As the temperature drops and the gorgeous autumn leaves continue to fall, Golf Ontario would like to take some time to reflect on the challenging yet amazing 2021 Championship season. Early season uncertainty and multiple changes to the schedule to accommodate the global pandemic made for a unique year that still managed to produce successful competitions. With the help of our amazing staff, players, and volunteers, we were able to make an incredible season possible.
In the end, the condensed season saw almost a complete championship line-up that was pushed further back into summer and fall. Please join us to reflect on some amazing shots, successful championships, and the crowned champions of this past season. This week, we are teeing off with the June 2021 season recap.
Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championships, Taboo Muskoka
Men (June 22-25) / Women (June 24-25)
The final day of the Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championship was a soggy one, with the rain beginning just before the semi-finals teed off and getting increasingly heavier throughout the final round. With the rain cooling down the competition, we watched fierce players battle for a spot in the final championship round.
Taking home hardware at the 2021 Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championship were your victors, Charles Fitzsimmons (St. Thomas G&CC) and Hailey Katona (Tilbury GC). The two winning competitors took down legendary Golf Ontario champions, collegiate athletes, and Team Ontario athletes to claim their titles.
To view the leaderboards from the 2021 Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championships, visit our Golf Genius page.
For media coverage, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebookpage to view our photo albums.
About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship
Established in 1986, the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event. Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne, and Dave Bunker.
About the Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship
The Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship was first played in 1975 and has several notable past champions including: World, Canadian, and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Marlene Stewart Streit, six-time champion Mary Ann Hayward, Terrill Samuel, and Heather Kuzmich.
While the rain held off for the final round, players endured 18-holes of humidity and excessive heat in the battle for their name on the W.D. Randolph Millage Trophy. In the early 90s, Randy Millage started the Junior Spring Classic events to showcase the best players in Ontario. Initially, an invitation-only event taking the top 40 boys and top 20 girls in the previous year’s Order of Merit, the Spring Classic allowed them to get a jump on the competition south of the border.
Maintaining the lead through afternoon temperatures near 31 degrees and a humidex of 40, the low round score of the day and champion of the 2021 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Spring Classic was Lauren Zaretsky (Ladies’ GC of Toronto/ Maple Downs G&CC). With a final score of 7-under (209), Zaretsky played skillfully to put her 10-strokes ahead of silver finalist, Alessandra Nagayo (Public Player). Climbing twelve positions in round two, Nagayo had another good showing of 72 to push her ahead of Ashley Lafontaine (Royal Ottawa GC).
To view the leaderboards from the 2021 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Spring Classic Championship, visit our Golf Genius page.
For media coverage, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums.
Over the three-day tournament, Golf Ontario and competitors were lucky to avoid forecasted rain at Shelburne Golf and Country Club. Going down to the wire with a playoff, the champion of the 25th Annual Junior Boys’ Spring Classic was Owen Kim (Blue Springs GC).
The Team Ontario athlete drained a 20+ foot birdie on the first playoff hole to defeat fellow Team Ontario teammate, Ryan Somerville (Summit Golf and Country Club), and Andre Zhu (National Pines Golf Club). The trio finished the tournament all eight-under (205) after three days. Following close behind at six-under was Austin Matthews (Bigwin Island Golf Club). Another trio of competitors finished at -5 (208), including Andreas Diogenous (Whistle Bear Golf Club), also of Team Ontario, Liam Mosher (Hamilton Golf & Country Club), and Tyler Hurtubise (Pointe West Golf Club).
To view the leaderboards from the 2021 Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Spring Classic Championship, visit our Golf Genius page.
For media coverage, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums.
About the Junior Spring Classic (U19) Championships
The Junior Spring Classic (U19) Championship is contested annually over the Victoria Day long weekend and features many of Ontario’s best male and female junior golfers. The field of competitors gained entry to the competition through a qualifying process earlier in the season.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
For more information please contact:
Peter MacKellar,
Manager, Marketing and Communications, Golf Ontario; PMacKellar@gao.ca
$30K Raised in Support of Youth on Course at the 2nd Annual 100 Hole Hike
Peter MacKellar
Uxbridge, ON – From sunrise to sunset on October 5th and 7th, participants took on the formidable challenge of the 100 Hole Hike. The 24 golfers from Golf Ontario, Golf Canada, TaylorMade, adidas, 94.9 The Rock, and Golf Talk Canada walked and played one-hundred holes of golf with the proceeds going to support Youth on Course.
New and returning participants accepted the challenge of completing one-hundred holes of golf in one day to raise money and awareness for the amazing initiative that provides access to affordable golf for young boys and girls at over 1,400 facilities in North America. In its third year of operation in Canada, Youth on Course has seen more than 7,000 subsidized rounds played to date, and membership has increased by 9% from an already successful 2020 season. While these results are great for the growth of the game, it is imperative that we continue to raise awareness and funds to support this program, to reach our goal of expanding across the country by 2024.
Fun Facts from the 100 Hole Hike
24 Golfers participated in total
Approximately $30,000 raised thus far for Youth on Course
2,300 holes played
Over 7,500 shots taken
Combined total of over 698km walked
Hole-in-one by Connor Doria of TaylorMade on his 90th hole
Of all the associations participating in the 100 Hole Hike across North America, our YOC Ontario Hike currently sits in 8th place out of 17 teams. Pledges will be open online until the end of November if you’d like to support the participants who completed the 100 Hole Hike. To support Youth on Course, you can pledge any amount towards any golfer by visiting the fundraising page here.
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for their support of the 2nd Annual 100 Hole Hike. To our wonderful host courses, Brooklea Golf and Country Club and Eldorado Golf Club, thank you for your amazing hospitality. To Ted Reader’s BBQ, Pulse Nutrition, Michael Kelly’s Homemade Cooking & Eatery, MadeGood, Pita Pit, Boston Pizza Midland, Georgian Bay, Labatt Breweries of Canada, and Falcon Brewing Co., thanks for keeping our participants happy, hydrated, and fueled throughout the grueling day. A big shoutout to 94.9 The Rock, Doug Elliot, and Mike Luck for your continued support and amazing exposure to generate awareness of the event and Youth on Course.
Last but not least, a huge thank you to all our sponsors and partners of this great event; Bruce’s Golf, 94.9 The Rock, TaylorMade, adidas, Gus Brown Hyundai, Durham Artificial Grass, Golf Historical Society of Canada, Bollocks Pub & Kitchen, Nikon Canada, Golf Talk Canada, Cadence Music Group, Geared to Golf, Full Line Electronics, Harbourfront Wealth Management, Team Jordan – Lorraine Jordan, Huronia Physiotherapy & Chiropractic, Colin Steingard Photo & Video, Platinum Lighting & Electrical, Home Hardware Pro Contact Services, Chin & Orr Lawyers, Central Taxi Midland, Foresaleon Georgian Bay.ca, Morden Sand & Gravel, The Centre for Psychology & Emotion Regulation, Lefaive Electric Inc, The Mortgage Centre, and Bourgeois Auto Group. We are grateful for your support!
The core purpose of Youth on Course is to provide youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Members play thousands of courses for $5 or less, benefit from employment through the caddie and internship program, and receive college scholarships. Headquartered in Pebble Beach, Youth on Course is a 501(c)3 organization that began as the charitable arm of the Northern California Golf Association. Since 2006, close to one million rounds have been played by Youth on Course members and nearly $2 million has been raised for college scholarships. In the United States, Youth on Course serves Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin, with the goal of delivering affordable golf in all 50 states by 2021. To learn more about YOC, please visit www.youthoncourse.ca.
About Golf Canada
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada, representing 271,000 golfers and 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to increase Canadian participation and excellence in golf. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.
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 450 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the largest golf associations in the world. From rating courses and keeping the integral rules of the game intact, growing the game at the grassroots level and getting the game of golf into our school systems, keeping the Ontario golf community aware of all relevant issues, and hosting the best amateur tournaments in Canada, Golf Ontario is a passionate group dedicated to making golf better for everyone in Ontario. We share a love and passion for golf, while preserving its past, fostering its future, and championing golf’s best interests for everyone who enjoys the sport. To learn more, visit www.gao.ca.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
For more information please contact:
Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications, Golf Ontario; PMacKellar@gao.ca
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship returned to Oakdale Golf and Country Club to conclude Golf Ontario’s 2021 season in fine fashion. The 62nd running of the event was composed of 58 teams looking to emerge victorious.
At the end of a frigid but beautiful 18 holes, it was Jonn Drewery (Westmount G&CC) and Derek McGrath (Galt CC) carding an amazing nine-under (63) on the strength of 9 birdies and 1 eagle to lead the pace and secure the championship. The tournament proved to be competitive, with only a four shot difference separating the first place duo, and a three way tie for third.
Drewery, coming off a recent second place finish at the Men’s Mid-Am Championship, was very complimentary of his playing partner and long-time friend McGrath. “He’s the chipper and putter so I just follow him,” joked Drewery. McGrath remarked “we have a good time playing together, which makes a big difference. We’re good buddies from back in our hometown and we’ve been grinding this out with each other for a while.” Drewery added that on the drive up they agreed to just win it, commenting “we’ve both been playing well lately, let’s make it our year.”
Following closely was Traynor Turkiewicz and Daniel DiFrancesco, both of Brantford Golf & Country Club. The duo shot seven-under (65), only two strokes behind Drewery and McGrath. In a three-way tie for third at five-under (67) were Scott Nelson and Andrew Ross of Beverly Golf & Country Club, Mike Dinner and Mike Ward of Glencairn Golf Club and Brantford Golf & Country Club respectively, and Jamaal Moussaoui and Ben Doornekamp of Cataraqui Golf & Country Club. 16 other duos were also under-par, showcasing an extremely talented field and proving what a competitive tournament this always is.
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, starters, referees, scorers, and volunteers for their support of the 2021 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship, and the entire 2021 championship season as well. Thank you especially to Oakdale Golf and Country Club and your staff, volunteers, and members for being fantastic hosts and your continued support of this event.
Lastly, a massive thank you to our sponsors and 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.
The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship has been played since 1959. All but two of the championships have taken place at Oakdale G&CC. The tournament is open to teams whose members both have up-to-date Golf Canada Handicap Factor of 8.4 or less at the time of online registration through the completion of the championship and each team’s combined Handicap Factor must not exceed 12.8 at the time of online registration through the completion of the championship. Previous winners of the event include: Gary Cowan, Bill Morland, Mike Weir, Nick Weslock, Kelly Roberts, Warren Sye, Matthew Ion Young and Simon McInnis.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship Will Wrap Up the 2021 Championship Season at Oakdale G&CC
Peter MacKellar
Uxbridge, ON – In contestant for the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship, Golf Ontario’s final championship of the 2021 season will take to the tee at Oakdale Golf and Country Club on Monday, October 18th.
“It has been an honour for Oakdale Golf and Country Club to have been the host of the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship since 1959,” expressed Roan Vollmer, Director of Golf. “Tradition and history are found throughout Oakdale G&CC and the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship is very much a part of that revered history.” A 1926 Stanley Thompson design, the course “will offer the participants target golf from the tee with small greens to hit approach shots to. With unseasonable warm temperatures and high rain fall over the past month, the growing conditions have been optimal in creating dense rough that may make a significant impact on the challenging Thompson and Homenuik course. Participants will find seasonally soft fairways that will cause the course to play longer than the stated 6700 yardage. It will be exciting to see the very best players team up to compete for the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship.”
With the return of the championship to Oakdale G&CC after no tournament was held in 2020, the field of competitors will see two-time defending champions Simon Reyers (Cataraqui G&CC) and Peter Sauerbrei (Cataraqui G&CC) in attendance for another shot at the title. Additional teams to keep an eye on include past champions Matthew Ion Young (Hamilton G&CC) and Simon McInnis (Public Player), and the young duo of Ben MacLean (Cherry Hill Club) and Justin Matthews (Bigwin Island GC). The winning team will need consistent play and strong teamwork to walk away with the coveted hardware.
Teams will take to the course for a shotgun start at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 18th. A full list of previous champions of the event can be found on our website here. More information on the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship can be found on our Golf Genius page here.
About The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball
The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship has been played since 1959. All but two of the championships have taken place at Oakdale G&CC. The tournament is open to teams whose members both have an up-to-date Golf Canada Handicap Factor of 8.4 or less, at the time of online registration, through the completion of the championship. Each team’s combined Handicap Factor must not exceed 12.8 at the time of online registration, through the completion of the championship. Previous winners of the event include Gary Cowan, Bill Morland, Nick Weslock, Kelly Roberts, Warren Sye, Matthew Ion Young, and Simon McInnis.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
Golf Ontario 2021 Scholarship Recipients Announced
Peter MacKellar
Uxbridge, ON – Providing financial assistance to deserving student golfers since 1994, the Golf Ontario Scholarship program exists with the support of our corporate partners and sponsors. This support allows Golf Ontario to award multiple scholarships each year to support student golfers as they pursue post-secondary education. Golf Ontario is excited and proud to announce the Scholarship Recipients for 2021.
Back in 2016, Golf Ontario celebrated a milestone as the association surpassed $500,000 in scholarship funds awarded since the program’s establishment. Five years later in 2021, $645,900 in total has now been awarded to hundreds of recipients.
Golf Ontario has developed special scholarship awards to honour the memory of Ken McKenzie, Christine Fisher, Craig Revell, and Helena Harbridge – amazing people who all have contributed a great deal to the game of golf in the province. In conjunction with the McKenzie, Fisher, Revell, and Harbridge families, Golf Ontario will present these special awards to a deserving recipient, who demonstrates the passion and dedication to the game that was ever so present in Ken, Christine, Craig, and Helena.
Here is the full list of all of the deserving award recipients:
Recipient Name
Award
Recipient Institution
Hana Yoshida
Christine Fisher Award
University of Waterloo
Jarrod Smith
Craig Revell Award
University of Windsor
Jaqueline Giles
Ken McKenzie Award
University of Guelph
Ryan Kaichis
Helena Harbridge Award
Western University
Conor Gaudet
Golf Ontario Scholarship
Wilfrid Laurier University
Joseph Colasimone
Golf Ontario Scholarship
Laurentian University
Michael Barnett
Golf Ontario Scholarship
University of Waterloo
Tyler Schaap
Golf Ontario Scholarship
Belmont Abbey College
Golf Ontario would like to congratulate the 2021 recipients and wish them luck in their post-secondary studies.
To be eligible for one of the Golf Ontario awards or scholarships, recipients must have maintained at least a 75% academic average, are enrolled in a post-secondary institution, are members of Golf Ontario, and are actively involved in the game of golf. If you are interested in applying for next year’s batch of scholarships, please visit here to learn more about the process and benefits of Golf Ontario Scholarships.
About Golf Ontario
The Golf Ontario (formerly the Golf Association of Ontario) as it is currently structured came into being in November of 2001, following the amalgamation of the Ontario Golf Association and the Ontario Ladies Golf Association. Prior to the amalgamation, the OGA and the OLGA had represented amateur golfers in Ontario for close to 80 years and had done an excellent job of building and promoting the game.
At the time of the amalgamation only Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan had taken the step towards amalgamation. Since that time, all of the Provincial Golf Associations have amalgamated and in 2005 the Royal Canadian Golf Association and the Canadian Ladies Golf Association completed the process.
In the early days of Golf Associations in Ontario, there were small associations, representing Private Clubs in the Toronto area and providing a service that was specific to golf championships. Over our history, the association has grown to the point where today our Club Members include Private Clubs, Semi-Private Clubs and Public Golf Clubs. The majority of our individual members are at the Private and Semi-Private Clubs, but the association also offers opportunities for individuals to join directly as members of a Public Player Program. At the present time, Golf Ontario represents over 450 Member Clubs and over 92,000 individuals making it one of the largest Amateur Golf Associations in the world.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Windsor, ON – An incredible day and week from Ambassador Golf Club for the 2nd annual Ontario Provincial Super Camp, concluded with the crowning of champions and an emotional presentation of our newest trophy. The second annual Tour Championship featured the top 64 junior boys and girls in Ontario, and today they fought a day of tough competitors and varying weather conditions in their quest to come out on top. Team Ontario members on both sides filled up the vast majority of top spots in both the girls and boys divisions.
36-hole leader Ella Weber (Rattlesnake Point GC), a Team Ontario member, once again led the entire day to claim the girls division. She came out victorious after a two-over (73) to finish one-under overall on the championship. Capturing silver is Carlee Meilleur (Loyalist G&CC), the leader after day one, with a strong even-par final round (71). Finishing third at two-over overall is Ashley Lafontaine (Royal Ottawa GC) with a strong two-under (69), the only under-par score of the day for the girls.
Taking home her first Golf Ontario Championship title of the season and leading in the U17 Junior Golf Pathway Standings, Weber said “It feels good. This is very up there in my career. It’s my second win in my last three tournaments.” Over the three days of competition, Weber was pleased with her play, she commented “I was hitting the ball very solid and I was making a lot of putts down the stretch.”
On the boys side, Team Ontario players picked up where they left off yesterday and attacked the course putting up low numbers once again. Second round leader, Team Ontario member Ben MacLean (Cherry Hill Club), followed up his strong seven-under (64) yesterday, with a terrific six-under (65) to be crowned the boys champion at thirteen-under on the championship. On his heels all day with a strong front nine was fellow Team Ontario member Owen Kim (Blue Springs GC), recording a brilliant six-under (65) as well and finishing three strokes back at nine-under. While Kim claimed the silver medal, bronze was tied between two more Team Ontario members, Andreas Diogenous (Whistle Bear GC) and Thomas Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), both shooting a two-under (69) and recording a six-under overall.
Claiming his first Ontario Championship win of the season, MacLean said “it’s a great feeling to finally come out on top.” He also added, “I’ve been close all summer and had some really strong finishes but taking this title means a great deal.” When asked what the strongest part of his game over the competition was, MacLean commented that “I was doing things well, felt comfortable in my game and that helped me relax through the round. A nice eagle chip-in from 27 yards out helped the rest of the day out.”
An emotional ceremony followed afterwards in the presentation for the newly created Dave Mills trophy. The trophy has been named in honour of Mills, a past Golf Ontario Executive Director and huge supporter and advocate for junior golf, who presented the first ever Super Camp trophy in 2020. Members of Dave Mills family were on hand to present the trophy. His son John Mills spoke after, while fighting some tears about the trophy and his father. “This event was very special to him; his life was his family but it was also golf and all of you. It was his passion.” He added his dad “was looking down and smiling”.
The soapstone trophy was carved by Canada’s foremost Ojibway sculptor Kris Nahrgang, who was able to meet with Mills before he passed. He sent this message along to describe his work. “As we all try to gain success in a sport we love, some people ensure that we are recognized for the achievements we attain. Dave Mills was that man. His work in our sport was reliable, and done with a maturity, and class which made one feel important the very moment you met him. In my Indigenous Culture when we obtain recognition, we are presented with an Eagle feather. In this tribute piece, I have created a visual of an Eagle feather being presented by the hand of this great man. The Eagle is a messenger and it flies between the real, and the spiritual realm, and converses with the Creator to ensure we as people, are doing well. This piece is to recognise the man, and the spirit of this honour that you have received this day. His love for this sport, and the goal to offer support for your efforts will never be forgotten, and he will now be here in Spirit to present you with this honour of your achievement. Congratulations today, and into the future!”
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, rules officials, and staff for their support of the 2021 Ontario Super Camp and Tour Championship. To Ambassador Golf Club and your team – Director of Golf: Adam Wagner, Head Professional: Alex Zappio, Super: Steve Hatch, Food & Beverage Manager: Diane Farguar and her team, and Head Chef: Daniela Palanka – Thank you for being such amazing hosts through this week of challenging weather conditions.
Once again, a massive thank you to Taylormade, who gave away eight wedge sets in total (including their new Milled Grind 3 MG3 wedges), and as well as great swag in hats and balls, and hosting the Tuesday Super Camp Southern Cookout. Also, a big thanks to Lululemon Windsor, for their donations and raffle prizes!
Lastly, a huge thank you to all of our sponsors and partners; Adidas, 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 2021 Ontario Provincial Super Camp and Tour Championship, visit our Golf Genius page.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
Windsor, ON – Day two of the second annual Tour Championship from the 2021 Ontario Provincial Super Camp at Ambassador Golf Club, saw players making massive moves up the leaderboard. The camp featuring the top 64 junior boys and girls in the province, battled a cool breezy morning and humid afternoon on the challenging course.
Team Ontario member, Ella Weber (Rattlesnake Point GC), set the pace for the girls on day two with another strong outing. She leads after a solid one-under (70) to sit three-under overall after 36 holes and carries a two-stroke lead into tomorrow’s final round. In second is a three-way tie with one-over totals between Carlee Meilleur (Loyalist G&CC), Joline Truong (Trafalgar G&CC), and Tara O’Connor (Victoria Park East GC). Meilleur was the leader after day one and had a four-over (75) round, while Truong, our 2021 Ontario Juvenile (U17) Champion, fired an even-par round (71), and O’Connor finished with a one-over (72) day. Round of the day belongs to Lindsay McGrath (Rattlesnake Point GC) with a stellar two-under (69), to sit in a tie for fifth with Team Ontario member Alissa C. XU (Station Creek GC) at two-over in total.
The boys decided to crush their day with many red scores filling up the top of the leaderboard, and most of them being Team Ontario players. Taking the lead on the boy’s side after 36 holes was Team Ontario member Ben MacLean (Cherry Hill Club), after a brilliant seven-under (64), a perfect card with seven birdies. That leaves him with a seven-under total after two rounds with a two-stroke lead. Outdoing him on the day unbelievably though, was teammate Ryan Somerville (Summit G&CC) who recorded a dazzling eight-under (63) to climb his way up the leaderboard into second place. Third place sees a trio of Team Ontario members, all at four-under after 36 holes, with Thomas Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), Andreas Diogenous (Whistle Bear GC), and Matthew Martel (Lookout Point CC). Also in the hunt with under-par totals are Justin Matthews (Bigwin Island GC), Team Ontario player Owen Kim (Blue Springs GC), Isaiah Ibit (Greyhawk GC), Michael Weber (Rattlesnake Point GC), and Zachary Smith (Brampton GC). With so many players in the mix, tomorrow’s final round is shaping up to be something special.
Moving forward, competitors of the annual Ontario Provincial Super Camp and Tour Championship will be battling for the Dave Mills trophy. The trophy has been named in honour of Mills, a past Golf Ontario Executive Director and huge supporter and advocate for junior golf, who presented the first ever Super Camp trophy in 2020. Current Executive Director of Golf Ontario, Mike Kelly, and members of Dave Mills family will be on hand to present the trophy tomorrow.
For more information on the 2021 Ontario Provincial Super Camp and Tour Championship, visit our Golf Genius page. Final round action begins at 8:30 am Friday with the boy’s off first.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
An exciting day from Ambassador Golf Club in Windsor, as the second annual Tour Championship from the Ontario Provincial Super Camp got underway. The camp features the top 64 junior boys and girls in the province, and includes two days of testing (Golf Canada’s National Testing Protocols), followed by three rounds of competition against their peers. This event is intended to be both a fun and competitive culmination of the season.
Originally a four-day event in 2020, adding an additional day to the event in 2021 allows for three rounds of Tour Championship play. The players invited to and competing at the 2021 Ontario Provincial Super Camp have earned their spot in the Tour Championship based on the Junior Golf Pathway Rankings. “The exciting part about this year, is that the American Junior Golf Association is giving out a fully exempt status for the top two boys and girls in the U19 and U17 divisions at the end of this championship”, explained Reggie Millage, Head Provincial Coach of Team Ontario.
Round one saw some stellar play in both the boys and girls categories as the juniors were challenged by cold and brisk winds under mostly grey skies. Leading the pack on the boy’s side after 18 holes is Team Ontario member Thomas Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), with a strong three-under (68) opening on the strength of six birdies. On his heels is Zachary Smith (Brampton GC) and Justin Matthews (Bigwin Island GC), who both shot two-under (69) in their opening rounds. One stroke back of them is Andrew Aquino (Summit G&CC), Mitchell Brassard (Barrie CC), and Jordan Hwang (Emerald Hills G&CC), all firing a one-under (70).
On the girls’ side, Carlee Meilleur (Golf Ontario Member) leads early after a stellar three-under (68) opening, which included three birdies and an eagle. Right behind her is Team Ontario player, Ella Weber (Rattlesnake Point GC), after a solid two-under (69). With rounds of even-par, Emma Hansen (Blue Springs GC) and Tara O’Connor (Victoria Park East GC) find themselves currently sitting in third.
Monday and Tuesday consisted of two days of testing (Golf Canada’s National Testing Protocols), and so much more including: wedge, long game, and ball speed combines with the Foresights GC Quad device, wedge education with TaylorMade, physical and strength testing with Dr. Nick Martinchenko, a mental session with Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons (Sport Psychologist), a mindfulness and yoga session with Lululemon, chipping and putting combines, and rules lessons with Golf Ontario referees.
Tuesday evening was topped off with a Super Camp Southern Cookout presented by Taylormade including hotdogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob and much more, as the sweet sounds of Mattie Leon entertained the players, parents, staff and volunteers.
A very big thank you to Taylormade, who gave away eight wedge sets in total (including their new Milled Grind 3 MG3 wedges), as well as great swag in hats and balls. Also a huge thanks to Lululemon Windsor, for their donations and raffle prizes.
Moving forward, competitors of the annual Ontario Provincial Super Camp and Tour Championship will be battling for the Dave Mills trophy. The trophy has been named in honour of Mills, a past Golf Ontario Executive Director and huge supporter and advocate for junior golf, who presented the first-ever Super Camp trophy in 2020.
For more information on the 2021 Ontario Provincial Super Camp and Tour Championship, visit our Golf Genius page. Second round action tees off at 8:30 am Thursday with the girls off the tee first.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
100 Hole Hike, supporting Youth On Course, at Brooklea G&CC on Oct 5th & Eldorado GC on Oct 7th
Peter MacKellar
Oakville/ Uxbridge, ON – As the end of the second year of the Youth on Course program in Ontario nears, Golf Ontario and Golf Canada have announced the second annual 100 Hole Hike to raise money and awareness for Youth on Course. The two 100 Hole Hike events will see 23 participants take on the formidable challenge of walking and playing 100 holes of golf in a single day. The first event takes place at Brooklea G&CC in Midland on October 5th and the second event will return to Eldorado GC in Whitby on October 7th. The latter hosted the inaugural event in October of 2020.
“The 100 Hole Hike is truly a one-of-a-kind golf event. Participants will play 5.5 rounds of golf in one day, and will help bring awareness to Youth on Course,” said Adam Hunter, Senior Manager of Grow the Game at Golf Canada. “More importantly, the 100 Hole Hike will help raise money to ensure we can continue to offer affordable golf as part of this amazing program.”
In its third year of operation in Canada, Youth on Course has seen more than 7,000 subsidized rounds played to date, and membership has increased by 9% from an already successful 2020 season. While these results are great for the growth of the game, it is imperative that we continue to raise awareness and funds to support this program, to reach our goal of expanding across the country by 2024.
Youth on Course is an amazing initiative that provides access to affordable golf for young boys and girls, to 1,400+ facilities in North America. Launched in Ontario in July 2020, junior golfers aged 6-18, who have purchased a Golf Canada/Golf Ontario gold membership, will receive a Youth on Course card and have access to $5 green fees at participating facilities across the province. There is no limit to how often members can play using their YOC card. Youth on Course members in Ontario will also become members of the entire YOC international network, receiving access to affordable golf at over 1,000 golf courses in Ontario, Alberta, and 35 different states.
The 100 Hole Hike is a very unique one-day fundraiser that requires golfers to walk and play 100 holes of golf in one day. “This is such a challenging event for golfers, and some of our amazing partners have stepped up once again this year with their support,” said Dave Struthers, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Golf Ontario. Participants for the two Ontario events in 2021 will include staff from Golf Canada, Golf Ontario, TaylorMade, Adidas, Golf Talk Canada, and 94.9 TheRock on-air hosts Doug Elliott and Lucky who return again for a second year.
Participants will be soliciting donations for their commitment to this long day of golf, and funds raised will go towards ensuring the success of the Youth on Course initiative, and to ensure junior golfers in Ontario have access to affordable golf options in their local areas.
If you are interested in more information on the 100 Hole Hike, please contact Jason Hraynyk (jhraynyk@gao.ca or 416-460-0859) or visit YOC Ontario Hike 2021 to donate.
About Youth on Course
The core purpose of Youth on Course is to provide youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Members play thousands of courses for $5 or less, benefit from employment through the caddie and internship program, and receive college scholarships. Headquartered in Pebble Beach, Youth on Course is a 501(c)3 organization that began as the charitable arm of the Northern California Golf Association. Since 2006, close to one million rounds have been played by Youth on Course members and nearly $2 million has been raised for college scholarships. In the United States, Youth on Course serves Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin, with the goal of delivering affordable golf in all 50 states by 2021. To learn more about YOC, please visit www.youthoncourse.ca.
About Golf Canada
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada, representing 271,000 golfers and 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to increase Canadian participation and excellence in golf. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.
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 450 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the largest golf associations in the world. From rating courses and keeping the integral rules of the game intact, growing the game at the grassroots level and getting the game of golf into our school systems, keeping the Ontario golf community aware of all relevant issues, and hosting the best amateur tournaments in Canada, Golf Ontario is a passionate group dedicated to making golf better for everyone in Ontario. We share a love and passion for golf, while preserving its past, fostering its future, and championing golf’s best interests for everyone who enjoys the sport. To learn more, visit www.gao.ca.
Stay Connected on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit our website for further information.
Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of September 22nd, 2021)
Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses, plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot), along with a government-issued photo ID.
Proof of vaccination IS required for:
Indoor Golf Simulators
Indoor Dining
Indoor Sports and Recreation Facilities
Indoor Meeting and Events Spaces
The Ontario Government has indicated that there are exceptions:
Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications, Golf Ontario; PMacKellar@gao.ca
Call for Expressions of Interest – Board of Directors
Peter MacKellar
Golf Ontario, the Provincial Sport Organization for Golf, is currently seeking interested individuals to serve on the Board of Directors for a three-year term commencing April 2022.
The Board currently consists of 11 directors serving staggered 3 – year terms. Based upon the tenure of the existing directors, the Board anticipates requiring a minimum of 2 new directors in 2022, 3 new directors in 2023 and 2 new directors in 2024.
With over 80 years of history and tradition, serving 100,000 members, Golf Ontario is one of the largest golf associations in the world. We strive to align with all golf stakeholders through a connected golf community while encouraging both youth and adults to play more golf, more often. Our mission is to shape lives through golf by leading, creating, and promoting positive golf experiences.
The Board is responsible for determining Golf Ontario policy; for protecting the long term growth and health of the organization; for developing, monitoring and evaluating the strategic goals; for approving the annual budget; and for authorizing and taking responsibility for the funding of the organization.
If you have a strong passion for, and understanding of, the sport of Golf, we would like to hear from you. We are searching for strategic thinkers with experience in any of the following areas: Governance, Strategic Planning, Executive Leadership, Financial Management, Fundraising, Marketing/Communication, Change Management and the Golf Industry. We are committed to making golf more accessible and welcoming to diverse populations, and would encourage like-minded individuals to apply.
The role of a Golf Ontario Board member is to act as a trustee, always serving the best interests of the organization with integrity and an open mind. Board members establish and actively support the vision, mission and strategic directions of the organization and exercise financial oversight and fiduciary responsibility for the organization on behalf of its members, among other responsibilities.
Expressions of Interest must include the following:
Online application form and
Current CV (Instructions for uploading your documents are included on the application form)
The submission deadline for positions for the coming year is November 12, 2021.
Golf Ontario is an equal opportunity organization committed to providing accessible practices. We will make all reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities in order to support their full participation in this process.
We thank all individuals for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All expressions of interest will be kept in confidence.
