“Intense competition and strategic battles shape the gripping climax”
June 9, 2023
The highly anticipated Ontario Men’s & Senior Men’s Match Play Tournament came to a captivating conclusion Friday morning, leaving spectators in awe of the exceptional skill and nerve displayed by some of the province’s top male amateur golfers. The tournament, held at the prestigious Tangle Creek Golf & Country Club, provided an exciting showcase of head-to-head battles, ultimately crowning a deserving champion.
As the tournament progressed, several marquee players showcased their prowess on the course, pitting their skills against each other in strategic duels. Defending champion, David Greenaway fought valiantly but was eliminated in the quarterfinals, by Rob Gibson of Cedar Brae Golf & Country Club. The early exit of the reigning champion added an extra layer of unpredictability to the tournament. Gibson, who is the 2023 Ontario Champion of Champions Senior division winner, took on Kawartha Golf & Country Club’s Steve Fredericks in the finals. In a back-and-forth battle that came down to the 18th hole, it was Steve Fredericks who was able to save Par and capture his first provincial championship.
The Men’s finals witnessed a captivating clash between Team Ontario member Zach Smith of Brampton Golf Club and former team member Justin Matthews of Bigwin Island Golf Club. Both golfers came into the final carrying the momentum they gained from their semi-final victories. It was an intense battle through the front 9 which saw the players go neck and neck. However, it was Matthews who was able to spark a string of excellent play which resulted in him going 3 up as the match went into the 15th hole. It was at the 15th hole where Matthews was able to capture the title as he made par and ended up going 4 up with 3 to play to close things out.
Tournament director Rob Watson shared his thoughts after the event; “I would like to start off by thanking Tangle Creek Golf & Country Club for their hospitality and support, the course was in excellent shape throughout the tournament. Golf Ontario looks forward to its continued relationship with Tangle Creek Golf & Country Club for many years to come. Congratulations to the winners and all of the competitors who participated in the Mens & Senior Men’s Match Play Tournament. A special thank you to all of the volunteers who helped make this tournament run smoothly”.
Beyond the individual performances, the Ontario Mens & Senior Mens Match Play Tournament showcased camaraderie and respect among the golfing community. Players demonstrated unwavering sportsmanship, applauding exceptional shots and offering words of encouragement to their opponents. The tournament was a testament to the spirit of fair play and the enduring appeal of this elegant and challenging sport.
Looking ahead, the Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship is set to kick off from June 17-19 at Cataraqui Golf & Country Club which promises to be an exciting event.
About Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial Sport Organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant golf associations in the world. From rating courses and keeping the integral rules of the game intact to growing the game at the grassroots level and hosting the best amateur tournaments in Canada, Golf Ontario is a passionate group dedicated to Shaping Lives Through Golf.
For more information, please contact:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario,
Rob Watson, Tournament Director
For tournament results, click here
