VICTORIA — Whether working behind the scenes at a national competition or championing opportunities for Indigenous golfers, T’esóts’en (Patrick Kelly) has spent years using golf to bring communities together.

That meaningful work is part of a broader record of public and community service that has earned Patrick a deserving appointment to the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour.

A member of Leq’á First Nation, he will be invested into the Order at Government House in Victoria on Sept. 24.

His contributions to the sport with B.C. Golf and Golf Canada as a longtime volunteer have taken him from the boardroom to some of the country’s biggest tournaments. A past president of B.C. Golf and former director at large with Golf Canada, he has served on numerous committees over the past decade helping to advance the sport.

Patrick was tournament chair for the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver, the 2022 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship and a 2021 U.S. Open qualifier.

One of his most meaningful assignments came in 2022, when he chaired a reconciliation golf event at the Royal Ottawa Golf and Country Club in partnership with the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General.

A member at Gorge Vale Golf Club in Victoria, Patrick’s path into golf leadership began with a phone call.

While serving as an adviser to former lieutenant-governor Steven Point, he began thinking about what Indigenous participation in golf could look like if the right structure and support were in place.

He helped establish the BC Aboriginal Golf Association and contacted then-B.C. Golf CEO Kris Jonasson to propose working together. Patrick did not know that the association’s board had passed a resolution the previous evening committing to greater Indigenous participation in the sport.

Patrick went on to join the B.C. Golf board of directors and was elected president in 2016. He is now a past president of the association and founder and chair of the BC Indigenous Golf Association.

Those early conversations eventually helped lead to the BC Indigenous Championship at Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course.

Organized by BC Golf, the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Osoyoos Indian Band, the inaugural championship welcomed 114 golfers representing 80 Nations. The competitors ranged in age from 14 to 80.

The event has continued to grow. It now includes senior and junior divisions, a youth clinic delivered with the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council and First Tee – Canada, and an Indigenous Challenge Cup between British Columbia and Ontario.

Patrick will captain Team B.C. at this year’s Challenge Cup at Bear Mountain Golf Resort. The matches will be played during the same week he receives the Order of British Columbia.

His appointment also reflects decades of work outside golf.

Patrick helped facilitate discussions during the Clayoquot Sound conflict and later facilitated the founding meeting of Coastal First Nations. He served as the organization’s board chair for more than 18 years as its member Nations advanced conservation, stewardship and economic initiatives throughout the Great Bear Rainforest.

He also helped negotiate an agreement protecting Indigenous burial sites at Grace Islet on Salt Spring Island.

Patrick’s public service has included roles with the Law Society of British Columbia, the B.C. Provincial Judicial Council and the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry. As chair of the Victoria Foundation, he became the first Indigenous person to lead a community foundation in Canada.

In 2024, he received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his work advancing reconciliation. Golf Canada congratulates Patrick Kelly on his deserving appointment and his many years of service to the game.

Matt McQuillan’s golf story began in Kingston, Ont., and no matter where the game took him, Kingston remained at the heart of it.

Golf Canada joins the Canadian golf community in mourning the passing of McQuillan, a former PGA TOUR member and teaching professional. He was 45.

McQuillan was one of Canada’s most promising young golfers in the late 1990s. He rose to the No. 1 national junior ranking in 1999, a season in which he won the Ontario Junior Championship and the AJGA’s Tucker Anthony Championship.

He also finished second at the 1999 Canadian Junior Boys Championship. Two years later, he reached the semifinals of the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship and represented Canada on the team that won the 2001 Four Nations Cup at Lambton Golf and Country Club in Toronto.

Although an individual Golf Canada national championship eluded him, those performances established McQuillan among the leading Canadian amateurs of his generation.

He played collegiate golf at Oklahoma State University and the University of Georgia before turning professional in 2003.

The path that followed was not a straight one.

McQuillan spent years competing on developmental circuits, including the Canadian Tour, now part of PGA TOUR Americas. He won the 2005 TELUS Edmonton Open but, during a difficult stretch in his career, stepped away from tournament golf and worked as a bartender in Kingston.

He eventually returned to competition and kept chasing the goal.

That persistence was rewarded at the final stage of PGA TOUR qualifying school in 2010, where McQuillan earned his card for the 2011 season.

His breakthrough came that summer at the John Deere Classic. McQuillan opened with a 7-under 64 and matched it with another bogey-free 64 on Sunday, finishing tied for third at 17-under-par.

It was the best result of his PGA TOUR career and earned him $261,000.

McQuillan added two more top-10 finishes that season, tying for sixth at the Reno-Tahoe Open and seventh at the Frys.com Open. He finished a career-best 145th in the FedExCup standings.

In all, McQuillan made 32 PGA TOUR starts, with nine made cuts, three top-10 finishes and $603,785 in official earnings.

Two of those starts came in Canada’s National Open.

McQuillan made his RBC Canadian Open debut in 2011 at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver. An opening-round 68 left him one stroke off the lead. He followed with rounds of 73, 74 and 70 to finish tied for 31st with a 285 total—his best result in the championship.

He returned to the RBC Canadian Open in 2012 at Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Ancaster, Ont. McQuillan recorded rounds of 70, 67, 77 and 69 to finish tied for 75th with a 283 total.

He made the cut in both of his National Open appearances, earning a combined $43,732.

There was always more to McQuillan’s relationship with golf than tournament results. His PGA TOUR biography listed watching his father break 70 as his favourite golf memory. Asked to choose a dream foursome, McQuillan selected Fred Couples, David Feherty and his dad.

In recent years, he brought his experience back to Kingston as a teaching professional. After travelling the long road from junior golf to the PGA TOUR, McQuillan remained part of the community that had supported him from the beginning, sharing what he had learned with other golfers.

His career will be remembered for the Sunday 64 at the John Deere Classic, his appearances in Canada’s National Open and the determination it took to reach the PGA TOUR. In Kingston, he will also be remembered as one of their own—a gifted golfer who carried the city’s support with him and ultimately brought his experience home.

Golf Canada extends its sincere condolences to McQuillan’s family, friends, students and everyone in the Canadian golf community who knew him.

From Canadian Golf:

Ah – sad news indeed. Former PGA Tour player Matt McQuillan of Kingston has passed away. https://t.co/qRxMGzY4y3

— Adam Stanley (@adam_stanley) August 7, 2026

Gone too young. Kingston, Ont.’s Matt McQuillan, whose golf career took him to the PGA Tour, has passed away. https://t.co/6JwZGTwWHi

— Bob Weeks (@BobWeeksTSN) August 7, 2026

Renewed partnership includes an enhanced commitment to Canadian women’s golf
at the amateur and professional levels

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada and Audi Canada are proud to announce a long-term extension of their valued partnership that reaffirms Audi Canada’s commitment as the Official and Exclusive Automotive Partner of Golf Canada, the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open through 2028.

Since joining Golf Canada in 2019, Audi Canada has been an instrumental partner in helping to grow and elevate the game across the country. Through its unwavering support of Canada’s National Open Championships and shared commitment to delivering world-class experiences for players and fans, Audi Canada has played a significant role in advancing the sport from coast to coast to coast.

As part of this enhanced partnership renewal, Audi Canada has deepened its commitment to help advance the women’s game in Canada, becoming a Foundational Partner of She Plays Golf. In addition, the three-event championship series will now be the She Plays Golf Championship Series presented by Audi. Following the championship series, Audi Canada will present the Audi Precision Award like with the CPKC Women’s Open, awarded to the tournament’s “most precise player.”

“We are thrilled to extend our longstanding partnership with Audi Canada. Together we share a vision of advancing the sport with excellence, precision and continued progress,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “We value Audi Canada’s continued commitment to women’s golf in Canada as they deepen their support, becoming the presenting partner of the She Plays Golf Championship Series along with their support of amateur golf through the Audi quattro Cup. We look forward to Audi Canada’s premium experience offerings for fans at both National Open Championships this year.”

Audi Canada will continue to present the Audi Precision Award at the CPKC Women’s Open, given to the tournament’s “most precise player.” The winner will receive a $25,000 cash prize along with a matching donation made in their name to a local charity that focuses on growing and advancing women’s golf. Past winners include Lauren Coughlin (2024) and Sei Young Kim (2025).

Golf Canada and Audi Canada will continue to support the Audi quattro Cup, the world’s largest amateur golf tournament. Through this partnership, Golf Canada and Audi Canada have elevated the profile of the Audi quattro Cup in Canada by expanding its national footprint and providing elevated opportunities for more Canadian golfers. For over 30 years, the Audi quattro cup has welcomed 38 countries, 600 tournaments and 70,000 players annually competing to enter the Audi quattro Cup World Final.

In addition to Audi Canada’s extensive commitment to Canadian golf, Audi Canada is also the official Automotive Partner of Golf Talk Canada on TSN 1050 AM. Collectively bringing stories to fans across the country with TSN talents, Mark Zecchino, Adam Scully and Canadian Golf Hall of Famer, Bob Weeks. The partnership will feature an elevated presence at the TSN broadcast booth on-site at the RBC Canadian Open this year.

“Our partnership with Golf Canada is rooted in a shared commitment to excellence and delivering premium experiences both on and off the course—grounded in values like precision, performance, and progress. As we build on this momentum, we’re excited to elevate the Audi quattro Cup and continue creating meaningful opportunities that expand participation and inspire the next generation of Canadian golfers,” said Joseph Ottorino, Head of Marketing, Audi Canada.

Audi Canada will once again serve complimentary specialty coffee to fans at the 2026 RBC Canadian Open at the Refuel26Café along with premium Audi vehicles that fans can interact with on-site. Racing fans will also have the opportunity to see the Audi R26, Audi’s first-ever Formula One car at the RBC Canadian Open. Audi is currently competing in its first season in Formula One.

The renewed partnership will also see Audi Canada remain a Presenting Partner of the Golf Canada app, the number-one golf app in the country, which tracks game progress and scores while connecting users with colleagues and friends. The Golf Canada app, which also supports the spectator experience at the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, is available as a free download from the App Store for iOS devices and Goole Play for Android.

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here. The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

Golf Canada members will now have access to Swingtweaks support through 25% discount

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada and Swingtweaks are pleased to announce a new three-year partnership that will support virtual game improvement for Golf Canada members.

As part of the partnership, Swingtweaks will become a new member benefit available to Golf Canada’s network of approximately 1,400 member clubs and more than 380,000 individual members nationwide. Golf Canada members will receive an exclusive 25% discount on Swingtweaks virtual coaching services.

Whether it’s helping to build a consistent, repeatable swing or making small adjustments to grip, posture, and alignment, golf instruction enhances the playing experience. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to growing the game of golf and making high-quality instruction more accessible to Canadian golfers of all skill levels through innovative digital coaching solutions.

“We are excited to partner with Swingtweaks and offer our membership a new and valuable benefit that will provide greater access to affordable, professional golf instruction,” said Tim McLaughlin, Chief Marketing Officer, Golf Canada. “Through Swingtweaks’ virtual coaching platform, members can connect with certified PGA professionals and receive personalized swing analysis and feedback quickly and conveniently.”

Swingtweaks is a mobile application that provides affordable coaching through prompt digital swing analysis from certified PGA professionals, helping golfers improve their game anytime and anywhere.

Additional information on access, promotional code information and redemption instructions will be sent directly to Golf Canada members. For more information on a Golf Canada membership and all the benefits available, please click here.

Rank + Rally becomes Official Retail Operator of the revamped Golf Canada Fan Shop

Fans will experience enhanced retail at the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, with expanded access online through the Golf Canada Fan Shop

Golf Canada welcomes a new class of 13 apparel and accessory brands

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada is proud to unveil a new era of merchandise and licensing that includes a new retail partnership, numerous new Golf Canada merchandise brands and a re-launched online merchandise hub.

With the reimagined strategy, Golf Canada is also pleased to announce a multi-year partnership with Rank + Rally as the Official Retail Operator of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Fan Shop. The partnership will offer an enhanced merchandise platform that will support Canada’s National Open Championships – the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open along with Golf Canada via a revamped ecommerce site, shop.golfcanada.ca, set to launch ahead of the RBC Canadian Open.

“Our new merchandise program reflects Golf Canada’s continued focus on building a world-class event and fan experience across both of our National Open Championships. With an expanded retail space, new shopping locations and a deeper lineup of brands, the merchandise experience will offer fans more opportunities to take home a piece of Canada’s National Opens,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “We are also proud to welcome Rank + Rally as the Official Retail Operator of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Fan Shop. Collectively, we look forward to the launch of our enhanced retail and ecommerce platform that will provide fans across Canada with a year-round opportunity to secure merchandise beyond tournament weeks.”

The reimagined Golf Canada Fan Shop will engage fans on-site at both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, featuring a significantly expanded footprint and merchandise selection. The offerings include tournament-exclusive apparel, limited-edition headwear, premium accessories and commemorative items from some of the top brands in golf and sport.

The main Golf Canada Fan Shop at the RBC Canadian Open will be located near the first tee with a secondary location at The Rink (No. 14), a high-energy par-3 hole at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, providing fans with convenient access to official tournament products at one of the most energetic and celebrated spectator environments in Canadian sport.

“We’re thrilled to join with Golf Canada to create next-generation retail experiences that provide unprecedented variety, seamless access and exclusive products to fans across the country, beginning with these two premier tournaments,” said Dan Gillham, Senior Vice President, Rank + Rally. “Our singular goal is to help bring to life the strategic vision that Mark and his team have for the Golf Canada brand as they create new ways for passionate Canadian golf fans to experience this great game.”

Rank + Rally delivers best-in-class merchandise operations across major North American sporting events, venues and team franchises. In Canada, its partners include the Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators among many others. The company also serves fans during marquee sports, entertainment and cultural moments and celebrations from NBA and WNBA All-Star Games to the Stanley Cup Final and NBA Finals. In addition to overseeing all merchandise operations at both National Open Championships and online, Rank + Rally will assist in the continued expansion of Golf Canada’s retail strategy and fan engagement opportunities.

New brands strengthen and diversify the Golf Canada lineup

Golf Canada is also proud to welcome 13 new brands who will offer an expanded variety of merchandise options online and on-site at both National Open Championships through the Golf Canada Fan Shop. The new brands include Peter Millar, G/FORE, Nike, Full Wedge, TravisMathew, Breezy, Imperial, New Era, Dormie Workshop, Good Good Golf, Barstool Sports, Johnnie-O and Mustang, who will join current Official Partners Acushnet, Levelwear and YETI.

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada and Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) are pleased to announce a new partnership that names SKS the official Kitchen Appliances Partner of Golf Canada as well as the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

The partnership connects SKS with Golf Canada’s premier national platforms, reaching an engaged audience in a trusted, aspirational environment where performance, craftsmanship and elevated experiences are celebrated.

“We are proud to welcome SKS as the new Official Kitchen Appliances Partner of Golf Canada,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “As SKS continues to expand its presence in Canada, we’re excited to align with a premium brand that shares our commitment to performance, precision and elevated experiences that are hallmarks of both world-class golf and luxury craftsmanship.”

Launched in Canada in 2020, SKS is a luxury appliance brand delivering advanced cooking, refrigeration and ventilation solutions designed to elevate modern culinary experiences. Developed for a new generation of discerning consumers, what SKS calls the Technicurian, the brand blends precision engineering, intelligent innovation and refined design to support a more progressive, forward way of living. Through advanced performance, connected capabilities and thoughtful craftsmanship, SKS empowers those who value both technology and experience to elevate how they cook and live every day.

SKS will bring an interactive fan activation to life at the RBC Canadian Open at the ninth green at TPC Toronto, offering guests a hands-on opportunity to experience the brand’s precision-driven innovation and connected capabilities through engaging, culinary-inspired demonstrations.

“Golf Canada’s premier events provide an exceptional platform to connect with Canadian audiences who value performance, design and elevated experiences,” said Mareike Greve, Head of Marketing, Signature Kitchen Suite. “At SKS, we design for the Technicurian – those who are driven by curiosity, appreciate innovation and take pride in living ahead of the curve. This partnership allows us to showcase how precision engineering, intelligent features and thoughtful design come together to create meaningful, elevated experiences both in and beyond the kitchen.”

For more information on SKS (Signature Kitchen Suites) and its offerings, please visit sksappliances.com.

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here. The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

CALEDON, Ont. – The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf were established in 2022 to shine a light on the Golf Clubs and facilities across Canada going above and beyond to develop young Canadian golfers. These awards focus on facilities that provide exceptional experiences for their juniors by way of access, programming, development, and competition.

“The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf continue to be an incredible showcase of the country’s top clubs supporting junior golf in Canada,” said Ryan Logan, Director of External Relations, Golf Canada. “This year’s awards program was highlighted by outstanding achievements from coast to coast to coast, further elevating the quality of programming, expanding access, and deepening community partnerships that foster welcoming, accessible, and safe environments for young Canadians. We are honoured to celebrate these 2025 award winners and to shine a spotlight on the remarkable work being done to support junior golf nationwide. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners!”

The 2025 winners and finalists are as follows:

Youth on Course Program Location of the Year

Awarded to a facility that demonstrates exceptional commitment to youth golf development by providing extensive course access through Youth on Course, leading to more juniors playing at a subsidized rate throughout the calendar year.

WINNER: South Ajax Golf Club (Ajax, Ont.)

With 494 unique participants, South Ajax Golf Club had another outstanding Youth on Course season, with juniors playing a total of 2,712 rounds during the 2025 golf season, up from 1,433 rounds the previous season. Youth on Course is integrated alongside the club’s existing junior programs, ensuring it complements the offerings already in place. By allowing participants to play at any time and actively tracking rounds through the Youth on Course portal, South Ajax Golf Club maintains strong operational standards. The club’s ongoing engagement with juniors highlights its commitment to supporting Youth on Course and fostering a thriving junior golf environment.

Finalist: The Nest at Cabot Cape Breton (Inverness, N.S.)

Finalist: Meridian Hills Golf Club (Surrey, B.C.)

Tournament Host of the Year
Awarded to a facility that gives back to junior golf by embracing the opportunity to host junior competitions. The facility creates an excellent tournament experience for players and involves the local community through volunteers and fundraising support.
 
WINNER: Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club (Bathurst, N.B.)

Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club was the host of the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys Championship, presented by BDO. The club staff, led by Adam Chamberlain and the Host Club Committee, led by Shawn Patterson, both excelled in the planning and execution stages of what was an incredible championship. The club recruited upwards of 150 volunteers to ensure that competitors and guests alike were welcomed with typical East Coast hospitality. Despite an unusually dry and hot summer, the golf course remained in impeccable condition thanks to the tireless efforts of the greens staff. The event had a professional feel from start to finish, and Gowan Brae shined as a national championship host club.

Finalist: Pitt Meadows Golf Club (Pitt Meadows, B.C.)

Finalist: Club de Golf Sainte-Marie (Sainte-Marie, Que.)

First Tee Program Location of the Year

Awarded to a First Tee – Canada Program Location that demonstrates excellent enrolment in First Tee – Canada programming and makes a significant impact on growing participation among new juniors within its community.
 
WINNER: Antigonish Golf Club (Antigonish, N.S.)

Antigonish Golf Club has fully embraced First Tee in their second season offering programming. By developing meaningful relationships within their community, and creating unique fundraising opportunities, they were able to increase participation from 12 juniors in their first season, to 120 in 2025 – an increase of 900 percent. They offered six, six-hour First Tee programs at maximum capacity, and an additional six-hour, all girls session in the fall. Antigonish Golf Club’s dedication to accessibility and fostering a safe environment has created life-enhancing golf experiences for youth from all backgrounds in Atlantic Canada.

Finalist: Broadmoor Public Golf Course (Sherwood Park, Alta.)

Finalist: Cultus Lake Golf Club (Cultus Lake, B.C.)

Grassroots Junior Program of the Year

Awarded to a facility or academy program that is excelling at creating new junior golfers through local programming.

WINNER: Bowen Island Golf Club (Bowen Island, B.C.)

A returning finalist from 2024, Bowen Island continued to grow their impressive programming into 2025. In addition to free golf and club rentals for juniors, the club has connected with schools and youth programs in the area, as well as hosting various community events throughout the summer, making the club as accessible as possible for young golfers in the area. In 2025, Bowen Island registered over 1,500 rounds played by juniors, all free of charge.

Finalist: The Oaks of St. George Golf Club (Paris, Ont.)

Finalist: Paragon Golf & Country Club (Kingston, N.S.)

Junior Golf Opportunity Award

Awarded to a facility that provides exceptional access and membership opportunities for junior golfers. Special consideration is given to facilities with strong non-family sponsored junior programs and facilities with fundraising programs to help athletes compete at provincial, national, and international competitions.

WINNER: Glendale Golf & Country Club (Winnipeg, Man.)

With programming available for children as young as three, Glendale Golf & Country Club offers a stellar, well-rounded junior golf experience. From first swings and introductory clinics to summer camps and family events for recreational players, season-long challenges and competitive opportunities, Glendale supports juniors at every stage of their development. The club’s commitment to access and growth ensures young golfers not only build golf skills but develop a lasting love for the game.

Finalist: Club de golf Lotbinière (Saint-Gilles, Que.)

Finalist: The Marshes Golf Club (Ottawa, Ont.)

Competitive Junior Program of the Year

Awarded to a facility or academy program with many junior athletes competing in provincial and national championships and earning strong results in those championships.

WINNER: Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu (Sainte-Julie, Que.)

Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu demonstrates a deep commitment to developing young athletes into high-performing golfers. Supported by a foundation dedicated solely toward growing their junior programming, the club provides a comprehensive training environment that combines targeted on-course practice with off-course specialists in physical training, nutrition and sport psychology. This dedication is evident in their golfers’ successes, with many juniors competing provincially, and an impressive nine players representing the club at the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys and Girls Championships.

Finalist: Summit Golf Club (Richmond Hill, Ont.)

Finalist: Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club (Surrey, B.C.)

Golf Canada extends its congratulations and heartfelt thanks to all winners and finalists for their dedication to junior golf. Their efforts continue to shape the future of the sport, ensuring young golfers across the country have the opportunities and resources available to succeed.

For more information about the National Facility Awards for Junior Golf, please visit golfcanada.ca/national-facility-awards-for-junior-golf/.

If you have any questions regarding the awards or nomination process, please feel free to email NFAJG@golfcanada.ca.

Golf fans will be able to enjoy a Copper Rose signature cocktail at both of
Canada’s National Open Championships this summer

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada and Copper Rose Distillery are pleased to announce a renewed multi-year partnership agreement that sees the Canadian company continue as the Official Vodka of Golf Canada as well as the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

Through the renewed partnership, Copper Rose will offer fans attending Canada’s National Open Championships a signature cocktail and premium product sampling within their activation spaces located in The Fareway, along with a VIP sampling experience in select hospitality areas at both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with a proudly Canadian company, Copper Rose,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “Their increased presence and premium offerings will provide an exceptional experience for our fans at both National Open Championships this summer.”

Founded in 2022 and proudly based in Amherstburg, Ont. Copper Rose produces premium vodka handcrafted with the finest Canadian rye grain and distilled 12 times for a silky, smooth finish. The velvety spirit delivers a premium pour perfect for sipping or mixing with cocktails. Copper Rose was proudly awarded a gold medal along with the Innovation award at the 2025 SIP Awards.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Golf Canada as the official vodka,” said Melissa Roberts, CEO and Managing Director, Copper Rose Distillery. “As a distinctly Canadian brand rooted in craftsmanship and quality, this continued collaboration reflects our shared pursuit of excellence and exceptional experiences. We look forward to raising a glass with golf enthusiasts across the country.”

For more information on Copper Rose Distillery and its offerings, please visit copperrose.ca.

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here. The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

2025 Annual Report & Financial Statements are now available.

Longtime Rules Official Nancy Layton recognized as

2025 recipient of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award

Volunteers Roger Beach and Brenda McIlwaine along with media producer Jamie Reidel recognized with Golf Canada’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award

Long-time Golf Canada contributors Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent appointed
Honorary Life Governors in recognition of their remarkable contributions to the sport.

Alena Sharp, Peter Broome, Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino inducted
into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada’s 2026 Annual General Meeting concluded on Wednesday, March 11 with the election of Adam Daifallah of Montréal, Que. to serve a second term as the 118th President of the National Sport Federation.

A volunteer with Golf Canada since 2013, Daifallah joined the Board of Directors in 2018 and recently concluded his first term as president. Prior to becoming president, he served two consecutive terms as vice president (2023-2024). Daifallah is currently a Senior Managing Director at Teneo, the global CEO advisory firm, with responsibility for Teneo’s Montréal office. Previously he was co-founder and Managing Partner of the public affairs firm HATLEY Strategy Advisors, which was acquired by Teneo in 2020. Prior to that, Daifallah practiced law at the Montréal office of Norton Rose Fulbright (then Ogilvy Renault), sat on the editorial board of the National Post, and was Washington correspondent of The New York Sun. He is co-author of two books on Canadian politics. A link to Daifallah’s full bio is here.

“Golf Canada remains committed to fostering a sport that is more accessible, more inclusive, more innovative, and more deeply connected to communities across the country. It is an honour to continue to serve as president of Golf Canada and help to lead this vision alongside the board and staff, led by CEO Laurence Applebaum,” said Adam Daifallah, President, Golf Canada. “The energy surrounding Canadian golf has never been stronger, and the opportunities ahead have never been greater. This moment calls for a continued commitment to shaping Canadian golf with intention, innovation, and unity.”

Based on the Report of Golf Canada’s Nominating Committee, Daifallah will be joined on the 2026 Board of Directors by returning Vice President, Jean-Sébastien Monty of Montréal. They will lead 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 Steven Young (Banff, Alta.), Louise Patry (Montréal, Que.), Nafeez Hirji (Calgary, Alta.), Peter Broome (Jupiter, Fla.), Lori Dithurbide (Halifax, N.S.), Pamela Huff (Toronto, Ont.), Katie Mahon (Kingston, Ont.), and Brittany Marchand (Mooresville, N.C.).

New additions to Golf Canada’s Board of Directors include former CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie (Toronto, Ont.), Kendra Koss (Calgary, Alta.) and Ron Lloyd (Toronto, Ont.).

For the biographies of Golf Canada’s Board of Directors, click here.

As part of its virtually conducted Annual General Meeting, Golf Canada also released the organization’s 2025 Annual Report including its Financial Statements which are available here.

Nancy Layton named 2025 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year

In celebration of volunteerism, Golf Canada recognized Nancy Layton of Ayer’s Cliff, Que. as the 2025 recipient of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award. A dedicated advocate for the Rules of Golf, Layton is longtime volunteer with Golf Canada and Golf Quebec and currently serves as Chair of the Rules Education Subcommittee. Layton has contributed countless hours and is considered a mentor to many, both on a national and provincial level, through her work in the Rules of Golf. For the full story, click here.

Roger Beach, Brenda McIlwaine, and Jamie Reidel recognized with Golf Canada’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award

Golf Canada announced that a trio of accomplished contributors – long-time volunteers Roger Beach of Oakville, Ont. and Brenda McIlwaine of Belvedere, P.E.I. along with media producer Jamie Reidel of Kitchener, Ont. – have been named the 2026 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award for their tremendous contributions to Canadian golf. Click here for more.

Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent appointed Honorary Life Governors

Rob MacDonald of Winnipeg, Man. and Michel St-Laurent of Longueuil, Que. received the organization’s highest volunteer honour as they were named Honorary Life Governors for their outstanding contributions to the organization. Click here for more.

Alena Sharp, Peter Broome, Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino named as 2026 inductees into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame announced on Tuesday that accomplished professional golfer Alena Sharp, global industry executive Peter Broome and former professional golfers Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino have been selected for 2026 induction into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Sharp will be inducted into the players category and Broome will be inducted into the Builder category, while Bradley and Trevino will be inducted into the new international category. The group becomes the 90th, 91st, 92nd and 93rd honoured members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. For more information, click here.

Golf Canada’s 2026 Annual Meeting was conducted virtually on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, with volunteers, staff, member clubs, and industry stakeholders participating.

Long-time Golf Canada contributors receive the organization’s highest volunteer honour

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada is pleased to appoint Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent as Honorary Life Governors for the outstanding contributions to the organization as long-time volunteers.

“On behalf of the Honorary Life Governors Selection Committee, we are proud to welcome two individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on both the game of golf and on Golf Canada,” said Roland Deveau, Chair, Honorary Life Governors Selection Panel. “Rob and Michel are truly deserving of this prestigious honour, and we thank them for their long-time commitment to the game and to Golf Canada.”

The appointment of an individual as an Honorary Life Governor is the highest honour which can be bestowed upon Golf Canada volunteers. All Past Presidents of Golf Canada including the former Canadian Ladies Golf Association are Honorary Life Governors.

In 2020, a change to Golf Canada’s by-laws permitted individuals who are not past presidents to be named as Honorary Life Governors. Since then, Golf Canada has welcomed Barb Allen and Jim Clark (2022), Mike Richards and Pat Thompson (2023), Doug Roxburgh (2024), and Diane Barabé, Robert Laing and Teri Yamada (2025) as Honorary Life Governors.

Honorary Life Governors have an individual vote at Golf Canada’s Annual and Special General Meetings. The selection panel will consider the overall service record of those nominated including local, regional, national, and international service with prime consideration for service to Golf Canada. In addition, length and level of service are also taken into consideration.

Rob MacDonald – Winnipeg, Man.

Rob MacDonald has been an active volunteer with Golf Canada since 2011 but his service to the game in Canada spans more than three decades at the club, provincial and national levels.

Following his appointment to the Governors’ Council in 2011, MacDonald joined Golf Canada and served on the Council until 2013, including Provincial Council which he Chaired in 2014 and 2015. MacDonald served on Golf Canada’s Board of Directors from 2014 to 2020 and played a key role in strengthening Golf Canada’s governance and financial oversight during his tenure. In addition, he served on the Audit & Risk Committee from 2013 to 2020 which included Chairing the Committee for five consecutive years (2016-2020). MacDonald also functioned as Chair of the Investment Committee in 2014 and 2015 and currently serves on the Nominating Committee, since 2023. His leadership has contributed to the long-term stewardship of Golf Canada’s financial assets.

MacDonald has been an active volunteer with Golf Manitoba since 1992. At the provincial level, he has served as President of the Manitoba Golf Association (2000-2001) and as President of Golf Manitoba (2011-2013). MacDonald is a long-time member of Elmhurst Golf & Country Club in Winnipeg, Man. where he has served as Club President, member of the Board of Directors as well as various committees with the Club.

Michel St-Laurent – Longueuil, Que.

For over 20 years, Michel St-Laurent held important governance roles for the former Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) on its Board of Governors and Executive Committee along with Golf Canada’s Governors Council and Board of Directors.

St-Laurent has also functioned as Chair of the Amateur Status Committee (2006-2009), Treasurer (2008), and represented Canada on The R&A’s Amateur Status Committee (2008-2009), a committee which governs and sets the Rules of Amateur Status for the golf world. In addition to his extensive executive work, St-Laurent holds Canada’s highest referee certification and has officiated tournaments across provincial, national, and international levels for 35 years.

He has served as a volunteer at all levels of tournaments and as Chair of both national and international championships. He was Chair of both the Canadian Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships when they celebrated their respective 100^th anniversary, both won by 15-year-olds – the 2004 Men’s Amateur at Beaconsfield Golf Club won by Darren Wallace and the 2013 Women’s Amateur at Club de golf Beloeil won by Brooke Henderson. St-Laurent also served as a Tournament Chair for both the 2011 CPKC Women’s Open at Hillsdale Golf Club and the 2014 RBC Canadian Open at Royal Montreal Golf Club.

St-Laurent has also served on Golf Quebec’s Board of Directors, including a term as President in 2001 and currently serves on the Selection Committee for the Quebec Golf Hall of Fame. St-Laurent served two terms as President at Beloeil Golf Club in Beloeil, Que. (1985-86 and 2004-05) and as Club Captain (2013-14). He currently volunteers at Club de Golf La Vallée du Richelieu in Sainte-Julie, Que. as men’s captain and continues to serve on the tournament duty roster for Golf Canada competitions.