UXBRIDGE — With great excitement, Golf Ontario is proud to announce the 2020 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame’s newest acclaimed member, Danny Mijovic. Mijovic will be honoured at the official induction ceremony on May 6, 2020 at Wooden Sticks Golf Club in Uxbridge. Tim O’Connor will be receiving the Lorne Rubenstein Media Award, presented annually to accredited members of the Ontario media for “major contributions to golf.”
2020 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Inductees
Danny Mijovic
Maple resident Danny Mijovic, 59, enters the prestigious Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in the Professional Golfer category after 35 plus years as a golf professional.
Growing up, he played much of his golf at York Downs Golf and Country Club. It was here Mijovic would grow his passion for the game and develop his skill level to reach the professional stage.
The list of accolades began in his collegiate years, where he attended Texas Wesleyan University on a golf scholarship. He was an individual medalist at nine collegiate tournaments, and is the only player at any collegiate level to win an individual national championship in all four years.
During his time at Texas Wesleyan, the Rams scored four consecutive national runner-up finishes and won twenty-four collegiate tournaments. He also won the 1983 Mid-Atlantic Amateur and the 1983 Canadian Amateur tournaments. In that same year Mijovic, was the Number 1 ranked amateur in Canada. In 1984 he would be Canadian Amateur Championship Runner up and again be ranked the #1 Amateur in Canada and also #5 in the US.
After graduating with a degree in business administration he represented Canada on the World Amateur Team (Eisenhower Trophy) in 1984 before turning professional.
The four-time All-American went on to win the 1983 Canadian Amateur Championship and his very first professional tournament, the Mexican Open, in 1984. Other notable wins include the 1984 Porter Cup, becoming only the second Canadian to do so, (the other being Gary Cowan) and also in his first professional Canadian tournament, would win the 1985 Labatt’s Blue-Light Championship on the Canadian Tour beating out Canadian greats like Dave Barr, Jerry Anderson and Jim Rutledge.
Mijovic has played in two U.S. Opens and made the cut in each of his three appearances at the British Open. Closer to home he was the 1987 Ontario PGA Champion and more recently, Mijovic won the 2012 Senior PGA of Ontario Championship.
After playing professionally for 35+ years and competing in an incredible 50 countries, he still holds numerous course records. His career saw him eventually play on the Canadian Tour, Asian Tour, Australian Tour, European Tour, South American Tour, Great Lakes Tour (Ontario) and US Mini Tours.
A testament to his incredible skill was his ability to have shot 61 an astounding four times in tournaments including setting a course record with that number while winning the 2005 Osprey Valley Classic Championship on the Great Lakes Tour. With numbers like that it is obvious why in 2011 he was inducted into the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame and the Texas Wesleyan University Hall of Fame.
With his combination of knowledge and passion for teaching and coaching, Mijovic continues giving back to the game that has been so good to him. He is currently ClubLink’s Director of Instruction at King’s Riding Golf Club and King Valley Golf Club where he provides a memorable, informative, and entertaining experience.
Tim O’Connor
This year’s recipient of the Lorne Rubenstein Media Award is Tim O’Connor, a very worthy and distinguished recipient given his incredibly vast contributions to the game in Ontario.
A London, ON native, O’Connor was a junior member of Sunningdale Golf and Country Club. He was an avid junior golfer, but found himself a far better caddy even though he dutifully took lessons and practised as much as he could.
At Western University, he wrote album and concert reviews for the Gazette, the student newspaper, and became Entertainment Editor in his fourth year and then eventually elected as Editor-in-chief.
Various positions afterwards including a stint with United Press Canada and then with CP where he became its National Music Writer, reporting and commenting on popular music where he interviewed music icons such as David Bowie, Robert Plant, Lou Reed and many more.
While at CP, O’Connor re-connected with the game of golf. When former CP staffer John Gordon became editor-in-chief of SCOREGolf Magazine, O’Connor was invited to write for the magazine. He would then go on to twice win the writing contest of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America based on stories published in SCOREGolf.
Bolstered by his awards, opportunities to write freelance, and encouraged by none other than Lorne Rubenstein, he quit Canadian Press in 1992 to write about golf full-time as a freelance. He would go onto to write for a wide variety of golf publications across North America, The Financial Post, Golf Digest, GOLF, Golf World, LINKS, Golfweek, Golf Canada and Ontario Golf Magazine.
He’s also been a freelance golf reporter for CBC Radio, and covered the Masters, U.S. Open, PGA Championship, duMaurier Classic and the Canadian Open. Additionally, he produced golf documentaries for the CBC Radio program The Inside Track, launched The Golf Show, for Telemedia Radio Network and the Golf Show on AM-Talk640.
With two young boys having come along quickly, he switched gears and became Director of Communications for ClubLink Corporation. In early 2000, his engagement changed to a consultant, and he formed O’Connor Golf Communications.
O’Connor kept writing while working as a consultant including books: The Feeling of Greatness: The Moe Norman Story, The Ladies’ 1924-1999: A History of the Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto, Devil’s Pulpit: The First Decade, and The Single Plane Golf Swing: Play Better Golf the Moe Norman Way. In 2007, he edited The Final Missing Piece of Ben Hogan’s Secret Puzzle, an instruction book based on Hogan’s swing.
O’Connor also transitioned to coaching golfers on the mental side of the game, becoming the Mental Performance Coach of the ClubLink Academy at Glen Abbey. He continues to deliver keynote speeches and conduct his Walk Your Talk workshops on leadership for the golf and business organizations, and his Getting Unstuck golf mental performance workshops.
In 2015, he returned to his media roots, launching the Swing Thoughts podcast with co-host Howard Glassman (aka Humble Howard). He’s also just completed his third year as Head Coach of the University of Guelph men’s and women’s varsity golf teams.
He now resides in Guelph with his wife Sandy Halloran, and two sons, Corey and Sean.
ABOUT THE ONTARIO GOLF HALL OF FAME
The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of extraordinary contributions and accomplishments in the game of golf in Ontario. Founded in 2000 by the Ontario Golf Association and the Ontario Ladies’ Golf Association, the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame is housed at Wooden Sticks Golf Club in Uxbridge.
Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada adds Ontario Open to schedule
Ross Malcolm
Tour teams with Golf Ontario for August event
at Woodington Lake Golf Club
TORONTO, ONT – The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada and Golf Ontario have reached a six-year agreement in partnership with Woodington Lake Golf Club to host and conduct the Ontario Open. The first tournament, an official tournament on the Tour’s 2020 schedule is set for Tottenham, Ontario, on August 24-30.
Debuting in 1923, the Ontario Open’s past champions include Sam Snead, along with Canadian golf legends Moe Norman, George Knudson and seven-time champion Nick Weslock. Following a 23-year hiatus, the event returned for its 63rd edition in 2019, an event won by Greg Eason, who five years earlier finished fifth on the Mackenzie Tour Order of Merit. Eason has 31 career Tour starts.
“The Ontario Open has a rich history in Canada, and the Mackenzie Tour is thrilled at the opportunity to be involved with such a storied event,” said Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada Vice President Scott Pritchard. “We’re looking forward to working alongside Golf Ontario and the team at Woodington Lake to deliver a world-class tournament.”
Mike Kelly, Golf Ontario’s Executive Director since 2015, played a large part in revitalizing the Ontario Open and says he is looking forward to adding to the legacy of the event with the Mackenzie Tour’s involvement.
“The Ontario Open is steeped in tradition and history and has a long list of distinguished winners,” said Kelly. “We were thrilled to bring back the Ontario Open in 2019 to Woodington Lake Golf Club and equally thrilled with the success of the event.
“To now join forces and take the event to the next level with The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada is an exciting time for Golf Ontario, and we believe this will be one of the marquee events on Tour this year,” continued Kelly.
Hosting the 156-player tournament is the Legend Course at Woodington Lakes Golf Club, a 36-hole facility north of Toronto. Measuring more than 7,000 yards, the Legend Course opened in 1995 and covers 200 acres of rolling terrain.
“Woodington Lake is truly a special piece of property, and the Ontario Open was a huge success in 2019,” said John Chetti, General Manager of Woodington Lake. “Our Legend course is a great test of golf, having some of the best golfers in the world tackle it is special for all of us at Woodington Lake and we look forward to hosting an extraordinary event.”
Craig Loughry, Golf Ontario’s Director of Golf Services, will serve as Tournament Director of the event. In addition to his experience with Golf Ontario, Loughry was also Golf Canada’s Director of Handicap and Course Rating and was the International Association of Golf Administrators President in 2017.
“We’re very excited about this announcement and the future of the Ontario Open, as well as our partnership with Woodington Lake Golf Club and the Mackenzie Tour,” said Loughry “We are already well down the road to planning some special activities around the event and look forward to unveiling some of those over the next few months.”
The tournament also announced today that the Golf Canada Foundation (GCF) will be the Ontario Open’s official charity recipient.
“The Golf Canada Foundation’s contributions to the game of golf and young golfers fit right in line with Golf Ontario’s mission to shape lives by leading, creating and promoting positive golf experiences,” said Loughry. “We’re delighted to partner and financially support the GCF and its mandate.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Golf Ontario and the Mackenzie Tour – PGA Tour Canada as the official charity of the Ontario Open,” said Martin Barnard, the CEO of the Golf Canada Foundation. “The event will drive tremendous awareness and fund programs critical to getting more kids playing golf in Ontario.”
The full 2020 Mackenzie Tour schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.
ABOUT THE MACKENZIE TOUR – PGA TOUR CANADA
The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada is a series of tournaments played across Canada each summer, where tomorrow’s stars begin the path to the PGA TOUR. The leading 10 points-earners at the end of each season earn status on the Korn Ferry Tour for the following year. The Tour’s alumni include 41 PGA TOUR players and 232 Korn Ferry Tour players since 2013. The Mackenzie Tour’s mission is to deliver a PGA TOUR experience for its members, fans, volunteers and partners in order to develop the future stars of professional golf and enrich the communities it visits.
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.
Woodington Lake Golf Club is home to 36 holes of picturesque golf in Tottenham, Ontario. Carved around a towering pine forest and nestled near Woodington Lake, this course Is truly legendary. The newest addition to Woodington Lake Golf Club is the Legacy course, a true mix of Links and stadium styles. With very challenging water hazards, along with fast and undulating greens, the Legacy course attracts golfers of every skill level.
ABOUT GOLF CANADA FOUNDATION
Golf Canada Foundation inspires young players to build strong core values and character while living a healthy lifestyle. The Foundation supports initiatives in five key areas: junior golf, collegiate golf, women’s golf, high-performance golf and golf heritage.
Golf Ontario is pleased to announce the 2020 Championship schedule featuring the best amateur championships in the province, hosted at many renowned facilities across Ontario.
Tournament registration will open February 6th, 2020 at 9:00am.
After a very successful 2019 season, the planning is well underway to continue the momentum into 2020 in what should be another brilliant year for Golf in Ontario.
The 2020 schedule is highlighted by the province’s premier amateur competitions – the 98th Ontario Men’s Amateur will run July 14-17 at Otter Creek Golf Club in Otterville, and the 105th running of the Ontario Women’s Amateur along with the Women’s Mid-Amateur will be hosted by Listowel Golf Club as part of their 100th anniversary, July 6-9.
After a very successful inaugural Ontario Disability Championship, Golf Ontario will once again host the championship at Woodington Lake Golf Club prior to next year’s Ontario Open. Exciting new details of 2020 Ontario Open will be announced in the new year.
To view the full 2020 Golf Ontario Championship
Schedule including Qualifiers click here
(last updated Jan 8, 2020)
“We are excited to announce one of the most diverse and inclusive championship schedules in amateur golf, catering to all golfers in Ontario” said Golf Ontario Manager of Rules & Competitions John Lawrence. “In 2020 we are pleased to celebrate a couple of milestones with our renowned member clubs including; Listowel Golf Club’s 100th anniversary, and as previously scheduled a year ago, Sault Ste. Marie Golf Club centennial.”
The championship season officially begins May 14th with the 62nd running of the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship hosted annually at Toronto’s Oakdale Golf & Country Club.
At the junior level, the Victoria Day long weekend Junior Spring Classic’s will kickoff the competitive championship season for most boys and girls. The boys will contest the picturesque countryside of Ontario’s Lake Country at Hawk Ridge Golf & Country Club in Orillia, while the girls will return to Wooden Sticks Golf Course in Uxbridge for the annual events.
After an overwhelmingly positive response from our Senior Men’s category Golf Ontario will be adding a Senior Men’s Match Play Championship to the 2020 calendar. A competition made up of 32 players, earning their positions through exemptions and qualifying rounds, the championship will run alongside the Men’s Match Play Championship at Taboo Golf Resort in Gravenhurst June 8-11.
The Ontario Champion of Champions tournament will move from what was an early Spring May date to June 1st in 2020. The later date will allow more players to hone their skills and prepare to compete with all the province’s member club champions at Spring Lakes Golf Club.
The complete schedule including tournament formats and entry eligibility will be available February 3rd, 2020 when tournament registration opens.
For more information or comments on the tournament schedule please contact John Lawrence at jlawrence@gao.ca
*Please Note:
We are currently working on the 2020 schedule during these unprecedented times and thank you for your patience and understanding.
We will make an announcement when we know more.
2019 Ontario Order of Merit Winners Announced
Peter MacKellar
With a successful 2019 season in the books, Golf Ontario is excited to recognize nine athletes for their remarkable accomplishments on the golf course this past season. They will all now be eligible for the coveted Ontario Male and Female Ontario Player of the Year Awards to be chosen by a selection committee and announced at a later date.
The final standings for the Provincial Order of Merit were recently released, and the following athletes led their respective divisions, and have been recognized by Golf Ontario as Ontario’s top amateur golfers for 2019.
Mike Kelly, Executive Director of Golf Ontario was quick to sing the praises of these athletes: “These athletes have succeeded at the highest levels in each of their respective categories, while juggling academic endeavours with work and family schedules. Each athlete performed at the top of their category this past season, and Golf Ontario is privileged to recognize these individuals on their accomplishments both on and off the golf course”, said Kelly
Garrett Rank – Men’s Mid-Amateur & Men’s Amateur
Once again a familiar face leads the Order of Merit ranking for both the Men’s Mid-Amateur and Amateur divisions. Our 2018 Ontario Male Golfer of the year once again brought skill and perseverance to the course.
The 31-year old NHL referee from Elmira Golf Club, has been the Men’s Amateur leader in Order of Merit ranking for the past 4 seasons, and since becoming eligible for the Mid-Amateur category in 2013 has held on to the coveted top spot in that category as well.
Rank, an accomplished amateur, has done quite well for himself, from being next to the best hockey players in the world on the ice one week to getting the opportunity to compete against the best golfers in the world the next. His highlight of the year was winning the 117th Western Amateur Golf Tournament. Rank was the first Canadian to win the event since Vancouver’s Jim Nelford in 1977, and the first non-US born victor since New Zealand’s Danny Lee in 2008. He credits the momentum and confidence he took from the final round of the Porter Cup as the push he needed going into the Western Am.
Rank spoke about the year ahead. “I’m looking forward to the Korn Ferry Tour start (an exemption from winning Western Am) and hopefully testing myself at the highest levels.”
Garrett would like to thank his team and all the support he has received. Also big thanks to Westmount GC, Elmira GC, the University of Waterloo, Dave Smallwood, James Skrypec, Dr. Rich Ennis, Drew Symons, Derek Ingram, Golf Canada and of course Golf Ontario.
Ontario Amateur Men Order of Merit Ranking
Garrett Rank
Thomas Giroux
Charles Fitzsimmons
Matthew Anderson
Sam Meek
Ontario Amateur Mid-Am Men Order of Merit Ranking
Garrett Rank
Charles Fitzsimmons
Dave Bunker
Phil Arci
David Lang
Emily Zhu – Juvenile U17 Girls, Junior U19 Girls, Women’s Amateur
The Richmond Hill, Ont., native had a strong 2019 campaign highlighted by wins at the Canadian Junior Girls Championship and the AJGA Natural Resource Partners Bluegrass Junior. Zhu also notched two runner-up finishes at the 2019 Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship and the 2019 Duke of York Young Champions Trophy and a runner-up finish in the Canada Junior Girls’ division. She also represented Canada at the past three World Junior Girls Championships.
Zhu said her highlights of the year were winning the Canadian Jr Girls Championship and finishing 2nd at the Ontario Women’s Am. “It was one of my goals this year to win the Canadian Jr. Girls Championships and I did it. It was a surprise for me to finish so well at the Ontario Women’s Am and I hope I can go on to win it next year”. She also added, “my chance to participate in the CP Women’s Open was incredible as it was my first official LPGA event so I’m very thankful and honoured to have had the opportunity to play.”
One moment in particular that stood out for her this season was the week of the Canadian Jr. Girls Championship where she felt very focused and played so well. Zhu is looking forward to playing in the Canadian Jr Girls Championship again next year and hopes she can claim the prestigious Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship as well.
She would like to thank Golf Canada for the Team Canada program and coaching it provides, especially Head Coach, Matt Wilson for helping her. Zhu would also like to thank her dad for everything he has done, not only supporting her but coaching as well and bringing her to individual tournaments.
Ontario Amateur Women Order of Merit Ranking
Emily Zhu
Sarah Dunning
Tiana Cruz
Kelsey Sear
Grace St-Germain
Sarah Dunning, Women’s Mid-Am
Claiming top spot in the Women’s Mid-Am category for the first time was conveniently enough also our 2019 Ontario Women’s Mid-Am Champion, Sarah Dunning from Westmount Golf and Country Club. Dunning, a Waterloo, Ont. native, played a solid 3 rounds at Black Bear Ridge Golf Course to capture the title over big names like Kyrinis, Hodgson and Hayward. She also won the Golf Canada University College Women’s Championship back in May at Firerock Golf Club.
“I enjoyed the 2019 golf season. I was fortunate to play well and win two events”, said Dunning. “As this was my first year as a mid-am I noted the contrast between mid-am and previous amateur competitions I participated in. The atmosphere is competitive but there is camaraderie with your competitors. Everyone loves the game. I look forward to next season and would encourage anyone of mid-am age to return to competition, it was really fun.”
Dunning would like to thank all of the volunteers, caddies, and rules officials who gave their time.
Ontario Mid-Am Women Order of Merit Ranking
Sarah Dunning
Judith Kyrinis
Mary Ann Hayward
Julia Hodgson
Natasha Lehman
Ashley Chinner – Senior Men
Topping the Senior Men’s leaderboard this year was Ashley Chinner from Coppinwood Golf Course. The Brooklin Ont., native was the 1996 Canadian PGA Champion, Low Canadian at the 1998 Bell Canadian Open and still remains a constant threat at all Ontario Senior tournaments.
Chinner had one highlight in particular this year he enjoyed the most. “Playing in the final group at Taboo in the Ontario Seniors was a very enjoyable experience but, the final round in the Canadian Seniors with Lars was definitely the highlight, a tough day grinding out pars at Cedarbrae put a smile on both of our faces.”
He also mentioned receiving his Golf Ontario bag at Taboo was pretty enjoyable too. “I was just happy with my consistency… makes me look forward to 2020 opening day already.”
Chinner thanks his Team at Signature Risk (work) for holding down the fort while he was out playing. He also thanks Golf Ontario, all the staff and the Golf Club’s that gave up their courses for competition this season and finally, his wife Stephanie, who walked every round rain or shine.
Ontario Senior Men Order of Merit Ranking
Ashely Chinner
Joe Miszk
David Greenaway
Robert Gibson
Lars Melander
Judith Kyrinis- Senior Women
The 2019 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee caps off another impressive season by claiming the Senior Women’s division in the Order of Merit for the fourth time.
Starting her season off with the thrilling Hall of Fame acclaim, Kyrinis, felt her highlight after that was without a doubt making birdie on 18 to win her 2nd Canadian Mid-am/Senior title as a validating moment. “For all the work we put in, that was a pretty cool moment to do that“.
Another highlight she felt was being tied for low Am at the US Women’s Senior Open at Pine Needles, as the course was such a challenge for all that week.
“With all this snow right now, I’m looking forward to green grass in 2020! Seriously though, just the opportunity to tee it up against the best and test yourself. Sometimes you can surprise yourself and some days are disappointing but that’s golf, Kyrinis added. “Always keep learning.”
She credits any success she’s had in recent years to a great team of Coaches that have helped her achieve some amazing experiences in golf. Kyrinis would like to send huge thanks out to Matt and Liz Hoffman, Dave Woods and Jeff Hammond. “Of course I am also blessed to have an extremely supportive husband and family!”
Ontario Senior Women Order of Merit Ranking
Judith Kyrinis
Mary Ann Hayward
Marion Reid
Ivy Steinberg
Allyson Harrison
Bennett Ruby – Junior (U19) Boys
Leading the way for Junior Boys was Team Ontario member and Waterloo Ont. resident, Bennett Ruby. Ruby, who recently was named to Team Canada’s Junior Development Squad, claimed 8 top 10 finishes to claim the honours for the Order of Merit category.
When asked about a highlight of his season, Ruby had a similar answer to Latter. “The highlight of my season was winning the Can-Am matches with Team Ontario. Although I had a few other good finishes the Can-Am matches were by far the biggest highlight. Can-Am is something that I get really excited for every year and being able to win my doubles match with my best bud Dylan Henderson and also win my singles match to help the team win is something I’ll never forget.”
Ruby also mentioned his first round 67 at the Canadian Junior Championship as a moment that stood out. Although he was 5 shots back at the end of the day, Ruby really felt in control of his game at that point of the season.
He would go on to say, “In 2020 I am most looking forward to playing some bigger amateur events and playing on a bigger stage with Team Canada.”
Ruby would like to thank his parents for the support that they have given him throughout his junior career. Between the coaching, travel, hotels, physical training, physio etc. it really means a lot to him how much they’ve supported him and felt none of his success would have been possible without them. He added, “I’d also like to thank my coaches Nick Starchuck and Ralph Bauer for all of the work that they have put in with me and for improving my game. Lastly I’d like to thank the coaches at Team Ontario. Reggie, Nick, Charles, and Jessie. I really appreciate all the time that the coaches put into that program to help improve my game.”
Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Order of Merit Ranking
Bennett Ruby
Thomas Latter
Robbie Latter
Jeffrey Fang
Bavake Sihota
Ontario Junior (U19) Girls Order of Merit Ranking
Emily Zhu
Taylor Kehoe
Brooke Rivers
Hailey McLaughlin
Victoria Zheng
Thomas Latter – Juvenile (U17) Boys
Winning this tough category for the season was Team Ontario member and Mississauga, Ont. resident, Thomas Latter from Credit Valley Golf and Country Club. Latter had 7 top 10 finishes including second place in the Ontario Junior Boys (U19) Match Play Championships to secure top spot in this Order of Merit category.
He had one definite highlight on his 2019 season, “winning the Can-Am matches in March down in South Carolina with Team Ontario was awesome.”
The moment that stood out the most for Latter was playing in the final round of the Canadian Juniors in New Brunswick with his older brother Robbie who was playing in his final Junior Tournament. Bennett Ruby was also their third which made it even more meaningful for him.
Latter is already looking forward to the 2020 season as well. “In 2020 I hope to continue developing as a golfer and as a person.”
He would like to thank his Coaches, Reggie Millage and Dave Moro, and would also like to thank his parents who are very supportive.
Ontario Juvenile (U17) Boys Order of Merit Ranking
Thomas Latter
Jeffrey Fang
Luke DelGobbo
Kavith Ranchagoda
Peter Blazevic
Ontario Juvenile (U17) Girls Order of Merit Ranking
Emily Zhu
Taylor Kehoe
Brooke Rivers
Victoria Zheng
Sarah Gallagher
Owen Kim – Bantam (U15) Boys
Owen Kim, from Oakville Ont., had a very successful 2019 season including 6 top 10’s. Playing out of Cedar Springs Golf Club, Kim most notably finished second at the Ontario Juvenile (U17) Championship from Greenhills Golf Club and third place at the Ontario Bantam (U15) Boys Championship.
Ontario Bantam (U15) Boys
Owen Kim
Andre Zhu
Alex Long
Isaiah Ellis
Beni Long
Brooke Rivers – Bantam (U15) Girls
In 7 events this season, Brampton Ont. native Brooke Rivers captured 4 top 10 finishes. Building on momentum last year when she captured the 2018 Ontario Bantam (U15) Girls’ Championship, Rivers would find much success again in 2019.Highlights from this season include first at the Future Links Quebec Girls, fourth at the Canadian Junior Girls, third in the Ontario Junior Spring Classic (U19) Girls Championship from Wooden Sticks Golf Club and runner-up at the Ontario Women’s Match Play from Cataraqui Golf and Country Club.
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.
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and Like us on Facebook, @TheGolfOntario for updates of all our competitions and news.
For more information, please contact:
Peter MacKellar
Manager, Marketing & Communications
(e) PMacKellar@gao.ca
You know them by their surnames alone: Els, Day, Ogilvy, Garcia, Casey…and even Weir. They’ll all be in the field December 5-8 at The Australian Club in Sydney for the playing of the 104th Emirates Australian Open.
But Mike Weir will not be the only Canadian competing on the grounds of the club this week.
While some of the top golf pros in the world will be playing for the Stonehaven Cup, this year’s championship will also see the concurrent playing of the Australian All Abilities Championship (AAAC) presented by ISPS Handa. The circumstance will give the second edition of this tournament even greater exposure for a growing segment of golf.
Last year the AAAC invited their field based on the European Disabled Golf Association rankings but with the advent of the new World Rankings for Golfers with a Disability (WR4GD), North American golfers can now take part.
That means there will be more Canadian content than 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir on the grounds at The Australian Club. Joining him there will be 32 year-old Kurtis Barkley of Winchester, Ontario, a small town located 45 minutes drive south of Ottawa.
Barkley, all five-feet of him, has become a well-known quantity in the National Capital Golf scene, often to the amazement of others.
2019 Ontario Disability Champion, two-time Ottawa Valley Golf Association (OVGA) City & District Champion, an OVGA Tournament of Champions winner, and victor at the Flagstick Shootout at Smuggler’s Glen in 2015, Barkley has proven himself on the golf course.
All this while dealing with challenges his competitors could hardly imagine.
When he was born to Kathy and Rick Barkley, he was abnormally small in size and they were told he might not survive. Tests revealed that he had severe Scoliosis with seven of his vertebrae fused together. Other skeletal issues in his torso caused breathing issues and also shortened his upper body.
It was not a very positive diagnosis but the younger Barkley has made the most of it, even when that meant spending a huge part of his youth enduring visits and tests at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. Unable to take on more physical sports like his brother he looked to golf to sooth his competitive spirit at an early age.
“What I have always enjoyed about golf is not only competing but trying to get better,” Barkley shared in an interview with Flagstick a few years back. “It doesn’t matter what you shoot in golf, there is always something you could have done better. It’s a game (where) you can never stop improving. When I go out and play golf I’m just like anybody else.”
A New Direction
But competitive golf takes a toll on Kurtis. He faces an uncertain physical future. That made him re-think his competitive golf plan in recent years.
The recent proliferation of golf events around the world for those with physical restrictions crystallized a vision he always had to play the sport he loves around the globe.
That led him to competing on the European Disabled Golf Association circuit in 2019. In just five events he posted four top-three finishes, and he also won the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. When an opening came available for a spot in the 12-person Australian All Abilities Championship, he did not hesitate to accept it.
It seemed like a fateful call.
You see, Kurtis Barkley is acquainted with the country. He lived there from the ages of 8 until 11. His father was employed by Winchester Cheese which has been sold to Australian dairy giant Bega. Their family, along with several others, made the move to help the parent company with brand operations. They lived in Tathra, about 400km south of Sydney.
It was a grand adventure for the family, and for a young Kurtis. He had started hitting golf balls at age 3, made it to the course at age 7, and the climate in Australia was favourable for both his body and his golf game, being able to play all year long.
Coincidentally, it was also the place where he first played golf competitively. When he came back to Canada at age 11 he has reduced his index to the same number, and he’s not stopped playing since.
The symmetry of it all is not lost on Barkley. “It’s crazy if you ask me, full circle indeed,” he shared just hours before he was set to embark on the punishing 23-hour journey down under.
Now the #18 ranked player in the WR4DG, Barkley reached as high as #13 during the season and the plus handicap player has a goal to be in the top 8 next year.
The appearance in Sydney will help that quest, but it will also be more meaningful, with a chance to also tee it up in the presence of some golf icons.
“I take great honour in representing Canada in Australia,” said with sincerity. “The 2019 golf season was a rollercoaster, travelling the world playing golf was a dream of mine ever since I was a kid. I was at the airport travelling to Las Vegas (to compete in a U.S. Adaptive Golf Alliance event) when I got the message that a player had backed out of Australia and I was first alternate. I am blown away to be able to play with the biggest names in golf.”
Barkley will be accompanied by his fiancé, Marissa Imrie, to Australia where they will spend two weeks in total.
He says he is looking forward to meeting Weir but, as always, the chance to compete drives him.
“It’s 7000 plus yards but I am really eager to see what I can do on the big stage.”
As for his strategy, he says he will do what he has done his whole life, on and off the golf course, do things his own way.
“Let’s just say I’ll play my own game, fairways and greens.” He then adds in his usual playful manner, “If I win, I win, but no one remembers second.”
The first round of the AAAC will be played Friday, December 6th, with the conclusion on Sunday, December 9th. The champion will be crowned at a ceremony alongside that of the Emirates Australian Open.
2 Ontarians Advance to 2020 Drive, Chip and Putt Championship
OAKMONT, PA - SEPTEMBER 07: Alexis Card participates in the girls 7-9 putting competition during the regional round of the Drive, Putt, and Chip competition at Oakmont Country Club on September 7, 2019 in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images for the DC&P Championship)
Peter MacKellar
Written by Golf Canada
Three Canadian juniors will be among the 80 competitors in the sixth annual Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Augusta National on April 5, 2020.
In the Girls 7-9 division, Canada will be represented by the duo of Alexis Card (Cambridge, Ont.) and Anna Wu (Victoria, B.C.). Card punched her ticket to Augusta with a score of 107 at the Oakmont Country Club qualifier while Wu posted a total of 122 at Chambers Bay Golf Course.
The Canadians are rounded out by Cole Roberts of Oshawa, Ont., who qualified at TPC River Highlands with a score of 107.
Canada has seen three juniors take home titles at the Drive, Chip and Putt nationals in as many years. Savannah Grewal (Mississauga, Ont.)won in 2017, followed by Vanessa Borovilos (Toronto)in 2018 and Nicole Gal (Oakville, Ont.)in 2019.
Local qualifying for the seventh season began in May and was held at more than 300 sites throughout all 50 states this summer. The top-three scorers per venue, in each of the four age categories in separate boys’ and girls’ divisions, advanced to more than 60 sub-regional qualifiers in July and August.
The top two juniors in each age and gender division then competed at the regional level in September and October. Regional qualifying was held at 10 courses around the country, including several U.S. Open and PGA Championship venues.
Championship scoring at the local, subregional and regional qualifiers was based on a 25-point-per-shot basis, with each participant taking three shots per skill. Each participant accumulated points per shot in all three skills (maximum of 75 points per skill = 25 points per shot x 3). The overall winner in each age category was determined by the participant with the most points accumulated between all three skills (maximum of 225 points = 75 points per skill x 3).
Golf Ontario thrilled to launch 12 Days of Golf in support of junior golf
Peter MacKellar
As the governing body for golf in Ontario, one of the things Golf Ontario does is to help grow the game of golf through many junior golf initiatives, including Golf in Schools, and Team Ontario. With this in mind, we wanted to let you know that Golf Ontario is excited to be returning with the 2019 edition of the 12 Days of Golf. This online auction program will take place between December 2 – 13, 2019 and is one of the key fundraising initiatives to support and develop junior golf in Ontario. With the generous contributions of foursomes from our member clubs across the province, Golf Ontario is hoping to raise $32,000 for junior golf.
This program is a perfect chance for you to treat yourself, or to secure a holiday gift for your friends and loved ones at over 160 of 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 at, and hopefully bid on, some of these foursomes between Dec 2 and Dec 13 and help contribute to junior golf in Ontario.
Keep your eye out for the 12 Days of Golf coming in 3 waves where you will find the following beautiful clubs among many others
WAVE 1 – December 2 noon – December 5 noon
Valleymede Columbus
King’s Forest
The Briars
Whitevale
Maple Downs G&CC
Sawmill GC
Taboo Muskoka
Legacy Ridge GC
Beverly G&CC
Essex G&CC
Muskoka Highlands
Nobleton Lakes GC
WAVE TWO December 5 noon – December 9 noon
Rockway Vineyards
The Club at Lora Bay
Loyalist CC
Crosswinds G&CC
Bay of Quinte G&CC
Hockley Valley
Maple City CC
Listowel GC
WAVE THREE December 8 noon – December 12 noon
Baxter Creek GC
Markland Wood
Oak Bay GC
Duntroon Highlands
Cedar Brae
Trillium Wood GC
Beach Grove G&CC
Thank you in advance for your support.
Golf Ontario Summer Recap: September Edition
Peter MacKellar
In the final installment of our 2019 Golf Ontario Season Review, we recap some events still fresh in our minds with a look back at a sizzling September. Our concluding month saw some fantastic tournaments beginning with the Ontario Public Player Championship and ending with the coveted World Junior Girls Championship co-hosted with Golf Canada. Join us in finishing our 2019 season review with an exciting month of Golf in Ontario.
September Championships
Sunny and cool skies welcomed the players to Meadowbrook GC for the Ontario Public Amateur Championship that began September 4th. With no returning champion, the field looked to play well and hopefully take an early lead heading into the final day.
Day one proved to be a tight race with competitive scores throughout. One possible player everyone was watching early was 2018 runner up Jeremy Wilson (Bethesda Grange GC). He played well again but it was Daniel Racioppa (Mount Albert, ON) who ended grabbing the lead and attention after round one. Coming out hot, Racioppa would shoot even-par, the top score of the day.
Heading into day two, only a one-stroke difference separated first and second place, and by the end of the final round, only a few strokes separated the top five players. After another hard-fought day, Wilson, last year’s runner up, came out on top. Wilson played one of the best rounds of his career carding four birdies and only two bogeys through 18 for a total score of +1 for the tournament. Showing maturity and the ability to be consistent, Wilson continued his success despite some pressure from some other players trailing and finished the round with a tournament low -2 to secure the win.
“It’s an awesome feeling to be able to come back and win it,” said Wilson. “Second place last year was still a success in my books but definitely the end goal was to win it all.” When asked about the pressures of being a finalist last year and to continue to have success, Wilson pointed out that there’s always pressure to perform.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
From there we headed to the Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship that played out on September 19th from Brampton GC. The field of 124 went off on a shotgun start to see which duo would leave as champions, and hoist the ‘Oakdale Trophy’. Being the only round of the tournament, the stakes were high and the players came out ready to play.
At the beginning of the day, all eyes were on the reigning champions Mark Bennett (Bayview G&CC) and Jim Briggs (Cardinal Lakes GC). The duo came into the tournament the early favorites as they arrived with high hopes of clinching their second title in two years.
The tournament was highly competitive seeing five groups all within two strokes of the top spot, but it was home course twosome Bruno Ardito and Gary Parker (Brampton GC) who would eventually steal the show. After 18, the duo was tied with the talented team of Dan Partland (The Summit G&CC) and Christopher Kertsos (York Downs G&CC). The two teams took to the track for a playoff and remained neck and neck the entire way through with neither duo pulling ahead. It wasn’t until the third playoff hole where Ardito lined up and dropped a 30-foot putt to clinch the title.
When given the chance to speak about the tournament winning shot, Ardito simply praised his partner. “If it weren’t for my red hot partner, this wouldn’t have been possible,” he said. “It’s a great feeling winning at our home course, and we hope everyone had as much fun as we did.”
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
Summer like conditions welcomed the 84 players to Toronto Ladies GC for the 66th annual Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship on September 23rd. With hot weather came hot play, and the day proved to be competitive just like in years past. After 18 holes however, it was Delaney Howson (Public Player), former Team Ontario coach, and Golf Ontario’s very own, Jessie Mercer (Black Bear Ridge GC) who came out on top.
“It was a great day for us,” said Howson. “We got off to a bit of a slow start but found some momentum on the back nine. We started to play off each other’s strengths and found a good rhythm.” When asked about their stretch of birdies in the second half of their round, they credited it to some lucky shots. “I chipped in on 12, Delaney stuck one tight on the next and then made a six-footer on 14 to cap it off,” said Mercer. “It was a little lucky but we definitely were on a roll.”
The duo finished the tournament -3 (69), and left as champions. Trailing in second was a two-way tie between the group of Kristy McLaughlin (Mad River), and Joanne River (Weston G&CC), and the group of Susan Postian (Sunningdale GC) and Jane Hedges-McKinnon. The two teams finished the day at even-par (72), only three strokes behind the leaders.
As for the Low Net portion of the tournament, it was home course favourites Mavis Knight and Denise Tobin (Ladies GC of Toronto) who came out on top after a six-hole playoff against the talented duo of Penny Robinson and Mary Contardi (The CC West). Playing an extra hour and a half of golf, both teams showed incredible resilience and devotion, proving that they were going to battle it out until the very end.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
Our 2019 golf season would end with the world’s best young female golfers taking over Markham’s Angus Glen Golf Club from September 24-27 as the 2019 World Junior Girls Championship got underway.
Round one was clearly a tough affair since only three competitors managed to navigate the challenging South Course under par: Thailand’s Yosita Khawnuna, Yin Xiaowen of China and Ye Won Lee of Korea, who all share the individual lead at -1 after rounds of 71.
It was an equally tight contest in the team competition as the top three squads are only separated by two shots, with Korea paving the way on an aggregate score of minus -1 (143), followed closely by Thailand at even par (144) and England in third at plus +1 (145).
Teeing it up from the 10th hole during round two in a split-tee start this morning, Thailand’s Atthaya Thitikul, the defending champion from last year’s WJGC in Ottawa, had a relatively inauspicious start with four consecutive pars, before finding a new gear following a birdie on the par-5 14th hole. And she was all business from there, collecting seven more birdies and an eagle against only one bogey the rest of the way. Thitikul returned to the clubhouse with a three-stroke lead over her nearest rivals. Hannah Darling of Scotland and last year’s individual silver medallist, Alessia Nobilio of Italy, were tied for second place at 5-under for the tournament.
In her post-round interview, the personable Thitikul was frank in her assessment: “You know, I give all the credit to my putter, it worked really good today. I just had fun in the round and that’s good. And the results come.”
In the team competition, the Thai squad managed to create a little space atop of what was a very crowded leaderboard following the first round. Propelled by Thitikul’s stellar outing, Thailand shaved 7 strokes from par on the Wednesday for an aggregate total of 281 (-7), one shot better than Korea in second place at 282 (-6) and Chinese Taipei, who jump up the rankings to No. 3 with a total team score of 284. Last year’s champion team Italy is close behind in fourth spot at minus -1.
On day three after a 3-hour thunderstorm delay, the Koreans rallied to erase the four-stroke lead that Thailand held before the stoppage and took a one-shot advantage in the team competition.
Korea would sit in first with an aggregate score of 422 (-10), just one shot ahead of Thailand at No. 2. Italy also made the most of moving day, as the 2018 team champions in Ottawa posted a score of minus -1 to climb to third position (-2). England and Denmark also moved up a notch, to fourth and fifth respectively.
In the individual competition, the top of the leader board was occupied by seven competitors that remain under par this week and it was still led by Atthaya Thitikul of Thailand.
Ye Won Lee of Korea (-7), who fired a four-under 68 for the lowest round of the day, climbed to within two shots of Thitikul, who holds on to the lead with a tournament-best score of -9. Scotland’s Hannah Darling, whose hole-in-one yesterday helped her close in on the leaders, sits third at -6. Alessia Nobilio of Italy drops back to 4th place at -5, after shooting even par today.
After the round, Ye Won Lee explained: “I felt really good with my swing but I think that I could have done even better than I did today because my putter was a little shaky.”
Thitikul’s poise and talent were evident in the final round, where she would claim her second consecutive World Junior Girls Championship title by two strokes over Ye Won Lee of the Republic of Korea.
In the team competition, it was the Republic of Korea that claimed the gold medal, their second World Junior Girls title after winning it in 2015 at The Marshes GC of Ottawa. After rallying to take the lead following Thursday’s weather delay, the Korean team never looked back. They registered an aggregate score of 3-under (141) in the final round to take the laurels. After claiming bronze at Camelot Golf Club in 2018, Thailand upgraded its 2019 haul by winning silver, while last year’s champions Italy finishing third to earn the bronze medal.
“It’s very, very nice to win. I’m so happy now. But I’m a little disappointed that I couldn’t catch the (girl in) first place. But only ten percent disappointed (laughs),” said team gold and individual silver medalist Ye Won Lee.
The 2019 gold is Korea’s fourth World Junior Girls Championship medal in only five participations in the event, a tournament record.
In the individual contest, Thitikul managed to keep her playing partners at bay on the front nine, taking a stroke back from the silver medallist, Republic of Korea’s Ye Won Lee, thanks to three birdies against only one bogey. Despite committing two more bogeys on the back nine and briefly finding herself only one stroke up, Thitikul, who fired a final round of 70 (-2), scored a superb eagle on the par-5 16th hole which Ye Won Lee couldn’t match.
When asked how important that shot was to her victory, Thitikul declared that “It helped me a lot, you know. When I putt it, in mind I was like ‘Yes! I will get this.’ It made me feel more confident when walking to the 18th hole.” Italy’s Alessia Nobilio, an individual silver medallist in both 2017 and 2018, shot 71 in the final round to finish the tournament at 6-under, in third place. She is now the World Junior Girls most decorated competitor in tournament history with three individual and two team medals.
As the organizing federation, Canada delegated two teams to participate in the Championship.
Canada 1, consisting of Brooke Rivers (Brampton, Ont.), Euna Han (Coquitlam, B.C.) and Emily Zhu (Richmond Hill, Ont.) had a strong finish to the tourney, posting their first negative team score of the week (-2) which allowed them to climb to 7th in a tie with Switzerland. Canada 2, composed of Lauren Kim and Angela Arora of Surrey, B.C., with Ellie Szeryk (London, Ont.), scored plus +7 and dropped to 19th, ahead of Ireland.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
A fitting end to an incredible 2019 golf season, the closing ceremonies of the World Junior Girls Championship wrapped up with so many distinguished guests and company on-hand. With the final drive, putt, thrill, chill, acceptance speech and post-round interview in the books, the sun would finally set on the day and on an incredible season.
Golf Ontario would once again like to thank you all our host courses for such fantastic hospitality, our players for all the excitement, our different departments and staff for their tireless efforts and massive thanks to our volunteers and officials for all their hard work, making everything possible.
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.
Henderson voted as 2019 LPGA Founders Award winner
KAPOLEI, HAWAII - APRIL 21: Brooke Henderson celebrates winning the LOTTE Championship on the 18th green at Ko Olina Golf Club on April 21, 2019 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Peter MacKellar
Written by Adam Stanley/ Golf Canada
In a comfortable floral jumpsuit and with her parents in the audience, Brooke Henderson added another award to her ever-growing trophy case.
The 22-year-old won the 2019 Founders Award at the Rolex LPGA Awards ceremony last Thursday night in Naples, Fla. during the week of the CME Group Tour Championship.
The Founders Award is newly named for 2019. Formerly called the William & Mousie Powell Award, it was renamed for this year to celebrate the 13 founders of the LPGA.
Henderson told golfcanada.ca that the win was extra special since the winner of the award comes from a vote by fellow golfers on the LPGA Tour. It’s annually given to, in the opinion of her peers, someone “whose behaviour and deeds best exemplifies the spirit, ideals, and values of the LPGA.”
The nine-time LPGA Tour winner said she first found out at an LPGA Tour Players’ Meeting earlier in the year that she was one of the nominees, and said to know people were voting for her was ‘pretty crazy.’
“It means a lot,” Henderson said. “I spend so much time with these girls that it’s really a great honour to be given the Founders Award.
“To be considered in the same sentence as (the founders)… their passion and perseverance and what they did this Tour was amazing. This is really cool for me.”
Henderson has made a habit of capturing awards-by-votes in 2019.
Earlier in the year she became the first Canadian golfer to win an ESPY award (she won for ‘Best Female Golfer’) and in October she won the Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame People’s Choice Award – a new award designed to recognize ‘future Hall of Famers who are a champion of their sport and a champion for their community.’
“This year has been really crazy for the awards. I didn’t expect any of them,” Henderson said, flashing her recognizable smile. “To get them is just amazing. I’m honoured, humbled… and it’s just an amazing feeling.”
Henderson, who sat at a table with Lexi Thompson and executives from Rolex at the awards dinner, has won twice in 2019. Her victory at the Meijer LPGA Classic was the ninth in her young career. Win no. 9 gave her more than any other Canadian in the history of the LPGA or PGA Tour.
“This award that Brooke got is maybe one of the most special ones because it’s voted on by her peers and we’re so impressed and thrilled for Brooke to be recognized. We know how special she is,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “For all of her peers on the LPGA Tour to give her this award is phenomenal. It’s great for herself and her family and for all of Canadian golf.”
The native of Smiths Falls, Ont. has become a driving force for young golfers across the country – but even this week in Florida there are plenty of girls dressing with a visor and ponytail like Henderson walking outside the ropes – and she said being able to play in front of Canadians no matter where she goes makes her even more grateful for the support.
Henderson said she’s recognized her role and is happy to have an opportunity to be an inspiration both on the golf course with her record-breaking play, and off the course as well, as someone people can look up to.
“I’m always trying to become a better golfer, but I’m always trying to become a better person every day, too,” said Henderson. “When you work hard and are focused on achieving some goals, good things happen. This year is definitely proof of that.”
Golf Ontario Summer Recap: August Edition
Peter MacKellar
This week we look back at the sunny days of August in the fourth installment of our 2019 Golf Ontario Season Review. This month saw some majestic events, including two hosted at the beautiful Woodington Lakes GC. The prestigious Ontario Open returned, with a storied history dating back to 1923 including past champions of Canadian and International golf, that includes the immortal Sam Snead, Canadian golfing legends George Knudson and Moe Norman, as well as seven-time champion Nick Weslock. Also hosted at Woodington Lakes was the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. Focusing on player development, this inclusive event helped ensure a proper pathway and better competition opportunity for some of the highest performing athletes with disabilities. August also saw provincial events like the Ontario Junior (U19) Match Play Championship, Ontario Bantam (U15) Championship, and the always fun Ontario PeeWee (U13) Championship. Please join us in recapping another jam-packed month of exciting Golf in Ontario.
August Championships
Unfortunately, rain introduced day one of the annual Ontario Junior Boys Match Play Championship from Listowel GC beginning August 6th. All eyes were on last year’s champion Cody Clark (Oliver’s Nest GC), who arrived looking for his second title in two years. After two rounds, Clark proved he came to compete, winning 6&4 in the morning and 3&2 in the afternoon.
Day Two started with 16 remaining players as they tried to make the round of 4 in the tournament. After this day’s two rounds, it was Josh DiCarlo (Pointe West GC) who stole the show. Going up against the reigning champ in the first round of the day, DiCarlo came out hot early and took the lead in the first few holes. With some steady play and a few fantastic putts down the stretch, DiCarlo was able to hold the lead and advanced to the quarter-finals in the afternoon.
It was then a battle of the titans to move on to the semi-finals, with DiCarlo being the most steady player throughout the tournament, and Luke DelGobbo (Lookout Point CC) being the heaviest hitter. DelGobbo had advanced with scores of 9&8, and 7&5, and after 18 well-fought holes, it was DiCarlo who was yet again victorious.
DiCarlo, Thomas Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), Kavith Ranchagoda (Beacon Hill GC), and Carson Duffy (Bigwin island GC) all started day 3 in hopes of moving on to the finals in the afternoon. After 18 well fought holes between the two pairings, it was Latter and Ranchagoda who would advance.
The match between them was back and forth the entire way through. Ranchagoda had an early lead in the front nine but heading onto 16 the two were still all square. Ranchagoda however, would make some fantastic shots on the final two holes and crown himself the 2019 Junior Boys Match Play Champion.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
Meanwhile, with a day staggered in opening rounds, the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls Match Play Championship kicked off. After two well-fought rounds, it was Ella Weber (Rattlesnake Point GC), Sarah Gallagher (Blue Springs GC), 2017 champion Vanessa Chychrun (Beacon Hall GC), and Megan Miron (Hamilton G&CC) who made it to the semi-finals. With three playoffs in just the first round alone, the two rounds proved to be highly competitive.
On day two the semi-finals matches were a tight race throughout, but after 18 it was Weber and Gallagher who advanced to the finals. Teeing off at 12:50, it was a back and forth battle for who would wear the crown, but by the end of 18, it was Weber who was crowned champion.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
The best bantam boys and girls came out to Deer Creek GC for the 2019 Ontario Bantam (U15) Championship which got underway August 12th.
After round one, it was Carter Jarrett (Renfrew GC) and William Lin (Station Creek GC) for the boys who were able to climb ahead of the pack and take the lead heading into the final day. On the girl’s side, it was Alexa Ouellet (Credit Valley G&CC) and Krystal Li (The Summit G&CC) who came out above the rest.
Much like the first day, the second round of the boy’s portion of the championship was a tight race. With the top of the leaderboard suffocated with low scores from a wide range of players, it wasn’t an easy task to take the top spot, but it was Andres Diogenous (Whistle Bear GC) who prevailed.
Coming all the way down to the wire in the girl’s portion, it was Ouellet who came out on top by a single stroke. The 12-year-old Ouellet wowed the crowds with today’s round, carding three birdies on the front nine of her round. Trailing closely behind Ouellet the whole way through was Li and Kelly Zhao (Station Creek GC). The duo would finish the tournament only a single stroke behind.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
August 20th, Greenhills GC welcomed the Ontario Juvenile Boys and Girls (U17) Championship. The Ontario Juvenile Boys’ Championship is a 54-hole competition that features the province’s best junior golfers under the age of 17 competing for the Mike Weir Trophy. Notable past champions include Josh Whalen, Brandon Ng, Tim McCutcheon, Peter R. Knechtel, Bob Panasiuk and Gary Cowan. The Ontario Juvenile Girls’ Championship features the province’s best junior golfers under the age of 17 competing for the Sandra Post Trophy. Past champions of the event include Sandra Post, Jessica Shepley, Alena Sharp, Stephanie Sherlock, and Rebecca Lee-Bentham.
With only two strokes separating the top five players it was a tough battle for the top, but after 18 it was Carson Duffy (Bigwin Island GC) who came out ahead for the boys half. With a score of -3, Duffy had quite the impressive showing on his back nine, carding four birdies after going 1-over on his front nine.
Much like the boy’s portion of the tournament, the Juvenile girls saw some hot play and competitive scores throughout. Although it was a tight leaderboard, it was Kelly Zhao who was able to propel herself above the rest and build a four-stroke lead with a score of -2.
Round two proved to be much of the same as the talented field competed for the top spot heading into the final day. After day two it was Tommy McKenzie (Northridge Public GC) and Ty Stansfield (Thornhill Club) who came out on top and took the lead into the final round.
As the girls took to Greenhills GC for their second round, the question on many minds was if Zhao could hold the lead. 18 holes later, Zhao silenced the doubters with yet another impressive round, carding a -1 on the day, entering the final round with a final score of -3.
It was a crowded leaderboard entering into the final round of the championship. With only two strokes separating the top five boys, it was clear early on that everyone came out with the intentions of an early strike, but it was Ellis Kinnaird (Mississippi GC) who came out on top. With a majority of the scores above par, Kinnaird found a way to card the low score of the day with a -3, resulting in a -2 total.
Unlike the boys, there was a clear leader on the girl’s side the entire way through the first two days of the tournament. All eyes were yet again on Zhao as she took to the course for her round. Leading since the very first day, it was Zhao yet again at the top of the leaderboard. Finishing the tournament with a total score of -1, the 12-year-old showed poise and maturity way beyond her years.
The original boy’s write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
From here we switch to an exciting week of golf hosted at the prestigious Woodington Lake GC. Starting a packed end of August schedule, we were extremely proud to get the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship underway. 29 players took to the beautiful course in hopes of being the first champion in tournament history.
With some hot scores throughout, the day proved to not only be a celebration of new beginnings, but also a look to the future of how competitive such a championship can really be.
In the men’s portion of the event, it was Tracy Ramin from Montrose, MI who came out on top after 18. Ramin got his round underway wit a thunderous drive off the tee and continued that momentum throughout. Both Kurtis Barkley (Winchester, ON) and Josh Williams (Baden, ON) sat in second, only two strokes of the leader heading into round two.
While the men found themselves in quite the tight race, the women also showcased an impressive outing. Natasha Stasiuk (Oakville, ON) ended her round with a score of +10 to take the lead, while Elina Pylkkanen (Espoo, Finland), and Tessa Troan (St. Catherines, ON) sat in second and third.
Sunny skies welcomed the players to Woodington Lake GC for the final round of the Inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. The leaders took to the course to see if they could pull ahead of the rest of the field, and become the first Ontario Disability champion.
After 18, it was Kurtis Barkley (Cedar Glen GC) who came out on top in the men’s side of the category. Trailing Ramin coming into today’s round, Barkley kicked his round off with two birdies on his first five holes to immediately take the early lead. His solid round ended in an eventual tap-in on 18, followed shortly by a thunderous cheer from the crowd that circled the green. He would finish the tournament with a total score of +5, and would be crowned the first-ever Ontario Disability Men’s champion.
“Today was a grind, but I made a few key putts to keep myself in it,” said Barkley. “Ramin’s a great competitor, so it’s definitely a success to be able to come out on top.” When asked what it feels like to win, he couldn’t help but smile. “It’s awesome,” he said. “Words can’t describe what I’m feeling like right now, but it’s definitely great.”
For the women’s overall portion of the tournament, it was Stasiuk who came out on top. Carding 6 pars in the first 10 holes, the Oakville resident came out again in the second round proving she belonged at the top of the leaderboard. Despite the tough competition from her nearest competitors, Stasiuk maintained composure over the course of the two days and was able to crown herself a champion.
“It was a great tournament,” said Stasiuk. “I had a great time playing with the other competitors. For the first time, I felt like I belonged. Thanks Golf Ontario for such a great tournament.”
Stasiuk finished the tournament the first-ever Ontario Disability Women’s champion with a score of +16 overall.
The Inaugural Ontario Disability Championship was one for the books, and with so many smiling faces and laughs around the course, it is safe to say that it was a success from all aspects.
“As a physiotherapist, I continuously notice the importance of golf in the rehabilitation process for people with disabilities,” said Mark Smith, an EDGA Eligibility Assessor. “It was amazing to watch such skilled players come out and not only perform at such a high standard but to also enjoy themselves.”
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
From there we brought back The 96th Ontario Open, with a storied history dating back to 1923, making this Championship one of the oldest Championships in the world. A full field of 144 players qualified for this exciting event and competed for a guaranteed purse of $40,000. The excitement was echoed by this pre-tournament quote from our Executive Director, Mike Kelly.
“We are thrilled to be bringing back the Ontario Open, one of the oldest golf Championships in the world in 2019” said Mike Kelly, Executive Director of Golf Ontario. “This Championship is a true open championship and has attracted some of the best golfers in Ontario and beyond to test their games on the beautiful Woodington Lake Golf Club. With a purse of $40,000, and with names like Nesbitt, Whalen, Choi, and King, we can’t wait to see the level of competition as the players compete to have their names engraved on the champions trophy, along with the likes of Sam Snead, Moe Norman, and George Knudson” continued Kelly.
2 special exemptions to the championship were CFL Hall of Famer Damon Allen, along with former Our Lady Peace drummer Jeremy Taggart.
After round one, it was Matthew Scobie (Deer Creek GC) who came out ahead with some impressive play down the stretch. Carding back to back birdies on 7 & 8, and another two on the back nine, Scobie was able to come out of the tough round with a score below par, eventually resulting in him placing first heading into the second round.
“It was tough out there,” said Scobie. “The weather definitely wasn’t in our favour but I knew I had to keep on pushing.”
Clear and sunny skies welcomed the players to Woodington Lake GC for the second round of the Ontario Open. Things were very close with only two strokes separating the top eleven players, making the moving day very important. Gregory Eason (Kissimmee, FL) would eventually steal the spotlight on this day. Finishing -1 after 18, Scobie was seen as the early favorite heading into today’s round, but the story quickly changed once Eason caught on fire. Eason would card a birdie on his eleventh hole, and an eagle on the thirteenth. Finishing the day with a round score of -5, a tournament low, Eason quickly found himself at the top of the leaderboard.
“It’s been a while since I’ve had the lead in a tournament, so this is a great feeling,” said Eason. “Tomorrow will be good fun. I’ve got to keep hitting the ball well if I want to stay ahead of the talented field behind me.”
Light breezes welcomed the players to the final round of the Ontario Open as they arrived at Woodington Lake GC in hopes of leaving a champion. Following his momentum from yesterday, Eason maintained composure and made sure to have another solid start to his round. Finishing the front nine at even-par, the 27 year old kept to his game plan and made sure not to make any mistakes, letting the game come to him. The strategy was working, but Eason would eventually find himself with some pressure on the back nine.
Branson Ferrier (Barrie, ON) caught some heat through the later stages of his front nine. Sitting only two strokes behind Eason after 10, it looked like things we’re going to be a lot tighter than some had assumed. Eason however, would fend off the charge and head down the 18th fairway with a comfortable lead while appreciative fans began to crowd around the green.
“It was such an amazing moment,” said Eason. “There was quite a few people about to see me finish my round, which is always delighting.” Eason would tap in the final putt to the roars from the crowd, as they cheered on the newest Ontario Open champion.
As for Ferrier, he would finish in second place with a total score of -3. Trailing behind the two leaders in third was Russell Budd (Toronto, ON). Budd also had an impressive round to move up four places on the leaderboard for the third-place medal.
As for the amateur portion of the tournament, it was Thomas Giroux (Georgetown, ON) and Sudarshan Yellamaraju (Mississauga, ON) who came out of on top with total scores of +7 after three rounds.
A successful week has many excited for next year’s tournaments already. Stay tuned for exciting news on both the Ontario DIsability Championship and Ontario Open from Golf Ontario in the very near future.
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
Also during this busy week of golf, the Ontario Peewee (U13) Boys and Girls Championship got underway from the scenic Marlwood G&CC for two days of fun and exciting youth golf. The majority of these kids were playing in their first provincial tournament and you could hear the excited giggles and see the nervousness off the first tee with a large crowd on-hand. After some early fog rolled through and nerves settled down, some great golf played out and produced more big smiles than not.
On the Peewee Girls side, the leaderboard became quite crowded at the top by the end of the day. Alexa Ouellet (Credit Valley G&CC) and Hannah Lee (Cambridge GC) both shot a (+9) 80 to share the lead after day 1 of the two-day championship. Bridget Wilkie (Bayview G&CC) sat 2 shots back at +11 while Sophie Foulds (Public Player) and Angela Cai (Heron Point Golf Links) found themselves 3 strokes back at +12.
The Peewee Boys saw Jordan Hwang (York Downs G&CC) go off in the first group of the day to take the lead early and hold onto it the entire round. Hwang put together a very nice (+2) 73 to claim top spot hallway through the two-day tournament. Hot on his heels was Manay Bharani (Brampton GC) who sat two shots back after an opening 75. Tied for third were Kurt Rivers (Brampton GC) and Luke Smith (Thornhill GC) who found themselves just 3 strokes back of the lead after 76 rounds.
The final round got underway with scattered showers and brisk winds from the scenic Marlwood G&CC. When the final putt rolled in, two days of very fun and exciting youth golf had showcased some incredible emerging talent in Ontario.
The Peewee Girls side saw Wilkie take charge of the leaderboard, building a very large lead and running away with it on the back nine with some great play. Wilkie would shoot an impressive +1 (72) to take the championship by 10 strokes. Coming in second place was Ouellet who shot a +13 (84) on the day. Tied for the bronze medal were Lea Lemieux (Timberwolf GC) and Lee.
Over on the Peewee Boys side, day one leader Hwang led early on, only to lose the lead briefly to Smith, but then recover and hang on down the stretch. Hwang fired a +2 (73), his identical score as day one to capture the trophy by two strokes over Smith and Bharani. Smith shot a +3 (74) while Bharani fired a +4 (75). In fourth place was Gabriel Yazdani (London Hunt &CC) who carded a +3 (74) on his final round.
Golf Ontario strongly supports the development of Junior Golfers through our many initiatives that help Grow the Game! ”
We enjoy being able to host championships like the Peewee Girls’ and Boys’ Championships to develop the talent of Junior Golfers in Ontario. Through participating in our events, we hope that junior golfers learn values that will help build them as golfers, and citizens for years to come.” – Mike Kelly, Executive Director of Golf Ontario
The original write-up can be found here, visit the tournament page here
Phew! An incredibly busy month of August was clearly packed with top-notch tournaments and exciting golf from some incredible venues. Before we say goodbye to our 2019 season, join us next week as we finish off our series with a look at a stellar Septemeber.
