Wright-Cassan wins Community Leader Award; Crooks wins
Future Leader Award following submission of nominations
from the Canadian golf community

Duo will be honoured during the RBC Hall of Fame Day in August at the CPKC Women’s Open

Oakville, ON – Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that Susan Wright-Cassan of Thunder Bay, Ont. and Carly Crooks of Scarborough, Ont. have been named the 2024 recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

Following a national call for nominations to the Canadian golf community, Wright-Cassan and Crooks were identified by the selection committee as recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards. The recognition celebrates a pair of individuals who demonstrated excellence in using golf as a platform to positively impact their communities.

“On behalf of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation, we are very proud to recognize Susan Wright-Cassan and Carly Crooks as our 2024 Lorie Kane Community Spirt Award recipients,” said David McCarthy, President, Golf Canada. “Nominations were brought forth from across the country highlighting the many contributions of passionate individuals who willingly give their time to inspire others through the game of golf. Congratulations to Susan and to Carly for this deserved honour and we thank them for their continued contributions to the sport in their communities.”

Wright-Cassan has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Community Leader Award, having made a significant impact in her community where she has been volunteering for over 20 years. Wright-Cassan currently serves as the President of Golf Manitoba and is a member of the Emerald Greens Golf Course and Driving Range in Thunder Bay, Ont. Wright-Cassan earned her community coaching certificate from First Tee and has been teaching junior golf and supporting the introductory First Tee – Canada program in Thunder Bay. Among her many contributions to the game, she has organized a variety of programming including “Golf in Schools” for over 1000 students, “Summer Camps for Kids”, the “Thunder Bay Queens”, “Try Golf Day” held in conjunction with the Thunder Bay Multi-Cultural Association and the Superior North Ladies Golf Association which has an outreach of 800 kms. Last year, Golf Manitoba presented Wright-Cassan with her 20-year volunteer certificate in recognition of her involvement with course rating in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario.

“I want to thank those that have supported me in my golf endeavors. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Lori Kane Community Leader Award. I must thank the people with the First Tee Program and Golf in School, those that I’ve met teaching at the junior and adult levels, playing at club and competitive levels and especially to those that without thinking of it, have encouraged myself and others,” said Susan Wright-Cassan. “This is a game that I love both to play and share my passion. It is a game for all ages, juniors through senior. The social aspects at all ages, the discipline, self-imposed applications of the rules, health benefits, friendships developed and maintained over the years, and other countless benefits are a few of the reasons that I and many others are involved with the game. The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will fuel me to carry on with the programs I’m involved with.”

Crooks has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award. The 21-year-old has dedicated her summers to coaching with First Tee – Canada, both in her community and across Ontario. After completing training as a First Tee – Canada coach in 2023, Crooks has coached in First Tee – Canada programming at the RBC Canadian Open, Golf Ontario’s Indigenous Try it Day, All-Girls First Tee along with programming at Tam O’Shanter Golf Course in Scarborough, Ont.

“Winning this award is so exciting, and I couldn’t have done it without the amazing people in my corner,” said Carly Crooks. “Shout out to my coach, Sean Burke, for always pushing me to be better, and to my parents for their endless support. My twin sister has been with me through everything, and I’m especially grateful to the First Tee – Ontario team for getting me involved.”

Wright-Cassan will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of her choice. Crooks will receive a $5,000 donation towards her post-secondary education. Wright-Cassan and Crooks will be honoured during the RBC Hall of Fame Day in August during the CPKC Women’s Open at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in Mississauga, Ont.

Submissions for the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.  

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award celebrates individuals over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; who have contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or have showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The Lorie Kane Future Leader Award honours a young individual who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were named to honour the Canadian golf icon for a longstanding commitment to advancing the sport, charitable work and giving back to the game that defined her Hall of Fame career. Kane is a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada.

A call for nominations for the 2025 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will go out later this year.

Trio will become the 87^th, 88^th and 89^th inductees to receive the highest honour in Canadian golf as part of RBC Hall of Fame Day
during the 2025 CPKC Women’s Open

Oakville, ON – The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame announced today that accomplished amateur golfer Richard Scott, former professional golfer Jerry Anderson and renowned course architect Charles Blair Macdonald have been selected for 2025 induction into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

Scott, 41, of Kingsville, Ont. and Anderson (posthumous) will be inducted into the players category, while Macdonald (posthumous) will be inducted into the builder category. The trio become the 87th, 88th and 89th honoured members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

“The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce the selection of Richard Scott, Jerry Anderson and Charles Blair Macdonald for election to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame,” said Harry Brotchie, Chair, Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Selection Committee. “Each of these individuals received substantial support in their nominations and full endorsement of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Each of them is unique in the contributions they have made to golf and are very deserving of this honour.”

Scott won the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship three times during his career, the first in 2003 and then back-to-back in 2005 and 2006. A graduate of Golf Canada’s National Team Program (2006), Scott is tied with Brent Franklin with three Canadian Men’s Amateur titles trailing only Doug Roxburgh and Nick Weslock with four, C.Ross (Sandy) Somerville with six and George S. Lyon with eight.

“It is a tremendous honour to be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Being included with the best of the best that Canadian golf has to offer is truly remarkable,” said Richard Scott. “I couldn’t have accomplished this without the love and support of my parents, Rick and Colleen Scott. I look forward to being part of the ceremony in August.”

Anderson was an accomplished professional golfer having won numerous tournaments across Canada and internationally on the European Tour (now DP World Tour). Born in Montreal, Que., Anderson became the first Canadian to win on the European Tour when he won the 1984 Ebel European Masters – Swiss Open. Anderson shot a record 27-under that stood for 19 years. Following his playing career, Anderson spent time as a teaching professional for close to 20 years, until he passed away on March 9, 2018, at the age of 62.

“On behalf of myself, my family and Jerry’s brothers, we are over the moon, happy and very proud Jerry has been selected for this special honour. Jerry was respected by and had close relationships with golfers at home and around the world on various global tours. He opened the door for Canadian golfers to play on tours in countries other than the United States and he was Canada’s Ambassador to golf, in a humble and unassuming manner,” said Barbara Anderson, wife of the late Jerry Anderson. “Thank you so much to the selection committee for bestowing this great honour to Jerry. To be selected and inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame is an elite honour and we are so grateful and proud.”

Born in Niagara Falls, Ont., Macdonald was an accomplished builder who is known for creating the term “golf course architect.” Macdonald designed the first 18-hole golf course in the United States, the Chicago Golf Club. He also helped found the United States Golf Association and won the inaugural U.S. Men’s Amateur Championship in 1895. Macdonald passed away April 21, 1939, at the age of 83.

“Our family is deeply grateful to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame for recognizing CB Macdonald’s pivotal role in bringing the great game of golf to North America and his impact on course design and golf history,” said Cathy Hartley, great-great-granddaughter of CB Macdonald. “His vision and artistry continue to inspire golfers today through the beauty and challenge of his courses. Seeing our great-great-grandfather honoured in this way is profoundly meaningful and we look forward to celebrating his legacy on August 26.”

Scott, Anderson and Macdonald will officially join the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame during an induction ceremony taking place during the RBC Hall of Fame Day as part of the 2025 CPKC Women’s Open which runs August 20-24 at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in Mississauga, Ont.

RICHARD SCOTT

Richard Scott enjoyed a successful amateur career with several championships provincially, nationally and at the collegiate level. He was born in Kingsville, Ont. on October 2, 1983, and was a member of Golf Canada’s National Team Program for two years (2005-2006).

Scott’s early days in golf began at his local course, the Kingsville Golf and Country Club. He began his amateur career playing and winning several provincial tournaments with Golf Ontario. Wins included: Golf Ontario’s Club Link Tour (1998), Juvenile Division Championship (1999), Peterborough Tournament of Champions (1999), Junior Masters Championship (2000) and the Junior Tournament of Champions (2002).

On the national stage, Scott won the Juvenile Division to claim the Jack Bailey Trophy at the Canadian Junior Boys Championship in 2000 and finished runner-up at the Canadian Junior Boys Championship two years later. In 2003, Scott won his first of three Canadian Men’s Amateur Championships, winning two more back-to-back in 2005 and 2006. Scott is tied with Canadian Golf Hall of Famer member Brent Franklin with three Canadian Men’s Amateur titles. Only fellow Canadian Golf Hall of Famers, Doug Roxburgh and Nick Weslock (four), C.Ross Somerville (six) and George S. Lyon (eight) have won more.

Scott later attended the University of Georgia, where he helped the Bulldogs win two SEC Team Championships and the 2005 NCAA National Championship. Following his collegiate career, Scott turned professional and competed on the Canadian Tour (now PGA TOUR Americas) over four seasons, earning 10 top-10 finishes. He competed on the Web.com Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour) for two seasons and earned five top-10 finishes. Scott also competed in six RBC Canadian Opens during his career including 2006 where he finished T68 as the low amateur.

Scott retired from professional golf in 2013 at the age of 31. He was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in 2019.

JERRY ANDERSON

Born in Montreal, Que., Jerry Anderson was one of Canada’s most successful touring professional golfers. His journey in golf began as a caddie in his home city before attending the University of Texas and later turned professional.

Anderson started his professional journey on the Canadian Tour (now PGA TOUR Americas) where he won several titles, including the Players Cup (1979), Manitoba Open (1979), Ontario Open (1979), back-to-back Saskatchewan Opens (1979, 1980) and Quebec Opens (1982, 1983). He also won the PGA of Canada Championship in 1987 and the Canadian Tour Players Championship in 1989. Anderson won the Canadian Tour Order of Merit three times in 1980, 1982 and 1989.

Anderson became the first Canadian to win on the European Tour (now DP World Tour), when he won the 1984 Ebel European – Swiss Masters. Anderson’s 27-under par score was a record on the European Tour that stood for 19 years until Ernie Els shot 29-under at the 2003 Johnnie Walker Classic.

Anderson competed in 66 PGA TOUR events during his career and spent two full seasons on Tour in 1990 and 1992. He made 18 cuts and earned three top 25 finishes on the PGA TOUR. He competed in the RBC Canadian Open 12 times, making the cut in three tournaments, including a T15 finish in 1982. That same year, Anderson claimed the Rivermead Cup, finishing as the low Canadian, and he would earn that honour again in 1992 in his final RBC Canadian Open. He also won once on the Ben Hogan Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour), winning the 1991 Ben Hogan Texarkana Open. He finished fourth on the money list that year re-earning his PGA TOUR card for 1992.

Anderson also represented Canada on four occasions, in 1985 at the Alfred Dunhill Cup and at the World Cup in 1983, 1987 and 1989.

Following his playing career, Anderson moved to Cambridge, Ont. and became a PGA of Canada Class A Professional. He worked at Cambridge Golf Club, Ingersoll Golf and Country Club and finally with Credit Valley Golf and Country Club.

Anderson passed away on March 9, 2018, at the age of 62. He was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in 2002. He was later inducted into the PGA of Canada Hall of Fame in 2016 and posthumously into the PGA of Ontario Hall of Fame in 2020.

CHARLES BLAIR MACDONALD

Charles Blair Macdonald often referred to as the “Father of American Golf Course Architecture” was born in Niagara Falls, Ont. before moving with his family to Chicago. He later attended school in Scotland at the University of St. Andrews where he studied the game under the guidance of Old Tom Morris.

Macdonald later returned to North America and is credited with designing the first 18-hole golf course in the United States, the Chicago Golf Club following the addition of nine holes in 1893. Macdonald is also credited with designing the Old White Course at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, Mid-Ocean Club in Bermuda, the National Golf Links and Sleepy Hollow both in New York and the Yale University Golf Club amongst others.

As a player, Macdonald won the inaugural U.S. Amateur in 1895 at Newport Country Club in Rhode Island by a score of 12&11. Alongside Charles Hunter, Macdonald is credited with organizing the first Canada vs. United States tournament held at Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club in 1895. In addition, he authored the book, Scotland’s Gift: Golf, discussing golf in America, course designs and more.

Macdonald passed away April 21, 1939, at the age of 83. He has been inducted posthumously into the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame (1989), the World Golf Hall of Fame (2007) and the Metropolitan Golf Association Hall of Fame (2020).

Three-time Canadian Women’s Amateur champion will be the 86^th inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

Meldrum to receive the highest honour in Canadian golf as part of RBC Hall of Fame Day in May during the 2024 RBC Canadian Open

The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame announced today that accomplished amateur and professional player and current PGA of Canada member Lisa Meldrum has been selected for 2024 induction into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

Meldrum, 41, from Montréal, Que. will be inducted into the player category, and becomes the 86^th honoured member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

“Lisa Meldrum’s competitive playing record dating back to junior, amateur golf, and then into professional ranks was outstanding,” said Ted Fletcher, Chair of the Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee. “Winning the 2000 Canadian Junior then three consecutive Women’s Amateur titles from 2001 to 2003 – a feat not accomplished since the legendary Marlene Streit in 1956 – brought Lisa early renown as one of Canada’s top female amateur golfers and that success continued as a young professional. The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Selection Committee unanimously endorsed Lisa’s nomination for induction into The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame!”

Meldrum, a Class A member of the PGA of Canada, got her start in golf as a 10-year-old at The Royal Montreal Golf Club where she now works as its Head Teaching Professional.

“I am extremely honoured to be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and join the esteemed legends of golf in this country,” said Meldrum. “In the pursuit of excellence in the game of golf, to have my achievements recognized, is truly a humbling experience. I am so grateful for the unwavering support of my family, friends, and supporters. The future of golf in this country is bright and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the sport through player development and high-performance coaching.”

Meldrum will officially join the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame during an induction ceremony taking place on Tuesday, May 28 during the RBC Hall of Fame Day as part of the 2024 RBC Canadian Open at Hamilton Golf & Country Club. To purchase tickets to the event, please click here.

LISA MELDRUM
Lisa Meldrum enjoyed an accomplished junior and amateur career, having won 12 championships between 1997 and 2003.

Her successful competitive run was highlighted by winning the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship three consecutive years in a row from 2001 to 2003. During that time SCOREGolf recognized her as the Best Female Amateur Golfer in Canada all three years. Prior to the Canadian Women’s Amateur three-peat, Meldrum won the 1998 Canadian Juvenile Girls Championship and the 2000 Canadian Junior Girls Championship, later earning SCOREGolf’s Best Female Junior Golfer recognition in 2000.

Provincially, the Montréal native enjoyed great success winning eight provincial championships including the Quebec Junior Girls Championship, three consecutive years from 1997 to 1999, the Quebec Women’s Amateur Championship in 2000 and 2002, as well as three Quebec Match Play Championships (Junior 2000, Amateur 1998 & 2001). She also won honours as ladies club champion (The Royal Montreal Golf Club), Montréal Region Champion and was a member of both the Quebec Junior Team and the Quebec Elite Team.

Meldrum attended the University of Oklahoma where she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a minor in business. A member of the women’s golf team from 2000-2004, Meldrum was named Big 12 Freshman Golfer of the Year for 2000-2001, won three collegiate tournaments, earned All-American honours and 25 top-ten finishes in four seasons with the Sooners.

She turned professional in 2004 and won the 2006 Canadian Tour Championship and was named the Canadian Tour Player of the Year. She competed on the Duramed Futures Tour (now Epson Tour) between 2006 and 2009, went on to compete on the LPGA Tour for two seasons (2010-2011) and later the Symetra Tour (now Epson Tour) from 2012-2015. She has competed in the AIG Women’s Open, LPGA Championship, as well as multiple CPKC Women’s Open’s.

Meldrum works as the Head Teaching Professional at Lisa Meldrum Golf Performance and The Royal Montreal Golf Club. She plays an instrumental role in the club’s adult and junior development programs for golfers of all skill levels and teaches year-round in Montréal. She is a “Class A” member of the PGA of Canada and specializes in teaching and coaching, which she has done since 2016. In addition, Meldrum is TPI certified and a Level 2 ELDOA practitioner.

During her career, Meldrum also represented Canada at the 2002 World Amateur Team Championship and was victorious at the 2003 Copas de las Americas Championship. Meldrum has also received awards from the Canadian Tour Order of Merit (2006), Jocelyne Bourassa Player of the Year (2009) and was inducted into the Quebec Golf Hall of Fame in the player category in 2023.

ABOUT THE CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM
The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame celebrates the outstanding individuals of Canadian golf from players, both amateur and professional, to the builders, architects and others who have been fundamental to the evolution of the game in this country. Operated by Golf Canada, the Hall of Fame, museum, and library are open to visitors to discover more about the game and the inductees. For more information, please visit heritage.golfcanada.ca/hall-of-fame-members/.

CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME NOMINATION & SELECTION PROCESS
Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame have been inducted since its inception in 1971. Honoured Members and representatives from the media, the PGA of Canada, as well as the golf industry comprise the ten-member Selection Committee.

The committee is responsible for reviewing all nominations and selecting inductees. To be considered for election to the Hall of Fame, a nominee must have made an extraordinary national or international contribution to the game of golf in Canada. These achievements may include, but are not limited to, golfing accomplishments, illustrious golf-related careers, or other exceptional contributions to the sport. Individuals may not nominate themselves and every nomination submitted to the Selection Committee must be seconded. Inductees to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame must receive a minimum of eight of 10 votes. Individuals who receive a minimum of three votes will be carried forward; ones who fail to do so will be removed from the nomination process. Additional information regarding the nomination and election process is available here. Nominations must be received no later than July 31 to be eligible for selection the following year.

Pompey wins Community Leader Award; Allen wins Future Leader Award following submission of nominations from the Canadian golf community

Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that Simeon Pompey of Montréal, Que. and Rosie Allen of Corner Brook, Nfld. have been named the 2023 recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

Following a national call for nominations to the Canadian golf community, Pompey and Allen were identified by the selection committee as recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards. The recognition celebrates a pair of individuals who demonstrated excellence in using golf as a platform to positively impact their communities.

“We were pleased to receive so many worthy nominations from across the country recognizing the contributions of individuals who use the game of golf in a way to inspire and contribute to their community,” said Golf Canada President, David McCarthy. “Golf Canada and the Foundation are incredibly proud to celebrate Simeon Pompey and Rosie Allen as our 2023 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award recipients and I am pleased to congratulate both on this much deserved honour and thank them for their continued contributions to our sport in their communities.”

Pompey earned the 2023 Lorie Kane Community Leader Award for his continuous devotion to helping others in his community through the sport of golf. Pompey has been a long-time supporter of First Tee which led him to be at the heart of the program’s success in Montréal since the launch of First Tee – Premier départ Quebec in 2021.He has also played a key role in the launch of golf programming in the Indigenous community of Kahnawake, on the south shore of Montréal. Pompey has been leading life-skills focused golf classes for over 15 years for children and families coming from underrepresented communities and low-income neighbourhoods in Montréal. Pompey also teaches in the Community, Recreation and Leadership Training at Dawson College, where he serves as a mentor to many of his students.

“I am still shocked to have been selected as the winner of the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award for 2023. Now that it has sunken in a bit, I want to thank you all wholeheartedly for this prestigious recognition. I humbly accept the award on behalf of all the children and their families who have benefitted from the values learned through the great game of golf especially First Tee. Thanks to Golf Canada and First Tee, I have been able to introduce the game of golf to mostly inner-city children whose path in life would not have included the great game of golf and the many life-skills that it teaches,” said Simeon Pompey. “I thank Golf Canada, Golf Quebec and First Tee – Canada for this incredible honour as it validates my life’s mission of helping young people reach their true potential. Thanks to First Tee, the trajectory of a child can be changed positively in a profound way.”

Allen has been named the recipient of the 2023 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award. The 15-year-old has played an instrumental leadership role in helping to develop the First Tee – Canada program at her home course, Blomidon Golf Club in Corner Brook, Nfld. Allen has devoted her time to First Tee programming as well as helping to plan and run events for her club’s junior girls’ program. She has also been a key influence working with the Autism Society in Corner Brook on both developing and running a program for junior golfers between the ages of 5-9 with various forms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Allen is an accomplished player having been a member of the provincial development team for four years and winning events in her home province. She has future goals of playing in the Canadian Junior Girls Championship, presented by BDO, and competing in the 2025 Canada Games.

“It is amazing to win this award and I’m very grateful to win something named in Lorie Kane’s honour. I was lucky enough to meet Lorie at the CPKC Women’s Open in 2019 when I was just 11 years old, and she was so nice. I hope I can inspire children in the game of golf the way she inspired me,” said Allen. “I love teaching kids and really enjoy seeing their development through the different programs that we offer. My favorite group of children are those with ASD. They are amazing kids, and it is so rewarding to watch them enjoy the game of golf and the different games we design for them. To know that I can be a part of their development is an honour.”

Pompey will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of his choice. Allen will receive a $5,000 donation towards her post-secondary education.

Submissions for the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.  

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award celebrates individuals over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; who have contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or have showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The Lorie Kane Future Leader Award honours an individual 19 years of age or younger who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were named to honour the Canadian golf icon for a longstanding commitment to advancing the sport, charitable work and giving back to the game that defined her Hall of Fame career. Kane is a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada.

A call for nominations for the 2024 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will go out later this year.

Deadline of November 5 for Canadian golf community to submit nominations for Community Leader Award & Future Leader Award to recognize individuals’ impact through golf.

(September 27, 2023) – Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that nominations for the 2023 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards are now being accepted through to Sunday, November 5.

The inaugural Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards launched in the summer of 2022 and the Canadian golf community is invited to submit nominations for one of two signature recognitions  – the Community Leader Award as well as the Junior Leader Award.

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award celebrates individuals over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; who have contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or have showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The recipient of the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of their choice.

To recognize youth who are making an impact in their community, the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award will honour an individual 19 years of age or younger who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The recipient of the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award will be awarded a $5,000 donation towards their post-secondary education and will also be offered a paid work internship with Golf Canada.

The Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were named to honour the Canadian golf icon for a longstanding commitment to advancing the sport, charitable work and giving back to the game that defined her Hall of Fame career. Kane is a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada.

“On behalf of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation, we are pleased to begin accepting nominations from the Canadian golf community for the 2023 Lorie Kane Community Spirt Awards,” said Golf Canada President David McCarthy. “Lorie Kane is a Canadian golf icon who has given back so much to numerous communities across Canada through her charitable work and to the continued growth of our sport. We look forward to recognizing similarly committed individuals including youth leaders for their positive impact on the sport in their community.”

In 2022, Fareen Samij of Burlington, Ont. and Bob Beauchemin of Brampton, Ont. were named the inaugural co-recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award.

A 5-time Canadian Women’s Long Drive champion and former golf touring professional, Samij is a respected entrepreneur, speaker, and author who founded the Smashing the Grass Ceiling golf program to engage women and young girls to connect and be inspired on the golf course.

Beauchemin, a PGA of Canada professional and Head Teaching Professional at Oakdale Golf and Country Club, was nominated for his efforts to advance junior golf including First Tee Canada, as well as his mentorship to countless golf industry professionals through the Humber College Professional Golf Management Program.  

The Canadian golf community is invited to submit individual nominations for the 2023 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards through an online nomination form. The nomination period will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, November 5.

Click here to nominate an individual for the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award.

Click here to nominate an individual for the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award.

At the conclusion of the nomination period, all Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award submissions will be compiled and evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada. 

Earlier this year, Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation announced the creation of a new recognition award to acknowledge and celebrate the commitment of individual leaders who are using golf as a platform to positively impact their communities.

On the eve of the 2022 CP Women’s Open, to honour Canadian golf legend Lorie Kane who will make her 30^th and final playing appearance at Canada’s National Open Championship, Golf Canada has announced that that recognition will be renamed the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

The inaugural Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will recognize a pair of remarkable individuals under two separate categories – the Community Leader Award and the Future Leader Award. 

Kane, a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, Canada Sports Hall of Fame, and recipient of the Order of Canada, has been extremely active in supporting youth and charitable activities during her career. As a CP ambassador, Kane has also supported CP’s charitable platform that has helped to raise more than $13M in support of children’s cardiac care in the host markets of the CP Women’s Open.  

“Lorie Kane has become one of the most active voices and passionate ambassadors for Canadian golf and it is truly deserving that Lorie Kane Community Leader Awards be named in her honour,” said Golf Canada President Liz Hoffman. “Lorie has been generous with her time in mentoring youth in PEI and across Canada, supporting future generations of up and coming athletes and giving back to the game that has meant so much to her incredible career. Lorie has worked with Golf Canada to engage the business community in their greater support of the women’s game and is a champion for our sport both on and off the golf course.” 

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will celebrate an individual over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; someone who has contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or an individual who has showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The recipient of the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of their choice.

To recognize youth who are making an impact in their community, the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award will honour an individual 19 years of age or younger who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The recipient of the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award will be awarded a $5,000 donation towards their post-secondary education and will also be offered a paid work internship with Golf Canada.

The Canadian golf community is invited to submit individual nominations for the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards through an online nomination form. The nomination period will close at 11:59 pm EST on August 31, 2022.

Click here to nominate an individual for the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award.

Click here to nominate an individual for the Lorie Kane Future Leader Award.

At the conclusion of the nomination period, all Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award submissions will be compiled and evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.

The inaugural Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards recipients will be announced during the 2022 World Junior Girls Championship, October 12-15 at Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ont.

Born January 21, 1940, Jack Nicklaus’ accomplishments on the golf course can only be rivaled by his achievements in golf course design.

On the PGA TOUR, Nicklaus led the money list eight times, twice while playing only 16 events. Between 1962 and 1979, he finished in the top 10 in 243 of the 357 official events he played in, a rate of 68 percent.

A strong supporter of the Canadian Open throughout his career, Nicklaus took on the challenge of designing Glen Abbey as a permanent site for the Canadian Open. His first solo design, Nicklaus brought years of on-course experience at tough golf courses and designed a layout that was tough on the professionals, yet enjoyable for the average golfer.

Nicklaus, was inducted to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in the builder category in 1995.

The success of the golf course he created and his support of the Canadian Open have assured the strength of golf in Canada for years to come.

Visit his Honoured Member profile here.

Born January 16, 1933 in Red Deer, Alberta, Douglas Howard Silverberg is known for being a dominant force on the Alberta golf scene beginning in the late 1940s. A fierce competitor, Silverberg has won every major provincial championship in his home province, including the Juvenile, Junior, Amateur, Open and match play.

 In addition to his stellar provincial record, Silverberg won the Canadian Junior in 1950 and the Senior Championship of Canada in 1994, and also represented Canada several times at the Commonwealth Tournaments, Americas Cup and World Amateur Team Championship.

When asked about the toughest competitor he ever faced as a player, fellow Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Robert Wylie pointed to Silverberg.

“He wanted to win more than any other player I competed against,” explained Wylie. “He was intimidating because of his intensity; you could see him grinding the entire round. You could never feel like you had him beat because he never gave up. You could be on the green in two with a ten-footer for birdie and he could be in the middle of a bush but you would have been foolish to think you were going to win the hole. He would make pars and birdies from places you wouldn’t imagine. It was remarkable. He just put his head down and tried to beat you. No one was tougher than Doug Silverberg.”

Silverberg was inducted to the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in 1985, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 1989, and the Alberta Golf Hall of Fame in 2005.

Click here for his Honoured Member page.

Born on this day (January 7) in 1908, Jules Huot is often considered to be one of the finest of all Quebec golf professionals and an important contributor to the growth of the game across the country.

Huot grew up in Boischatel, Quebec, the second boy in a family of 13 children. His home within close proximity of Royal Québec Golf Club, Huot became a caddie and pro shop assistant while using his wages to help support his large family. At the age of 16, Huot’s mentor Frank Locke urged his assistant to begin competing and entered him in the 1924 Quebec Open.

Known as “le petit Jules”, Huot received many accolades and captured the CPGA Championship and Quebec Open Championship three times, won five Quebec PGA Championships, and finished as the low Canadian Professional at the Canadian Open on two occasions. His most notable victory however, was in 1937 when he bested Harry Cooper at the General Brock Open. The occasion marked the first time a Canadian professional had won a PGA TOUR tournament.

Huot would also be invited to play in the Masters on three occasions, serve as the President of the PGA of Canada in 1946, and represented Canada four times in the Hopkins Cup, as well as the Canada Cup (now World Cup) in 1954.

His achievements and legacy earned him Honoured Membership to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 1977, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1978, The Quebec Sports Hall of Fame and Quebec Golf Hall of Fame in 1996, and, posthumously, the PGA of Canada Hall of Fame in 2014.

In recognition of his loyal services, Jules Huot was named Honorary Life Member at Le Club Laval where he served as head professional for 25 years until he retired in 1970.

In Chicoutimi and Montreal, you can find streets named after this French-Canadian icon who gave so much to the sport.

Visit his Honoured Member page here.