The fourth annual Indigenous Ontario Championship returns to the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory on August 11–13
This year’s event will feature 118 of the top male and female Indigenous golfers from across North America——competing in Gross and Net Stableford divisions.
Since inception in 2021, the Indigenous Ontario Championship has provided Indigenous golfers of all ages with a competitive, community-driven experience.
As part of Golf Ontario’s “Golf For All” vision, the event plays a vital role in expanding access and representation in the sport.
“This event is part of our Golf For All vision. It allows us to reach more and more communities across the province,” said John Lawrence, Director of Competitions & Performance at Golf Ontario.
“We’re looking at more than 40 different First Nation communities being represented. There are people here from all different nations—some from Ontario, others with roots as far as Alberta.”
‘With each year, players become more comfortable—and the level of competition rises,” he said. “As the event gains more exposure, we’re seeing stronger golfers from a wider range of nations take part.
A key partner in the event’s success has been MontHill Golf & Country Club, which has hosted all four editions of the Indigenous Open thanks to its strong connection with the community.
“It’s only ever been held at MontHill, and their support is like no other,” said Lawrence. “They do so much to make it a great experience for the player and they go above and beyond.”
While most participants are exclusive to the Indigenous Ontario Championship, Golf Ontario hopes the event will act as a bridge to broader competition.
“The majority of these players are not playing in our other events yet—the idea is that they will,” said Lawrence.
Defending Men’s champion Ky Horn of the Mohawks of Kahnawake—winner in both 2023 and 2024—returns to the field, while on the women’s side, Cheryl Mitchell, a three-time Indigenous Ontario champion and the 2003 Ontario Women’s Amateur winner, is also back in action.
The Indigenous Ontario Championship is a celebration of talent, culture, and community. As Jesse Smith, former PGA player from Six Nations, puts it, “The Indigenous Ontario Championship provides an opportunity to highlight our talented golfers but more importantly it provides access, opportunity, and change. Six Nations is proud to host this event that brings many Nations together under good competition and friendship.”
Tee-offs for the first two rounds begin at 7:30 a.m. from the 1st and 10th tees.
For all first-round pairings and start times, CLICK HERE.
