The third annual Indigenous Ontario Championship returns August 12 – 14 in the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory.
The championship features 117 of the top male and female Indigenous golfers from across North America, the most players this event has seen yet, competing in Gross and Net Stableford divisions. The championship will also feature junior and senior divisions.
In its third year running, the Indigenous Ontario Championship has been open to Indigenous golfers of all ages. With the inaugural Indigenous Ontario Championship’s success, the format was switched from a 36-hole to a 54-hole stroke play event.
This championship aims to bring awareness to the growth and impact of the game of golf to Indigenous communities and provide both players and spectators with a memorable experience.
All three editions of this championship have been hosted by MontHill Golf & Country Club thanks to its strong ties with the community ever since Six Nations business leaders, Jerry Montour and the late Ken Hill acquired rights to the club in 2014.
The first two rounds will see tee-offs begin at 7:30 a.m. from the first and 10th tees.
For all first-round pairings and start times, CLICK HERE.
PLAYER NOTES
Of the 85 players in the men’s division, notable names include:
Defending men’s 2023 Indigenous Ontario Champion, Ky Horn of the Mohawks of Kahnawake.
Men’s winner of the Inaugural Indigenous Ontario Championship, John Monture of Lower Mohawk descent.
Aiden Deng of Muskoday First Nation, who recently competed in the 119th Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.
Of the 27 players in the women’s division, notable names include:
Cheryl Mitchell of Walpole Island First Nation, the women’s winner of both Indigenous Ontario Championships in 2022 and 2023.
Lorraine Elijah of the Oneida Nation of the Thanes, the 2023 Ontario Senior Women’s Championship ‘A’ flight Champion.
Matachewan First Nation’s Melanie Burgess, who finished runner-up in the first two Indigenous Ontario Championships.
QUOTES
Kyle McFarlane, Golf Ontario CEO: “We are excited for the third playing of the Ontario Indigenous Championship. The week promises to be a celebration of golf and showcase the talent of Indigenous golfers from across the province and country. We are incredibly grateful to the leadership of MontHill Golf & Country Club for their support and collaboration, which have been pivotal in bringing this championship to life. We anticipate a fantastic week ahead, filled with competition, camaraderie, and outstanding golf.”
Brendan Painter, Director of Golf – MontHill Golf & Country Club: “MontHill Golf & Country Club is proud to host the 3rd annual Indigenous Ontario Championship. Being 100 percent Indigenous owned, this tournament holds a special place in our hearts bringing together Indigenous from all over Turtle Island. Last year we had 91 players from over 40 different Nations, with some great competition, lots of laughs, and just an overall positive experience. We look forward to much more of the same this year.”
FAST FACTS
Championship Venue: MontHill Golf & Country Club
Championship Dates: August 12 – 14
Field: 117 players (89 men, 28 women)
Format: 54-hole, stroke play
Leaderboard Link: 24′ Indigenous Ontario Championship Event :: Tournament Results (golfgenius.com)
Fun Fact: MontHill Golf & Country Club was originally named Sundrim Golf Course until 2014, when the club was purchased by Jerry Montour and Ken Hill.
Social Handles: @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook and X
