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.

The 2025 Ontario Men’s Senior Four-Ball Championship will be contested on Monday, September 29 at Meadowbrook Golf Club, bringing together some of the province’s most accomplished senior golfers for a day of top-tier competition.

This year’s championship will feature 56 teams (112 players) competing in the traditional team four-ball format, a test of both precision and partnership. Set across Meadowbrook’s 150 acres of rolling countryside, the course will challenge players with its strategic layout while providing a scenic backdrop for championship golf.

Over the years, the championship has seen many memorable performances and standout teams etch their names into the record books. Recent champions include Gary Parker & Bruno Ardito (2023, 2019), Cam Hreljac & Chris Lee (2022), and David Wilson & Eamonn McConnell (2021) — and all three pairings will be back in the field this year, looking to add yet another title to their resumes.

Golf Ontario is proud to partner with Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club, a facility with a strong reputation for championship-calibre golf and outstanding hospitality. We extend our thanks to the club’s members, staff, and leadership team for opening their doors and helping to stage this prestigious event.

The championship shines a spotlight on Ontario’s senior golf talent and offers competitors the opportunity to further build the legacy of provincial championship play. With a deep and competitive field, the event promises not only impressive scoring but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship that define the game.

Stay Connected

Visit the tournament website for full details

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

On September 9, the Northern Lights Golf Complex in Thunder Bay hosted a remarkable edition of the 1000 Ball Challenge in support of Special Olympics. The event reached a new milestone, raising over $20,000 for the Thunder Bay’s Special Olympic golf programs and Golf Ontario’s GOLF FOR ALL Fund, the highest total ever achieved by a single 1000 Ball Challenge group.

The day was filled with energy and generosity as sponsors, donors, and participants came together to support Special Olympics athletes. From donating prizes, food, gifts, and golfing experiences, to showing up in person, the support made the event truly memorable. One of the standout moments came from Mark Kehl, who accomplished the incredible feat of hitting 1000 golf balls on his own between 10 AM and 4 PM! An extraordinary feat.

Adding to the excitement, the event also featured a 50/50 cash raffle to boost fundraising. Congratulations to Connie from Thunder Bay, the winner of the draw, who generously donated back a portion of her winnings. We are so grateful for her generosity and community spirit.

A congratulations goes out to Tyler Rissanen of Special Olympics Ontario Thunder Bay, who raised more than $5,000 on his own – the highest individual fundraising total of any Thunder Bay team. An incredible accomplishment that truly showcased the heart and dedication behind this event.

A heartfelt thank you goes to all the Special Olympics athletes who participated and fundraised for this important cause. Their enthusiasm and commitment made this day exciting for all who got to participate. Special recognition also goes to Nancy Rissanen, Golf Coach with Special Olympics, who served as the lead organizer. Her leadership and passion were key to making the day a success.

The Thunder Bay community played a vital role in stepping up to strengthen Special Olympics golf programs and contribute to the Golf For All Fund, which provides greater access to the game for all. Reflecting on the event, Nancy shared: “The incredible support we had from the Thunder Bay community made this event so special. Despite the heat, our athletes and participants had a memorable day, with some folk picking up clubs for the first time! We could not have done it without the way this community stepped up.”

A special thank you also goes to the Northern Lights Golf Complex for hosting the event at their beautiful facility. With the success in Thunder Bay, momentum is already building for more 1000 Ball Challenges planned for Northern Ontario, Sudbury, and more in 2026.

Thank you, Thunder Bay! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Gravenhurst, ON – Ontario emerged victorious over British Columbia in the 2025 Indigenous Challenge Cup, held at the scenic Taboo Muskoka Golf Course. The championship unfolded over two days in a series of competitions, including Four-Ball Matches, Foursome Matches, and Singles Match Play. Each format tested the players’ teamwork, strategy, and individual skill, creating a dynamic and memorable showcase of Indigenous golf talent. Ontario’s consistency across all formats ultimately secured their well-earned win in this inter-provincial event.

Each team was made up of 16 golfers, selected based on their performances at this year’s Indigenous Ontario Championship and Indigenous Championship British Columbia. These top players earned the honour of representing their provinces in the 2025 Indigenous Challenge Cup.

Four Ball Matches:

Ontario: 6 points

British Columbia: 2 points

Foursome Matches:

Ontario: 5.5 points

British Columbia: 2.5 points

Singles Match Play:

Ontario: 10.5 points

British Columbia: 5.5 points

With a strong performance across all match formats, Ontario claimed the trophy, finishing with a total of 22 points. British Columbia closed the event with 10 points in a hard-fought competition.

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

Stay Connected

Championship Photo Album

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

Union, ON – Elaine Surjoprajogo and Sirui (Susan) Chen claimed the top spot in the Women’s division with a stellar score of 68, finishing four under par. The duo played a strong round, making seven birdies along the way. Their smart play and steady teamwork helped them stay ahead of the competition and earn a well-deserved win.

Mary-Ann Hayward and Andrea Lai, members of the host club, St. Thomas Golf & Country Club, finished in second place with a score of 69, three under par. In third place were Alexandra Taylor of Cherry Hill Club and Meredith Fairbairn, who shot a 70 to finish two under par.

In the Senior Women’s Division, Highland Country Club’s Lisa Anderson and Lynn Sebastien finished with a score of 73, one over par. They played a steady round, making important pars to stay ahead. Their consistent play helped them secure the win in a close competition.

Second place went to Darlene Homonko and Deborah Grieve of the Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto with a score of 75, three over par. Finishing third were Ivy Steinberg of Granite Golf Club and Sandy Byckowski of Brampton Golf Club, who posted a score of 76, four over par.

Women’s Team Net:

1.Elaine Surjoprajogo + Sirui (Susan) Chen

2.Xinyun Ye + Zoe Yan

3.Devon Rizzo + Skylar Dabreo
Brantford Golf & Country Club

Senior Women’s Team Net:

1.DARLENE HOMONKO + DEBORAH GRIEVE
Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto

2.CINDY DUNHAM + Lori Graves
Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course

3.Katharine Lammer + Cheryl Wakefield

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

Stay Connected

For full results, click HERE

Championship Photo Album

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