On October 8, the PGA of Ontario completed their 1000 Ball Challenge at Deer Creek Golf Club in Ajax, marking an incredible finish to a summer of fundraising and community support. In just under two hours, the team hit all 1,000 golf balls in celebration of this great initiative.

The funds raised will support the creation and development of a bursary dedicated to empowering PGA of Ontario professionals and fostering the growth of golf across the province. Managed by the PGA of Ontario’s Finance Committee, the bursary will provide financial assistance and educational opportunities to both aspiring and current PGA professionals, helping to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and promote inclusivity within the sport.

“We’re so proud of the incredible support from our members and the broader community,” said Melanie van der Hoop, Executive Director of the PGA of Ontario. “Completing the 1000 Ball Challenge was a fun and meaningful way to make a real impact for our members. Through this new bursary, we will be investing directly in their professional growth and development while advancing inclusive recruitment pathways. Our goal is to ensure that golf in Ontario continues to thrive and remains accessible for all – this bursary will be a cornerstone in making that vision a reality.”

Golf Ontario is proud to continue its long-standing relationship with the PGA of Ontario, their staff, board, and members. Together, initiatives like the 1000 Ball Challenge and the Golf For All Fund continue to strengthen the sport and create opportunities for future generations.

A heartful thank-you goes to the members of the PGA of Ontario fundraising team who participated in the Challenge and made the day possible!

Congratulations to the PGA of Ontario on an outstanding accomplishment and their continued commitment to advancing GOLF FOR ALL in Ontario!

There is still time to support PGA of Ontario’s 1000 Ball Challenge fundraiser by donating directly to their page here: http://www.1000ball.ca/t/pga-of-ontario

Donations to the 1000 Ball Challenge closes on October 31st http://www.1000ball.ca/donate

At Golf Ontario, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, time, and passion fuel the success of our programs, events, and the vibrant golf community we continue to grow across the province. Each fall, we come together to celebrate these incredible individuals at our annual Volunteer Appreciation Days. During these celebrations, we honour milestone years of service and proudly present two of our highest volunteer accolades: the Volunteer of the Year Award and the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award.

Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award

Sharon has volunteered with Golf Ontario since 2008.  For over 15 years she has been a tremendous asset to the course rating team.  She currently acts as the team leader for the Peterborough region and does so with infectious energy. She’s always on time for ratings, keeps the process running smoothly, and makes sure everyone is on the same page with her communication skills. Known for being detail oriented (a tremendous asset in the CR process) Sharon also finds time to play Oliver’s Nest Golf Course (her home club) and flirts with being a single-digit handicap! 

Sharon’s dedication and positive attitude make her a pleasure to work with, and her commitment to Golf Ontario and the course rating program is exemplary. When she does retire from the course rating team lead, we are certain Sharon will continue to share her genuine love for golf with others and will be a lifelong ambassador for the game.   

Sharon goes above and beyond; embodying the spirit, passion and dedication of the sport, which makes her an obvious choice for the Golf Ontario Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award.  Thank you Sharon! 

Volunteer of the Year Award

Since joining Golf Ontario as a volunteer in 2018, Judy Pouliot has distinguished herself as an exceptional leader and ambassador for the game. A nationally certified Level 3 referee, Judy has not only mastered the Rules of Golf but has also dedicated herself to educating and mentoring others. 

Her leadership in delivering “Rules Ready” programming at clubs throughout the Kingston area has introduced countless golfers to the fundamentals of the game, while her instruction in the Level 2 Rules program has inspired many to pursue advanced certification. Judy’s impact extends well beyond education—her presence as a referee has been instrumental in the growth and success of Golf Ontario championships, in addition to her contributions at Golf Canada and GTA AM Tour events. 

Judy is known for her professionalism, fairness, and warmth on the course. She fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment for athletes and volunteers alike, handling every ruling with integrity, kindness, and respect.  Her passion for golf and unwavering commitment to the sport exemplify the very best of volunteerism. Judy Pouliot’s contributions have left a lasting mark on our championships and community, making her a truly deserving honoree. 

As a Course Rater since 2018, Darrell Peters has been a fabulous support and model of volunteerism for Golf Ontario.  In 2025 Darrell exhibited the Golf Ontario value of Brilliance via his commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and creativity in his work.  Specifically, Darrell developed an AF1 tool (Automated Excel based form with programmed upload on data to the USGA CRS) which saves countless hours for our teams and has helped simplify rating process.  

Darrell is also appreciated for his efforts with course rating in more than one region.  All this while finding time to volunteer on the RINK hole at the Canadian Open, and carrying a single digit Handicap Index at his club: Markland Wood Golf Club. Thank you, Darrell, for embracing Golf Ontario’s mandate of Shaping Live by Connecting People to Positive Golf Experiences. 

At the heart of Golf Ontario, our volunteers are the lifeblood in a variety of critical areas, including championships, rules, course rating, and governance on committees and our board of directors. They are the sport’s ambassadors and an essential part of our team, enabling us to deliver exceptional programming and experiences to golfers, partners, and industry stakeholders.

Interested in becoming part of the Golf Ontario volunteer family? Find out more about the opportunities and rewards on our Volunteering Resource page HERE.

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From sharing with friends to giving back to the game, here are five great ways to put this incredible prize to good use:

1. Gift to Friends and Family – The holidays are coming! Surprise the golfers in your life with a sleeve (or three) of premium TaylorMade balls.
2. Keep Them for Yourself – Play every round with confidence knowing you’ll never run out of top-tier performance golf balls again.
3. Donate to Local Golf Programs – Share the game by supporting local junior golf programs and helping the next generation fall in love with golf.
4. Host Your Own 1000 Ball Challenge – Turn your backyard or local range into an epic event! Invite friends, raise funds, and see who can hit the most balls.
5. Creative Home Decorations – Fill a vase, design a golf-themed centerpiece, or build a golf ball chandelier. The options are endless.
   
   Enter the 1000 Ball Raffle before October 31 for your chance to win 1,000 TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x balls (valued at $8,000).
   
   All proceeds support the Golf For All Fund, helping make golf more accessible and inclusive across Ontario.

ENTER THE 1000 BALL RAFFLE NOW

Last Year’s Winner: Pam’s Local Golf Ball Giveaway
Pam won the 1000 Ball Raffle in 2024 and turned her prize into something special! Read about how she shared her winnings, supported local programs, and made the most of her 1,000 golf balls.

READ HER STORY HERE

Belleville, ON – Spencer Shropshire of Hawk Ridge Golf Club won the 2025 Ontario Supercamp Invitational Boy’s Division in impressive fashion, finishing at eight-under par with rounds of 72, 69, and 67 for a total score of 208. This victory adds to an already strong season for Shropshire, who also claimed the 2025 Ontario Junior Boys’ Championship earlier this year. Manav Bharani of Brampton Golf Club finished second at three-under par (213), followed by Carter O’Brien of Prescott Golf Club in third at one-over (217).

Riviera Lindholm of St. George’s Golf and Country Club continued her stellar season by winning the 2025 Ontario Supercamp Invitational with a total score of 221, finishing five-over par. Lindholm, who also captured the 2025 U13 Championship earlier this year, posted rounds of 69, 75, and 77 to secure the title. Tied for second place at nine-over par were Team Ontario athletes Alexis Card from Galt Country Club and Kaprice Park from RattleSnake Point Golf Club. Card shot consistent rounds of 74, 76, and 75, while Park recorded scores of 74, 71, and 80.

Golf Ontario would like to express its sincere gratitude to the volunteers, officials, and staff at Black Bear Ridge for their exceptional support and hospitality today. Their contributions were instrumental in delivering a world-class experience.

Stay Connected

Championship Photo Album

Visit the tournament website for full results

For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout tournaments, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.

When Pam, a member of the LPGA Amateurs of Ontario Niagara Chapter, signed up for Golf Ontario’s 1000 Ball Challenge, she didn’t have her eye on the 1000 balls. For Pam, it was simply about showing support for a cause she believed in—growing the game of golf and helping build stronger connections between Golf Ontario and local chapters like her own.

“I didn’t donate with the intention or expectation of winning a prize,” Pam says. “It was just about supporting Golf Ontario and giving back. We’ve got a good relationship between (Golf Ontario) and the LPGA Amateurs, so it just made sense.”

The Challenge gave the Niagara Chapter a fun and meaningful way to get involved, with some funds coming back to support their growth and community.

“Some of the funds came back to us, so it helped our chapter grow. We thought it would be a fun way to support a worthy cause and get involved.”

But when Pam’s name was drawn as the 2024 Grand Prize Winner, she found herself with 1,000 golf balls—and a new challenge: what to do with them.

Turns out, sharing was the easy answer.

“They’ve gone to a lot of different places,” she says. “I donated some to our LPGA Amateurs Niagara Chapter—we’re using them as prizes—and I even left some at the indoor driving range the day we were hitting our thousand balls.”

Her generosity didn’t stop there. Pam gave golf balls to junior golfers, used them in gift baskets for charity events like the Charlie Challenge in Guelph, and even included them in birthday presents. 

She found ways to give back beyond golf, too—donating to a coworker’s fundraiser for his son’s autism therapy.

“I’ve known someone since they were born who’s now an avid junior golfer, so I gave them some too,” she adds. “It’s been barters, gifts, donations, and using them myself. They’re being spread around, and all my friends are benefiting.”

Even after all that, Pam still has 48 dozen balls left—more than enough for a few more acts of kindness.

Reflecting on the experience, Pam says the Challenge was a rewarding test of perseverance, teamwork, and fun.

“Hitting a thousand balls sounds like a lot—and it is—but it was such a fun experience. Only four of us did it, and we really leaned into it. We were even hitting indoors the day Raff presented the balls. There was a whole set of circumstances, but we made it work.”

So, what would she tell someone thinking of taking on the 1000 Ball Challenge?

“Do it! It’s a fun way to give back. You’re supporting a great cause, you get to challenge yourself, and the community around it is amazing.”

As for winning?

“I was shocked,” she laughs. “I remember thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, what am I going to do with all these balls?’ But it’s been incredible. Being able to share them has brought me a lot of joy.”

Pam 1000 Ball Challenge story is proof that one good swing can go a long way—and sometimes, the real win is in what you give back.

By purchasing a ticket for Golf Ontario’s 1000 Ball for the 1000 Ball Challenge Raffle, you’re directly supporting the GOLF FOR ALL Fund—an initiative focused on expanding golf programs across Ontario. Your contribution helps grow the game by creating more inclusive and accessible golf experiences for all.

Take inspiration from Pam, last year’s grand prize winner, who used her 1,000 golf balls to give back to her community. This year, you could be next. 

Buy your raffle ticket today and you could be the big winner! 

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN 1000 GOLF BALLS

Will Mitchell (Peterborough Golf & Country Club) and Mark Armstrong (Oshawa Golf & Curling Club) were crowned the champions at Oakdale Golf & Country Club, capturing the Ontario Men’s Four-Ball.

The pair fired an impressive 9-under-par 63 Monday in perfect conditions at Oakdale Golf & Country Club in Toronto.

The teams of Derek Dalziel (Oaks Golf & Country Club) and Andrew Dagneau (Golf Ontario Players Club), and Ryan Tsang and Michael Vettese (both from Cedar Brae Golf Club) finished T2, one shot back of the leaders at -8.

Established in 1959, the Ontario Men’s Four-Ball Championship has a long history at Oakdale Golf and Country Club—also the site of the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, where Canadian Nick Taylor secured a historic victory. The event has been held here every year since its inception, with the exception of 1963 and 1965.

A total of 56 two-man teams teed it Monday at Oakdale for the Men’s Four-Ball Championship

For all final results, CLICK HERE.

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As the leaves turn and temperatures drop across the country, fall is one of the most scenic — and often favourite — times of year to be on the golf course. It also signals the approach of the end of the active season, which varies by province.

Before you pack up your clubs for winter, it’s important to know how fall golf can affect your Handicap Index under the World Handicap System (WHS).

Here are six things to keep in mind:

1. Active seasons vary by Province

The Active Season is the period when scores from your specified area are eligible for handicap purposes. These dates are based on when courses are typically in mid-season condition, as they were when rated.

Weather and course conditions can affect the accuracy of course ratings, which is why scores eventually become ineligible for handicap purposes. Even if the active season is over, you can still post your scores to your Golf Canada/Golf Ontario account, though they won’t be factored into your Handicap Index.

2. Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC)

Frost delays, soggy lies and swirling winds are all part of fall golf. Conditions can be unpredictable, but the Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) helps account for tougher days.

PCC is an automatic process that compares daily scores against expected scoring patterns. If enough players post scores outside expectations from the same course on the same day, the WHS adjusts score differentials to reflect difficulty. The PCC only activates if at least eight rounds are posted from the same tee/course, so post your score the same day.

3. Preferred lies and wet fairways

When the ground gets damp, many clubs implement preferred lies (lift, clean and place) to ensure fair play. These rounds are still acceptable for handicap purposes under the WHS, as long as the local rule is in place and the round follows the Rules of Golf. When in doubt, check with the pro shop.

4. Shorter days means more 9-Hole and incomplete rounds

With less daylight in the fall, fitting in 18 holes can be a challenge. The WHS supports posting 9-hole rounds and incomplete rounds (10–17 holes).

As long as you play a full front or back nine, your score can be posted. You’ll receive a score differential for the holes played and the system will combine them to produce an 18-hole differential. Twilight nines are still a great way to keep scores in your record.

5. Playing on aerated greens

Many Canadian courses aerate their greens in the fall. While bumps and sand may affect putting, these scores are still valid.

Rounds played on aerated greens are acceptable, and a PCC adjustment may apply. It’s important to post these scores, even if conditions feel less than ideal.

6. Keep posting your scores

Fall golf in Canada can be both stunning and challenging. While the season may be short, those final rounds still matter in maintaining a fair and accurate Handicap Index.

Whether you’re playing competitively or just enjoying the last stretch of good weather, remember the WHS is designed to account for seasonal conditions.

So don’t put your clubs away just yet — post your scores, enjoy the colours and finish your season strong.

Oakdale Golf and Country Club is set to host the Ontario Men’s Four-Ball Championship on October 6th. This prestigious, one-day competition will see 56 two-man teams battle for the championship title in four-ball format.

Established in 1959, the Ontario Men’s Four-Ball Championship has a long history at Oakdale Golf and Country Club—also the site of the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, where Canadian Nick Taylor secured a historic victory. The event has been held here every year since its inception, with the exception of 1963 and 1965.

QUOTE

“We are deeply honoured to have our final Golf Ontario provincial championship of the year hosted at the prestigious Oakdale Golf and Country Club. The club has been an incredible supporter of this championship for more than 60 years, and we’re excited to be on-site this Monday for another exceptional Ontario Men’s Four-Ball Championship.”
–Rob Watson, Tournament Director.

TEAMS TO WATCH

Last year’s winners, the father and son duo of Charlie and Cam Burke.

Daniel DiFrancesco  and Traynor Turkiewicz, 2023 winners.

2022 champions, Ryan Kings and Josh Hunke.

National and provincial champion, Charles Fitzsimmons and Canadian radio icon Howard Glassman.

Legends Dave Bunker and Rob Cowan earned an exemption by winning the 2024 Ontario Men’s Senior Four Ball Championship and are competing together at Oakdale.

FAST FACTS

Venue: Oakdale Golf and Country Club
Date: Oct. 6
Field: 56 two-man teams
Format: 18-hole, four-ball
Pairings: HERE
Fun Fact: Past champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Mike Weir, Gary Cowan, Warren Sye, Kelly Roberts, Bill Morland and Phil Farley.

Belleville, ON – The 6th annual Ontario Super Camp Invitational returns to the scenic Black Bear Ridge Golf Course & Resort, as 60 of Ontario’s top junior golfers gear up to compete for the Dave Mills Trophy.
The four‑day event includes a one‑day Super Camp combine followed by a 54‑hole Championship, running from October 5 to 8, 2025. Invitations are extended based on the Junior Golf Pathway Rankings.

Players to Watch

Boys

Spencer Shropshire (Hawk Ridge GC) – 2025 Junior Boys Champion, Team Ontario

Dimitri Protopapas (The Nest at Friday Harbour) – 2025 Junior Boys Matchplay Champion

Bode Stephen (Cataraqui G&CC) – Team Ontario athlete

Joseph Totino (Summit G&CC) – 2025 Junior Boys Matchplay runner-up, Team Ontario athlete

Bryce Burridge (Greenhills CC) – 2025 Ontario U15 Champion

Wilson Doornekamp (Cataraqui G&CC) – 2024 Ontario U13 Champion

Jaeger Pain (Station Creek GC) – 2023 Super Camp Champion

Girls

Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt & GC) – 2025 Ontario U17 Champion, Team Ontario athlete

Alexis Card (Galt CC) – 2025 Ontario U15 Champion, Team Ontario Athlete

Kaylan Green (Scarboro G&CC) – Team Ontario Athlete

Serena Zhang – 2025 Ontario Junior Girls Champion

Riviera Lindholm (St. George’s G&CC) – 2023 Ontario U13 Champion

Evelyn Ma (Station Creek GC) – Silver Medal at the 2025 Canada Games

Kaprice Park (RattleSnake Point GC) – Team Ontario athlete

Claire Roberts (Whistle Bear GC) – Team Ontario athlete

Stay Connected

Visit the tournament website for full details

For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout tournaments, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.

Gormley, ON – Last year’s Senior Men’s Match Play Champion Darren Shaw (King’s Forest Golf Club), alongside Robert Crifo (Cedar Brae Golf Club), captured the top spot at the 2025 Ontario Men’s Senior Four-Ball Championship with an impressive score of 64, finishing seven-under-par. The duo delivered a strong performance, carding eight birdies throughout the round. Their consistent play and effective teamwork kept them ahead of the field, securing a well-earned victory.

Finishing in a tie for second place with impressive scores of 65 were the teams of Don Lang (Summit Golf & Country Club) + Bruce McEwen (Scarboro Golf & Country Club), along with Lyle Somers + Dave Madill of RattleSnake Point Golf Club.

Golf Ontario would like to express its sincere gratitude to the volunteers, officials, and staff at Meadowbrook Golf Club for their exceptional support and hospitality today. Their contributions were instrumental in delivering a world-class experience.

Stay Connected

Championship Photo Album

Visit the tournament website for full results

For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout tournaments, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.