Welcoming More Women and Girls to the Game of Golf: Announcing an Exciting New LPGA Foundation & Golf Ontario Partnership

 

Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario is pleased to announce an exciting and mutually beneficial partnership with a global leader in women’s sports, the LPGA Foundation. This partnership is aimed at increasing participation among women and girls, with a focus on enhancing and creating opportunities for females to become involved in and enjoy the game of golf. With the support of the LPGA Foundation’s LPGA*USGA Girls Golf and LPGA Amateur Golf Association (LPGA Amateurs) programs, Golf Ontario will aim to welcome females to the game of golf through TRY, LEARN & PLAY programs, events, and e-learning opportunities.

 

Executive Director of Golf Ontario, Mike Kelly, believes “our affiliation with the LPGA will substantially enhance Golf Ontario’s effort to establish these Participation Pathways as part of our commitment to leading, creating, and promoting positive golf experiences. Working together with the LPGA Headquarters and the Ontario-based LPGA Amateurs Chapters, we are developing and piloting a Participation Pathway for women to Try, Learn and Play golf.”

 

The partnership will also address the development of a Participation Pathway for girls. A cornerstone of this will be the establishment of new LPGA*USGA Girls Golf sites in Ontario. “Our intent is to continue to build the Pathway for girls over the coming years as we assess the extent to which TRY & Play programming from the First Tee and Youth on Course could contribute to the pathway within LPGA*USGA Girls Golf,” explained Golf Ontario’s Manager of Participation, Mallory Dayman.

 

“The LPGA Foundation is excited to partner with Golf Ontario,” said LPGA Foundation Vice-President Mary-Lee Cobick. “We are especially pleased with the additional support of our existing LPGA Amateurs Chapters and look forward to offering new golf opportunities for both women and girls in Ontario.”

 

One of the core pillars of the Golf Ontario strategic plan is Participation, and this new partnership with the LPGA Foundation will be a huge step in ensuring a strong focus on growing and retaining women and girls in the game. At the same time, all planning for these Try, Learn and Play Golf events in 2021 will be done keeping COVID-19 protocols and the health and safety of all participants at the forefront.

 

About The LPGA Foundation
Established in 1991, The LPGA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to empowering and supporting girls and women through developmental and humanitarian golf initiatives.

 

Key priorities include: LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, LPGA Amateur Golf Association, The LPGA Leadership Academy, scholarships and the Dolores Hope LPGA Financial Assistance Initiative for those in the golf industry who are experiencing severe hardship. The LPGA Foundation is supported by corporate and private donations, foundation grants and contributions from LPGA members. For more information on how to contribute to The LPGA Foundation, please contact LPGA Headquarters, 100 International Golf Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32124, or by phone, +1 386-274-6200 and on the web: https://www.girlsgolf.org/donate-foundation.

 

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, 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.

 

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.

 

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher,
Assistant, Marketing Communications, Golf Ontario;
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar,
Manager, Marketing and Communications, Golf Ontario;
PMacKellar@gao.ca

 

LPGA Media Contact:
Leia Schwartz,
Content Producer, LPGA;
leia.schwartz@lpga.com, 386-274-6247

 

Welcome back to another round of Golf Ontario’s newest feature, Women in Sport Wednesday’s! This campaign embraces our female 2020 Ontario Champions, their passion for the game, their accomplishments in the sport, and some interesting facts about each champion.

 

A modest golfer with great talent and a lengthy list of championship titles, Terrill Samuel is a two-time Ontario Women’s Amateur, three-time Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur, and two-time Ontario Senior Women’s champion. In 2018, Samuel was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame, joining the Class of 2018 in the Amateur Golfer category. In 2021, the number one thing for Samuel is “to still enjoy the game and get out for some great rounds with some really good people. And if you play well, that’s a bonus!”

 

Read the full interview with 2020 Ontario Senior Women’s champion, Terrill Samuel below…

 

How did you get into Golf? 

My Mum would take us to visit her parents in England and they got me into golf for a couple of weeks at the end of our summer break. They had a little nine-hole course near them and they signed me up, so that’s how I got involved in golf. I was probably around 7 or 8 years old when I first picked up a club. I didn’t play in Canada until I was 21, which is a big birthday for us Brits, so I asked for golf clubs! I was 23 when I played in my first competitive tournament.

 

What does the sport of golf do for you?

I think especially in Amateur golf, it’s more about friendships. I’ve been out with a few injuries and you truly miss that, but once you get back it’s really nice to see all your friends and you have these friendships for life. Also just enjoying being out in the fresh air, especially this last season, just getting out of the house and having golf since it was one of the only things you could do.

It’s a lot of fun and the comradery that’s out there in Amateur golf is great. You get to meet new people and playing in tournament golf allows you to go to different places in the world, which I think is another great aspect of golf. I’ve been able to visit New Zealand, Sweden, France, and a lot of other really nice places. I’ve been all over the States and in Canada, you get to see every province, which is pretty fun too.

 

What other sports were you involved in growing up?

Both my brother and I were actually swimmers, and we swam competitively so that’s why we never really got into golf at a young age in Canada. Swimming took up a lot of time as it was about four hours of practice every day; two hours in the morning and two hours at night. I competed in about every stroke except breaststroke.

 

Favorite golf course?

Royal County Down Golf Club, Newcastle UK (Northern Ireland) – that was my favorite!

 

Favorite club in your bag?

I would probably say my 8 iron! My 8 iron and my 5 hybrid are the ones that I take to the range and practice with the most.

 

How do you mark your ball? 

I put a happy face on one side and the letter “T” on the other.

 

Biggest accomplishments to date?

• Winning the 2015 Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur and Senior Championship
• Crowned the 2015 Senior (50+), Mid-Master (40+), and Mid-Amateur (25+) champion
• Losing to Judith Kyrinis in the 2017 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship
  – Terrill would be the runner-up for the 56th U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship (USGA)
  – Judith is a longtime friend and competitor of Terrill’s

 

What’s your pre-tournament routine? How do you get into the right headspace?

I’m one of those golfers that just hits it and chases it, I don’t really think too much about it. I admire people that like to analyze their game, but once golf is over I don’t really talk about my round either.

I’m probably known as a pretty fast player (we’d agree – it’s hard to get a picture of Terrill off the tee!!). I just figure out the yardage, pull a club, and go. This is my one saying – Slow players always get to play at their pace, but fast players never do. My dream round would be first off, with two other fast players and no crossover.

 

Favorite golfers, to watch?

LPGA – Nancy Lopez and Patty Sheehan

PGA – Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods

 

If you could play a round of golf with anyone, who would be in your foursome?

• Nancy Lopez – for sure!
• Jack Nicklaus
• Payton Manning

 

About The Ontario Senior Women’s Championship

The inaugural Ontario Senior Women’s Championship was conducted in 1962 and since then has been contested annually featuring the province’s best female amateurs age 50 and over.

The event has had several notable past champions including World, Canadian, and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Marlene Stewart Streit, who captured the title six times. Also, Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Famer Gayle Borthwick, who also picked up the trophy six times. Recent winners include Ivy Steinberg (2008 and 2009), Terrill Samuel (2011, 2020) as well as Golf Ontario Hall of Fame members Mary Ann Hayward (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2019) and 2017 USGA Senior Women’s Amateur Champion Judith Kyrinis (2016, 2017, and 2018).

 

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 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.

 

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.

 

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

 

 

Welcome back to the second round of Golf Ontario’s newest feature, Women in Sport Wednesday’s! This campaign showcases our female 2020 Ontario Champions, highlighting their accomplishments in the sport, how their passion for golf came to be, and some interesting facts about each champion.

 

Golfing from a young age, one of Marler’s first golf coaches was Fraser Mulholland, who is the current Commissioner of the Vancouver Golf Tour. A Guelph Gryphon for four years, Marler would captain her golf team before moving to Europe and taking a break from golf. Recently returning to competitive play, 2020 presented Marler with two provincial titles and several wins on the Vancouver Golf Tour. Following three near flawless rounds at Dalewood Golf Club this past season, Nonie Marler would be crowned our 2020 Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Champion.

 

Read the full interview with Marler below…

 

1. How did you get into Golf?

I come from a family of golf lovers, as my dad and my brother are really avid golfers. My brother is actually a part of the Agronomy crew at Bear Mountain in Victoria, British Columbia (Bear Mountain is the Official Training Centre of Golf Canada’s National Junior Squad). I’ve always been passionate about playing and I’m a competitive person in general. Golf was one of those things on family holidays that was a fun activity to do together and although my mom is a non-golfer, she’s an avid spectator. She liked to come along and ride in the cart. As a high energy child, my parents threw me in pretty much every sport growing up. Golf was something I took to a little bit later as a teenager and when I went to university in Canada, it was only when I arrived on campus that I found out the school had a golf team. I figured I’d give it a whirl and I ended up captaining the Golf Team at the University of Guelph during my time there.

 

Following university, I ended up staying in Ontario for a few years, moving up to Georgian Bay where I played quite a bit of tournament golf in addition to working at Georgian Bay Club. After a short stint living back in Vancouver, I moved to the UK where I pursued my MBA and then went on to stay and work there for 10 years; so golf kind of took a back seat, but I continued to play casually and kept it up because golf is one of those sports where it doesn’t matter what you’re doing in your life, you can always play it wherever you are. While living in London I headed up Corporate Hospitality and Events for a global IT company called Ricoh (which has a long standing partnership with Women’s golf), so I was involved in the golf realm from a professional standpoint but never in a competitive manner.

 

When I moved back to Vancouver about three and a half years ago now, I had the time to pick golf back up. On the advice of someone saying ‘hey you’re not so bad, you should try to play in some tournaments’, I was like ah yeah okay and so funnily enough the first tournament I played I actually ended up winning! And from that experience it kind of got my competitive juices flowing and now it’s something I love doing outside of my career, which is taking care of operations for Cushman & Wakefield’s Equity, Debt & Structured Finance platform in Canada.

 

So I have really only just picked up tournament golf again, and over the last season and a half, it’s cool to be having a lot of fun and seeing some success with it.

 

2. Why are you so passionate about golf? What does the sport do for you?

For sure, it definitely feeds my competitive nature. Just with my personality and anything I do, I really throw myself into things I’m passionate about – I’m somewhat of an all or nothing type of person. And while I enjoy playing recreational golf with my friends and family, I just love the competitive drive and energy I tap into playing in tournaments. Golf itself is a great equalizer age and gender wise, whether you’re playing in a foursome with guys and kicking their butt, there are not too many sports you can play where you can sort of have that healthy competition. And in the Women’s Mid-Am where it’s 25 years and older, I get to play with a true variety of women age range wise and it’s a really great level of competition across the board. With golf in general, it’s neat that you can have such diversity in playing the sport.

 

Especially in business too, being able to play golf has been really helpful. From a networking standpoint, it’s pretty incredible that you can be anywhere in the world and by being able to play golf, you get invited to so many things. Golf is such a great connector and I am very grateful for the opportunities the sport has provided and continues to provide me.

 

3. What would be your alternate sport to compete competitively in?

Interestingly enough, probably skiing! I do love team sports and golf, especially playing at a high level and having a caddy and a team around you, it’s in many ways a team sport, but the end result ultimately lands on yourself. And I think with skiing too, ultimately, it’s just you yourself out there. I grew up skiing Whistler Blackcomb and Mt. Baker and I used to race as a kid. My parents put my brother and me in ski camp, so we were racers until our teenage years. I was big into horseback riding and gymnastics growing up too, I still love and follow both but there are only so many hours in a day!

 

4. Top 3 favorite golf courses?

• Kapalua – Plantation Course (Maui, Hawaii)
• Kingsbarns Golf Links – Scotland, UK
• Greywolf Golf Course – Panorama, British Columbia

 

5. Favorite club in your bag?

I’m really confident with my driver and I love hitting it. My wedges are a close second, I love the creativity you can have with them in your short game.

 

6. How do you mark your ball?

Titleist ProV1x – two colours always, three dots above and three dots below the logo on the diagonal.

 

7. Biggest accomplishments to date?

This past summer when I won both the British Columbia and Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championships.

 

I think we have been really fortunate to still be able to play competitive golf, in light of the current circumstances over the last year. Winning two provincial titles during the summer of COVID was pretty cool and with the addition of several wins on the Vancouver Golf Tour, together it made the summer a pretty special season for me. I put a lot of time and effort into my game last summer, a lot of it had to do with the fact that there wasn’t too much else to do from sports and social standpoints. I’d say the 2020 summer season as a whole, in recent memory anyway, is among my biggest golf accomplishments to date.

 

8. What’s your pre-tournament routine? How do you get into the right headspace?

I just try to be as consistent as possible. I try not to treat the day any differently because I find when I move outside of my usual routine or do things differently, I can have a tendency to build things up more or treat the situation differently than I would under normal circumstances. I do take special care to make sure my nutrition and exercise programs are consistent, as well as getting lots of rest in the days leading up to any tournament.

 

Stretching is imperative for me before any round, and I always pick my outfits and do all my nutrition prep the night before so I can be focused on what’s ahead and in the proper mindset and headspace ahead of my tee time. It’s all about removing potential stressors and chaos in the lead up to a round. For me, preparation is key – fail to plan, plan to fail.

 

9. Who’s your favorite golfer to watch?

I always like cheering on the underdog or the player who has an interesting story, because in a lot of ways I can relate, especially since I’ve taken so many years off competitive golf and am only now coming back to it.

 

I like following fellow Canadians in any tournament so I always look out for them, but other than that I wouldn’t say I follow any one golfer in particular on a regular basis. I mean when Tiger is in the field, I always check out how he’s doing. I think by virtue of watching and playing so much golf myself, I like to leaderboard watch so I kind of follow everyone.

 

10. Goals for 2021?

• Defend my titles
• Play in our national championship
• Qualify for a USGA event
• Achieve five top five’s this summer

 

About the Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship

First played in 1989, the Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship is open to female golfers aged 25 and over. In honour of her outstanding accomplishments at the Mid-Amateur level in Ontario, the trophy is rightfully named after 14-time champion Mary Ann Hayward. The event is contested annually in a 54-hole competition. Other notable past champions of the event include 2012 Canadian Senior Women’s Champion Terrill Samuel (1991, 2000, and 2010), Casey Ward (2015), and Golf Ontario Hall of Fame members Gayle Borthwick Hitchens (1992, 1993), and Judith Kyrinis (2017).

 

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, 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.

 

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:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Introducing our newest feature, Women in Sport Wednesday’s! This campaign celebrates our female 2020 Ontario Champions, highlighting their accomplishments in the sport, how their passion for golf came to be, and some interesting facts about each champion.

First up on the tee, we welcome the 2020 Ontario Junior (U19) and Juvenile (U17) Girl’s Champion, Katie Cranston. Cranston is on the 2021 Team Canada National Junior Squad and is a former member of Team Ontario.

Read the full interview with Cranston below…

 

1. How did you get into Golf?

Growing up and in middle school, I played every single sport my school offered. When I was in grade four or five, the school brought in a golf program and seeing as I participated in every other sport, I asked my Mom if I could do this as well. And she said yes, she would buy me the golf clubs if I used them in the summer. And so I did about 8-weeks of summer golf camp and I’ve just loved it ever since!

 

2. Why are you so passionate about golf? What does the sport do for you?

I find golf a lot more interesting than other sports I’ve played. I feel like every day there’s something new and you play a different course every week. It’s an interesting and fun sport because it’s not as easily mastered, so it never gets old for me! I definitely think it’s something I can pursue to hopefully make the LPGA someday.

 

3. What are your top 3 favorite golf courses?

• Wooden Sticks GC – It’s definitely up there!
• Shelburne G&CC – Katie won the 2020 Ontario Junior (U19) and Juvenile (U17) Girls’ Championship at Shelburne G&CC in August.
• Oakville GC – Shout out to the home course.

 

4. Favorite club in your bag?

Driver.

 

5. How do you mark your ball?

Two blue dots beside the numbers.

 

6. Biggest accomplishments to date?

• Making Team Canada, 2021 Olympic Squad – 2021 National Junior Squad (Golf Canada)
• Winning the 2020 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship.
  • Katie also went home with the 2020 Ontario Juvenile (U17) Girls’ Championship title.
• Making Team Ontario – Team Ontario athlete, 2019-2020 season (Golf Ontario)
• 2021 Orlando International Amateur for Juniors, Junior Girls’ Champion – finished with one-under par and a total of 215 thru three rounds.

 

7. What’s your pre-tournament routine? How do you get into the right headspace?

I like to listen to music before getting to the course and I try to keep to myself as much as I can while I’m warming up. This helps me get in the zone.

 

8. If you could play a round of golf with anyone, who would be in your foursome?

• Tiger Woods – PGA tour
• Nelly Korda – LPGA Tour
• Adam Sandler (Happy Gilmore)

 

9. Who’s your favorite golfer to watch?

Brooke Henderson

 

10. Goals for 2021?

• Repeat win at the 2021 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship
• Top 5 at the 2021 Canadian Junior Girls’ Championship
• Shoot a low score of (66) in a tournament round

 

Read more about Cranston’s 2020 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship win, here.

Read more about Cranston and the 2021 Team Canada National Junior Squad, here.

 

About The Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship

First contested in 1927, the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship features Ontario’s best amateur female golfers age 18 and under. The event consists of 72 holes of stroke play competition.

The championship has a rich history of young Ontarians who have gone on to have successful golf careers, such as World Golf Hall of Fame member Marlene Stewart Streit (1951, 1952). Other notable winners include, Sandra Post (1965, 1966), Sue Hilton (1962), Alena Sharp (1997, 1998), Jessica Shepley (2001), Jennifer Kirby (2008, 2009), and Brooke Henderson (2011, 2012).

 

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, 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.

 

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.

 

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

As 2020 comes to a close, it is time to reflect back on the year that was. It goes without saying that 2020 was a year like no other. And while we all know it came with significant challenges for everyone, we also know that there were diamonds in the rough in 2020 and golf was one of those bright spots. Quite simply … golf was an important release, both physically and mentally for both existing golfers, and equally importantly, new players to the game. From the second golf courses were allowed to open back on May 16, protocols were put in place that made golf courses into one of the safest places to be throughout this pandemic, and these safety measures allowed people to enjoy this great game like never before. With this in mind, today is an appropriate day to look back and celebrate some of the milestones from 2020 in Ontario golf. Thanks to each and every golfer, staff member, coach, professional, volunteer, owner/operator, and all others for your contributions to the ‘year of golf’

 

January

The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada and Golf Ontario reached a six-year agreement in partnership with Woodington Lakes Golf Club to host and conduct the Ontario Open. This first tournament, an official tournament on the Tour’s 2020 schedule, was set for Tottenham, Ontario, on August 27-30.

 

 

The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2020 was announced, but has been postponed due to COVID-19. The newest acclaimed member, Danny Mijovic, would enter the Professional Golfer category after 35 plus years as a golf professional. Tim O’Connor also received the Lorne Rubenstein Media Award, which is presented annually to accredited members of the Ontario media for “major contributions to golf”. We look forward to celebrating these two individuals in 2021.

 

February

Golf Ontario celebrated and recognized the 2019 Golf Ontario Order of Merit player winners and Volunteer Award winners. The Female Player of the year was awarded to Emily Zhu, while the Male Player of the year went to Garrett Rank. Click here, for other 2019 Golf Ontario Order of Merit winners.

Playing a critical role in the Golf Ontario organization, Golf Ontario recognized the following Volunteer Award Winners: 2019 Volunteer of the Year: Joyce McCrae. Distinguished Service Award winners: Margaret Grieve and Gilles Hurtubise. Honorary Life Director Award: Kathy Pilkey, Ian Murray, and Chris Osborne.

 

 

Two new partners joined the Golf Ontario team, to help bring more value to the Association and its’ members. Modern Golf joined as the Official Club Fitting and Repair partner of Golf Ontario, and Dormie Workshop joined as the Official Custom Headcover Provider of Golf Ontario.

 

March

As the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic enveloped not only Canada but the world, the government ordered the shutdown of non-essential businesses. This shutdown would force Golf Ontario to begin planning for an adaptation of the 2020 Championship schedule, as we moved to remote-working.

Mike Kelly, Executive Director of Golf Ontario, addressed players, members, and stakeholders with a message, as the COVID-19 challenge continued to evolve rapidly.

 

April

National Volunteer Week 2020: April 19 to 25. Golf Ontario gave recognition to the volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to the game of golf and showed appreciation to all who have been an essential part of our organization.

 

 

May

The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada announced that the 2020 season had been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis. The Ontario Open, which was originally scheduled for August 27-30, was postponed until 2021.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most golf courses across Canada did not open on schedule this spring. Ontario Golf Courses were permitted to open May 16, with stringent anti-COVID safeguards set in place.

 

June

As public health concerns due to the COVID-19 global pandemic continue, Golf Canada in partnership with Golf Ontario cancelled the 2020 World Junior Girls Championship. Postponed till 2021, the event was originally schedule for September 28 to October 3 at Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario.

Adjusting the 2020 Championship schedule to fit within the restrictions of COVID-19, Golf Ontario released the new 2020 Championship schedule. With additional time needed to ensure that Golf Ontario Championships were staged in the most safe and responsible manner possible given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, Golf Ontario had to make significant revisions to the 2020 schedule of championships. While able to maintain a strong slate of the most important championships, the new schedule consisted of nine events.

As a result of a highly successful pilot program launched in Alberta, Youth on Course announced its expansion with Golf Ontario and Golf Canada. Youth on Course is a non-profit organization providing young people with access to opportunities through subsidized golf, college scholarships, paid internships, and a caddie program.

 

July

Golf Ontario announced the addition of Durham Artificial Grass to their family of partners, to help continue to bring more value to the Association and its’ members. Durham Artificial Grass is a provider of high-quality home practice installations, including simulators and putting greens.

The first championship of the season, the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship, took place at Saugeen Golf Club. With an impressive finish in his fourth and final round, Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club) took home the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship title for the second time in three years.

 

Winning the Ontario Juvenile (U17) Boys’ Championship title was Andreas Diogenous (Whistle Bear GC).

 

August

The Ontario Women’s Amateur and Mid-Amateur Championship at Dalewood Golf Club teed off a busy month of championships. With the third and final round coming to an end for the Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship, Public Player Nonie Marler (Marine Drive GC) took home the prestigious title with three near flawless rounds.

In the final round of the Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship, Michigan State University golfer, Sydney Naro (Public Player), brought home the crown with an even par round to end the championship at even overall (285).

 

Otter Creek Golf Club hosted the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship. Clawing his way to victory down the final stretch was Golf Canada Amateur Squad Member, Cougar Collins, with an even par round (72) to finish the Championship at two-under.

 

Team Ontario member, Katie Cranston, went home with very full hands following her impressive Ontario Juvenile (U17) and Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship win at Shelburne Golf and Country Club.

 

September

Golf Ontario enjoyed a day of golf at The Nest at Friday Harbour to help support the Golf Canada Foundation COVID Relief Fund. This fund was to help golf courses and their employees and golfers stay safe while also thanking front-line workers through encouraging additional play and welcoming juniors to further experience the game.

Cambridge Golf Club hosted the Ontario Bantam (U15) Boys’ and Girls’ Championship, while Golf Ontario also recognized a winner for the Ontario Peewee (U13) Boys’ and Girls’ Championship. Holding onto her impressive lead to take home the 2020 Ontario Bantam (U15) Girls’ Championship title was Kelly Zhao (Station Creek GC – North).

Making massive moves on the course in the final round, Cale Marontate (Kingsville G&CC) secured the title for the 2020 Ontario Bantam (U15) Boys’ Championship.

In recognition of the Ontario Peewee (U13) Boys’ Championship, Jager Pain (Public Player) took home the gold, while Michelle Xing (National Pines GC) was awarded the gold (149) for the Ontario Peewee (U13) Girls’ Championship.

As summer slowly slipped away, the Ontario Public Amateur Championship was hosted by Meadowbrook Golf Club. The overall winner and winner of the A flight (gross) competition was Aurora’s Kevin Holloway.

The B Flight and the first net score competition finished in regulation with a two-way tie between Troy Darbyson and Ken Brace, both of Brooklin, requiring a three-hole playoff. Darbyson had the low round through both rounds, shooting a 68 in round one to help build his early lead and hang on to reach the playoff holes, from which he would emerge victorious.

The C flight Championship also ended in regulation with a two-way tie for the lead between Zachary Peters and Andrew Garron. After a closely contested playoff, Hamilton’s Peters emerged as the winner of the C flight.

 

The stunning Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf hosted the 2020 Ontario Senior Men’s and Women’s Championship. Having a fantastic season after finishing second place in the Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship, Terrill Samuel (Weston G&CC) captured her second Ontario Senior Women’s Championship title.

Securing the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship title, Dave Bunker (Cherry Hill Club) completed the final round two strokes ahead of silver medalist Ashley Chinner (Coppinwood).

 

As championship season continued, the 2020 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship was hosted at the Loyalist Country Club. Holding his own and leading the way for the entirety of the three days, Ryan Tsang (Cedar Brae GC) seized his first Golf Ontario Championship title, as the winner of the 2020 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship.

 

After a very successful launch in 2019, the Ontario Disability Golf Championship would return in 2020 at the beautiful Woodington Lakes Golf Club. As part of this year’s event, Special Olympics Ontario was pleased to announce a partnership with Woodington Lake Golf Club to help support and promote the event. Special Olympics Ontario would provide volunteer and coach training, as well as assistance with the recruitment of athletes and volunteers to help stage this world class event.

Defending the Men’s 2020 Ontario Disability Championship title, for the second year in a row, was Kurtis Barkley (Cedar Glen GC) after an impressive showing of 145 over two rounds.

On the Women’s side, also taking home the 2020 Ontario Disability Championship title for a second year in a row, was Natasha Stasiuk (Heron Point Golf Links) (171).

 

Golf Ontario also gave out their annual Scholarship Awards in September to some lucky and deserving recipients. Winning of our largest scholarship this year, Aidan Hussey (Barcovan GC) was awarded the Craig Revell scholarship. Read more, here.

 

October

On October 6th, twenty golf lovers took on the formidable challenge to walk one-hundred holes of golf in one day to raise money and awareness for Youth on Course. From sunrise to sunset, participants from Golf Ontario, Golf Canada, TaylorMade, adidas, and 94.9 The Rock walked and played one-hundred holes of golf with proceeds going to support the great new Youth on Course program.

 

Hosted at Black Bear Ridge Golf Course, the 1^st Annual Golf Ontario Provincial Super Camp took place over Thanksgiving weekend in Belleville, Ontario. The first two days of testing included the Golf Canada National Testing Protocols, a Session with Sport Psychologist Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons, and an Interactive Rules Session with Jim Davidson of the OVGA.

Holding her position on the leaderboard for the Junior Girls’, Alessandra Nagayo (Don Valley GC) took home the championship title with a total of one over par (145) and a nine-stroke lead over the silver medalist.

Advancing on the Junior Boys’ leaderboard to win the gold medal, Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui G&CC) secured the title with an eagle on seven and one under par on the day (147).

Golf Ontario gave back to frontline workers in our championship communities, through the 2020 championship season registration process. As part of our registration process, we normally include the opportunity for golfers to donate to a cause. Historically, these donations have gone to support junior golf in Ontario. During registration for the 2020 championship season, we offered golfers the opportunity to donate to Frontline Workers. All funds generated through these donations would then be divided up and given back equally to a local hospital in each of our championship communities. Read more, here.

 

November

On Tuesday October 20^th, Golf Ontario hosted the annual Volunteer Appreciation Day at the beautiful Wooden Sticks Golf Course. With COVID-19 continuing to affect how we celebrate with each other, Golf Ontario hosted their 2020 Volunteer Recognition Day online, recognizing a few shinning individuals who have gone above and beyond their volunteer commitments. This year’s very deserving 2020 award recipients were as follows: 2020 Volunteer of the Year, Lee Griffin. Honorary Life Director, John Swift. Dick Grimm Distinguished Award, Jim Bristow. The Paul “Fitz” Fitzgerald Award, Darrell Peters.

 

Team Ontario welcomed many new faces to the 2021 Team Ontario squad, which features many of the best young golfers in the province. Featuring eighteen members as part of the soon to be launched Junior Golf Pathway, seven members returned from the 2020 team and would be joined by eleven fresh faces.

 

December

Golf Ontario announced the launch of the upcoming 2021 Provincial level Rules of Golf Webinar Series. Beginning in the second week in January, Golf Ontario will be offering a 10-week webinar series on the Provincial Level Rules of Golf as part of the Golf Ontario Rules Ready program. Instructed by nationally certified Golf Canada Referees, the webinar series is aimed at furthering the participant’s knowledge of the Rules of Golf and will take an in-depth look at the concepts, procedures and outcomes that are an integral part of today’s game.

The annual 12 Days of Golf took place from December 7 to 19, with all proceeds this year going to support junior programs across Ontario. This included supporting the launch of First Tee in 2021, an exciting new program enabling youth to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges.

 

Golf Ontario announced the upcoming World Handicap System (WHS) webinar schedule. Beginning February, Golf Ontario will be offering five WHS certification sessions virtually. Instructed by the Handicap and Course Rating department, the webinar will take an in-depth look at all seven Rules of Handicapping as well as supporting appendix, that are an integral part of the game being inclusive and accessible to all golfers.

On a more positive note, Golf Ontario was pleased to unveil the 2021 Championship schedule. With the health and safety of all involved continuing to be of paramount importance as COVID-19 protocols continue to adjust, the 2021 schedule will feature 22 provincial championships hosted at member clubs across Ontario.

 

From all of us at Golf Ontario, we are looking forward to more golf and championships in 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 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, to growing the game at the grassroots level and getting the game of golf into our school systems, to 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.

 

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:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario is pleased to unveil the 2021 Golf Ontario championship schedule. After a very successful championship campaign in a year of uncertainty and challenges, Golf Ontario is excited to return to an expanded schedule next summer.

 

As with this past championship season, the health and safety of all involved will continue to be of paramount importance as COVID-19 protocols continue to adjust. “With the safety of our member clubs, players, volunteers, and staff being our top priority, we will continue to monitor the pandemic and adjust the 2021 Championship season accordingly”, explained Golf Ontario Executive Director, Mike Kelly.

 

The 2021 schedule will feature 22 provincial championships hosted at member clubs across Ontario. “Following a year where we had to cancel many championships due to the pandemic, we are excited to bring back most of Golf Ontario’s events for the 2021 Championship season”, said Golf Ontario Manager of Rules & Competitions, John Lawrence.

 

Golf Ontario will continue to make announcements in the coming months as additional dates and venues are secured. Below are the highlights on the 2021 championship schedule:

• The championship season will kick off with the annual Junior Spring Classics held over the Victoria Day weekend
• Whistle Bear Golf Club will host the Ontario Junior Boys Championship for the first time since Albin Choi won the event there in 2009
• Brockville Country Club will host its first ever Ontario Junior Girls Championship.
• The 106^th Ontario Women’s Amateur and Mid-Amateur Championship will be conducted in June at Pointe West Golf Club.
• The venue for the Ontario Men’s Amateur will be announced in January following the holiday season.
• The Ontario Disability Championship will move to July to run in conjunction with the Ontario Open.

 

Register for / view tournaments  

 

The complete schedule including tournament formats, exemptions, and entry eligibility will be available next month with registration beginning in early February.

 

Golf Ontario would like to thank those who have committed thus far to hosting tournaments, and for their continued support heading into the 2021 Championship season.

 

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, 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.

 

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:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario is pleased to announce the upcoming 2021 World Handicap System (WHS) webinar schedule. Beginning February, Golf Ontario will be offering five WHS certification sessions virtually. Instructed by the Handicap and Course Rating department, the webinar will take an in-depth look at all seven Rules of Handicapping as well as supporting appendix, that are an integral part of the game being inclusive and accessible to all golfers.

 

The World Handicap System Certification webinars are perfect for:

• Individuals who are on a club Handicap Committee
• PGA professionals
• Individuals that have a desire to manage a regional public player handicap group/club.
• Or anyone that just wants a better understanding and knowledge of the World Handicap System

 

“We are happy to release the World Handicap System certification schedule,” said Duncan Chau Handicap & Course Rating Coordinator. “We had a successful launch to the WHS in 2020, and we look to build on this momentum and continue to bring the global golf community closer. We have provided a variety of dates and times to help fit everyone’s schedule.

 

Full details on the World Handicap System certification webinar, including registration, is available by visiting the Handicap Certification training page.

 

For more information please contact:

Duncan Chau
Handicap & Course Rating Coordinator
dchau@gao.ca
905 852-1101 x243

As the governing body for golf in Ontario, we take pride in helping to grow the game of golf through many junior golf initiatives, including Golf in Schools and Team Ontario. With this in mind, Golf Ontario is excited to let you know that we have launched the 2020 edition of the 12 Days of Golf.

 

This year, all the proceeds will go to support junior programs across Ontario, including the launch of First Tee in 2021. This exciting new program enables youth to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with life skills curriculum, First Tee creates learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that youth carry in everything they do. All of Golf Ontario’s junior programs help shape the lives of young people from all walks of life, by reinforcing values like integrity, respect, and perseverance through the game of golf. And it is making a difference. These young people are the golfers of tomorrow.

 

This online auction will take place between December 7^th to 19^th, 2020, and is one of the key fundraising initiatives to support and develop junior golf in Ontario. This program is a perfect chance for you to treat yourself, or to secure a holiday gift for your friends and loved ones, at the best private and public courses in the province. There are some incredible courses, and we hope that you will take the time to look and bid on some of these foursomes and packages.

Beginning on Dec 7^th, bidding will be live below 

BID HERE NOW

 

Head there for your chance to bid on and win these awesome items, and support First Tee and Junior Golf initiatives. The three waves of items will feature over 70 auction items for rounds of golf, TaylorMade clubs, and much more.

 

Make sure to check back often for updates!

 

WAVE ONE – December 7^th noon – December 11^th noon. TaylorMade clubs and certificates for golf at over 25 great courses, including …

• Crosswinds G&CC
• Otter Creek GC
• Sawmill GC
• Copper Creek GC
• Muskoka Highlands GL
• Lakeridge Links GC
• And more….

 

WAVE TWO – December 11^{th –} 16^th . A chance to secure rounds at many more great courses, including …

• St. Mary’s G&CC
• Saugeen GC
• Dalewood GC
• Listowel GC
• And more….

 

WAVE THREE – December 16^th – December 19^th. Last wave of exciting courses and clubs, featuring …

• Eagle’s Nest GC
• Cutten Fields
• Stay and Play at Brockstreet
• Golf at The Marshes
• And more….

 

BID HERE NOW

 

For more information please email
Jason Hraynyk, Manager, Business Development
jhraynyk@gao.ca