Pero makes history at the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
Golf Ontario
June 29, 2023
Belleville, ON– History was made today at the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship at Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort. Following in the footsteps of his father Mike Pero, who won the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship in 1989, is his son Cameron Pero (Picton Golf & Country Club). This is the first time in Golf Ontario history a father and son have both won the same championship.
Tied for second, both shooting a two-under-par today is 2018 champion Garrett Rank (Westmount Golf & Country Club) and Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club). Rank finished the round with a strong back nine whereas McCulloch saw his advantage come in the front nine today.
Cameron Pero (Picton Golf & Country Club) navigated the immaculate course, exchanging shot for shot with Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club) in a breathtaking showdown coming down the stretch. Graciously acknowledging the collective efforts that contributed to the seamless execution of the tournament, Pero expressed his gratitude to the greens crew for their hard work, Golf Ontario for orchestrating this event, and Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort for hosting.
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, officials and volunteers for their support of the 2023 Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship. Also, Golf Ontario would like to thank Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort board of directors, members and staff for hosting and supporting the players and championship.
Lastly, a huge thank you to golf Ontario partners; Adidas, TaylorMade, Golf Talk Canada, Play Golf Myrtle Beach, Humber College, HUB International, BioSteel, Golf Genius, Modern Golf, Dormie, Durham Artificial Grass, Foresight Sports Canada, Baka, Nikon, Solo Golf, and Sport Travel. We are grateful for your continued support.
About the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship was first played in 1923 at Lakeview Golf and Country Club. Featuring the best amateur golfers in the province, it is arguably the most prestigious event in the country. Many players have kick-started their journey to professional golf through the event.
Since the inaugural event, the Ontario Amateur has enjoyed an illustrious history of great champions including highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee Garrett Rank (2018), 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir (1990 & 1992), Gerry Kesselring (1949, 1951, 1952, 1953), professional players Jon Mills (2001), Corey Conners (2010), Albin Choi (2012), Chris Hemmerich (2014) and Gary Cowan. Cowan holds the record for the most Ontario Amateur Championships with nine (1964, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1984).
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.
Uxbridge – Golf Ontario is excited to launch today an exciting and critical fundraising campaign. The “Golf Ontario Legacy Fund”, A campaign aimed at supporting the growth of Golf For All and leaving a meaningful legacy for the future of the game we all love.
Golf Ontario will aim to raise $750,000 over 4 years to help break all barriers to entry to the sport, investing in education for our future champions and developing critical programs that have the power to make a positive impact on the lives of youth and the community.
“OUR VISION IS GOLF FOR ALL. WE RECOGNIZE THAT THERE ARE BARRIERS TO ENTRY TO GOLF AND OPPORTUNITIES TO FUEL OUR JUNIOR PERFORMERS TO SUCCESS. IT IS OUR CHANCE AND OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO LEAD THE CHARGE IN INVESTING IN PROGRAMS THAT WILL SEE GOLF THRIVE INTO THE FUTURE.” – Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing and Development Officer, Golf Ontario
The ‘Golf Ontario Legacy Fund’ will enable Golf Ontario to continue advancing Golf For All in this province by investing in the following key areas:
Participation in Girl’s and Women’s Golf
Supporting Indigenous Golf
Advancing Adaptive Golf
Junior Performance Pathways
Scholarships
By supporting these priorities, you are Positively Shaping Lives Through Golf.
Please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor by clicking “DONATE NOW” and visiting our donation page at www.gao.ca/donate. All donations over $20 to Golf Ontario are eligible for a tax receipt from Golf Canada Foundation.
Please reach out to Raphael Root, Manager, Fund Development at fundraising@gao.ca to learn more about how you can make an impact today.
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 :Raphael Root, Manager, Fund Development at rroot@gao.ca
Local Talent and Team Ontario Alumni Shine in Round Three
Golf Ontario
June 28, 2023
Belleville, ON– Perfect conditions provided an opportunity for low scores during round three of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship at Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort. Prince Edward County’s own Cameron Pero (Picton Golf & Country Club) catapulted himself up the leaderboard firing a tournament-best score (65), to take over the top position at 11 under par. Eight Team Ontario players and alumni are now sitting in the top 12, including Kingston’s own Ashton McCulloch who maintained his strong play to stay within striking distance.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of his father Mike Pero, who won the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship in 1989, is his son Cameron Pero (Picton Golf & Country Club). Pero said his putter got hot today and he looks to continue hitting the ball solid.
The day began with play resuming to complete round 2 as players fought to get inside the cut line for the final 36 holes of play. By mid-morning the third round kicked off with sixty-one players remaining to etch their name on the Gary Cowan trophy.
Alongside in a tie for second with McCulloch, was the biggest mover of the day. 2018 champion Garrett Rank (Westmount Golf & Country Club) improved by ten strokes from his previous round shooting a six-under-par (66).
The shot of the day came late in the afternoon on the 183-yard, par 3, 15th hole by Dylan Rouse (Golf Canada Public Player). Rouse stepped up to the tee and played a perfect iron shot to the green for a hole-in-one.
The fourth and final round of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship will begin at 7:30 a.m. Thursday morning. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
About the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship was first played in 1923 at Lakeview Golf and Country Club. Featuring the best amateur golfers in the province, it is arguably the most prestigious event in the country. Many players have kick-started their journey to professional golf through the event.
Since the inaugural event, the Ontario Amateur has enjoyed an illustrious history of great champions including highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee Garrett Rank (2018), 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir (1990 & 1992), Gerry Kesselring (1949, 1951, 1952, 1953), professional players Jon Mills (2001), Corey Conners (2010), Albin Choi (2012), Chris Hemmerich (2014) and Gary Cowan. Cowan holds the record for the most Ontario Amateur Championships with nine (1964, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1984).
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.
Round two of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship made for a long day at Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort. With thunder and lighting causing an early suspension yesterday, the second round went well into the evening where play was ultimately suspended as the sun went down at 8:30 p.m.
Currently sitting atop the leaderboard tied for first place with a score of two-under-par (70) is Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club) who made four birdies and Owen Kim (Golf Canada Championships Club), with five birdies and one bogey. Aidan Gavey (MontHill Golf & Country Club) is in third place shooting a score of (70) with five birdies and three bogeys.
The continuation of the second round of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship will resume at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. Following the completion of round two, the field will be cut to the low 60 scores plus ties to continue to play into the third and final round. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
About the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship was first played in 1923 at Lakeview Golf and Country Club. Featuring the best amateur golfers in the province, it is arguably the most prestigious event in the country. Many players have kick-started their journey to professional golf through the event.
Since the inaugural event, the Ontario Amateur has enjoyed an illustrious history of great champions including highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee Garrett Rank (2018), 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir (1990 & 1992), Gerry Kesselring (1949, 1951, 1952, 1953), professional players Jon Mills (2001), Corey Conners (2010), Albin Choi (2012), Chris Hemmerich (2014) and Gary Cowan. Cowan holds the record for the most Ontario Amateur Championships with nine (1964, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1984).
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.
Mixed conditions for the players competing in round one of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship made for an unusual day at the beautiful Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort. While there were blue skies overhead in the morning, the afternoon wave of competitors was hit with suspended play due to thunder and lightning.
Sitting atop the leaderboard currently with a score of one-under-par (71) is Aiden Deng (Golf Canada Member) who made three birdies and two bogeys to finish with the low score of the day. Tied in second place shooting par (72) with three birdies and three bogeys is Jeffrey Fang (Golf Ontario Member) and Riley Conners (Listowel Golf Club) shooting four birdies and four bogeys.
After round two, the field will be cut to the low 60 scores plus ties to continue to play into the third and final round. The continuation of the first round of the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship will resume at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
About the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship was first played in 1923 at Lakeview Golf and Country Club. Featuring the best amateur golfers in the province, it is arguably the most prestigious event in the country. Many players have kick-started their journey to professional golf through the event.
Since the inaugural event, the Ontario Amateur has enjoyed an illustrious history of great champions including highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee Garrett Rank (2018), 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir (1990 & 1992), Gerry Kesselring (1949, 1951, 1952, 1953), professional players Jon Mills (2001), Corey Conners (2010), Albin Choi (2012), Chris Hemmerich (2014) and Gary Cowan. Cowan holds the record for the most Ontario Amateur Championships with nine (1964, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1984).
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.
Stasiuk who is a four time champion of the Ontario Adaptive Championship, is a student at Humber College and has achieved an incredible level of success through golf in her young career.
With scores over the four day tournament of 91, 90, 88 and 92, Stasiuk narrowly missed out on winning the Silver Medal for second place by only two strokes.
For information on the 5th Annual Ontario Adaptive Championship, taking place at Weston Golf & Country Club on July 17th & 18th, visit the tournament website here.
To support the growth of adaptive golf opportunities in Ontario, consider a donation to the Golf Ontario Legacy fund here.
Golf Ontario Continues Learning Journey Through Identified EDI Priorities
Golf Ontario
Uxbridge – With the 5th Annual Ontario Adaptive Championship less than one month away, the staff at Golf Ontario welcomed Chris Garner a competitor in the event, to join us and lead our staff through a professional development session around adaptive golf, while also sharing his lived experience as a member of the adaptive golf community from across Ontario and around the world.
Ranked #211 in the WR4GD World Ranking for Golfers with Disability Net rankings and #436 in Gross rankings, Chris is perhaps best known as the 2022 ALD World Long Drive Champion, a remarkable achievement given he only took up the game of golf a few short years ago.
Chris shared his difficult personal journey navigating the medical system, that ultimately saw him choose to have his left leg amputated below the knee five years ago, and his subsequent enthusiasm for picking up sports for the first time, including golf, as a new passion in life.
He went on to share some insights into the ecosystem of adaptive golf in Canada as he knows it, and emphasized that we can all play a role in breaking down barriers for people of all abilities to try, learn and play golf. Stressing how important it is to ensure that the right opportunity is made available at the right time for participants as they are introduced to golf, learn to play and enjoy recreational golf, or aspire to compete to their full potential in tournament play.
While Chris was preparing to put on a demonstration for staff at the driving range, a very special guest dropped by to join the group. Minister Raymond Cho, the Government of Ontario Minister for Seniors and Accessibility arrived on-site as he was travelling between meetings in the area, and took the opportunity to speak to Chris, hit a few shots at the range and take a photo with the team.
Minister Cho shared with select members of the group that while he has played golf for a number of years, the game played an important role in his own recovery from health issues in recent years. Though he may not hit the ball as far as he used to, it gives him great pleasure to swing the clubs and compete to the best of his current ability. A powerful message around golf as a sport for life.
Various staff members had an opportunity to strap on an able bodied adaptive device that Chris had brought with him, to try and swing the clubs in a very different way than they are accustomed to. This was a very eye opening experience for everyone, and helped cap a wonderful day of learning for all.
For information on the 5th Annual Ontario Adaptive Championship, taking place at Weston Golf & Country Club on July 17th & 18th, visit the tournament website here.
To support the growth of adaptive golf opportunities in Ontario, consider a donation to the Golf Ontario Legacy fund here.
Countdown to the 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
Golf Ontario
June 23, 2023
Corbyville, ON– The anticipation is building as the prestigious 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship, one of the most significant events on the Golf Ontario calendar, is just around the corner. Set to take place at the esteemed Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort, a field of 156 competitors are ready to play to their strengths to determine who’ll take home the prestigious Ontario Men’s Amateur Crown.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship has a rich history, dating back over a century now, and has served as a launchpad for many aspiring golfers who eventually made their mark in the professional ranks. This championship has become synonymous with exceptional talent and a breeding ground for future champions.
The picturesqueBlack Bear Ridge Golf Resort provides the perfect setting for this high-stakes tournament, having hosted the Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship in 2019. Its meticulously designed fairways, challenging bunkers, and undulating greens offer a true test of golfing prowess. With its reputation for being a challenging course, Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.
President of Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort, Cale Fair had this to say regarding the upcoming event; “We here at Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort are excited to be hosting the 101st Men’s Amateur Championship. Our team has been hard at work preparing the course for this prestigious event and we are eager to showcase what we have to offer. We are grateful to have been selected for this year’s tournament and look forward to our continued relationship with Golf Ontario”
Notable Contenders
As 2022 Champion Peyton Callens has since turned professional, we will have a new champion lifting the trophy after four rounds.. A notable contender to keep an eye out for is Justin Matthews of Bigwin Island Golf & Country Club, who looks to maintain his momentum fresh off winning the 2023 Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship. The field also features three Team Canada members; Ashton McCulloch, Ben Maclean (Men) and Owen Kim (Next Gen). Among their ranks is Isaiah Ibit who won the 2023 (U19) Junior Boys Spring Classic and the 2023 NextGen Ontario Championship, he looks to add to his impressive 2023 season with another victory. This year’s competition will also feature Dave Bunker who is well-known in the amateur golf world for his impressive career that includes victories stretching many decades. Bunker is an individual who has the skills to win any competition and is surely a contender worth noting. Having won multiple Mid-Amateur and Men’s Amateur tournaments, to name a few, he is always in contention. Another returning champion is Garrett Rank, the highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee, who won this competition in 2018 will look to add to his trophy cabinet with this year’s tournament around the corner.
The Thrills Await
The 101st Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship promises to be a riveting affair, featuring gripping battles, clutch putts, and displays of extraordinary talent. The top amateurs in the province are ready to showcase their skills and compete for the prestigious Gary Cowan Trophy. Rounds 1 & 2 will see the morning wave of tee times beginning at 8:00 am followed by the afternoon groups at 1 pm. This year’s tournament is sure to be exhilarating. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness the drama unfold as these amazing golfers battle it out for glory at Black Bear Ridge Golf Resort.
About the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship
The Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship was first played in 1923 at Lakeview Golf and Country Club. Featuring the best amateur golfers in the province, it is arguably the most prestigious event in the country. Many players have kick-started their journey to professional golf through the event.
Since the inaugural event, the Ontario Amateur has enjoyed an illustrious history of great champions including highly decorated amateur golfer and NHL referee Garrett Rank (2018), 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir (1990 & 1992), Gerry Kesselring (1949, 1951, 1952, 1953), professional players Jon Mills (2001), Corey Conners (2010), Albin Choi (2012), Chris Hemmerich (2014) and Gary Cowan. Cowan holds the record for the most Ontario Amateur Championships with nine (1964, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1984).
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.
McInnis Captures the 31st Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship
Golf Ontario
June 22, 2023
Burlington, ON – Calm winds and sunny conditions greeted players for the final round of the 31st Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, at the gorgeous Burlington Golf & Country Club. Players took advantage of the improving conditions as they battled to the finish line.
Walking away with his first provincial title was Simon McInnis (Golf Ontario Member) after posting a solid repeat of yesterday’s (68), shooting five birdies and 3 bogeys. Tied for second place is Ben Thompson (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) and Phil Arci (The Pulpit Club). Ben Thompson (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) shot a four-over (74) with three birdies and three bogies knocking him off his two-round lead. After shooting a three-over (73) today Phil Arci (The Pulpit Club) had only one birdie today, four shy of his birdie count in rounds 1 and 2.
Simon McInnis (Golf Ontario Member), expressed he “feels great about the win”, stating “the golf course was phenomenal” and felt he had a good plan and stuck to it. McInnis said it was tough coming in but noted he was not the only competitor to have struggles throughout the day. With a tough battle to the end McInnis responded with a sure “No” when asked whether he had the feeling at any point that the Championship was going to be his to take home today.
McInnis thanked club staff members and fellow competitors and remarked “it was an honour to compete”.
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, officials and volunteers for their support of the 2023 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. Also, Golf Ontario would like to thank Burlington Golf & Country Club board of directors, members and staff for hosting and supporting the players and championship.
Lastly, a huge thank you to golf Ontario partners; Adidas, TaylorMade, Golf Talk Canada, Play Golf Myrtle Beach, Humber College, HUB International, BioSteel, Golf Genius, Modern Golf, Dormie, Durham Artificial Grass, Foresight Sports Canada, Baka, Nikon, Solo Golf, and Sport Travel. We are grateful for your continued support.
For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here to view the official tournament page.
Since 1993, the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur championship has proven to be one of Ontario’s most sought-after and important Championship titles. The 54-hole competition caters to Ontario’s best golfers age 25 and older that have gained entry into the event through qualifying tournaments or an exemption. Despite its young history, the championship has developed a notable list of past champions including Garrett Rank (2015, 2018) and Golf Hall of Fame members Stu Hamilton (1993, 1998), Kelly Roberts (1997), and Dave Bunker (2007, 2011, 2014, 2021).
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.
Thompson Continues to Lead After Round 2 of the 31st Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship
Golf Ontario
June 21, 2023
Burlington, ON – Warm temperatures and sunny skies greeted players today at the second round of the 31st Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at Burlington Golf & Country Club. The course continued to hold its ground as players jockeyed for a position today.
Holding on to the leader position after thirty-six holes with a score of 70 was Ben Thompson (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) who continued his strong play with three birdies on the round. Remaining in second place is Phil Arci (The Pulpit Club) who despite having five birdies on the day shot an even par round of (70). Rounding out the top three is Russell Bowie (Brampton Golf Club Ltd) also remains in third place shooting back-to-back rounds of (69). The low round of the day goes to Simon McInnis (Golf Ontario Member) with two under par (68). Five shots back of the leader and lurking in the shadows is two-time Canadian Men’s-Amateur champion Cam Burke (Golf Ontario Member).
Get ready for an exhilarating showdown as an army of 70 competitors battled their way into the final round. The third and final round ignites at dawn from the 1st tee at 7:20 a.m. Be part of the action and stay in the know by visiting the official tournament website.
Since 1993, the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur championship has proven to be one of Ontario’s most sought-after and important Championship titles. The 54-hole competition caters to Ontario’s best golfers age 25 and older that have gained entry into the event through qualifying tournaments or an exemption. Despite its young history, the championship has developed a notable list of past champions including Garrett Rank (2015, 2018) and Golf Hall of Fame members Stu Hamilton (1993, 1998), Kelly Roberts (1997), and Dave Bunker (2007, 2011, 2014, 2021).
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.
