting culminated on Thursday, March 7 with the election of David McCarthy of Toronto to serve a second term as the 117^th President of the National Sport Federation.

McCarthy, who recently retired as a senior partner at Stikeman Elliott LLP, has been a volunteer with Golf Canada for more than 20 years across various committees, councils, and championships. A member of the Donalda Golf & Country Club, the St. Andrews Golf Club, and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, McCarthy has served on the Board of Directors of Golf Canada since 2018.

“I am extremely honoured that the Nominating Committee has extended its confidence in me to serve a second term as President of Golf Canada,” said McCarthy. “We are coming off a remarkable 2023 season of strong participation and incredible performances by our Canadian golfers domestically and on the world stage. We are also excited to introduce this year an initiative to use golf to promote mental health and physical well being. There is a great momentum in Canadian golf and together with the Board of Directors, our industry and provincial association partners and volunteers from coast to coast, I look forward to helping advance our sport in 2024.”

Based on the report of Golf Canada’s Nominating Committee, McCarthy will be joined on the 2024 Board of Directors by returning Vice-President Adam Daifallah of Montréal, Que. in leading the 13-member Board of Directors who will work closely with Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum and Golf Canada’s management team.

Returnees to the Board of Directors include Susan MacKinnon of Calgary, Alta., Jean-Sébastien Monty of Montréal, Que., Michelle Collens of Vancouver, B.C. Kelly Roberts of London, Ont. and Patrick Kelly of Victoria, B.C.

New additions to Golf Canada’s Board of Directors include Lori Dithurbide of Halifax, N.S., Katie Mahon of Kingston, Ont., Louise Patry of Montréal, Que., Nafeez Hirji of Calgary, Alta., Peter Broome of Jupiter, Fla. and former LPGA Tour player and Team Canada graduate Britanny Marchand of Mooresville, N.C.

For the biographies of Golf Canada Board members, click here.

Golf Canada also announced during its Annual General Meeting that Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Doug Roxburgh of Vancouver, B.C. has been named an Honorary Life Governor of Golf Canada in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the association and the sport.

As part of its Annual General Meeting, which was conducted virtually, Golf Canada also released the organization’s 2023 Annual Report including its Financial Statements which are available here.

Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor named 2023 Co-Recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award…

In the continued celebration of volunteerism, Golf Canada recognized Vancouver natives Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor as the 2023 recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award. The duo served as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Player Services Committee for the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club.  Now in its 18^th year, candidates for the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award are put forth for consideration in acknowledgment of significant contributions to the game of golf in their community. Click here for more.

Volunteer Duncan Mills, Industry Veterans Tiffany Gordon, and the late Denzil Palmer along with former publisher Kim Locke to Receive Golf Canada’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award…

Golf Canada announced that four accomplished golf contributors – volunteer and junior golf supporter Duncan Mills of Edmonton, Alta., respected PGA of Canada professional Tiffany Gordon of Calgary, Alta., former SCOREGOLF Publisher Kim Locke of Toronto and the late Denzil Palmer, the longtime respected club manager who spent nearly 30 years as General Manager and Secretary of Royal Montreal Golf Club – will be acknowledged for their tremendous contributions to the sport as the 2024 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. The presentation of the Distinguished Service Award will be celebrated in person with the recipients later this year. Click here for more.

Golf Canada’s 2024 Annual Meeting was conducted virtually on Thursday, March 7 with volunteers, staff, member clubs, and industry stakeholders participating.

The four recipients will be celebrated later this summer for their outstanding contributions to Canadian golf.

Four accomplished contributors to Canadian golf will be acknowledged for their dedicated efforts in and around the game as the 2024 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. 

Long-time Golf Canada volunteer Duncan Mills of Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders Tiffany Gordon of Calgary, Alta. And the late Denzil Palmer of Montréal, Que. along with former golf publisher Kim Locke of Toronto, Ont. will be acknowledged for their tremendous contributions to Canadian golf.

“Golf Canada is proud to honour the long-time contributions of Duncan Mills, Tiffany Gordon, the late Denzil Palmer and Kim Locke, as our 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipients,” said Golf Canada President David McCarthy. “The effort and collective dedication of this year’s honourees has been influential and impactful to the game in their communities as well as the provincial and national level. We are proud to recognize and honour each for the indelible mark they have had on golf in Canada.”

Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award has been presented annually since 1993 to recognize individuals who have had an outstanding impact on Canadian golf either nationally or within their community.

The announcement of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award honourees coincides with Golf Canada’s Annual General Meeting, conducted virtually on Thursday, March 7 at 1:00 p.m. EST.

The presentation of the Distinguished Service Award to this year’s honourees as well as the Palmer family will be celebrated later this season at event locations to be determined. 

Golf Canada 2024 Distinguished Service Award Honourees:

Duncan (Dunc) Mills (Volunteer) – Edmonton, Alta.

Dunc Mills’ contributions to the growth of golf in Alberta have been exceptional as a volunteer and administrator, and in the media space as the creator and lead contributor for the Alberta Golfer Magazine. Dunc began volunteering at Alberta Golf events in 1991 and for more than 25 years, has been the driving force behind the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour where he began serving as the Tour’s Executive Director in 1996. Over the years, he has spent time on the Alberta Golf Executive Committee, volunteered at many Alberta Golf and Golf Canada events as well as other professional tours when they visited Alberta. His impact on junior golf in the province through the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour has been incredible, having been a part of more than 600 events through its history. Dunc Mills’ outstanding contributions to the sport earned him nomination to the Alberta Golf Hall of Fame in 2023.

Denzil Palmer (Industry / Posthumous) – Montréal, Que.

The late Denzil Palmer is synonymous with excellence in Canadian golf club management. He spent more than 40 years as a leading figure in Canadian golf club management including nearly 30 years as General Manager and Secretary of The Royal Montreal Golf Club. He was a great supporter of Golf Canada as well as the RBC Canadian Open during his tenure when the club hosted Canada’s National Open Championship. Denzil also played a major role in the success of the 2007 President’s Cup at Royal Montreal, helping to solidify Royal Montreal’s historic standing as a signature hosting venue in Canada. Prior to his passing in 2022, Denzil was long-renowned as one of the premier club managers in Canada, having earned the highest honours of the Club Management Association of Canada (CMAC) including the President’s Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Excellence in Club Management Award Program. He was named an honorary member of both Royal Montreal and CMAC prior to his passing.

Tiffany Gordon (Industry) – Calgary, Alta.

Tiffany Gordon is a 30+ year member of the PGA of Canada and has contributed greatly to the advancement of the game as a Head Professional, General Manager, Director of Clubhouse Operations, and ambassador for golf in Alberta and at a national level. A past president and board member with the PGA of Alberta, Tiffany has also supported the game as a past member of both the NGCOA Canada and the Canadian Golf Superintendent’s Association. Tiffany has also been recognized as a past winner of the Alberta PGA Club Professional of the Year and the PGA of Canada Professional of the Year. A great support of Golf Canada championships including junior events and the (former) Canadian Women’s Tour, Tiffany has also served on the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Now working as Director of Clubhouse Operations and Membership Ambassador with Carnmoney Golf Club, Tiffany also serves as Secretary and Incoming Vice-President on the PGA of Canada National Board.

Kim Locke (Media) – Toronto, Ont.

As the former longtime owner and publisher of SCOREGolf, Kim Locke was a major driving force for the growth of SCOREGolf media properties into a trusted voice for Canadian golf. Prior to selling the SCOREGolf brand to a partnership between Torstar Inc. and Golf Town, Kim was a strong supporter for the game of golf and created a path for numerous writers, editors, and contributors to chronicle Canadian golf, both through SCOREGolf Magazine and other print properties including Golf Canada magazine. Those editorial contributions also impacted Golf Canada’s National Open Championships along with other professional golf properties through souvenir programs and other partner storytelling engagements across SCOREGolf print, digital and broadcast channels. The annual SCOREGolf Awards became an annual recognition of Canadian golf excellence among amateur players, professionals, and industry contributors nationwide. The argument can be made that without Kim Locke as the financial and editorial driving force for SCOREGolf, there would not have been a platform for respected voices such as Bob Weeks, Jason Logan, John Gordon, Lorne Rubenstein, Rick Young, and others to become such trusted voices in Canadian golf. SCOREGolf was honoured by the PGA of Canada as the 2019 recipient of the George Cumming Distinguished Service Award and Kim’s contributions to Canadian golf were also recognized by the Canadian Golf Journalists Association as a past recipient of their Dick Grimm Award.

The duo from Vancouver played a key role in the success of the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open, Lee and Naylor will be recognized during Golf Canada’s 2024 Annual General Meeting

Golf Canada is pleased to announce that Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor of Vancouver have been named the co-recipients of the 2023 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year award.

“Golf Canada could not operate its tournaments, events, or initiatives without volunteers, and we are very proud to recognize both Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor for their contributions to the success of the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open,” said Golf Canada President David McCarthy. “Cheryl and Carolyn were instrumental in overseeing the Player Services Committee at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club and went above and beyond to ensure the players felt welcome, comfortable and were treated to an exceptional experience in Vancouver.” 

The Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award is named in recognition of Toronto native Bruce Mitchell who, in 2017-18, was the first Canadian to serve as captain of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A). Born in Victoria and raised in Edmonton, the former President of the Toronto Golf Club and R&A member since 1988 was just the ninth internationally appointed captain of the R&A, one of the most prestigious volunteer positions in the world of golf. Duties as captain included representing the R&A as a global ambassador and aiding in the R&A’s effort to develop golf around the world.

Now in its 18th year, candidates for the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award are put forth to Golf Canada for consideration by the respective provincial golf associations in acknowledgment of significant contributions to the game of golf in their community.

CHERYL LEE AND CAROLYN NAYLOR

Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor served as Chair and Vice Chair of the Player Services Committee for the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club and played an instrumental role in the success of the championship.

The duo was responsible for pairing 74 LPGA players and seven caddies with billet families in the host community. They were successful in recruiting 54 billet families to fulfill the requests during tournament week.

The lengthy process included canvassing the club for interest, reviewing every application, and eventually connecting the billet families with the player or caddie.

A significant amount of time was required to ensure that the billet families met and completed all necessary screening requirements, and a considerable amount of time and effort went into communication with the players and families.

Carol and Cheryl were also responsible for recruitment and oversaw a strong group of volunteers during the tournament.

During their recruitment they made a concerted inclusive effort to have volunteers on their committee that spoke different languages such as Korean, Mandarin, and Japanese. This was a very considerate and thoughtful touch that made the players feel welcome and comfortable.

The duo kept the care and comfort of the players top of mind. Gestures like ensuring players had access to snacks in the locker room, having extra stashes of bug spray and sunscreen, managing all requests for items to be signed, and ensuring that extra ticket requests were actioned quickly were just some of the things that ensured a positive impact for those competing in Vancouver.

Cheryl and Carolyn were outstanding volunteers who represented Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club, Golf Canada, and the Vancouver community exceptionally well.

Golf Canada will host its 2024 Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 7 utilizing a virtual format as the National Sport Federation looks ahead to the 2024 season.

The Annual Meeting brings together Golf Canada’s Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers as well as representatives from Canada’s provincial golf associations and other industry stakeholders.

The virtual meeting begins at 1:00 p.m. EST and will include the release of the Association’s 2023 Annual Report & Financial Statements.

During the Annual Meeting, Golf Canada will introduce its 2024 Board of Directors including David McCarthy of Toronto serving a second term as the Association’s 117^th President.

Golf Canada will also celebrate outstanding contributions to the game of golf including a presentation of the 2023 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award and the appointment of a new Honorary Life Governor. Golf Canada will also announce the 2024 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award

To watch a live stream of Golf Canada’s Annual Meeting, click here.

Get ready to tee off in style as PUMA Golf unveils the latest PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection.

Known for his unparalleled charisma and impeccable fashion sense, The King himself continues to inspire generations of golfers and style mavens alike.

In a celebration of Arnie’s enduring legacy, this collaboration pays homage to The King’s iconic influence on the game and its fashion evolution, blending timeless charm with a dash of contemporary flair.

Designed to turn heads on and off the course, the PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection features sleek and sophisticated looks that redefine golf fashion. From classic polos to stylish caps and limited-edition footwear, each piece exudes the essence of Arnie’s signature style.

PUMA athlete Rickie Fowler, who shared a special bond with the late Mr. Palmer, will proudly sport the collection at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, honoring The King’s unparalleled legacy with every swing.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Arnold Palmer team to bring the AP Collection to life,” said Chris MacNeill, Team Head of PLM – Golf Apparel & Accessories at PUMA Golf. “Our aim is to capture the essence of Mr. Palmer’s timeless style, blending classic colors and premium materials to create pieces he’d be proud to wear himself.”

The 2024 Spring/Summer PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer collection features a stunning lineup of six polos, a sleek full-zip jacket, pleated shorts, stylish caps, a chic golf visor, and four limited-edition footwear styles. Each piece bears the iconic umbrella logo, celebrating The King’s lasting legacy and setting the LE shoes apart with their unique flair.

Among the highlights are the PHANTOMCAT NITRO™ version, boasting cutting-edge technology, and the Avant version, crafted from premium waterproof leather and sporting a sophisticated color palette.

Get ready to elevate your golf game and channel your inner Arnie because the Arnold Palmer Collection hits online and retail stores on March 4, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to score these stylish pieces and make a statement on the green!

For more information on the 2024 PUMA GOLF x Arnold Palmer Collection, visit ca.pumagolf.com.

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.

John Esposto, Willowbrook, Hole #3

It was the first time out golfing this year in Florida. My friend Bob and I booked Willowbrook to get our first game in and also to see Alligators sunning themselves on the side of the ponds. Bill H. From Ontario joined us as a third.

After two double bogeys on the first two holes we came to the par 3 hole #3 at 143 yards. Normally I’d use a 7 iron but since it was the first time out I used a 6 iron.
I said to myself keep your head down and follow through the ball, to prevent “premature admiration”! I have this problem often! It felt great off the club and a nice follow through. I seen it land on the green and roll towards the hole. Then I lost sight of it thinking I was long and went over to the back of the green.

When we drove up to the green my ball was nowhere to be found. Bill looks in the hole and there it was my third hole-in-one. I had a hard time concentrating the rest of the game and proceeded to shoot 49/53 for 102! Not bad for the first time out! This was my third hole-in-one with the first one coming in 1985 at Cherokee Golf Course in Hamilton!

Peter Jarvis, Pelican Preserve Golf Club, Hole #7

What a pleasant surprise receiving this note and the attached photo of the hole as we did not go back to photograph it.

I was partnering with a friend who is also a member of my home course Deerhurst Highlands and Pelican Preserve. We also had a father and son two-some who joined us Ken (member) and Steve his son.

It is a short hole – 155 yards on a Florida still rising incline until the green with water in front and the wind was blowing directly towards us. I pulled out a longer yardage club – my 5 wood – teed it up a bit and gave it a good stoke. It went high – seemed to almost stop in the wind and bounced on the curtain of the green just past the sandbox. The green had a slight downward slope away from us and pin was at the back so we couldn’t see where the ball ended up.

My partner remarked that was going to be a just dandy shot and Ken then hit one that landed close to mine and also looked like it had good shape. When we approached the green from different sides we both saw 1 ball close to the hole and both started looking for the other. I got there first to check if it was mine, pointed to Ken it was his and he eyeballed the cup – I went doubtfully towards the flag and lo and behold there she rested.

The rest is history and my back 9 was saved from the 2 doubles and 2 bogies that started it.

Paul Bordignon, Pitt Meadows Golf Club, Hole #7

It was a 7 iron from 158 yards, I was playing with my friends and fellow Pitt Meadows Golf Club members Connor Sam and James. Hit it right at it and it was 2 hops and in and the crowd went wild.

Stu Murphy, Golf Club of Estrella, Hole #7

I was playing with my girlfriend and a father and son from Seattle.

It was 171 yards with lucky number 7 iron.

Frank Enns, Estrella Del Mar, Hole #6

I was playing with Rod Kaasa of Edmonton and Rob Parker of Comox. The 6th hole at Estrella del Mar was playing at 106 yards over water.  It is my 5th hole-in-one on that hole. Ironically, I have now made 5 aces on that hole, from 3 different tee boxes and FIVE different clubs: Gold(9i), Blue(PW), and White(50 degree wedge, 52 degree wedge, and 56 degree wedge). This one was made with my 50 degree wedge. It landed approximately 5’ past the hole and spun back into the cup. It is my 7th ace in my life. I’m 72 years of age.

 

Jim Sirup, Eagle Falls Golf Course, Hole #9

My 3rd hole-in-one! We were playing at Eagle Falls, Indio, California. Our foursome included my wife Karen and also playing with us, visiting from Kansas City, were Jeff & Sharon Alton. The big moment came at hole number 9. The hole was playing 174 yards, slight uphill to an elevated green. I used a 4 hybrid. The ball landed at the front part of the green, rolled to a back pin location and… disappeared! So, so exciting!

Jenifer Jones, Sandpiper Golf Club, Hole #7

It was my very first hole-in-one ever! I played golf as a junior, but then took a 25 year hiatus to finish my degrees and get established in my career as a physiotherapist owning 3 private clinic now.

I returned to golf in 2020 during Covid as a mental health escape and realized how much I love the game! I started back in lessons, and dedicated a lot of time to my game. I have been the Women’s Club Champion at Sandpiper Golf the last 3 years in a row and log over 150 games/year.

My hole-in-one was on hole #7 at Sandpiper, a par 3. I was playing from the white tees at had 99 yards to the pin. There is a hill off to the right of the green that rolls balls to the left – I landed there and rolled left onto the green and PLOP into the hole! Maybe not the prettiest hole-in-one, but a hole-in-one non-the-less.

Alison Murdoch, Victoria Golf Club, Hole #13

It was at Victoria Golf Club, one of the very few golf clubs open in Canada at this time of year. It was on the 13th hole, playing 117 yards that day with an 8 iron. You can see my friend Berne in this picture; I was also playing with Sunny who was the one who found the ball in the hole. It hit a tree and none of us saw where it went until Sunny took the flag out for Berne to putt. The men in the group behind us waited patiently on the tee while we took a few pictures. I guess they were happy to anticipate the hole-in-one drink they would be enjoying later.

Trish Jordan, Westbrook Village Country Club, Hole #2

I was playing with some American friends who I have met at our amazing golf course community at Westbrook Village in Peoria,  AZ. They were: Jackie Boman, Dawn Prahl and Sharon Bolender. I think they were more excited than I was because they told me they had never seen a hole-in-one before.

I was playing the second hole at the Vistas Golf Course at Westbrook Village in Peoria. I am a snowbird who just retired last year and now have a bit more time to spend in Arizona.

It was a Blue pin. I estimated 125 yards. I choked up on a 7 iron (like Brook Henderson). I hit a pretty good shot but thought it might roll out and go long. But nope. It disappeared and I was like: Wow!

There is a tradition at the club that you donate your hat with the information and they post the hat on the wall of the bar in the clubhouse. So I did that too.

I have had 3 previous hole-in-ones but think this was the first in about 15 years and my first ever in the US. Not to bad for a 61 year old retiree!

Deb Harmidy, Mantarraya Golf Club, Hole #11

I was playing with my good friend Linda Macpherson and another woman who I did not know. There was a strong headwind so I decided to use my 7 wood on the 118 yard hole #11 at Mantarraya golf course in Rio Hato, Panama. The shot felt great off the tee but with the sun in our face, we couldn’t track the ball. What a great feeling to find my ball in the cup!

Tammy Bigelow, Desert Princess, Hole #17

I got my hole-in-one January 27th at Desert Princess in Palm Springs, CA as you already know. After recovering from tri level fusion in my back in 2019 I am so happy to be able to golf and my index is a 22 which I am proud of after such a recovery. My husband Wayne and I were playing with a friend of ours Byron and we were just about finished our round, playing Lagos 8 which is the 17th for my round, an elevated tee box and a turtle back green. I had actually just lost a ball to the water on #16 so I was deflated and I was getting tired. My husband says, “dig deep here honey” we are almost finished and you have a great round going! I grab my 6 iron so I don’t have to swing hard as I know my body is done this round. He says… “carry it 85, land it in the middle and just let it release to the pin which was a right, uphill then downhill lie approximately 118 yards”. So, I am thinking to myself, my 6 iron is too much. I go back to the cart and grab my 7 iron. It flies perfectly, lands nice and soft, I bend over to pick up my tee because I think that was good… hopefully it stays on the green when suddenly, the guys are shouting “go in the hole!” I missed most of it because I just thought they were yelling that as everyone tends to when you have a great shot, but I was happy to see it in the bottom of the cup!

Howie Cunningham, Eagle Quest Golf Course, Hole # 7

I’ve played golf in my earlier years not so often but in the last 2-3 years my son Aaron (24) years has gotten me into golfing seriously. We play at Eagle Quest Golf Course in Coquitlam BC. Canada. 3-4 times a week. Par 3 course, 9 hole.

We’ve got very close to hole-in-one’s but on February 19 , 2023 at 2:20 pm. I made an unbelievable tee off to receive my first hole-in-one. 81 yards on Hole #7. My son and I still can believe it today as we’re so happy.

Kenn Stocks, The Okanagan Golf Club, Hole #4

– July 3, 2023

– Quail course hole #4

– Black Tee’s

– About 210 yards

– 4 rescue club

– First one 

– 3 witnesses

– 18 holes finished the round

– No gimmes, no do overs, no breakfast ball.

 

 

Kyle Lagerstrom, TPC of Scottsdale, Hole #3

We were in Arizona for a golf trip for my cousins stag. This course was gorgeous, nicest course any of us had ever played. My cousin and I were paired together with two guys we met at the course, and the other 3 guys in our group were playing right behind us.

We got to hole #3 and I ranged the pin at 122 yards. Usually that would be a pitching wedge for me but the green was a little bit below the tee box so I used my Gap wedge. I struck the ball pretty good and it was heading just a little bit left of the pin. It landed about 10′ left of the pin and a few feet long. I got a nice kick to the right off of the slope of the green and it started rolling towards the pin. We got to watch it roll closer and closer to the pin until it dropped! My cousin and I looked at each other and started cheering and jumping on the tee box with the two other guys we had just met. My cousin is in the picture in the pink hat. (Not his first choice of hat but we made him wear it). I learnt that apparently when you get a hole-in-one you have to pick up the bill at the bar at the 19th hole which made for a great time. All in all made for a trip we will never forget! Couldn’t have picked a better spot to get an ace!

Brett Kury, Superstition Springs Golf Club, Hole #17

It was an awesome moment given that this was my second ace ever (my first was at Ledgeview GCC, home to Nick Taylor and Adam Hadwin in May of 2018, hole #17!) and THIS time I got to actually see it roll in! At Superstition Springs GC they’ve switched the nines there, so it actually happened on the 6th hole (old 15th) 173 yards, I hit my 6 iron with a nice high draw, one big bounce then just tracked straight into the hole! A fun day to be sure and It was witnessed by three partners from Minnesota (one who now lives in Mesa, and two just visiting).

Mac Shiells, Arcadian Shores Golf Club, Hole #17

I was playing with my wife. The yardage was 117 and I used a 9 iron. 

Ron Cornell, Indian Wells Golf Resort, Hole #12

It was a 7 iron from 156 yards away on 12th hole Indian wells players course.

Witnessed by Alex Mcphail and one other who was a single that joined us. My 6th hole-in-one but first in the USA.

Andy Constand, Shelburne Golf & Country Club, Hole #18

My name is Andy Constand. I had a hole-in-one on July 24, 2023 on hole #18 at Shelburne Golf & Country Club. 

Nicholas Lum, Marine Drive Golf Club, Hole #16

– Marine Drive Golf Club

– Feb 10, 2024

– Hole 16

– 155 yrds

– Srixon ZX Mkii 7 Iron

– Ball: ProV1

– Played with Philip Mak and Daniel Lum

Multi-year gift will positively impact youth across the maritime provinces through affordable and inclusive access to golf

FEBRUARY 29, 2024 – Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are proud to announce that the Hewitt Foundation has pledged a major gift of $1.35M CAD that directly benefits First Tee – Atlantic.

The Hewitt Foundation is a private Canadian foundation that was established in 2017 at the time of the sale of Hewitt Equipment Limited and Atlantic Tractors and Equipment. Hewitt Equipment was founded in 1952 by the late Robert Hewitt. Jim Hewitt and the Hewitt family created the Foundation to help bring meaningful and sustainable social, economic, and cultural change by granting, investing, and collaborating with other organizations, partners, and the public.

“We are proud to support organizations that are bettering the lives of Canadians through healthy, active living and education. We understand the values that the game of golf can provide and are aligned with First Tee’s mission to provide environments that foster inner confidence, perseverance, and honesty through sport,” said Hewitt Foundation CEO, Kim Anderson. “The Maritimes are especially important to us. Hewitt Equipment operated in these provinces for 65 years, so it is special to continue that legacy and support the communities that helped make the Hewitt family business successful.”

Golf Canada partnered with First Tee in 2020 to launch First Tee – Canada and provide youth with affordable and inclusive access to golf along with life-enhancing experiences through the game. First Tee – Atlantic launched in 2022 and as of 2024, six chapters are operating First Tee – Canada programming in every province.

First Tee is delivered in three settings, golf courses, schools, and community centres with unique curriculums and training for each. Last year, First Tee – Atlantic delivered programming to nearly 11,500 participants at 54 program locations across all four provinces, with a team of three staff and 20 certified First Tee coaches. Nearly 40 percent of participants identified as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour), and 52 percent identified as female. Through the support of donors like the Hewitt Foundation, 72 percent of programming was provided at no cost to participants.

“The generosity of the Hewitt Foundation has helped accelerate the growth and impact made in communities across the Atlantic,” said Golf Canada Chief Sport Officer, Kevin Blue. “This financial support allows us to onboard program locations, train coaches, provide program equipment kits, and most importantly, provide affordable and accessible introductory golf programming to children. The work we do would not be possible without the support of donors like the Hewitt Foundation.”

Through its deep network of donors, Golf Canada Foundation is a critical partner in supporting the advancement of First Tee – Canada chapters across the country through its fundraising and philanthropic efforts.

“The Hewitt Foundation, alongside many other generous donors, is the reason we have positively impacted over 85,000 youth across Canada,” said Golf Canada Foundation CEO, Martin Barnard. “We are committed to the same mission – providing empowering opportunities to children through sport and ensuring golf participation more closely reflects the strengths of Canada’s diversity. Together, we are building game changers.”

The generosity of the Hewitt Foundation adds to a growing number of significant donations that have been secured since First Tee – Canada’s inception in 2020.

To learn more about First Tee – Atlantic, or to donate, visit www.firstteeatlantic.ca/.