UXBRIDGE – Golf Ontario is excited to announce the return of the Ontario Junior Players Invitational to the 2024 Golf Ontario Championship Schedule. The 2024 tournament is scheduled to take place March 11-12, 2024 at Legends Golf Resort – Moorland Course in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and is exclusively for 78 of the top Junior (U19) Boys & Girls from Ontario.

Legends Golf Resort offers five of the best championship golf courses available in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding states of South and North Carolina. On site, the resort features more than 70 on-site villas which will be highlighted as the host accommodations for the 2024 Ontario Junior Players Invitational. Players and families will receive preferred rates for the villas and by staying on-site, players will have unlimited access to the resort practice facilities. Legends Golf Resort is home to the largest driving range in the Myrtle Beach area. For more information about accommodations and practice facilities, please visit the Legends Golf Resort Website.

New for this year the tournament will feature a 3^rd round to the tournament making it a 54-hole competition, seeing 36 holes on day 1 and 18 holes on day 2. The addition of the 3rd round will now make this event eligible for World Amateur Golf Rankings and Junior Golf Scoreboard ranking points.

The Ontario Junior Players Invitational provides Ontario junior players with an opportunity to participate in a competition to prepare them for the upcoming golf season. The purpose of adding the 3^rd round is to give players a collegiate-type atmosphere with the 54 holes over 2 days.

“We’re proud to bring this important tournament back for its second year in 2024 and provide our junior players an impactful opportunity to compete against an elite field and prepare for the 2024 season. This tournament is a great talent identification and representation of all the hard work Ontario junior players are putting in the winter months. We should be in for another exciting year” said Chief Sport Officer Ryan Finn

Tournament invitations will be sent to all exempt junior players based on their 2023 performances. Players that are not exempt still have the opportunity to apply and compete in the tournament. Following December 31, 2023, the remaining spots in the championship will go to players on the pending list. These players will be accepted into the tournament field based on the player’s past performance as determined by the Tournament Selection Committee. The remaining players not yet accepted at that point will be tournament alternates and moved into the tournament if a spot becomes available.

For more information about the championship, please go to the Official Tournament Website or contact Tournament Director Connor Doyle at cdoyle@gao.ca

APPLY TO THE TOURNAMENT HERE

In addition to the tournament on March 11-12, Golf Ontario will be offering an exclusive training experience with Team Ontario athletes and coaches during the 2023 March Break. Details will be announced in the coming weeks.

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Uxbridge, Ontario – Golf Ontario is delighted to announce the appointment of Alexandra Taylor as the Manager of Junior Performance. In this pivotal role, Alexandra will be responsible for managing the strategy for Golf Ontario’s Junior Performance program.

Taylor has been an integral member of the Golf Ontario team since 2021, supporting and implementing GO’s Regional Support Strategy as Regional Coordinator as well as assisting Team Ontario as a coach and mentor.

As the Manager of Junior Performance, Alexandra will manage all of our junior golf initiatives, including the delivery of the Junior Golf Pathway, Junior Tour relations, Player ID, Next Wave athlete development, and the coordination for Team Ontario. With a commitment to nurturing a positive and encouraging environment, Taylor will play a key role in shaping lives through golf.

“With a true passion for the game and a proven drive to support young athletes in reaching their highest potential, we are thrilled to have Alex take on this role,” said Golf Ontario’s Director of Competitions and Performance, John Lawrence.

Taylor expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating, “I am honoured and thrilled to take on the role of Manager of Junior Performance at Golf Ontario. Junior golfers represent the future of the sport, and I am committed to providing them with the best possible support and guidance to help them achieve their full potential. I am honoured to be appointed to this position and I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the success of junior golfers in Ontario. I believe through collaboration and innovation, we can elevate our program to new heights.”

Alexandra’s passion began as a junior where she competed in the Drive, Chip and Putt National Championships with her two older brothers. She then continued to develop as an athlete by competing on the Niagara Junior Tour, Ontario Summer Games team as well as Golf Ontario and Golf Canada Championships. After her junior golf journey, Alexandra was an NCAA golfer achieving 3 time All-Conference Golfer at Grand Valley State University in Michigan where her team participated in the NCAA DII National Championship three out of her four years. Alex continues to enjoy playing at a high level, competing in Provincial and National Amateur Championships.

Taylor is set to begin her new role, effective November 20^th, 2023.

For more information about Golf Ontario’s junior golf initiatives and upcoming events, please visit https://juniorgolfpathway.ca/

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario is thrilled to announce a generous $20,000 donation from Mark Zecchino and Golf Talk Canada. This substantial contribution will be used to support Youth Development programs throughout Ontario, bringing us one step closer to our vision of Golf for All.

Golf Talk Canada, the most widely followed Canadian golf program, stands as a proud partner of Golf Ontario. We are delighted that this trusted voice in the Canadian golf community has chosen to back initiatives like Youth on Course Ontario, First Tee, and Mobile Try Golf clinics. These programs all share a common goal: to provide access to golf and introduce the sport to a wider audience, regardless of background, financial circumstances, or abilities. The commitment from Mark Zecchino and his team underlines our collective belief that golf is a sport for everyone.

Mark Zecchino expresses his enthusiasm for this collaboration by saying, “It’s our pleasure to give back and support the work of Golf Ontario in advancing the game for future generations.”

For Kyle McFarlane, Chief Executive Officer of Golf Ontario, this generous donation highlights the potential for more partners in the golf community to make a substantial impact on growing the sport we all cherish.

“We are immensely grateful for Golf Talk Canada’s partnership,” stated McFarlane. “This investment will help us to continue delivering brilliant programs that have the power to positively shape the lives of young people throughout the province. It also provides us with the flexibility to innovate and create new golf programs.”

To learn more about how Golf Ontario is shaping lives through golf and to support our mission, please visit www.gao.ca/donate or contact Raph at rroot@gao.ca. Your support will help us make golf accessible to everyone and inspire the next generation of golfers.

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Uxbridge, ON – The Golf Ontario Scholarship program has been made possible through the generous backing of our corporate partners and sponsors since 1994, shaping the Lives of more young people each year. This donor-led support enables Golf Ontario to grant numerous scholarships each year, aiding students in their pursuit of higher education. We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 scholarships, congratulations to all outstanding recipients.

Golf Ontario has developed special scholarship awards to honour the memory of Ken McKenzie, Christine Fisher, Craig Revell, and Helena Harbridge, amazing people who have contributed a great deal to the game of golf in Ontario. In conjunction with the McKenzie, Fisher, Revell, and Harbridge families, Golf Ontario will present these special awards to deserving recipients who demonstrate the passion and dedication to the game that was ever so present in Ken, Christine, Craig, and Helena. Read more about these awards here. It is evident by the accomplishments and dedication of our young awardees that the future of this sport is as bright as ever. It starts at GO!

Kira Turner of London, the recipient of the Christine Fisher Memorial Student Award will be attending The University of Western Ontario to study Media Information and Technoculture. An affiliate of the London Hunt and Country Club and six-time first-place finisher of the Club’s Junior Girls Championship, Turner describes what being selected for this award means to her; “There are so many wonderful, young, female golfers out there; all so well rounded and accomplished – and so I knew it might be a long shot. So, when I heard the news that I was this year’s recipient of the Christine Fisher Award, I was absolutely shocked and honoured beyond belief. I will remember this experience for the rest of my life. I am so proud and grateful to hold this significant award with such high esteem”.

Isabella Ferguson of Ottawa, the recipient of the Ken McKenzie Award will be entering her second year at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia studying Biomedical Physiology. A member of the SFU golf team and a past participant in both National and Provincial golf events, Ferguson expresses that this award will help her reach her full potential; “I am so incredibly grateful to have been selected for the Ken McKenzie Award. This scholarship means so much to me and will allow me to continue to pursue my academic, athletic, and life goals, and will even help me to raise my goals and hold myself to a higher standard. Balancing all aspects of my life and continuing to perform at a high level is certainly a challenge, and this award will help to support me through this endeavour”.

Kacey Walker of Mississauga and the recipient of the Helena Harbridge Scholarship will be attending her final year of her Masters program in Public Administration at Florida Atlantic University. This multi-sport athlete is grateful for all the opportunities golf has provided for her, stating “I am honoured to be the recipient of the Helena Harbridge Scholarship Award. The completion of my master’s degree is something I am thrilled about, and I would not be in this position to do so if it were not for the game of golf, and the Golf Association of Ontario. To have a full-circle moment, such as this, where my academic and athletic endeavours have the opportunity to support one another is truly a blessing.  Helena Harbridge was a courageous, and ambitious, individual and I feel so thankful to be considered as the recipient of this award dedicated to her name and spirit”.

Andreas Diogenous of Cambridge, the recipient of the Craig Revell Scholarship will be attending San Jose State University studying Business Finance.No stranger to Golf Ontario, Diogenous was the first-place finisher in the U13 Championship in 2017, U15 Championship in 2019 and U17 Championship in 2020. He credits his success to his parents, stating “Golf has allowed me to keep such a close bond with my parents. I am fortunate to be able to play golf with my dad, who has been my biggest fan and supporter, every step of the way in my career choices. Both my mom and dad have sacrificed so much to give me these opportunities”.

Full List of 2023 Award Recipients:

Kira Turner / Christine Fisher Memorial Student Award London Hunt and Country Club / University of Western Ontario / Media Information and Technoculture

Isabella Ferguson / Ken McKenzie Award / Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club / Simon Fraser University / Biomedical Physiology

Kacey Walker / Helena Harbridge Scholarship / Florida Atlantic University / Masters of Public Administration

Andreas Diogenous / Craig Revell Scholarship / Whistle Bear Golf Club / San Jose State University / Business Finance

Julia Alexander – Carew / Golf Ontario Award / Credit Valley Golf and Country Club / University of British Columbia – Okanagan / Business Management

Mia Sung / Golf Ontario Award / Summit Golf and Country Club / University of Toronto / Life Sciences

Ben Herbert / Golf Ontario Award / Lookout Point Country Club / Niagara University / Finance

Madison Barber / Golf Ontario Award / The Landings Golf Course / Towson University / Professional Studies (Graduate Degree)

Matteo Rocco / Golf Ontario Award / Weston Golf Club / Oakland University / Business Communications

Congratulations to our 2023 recipients,  we wish them all the best, in their post-secondary studies!

About Golf Ontario Scholarship Program

To be eligible for one of the Golf Ontario awards or scholarships, recipients must have maintained at least a 75% academic average, enrolled in a post-secondary institution, be members of Golf Ontario, and are actively involved in golf. If you are interested in applying for next year’s batch of scholarships, please visit here to learn more about the process and benefits of Golf Ontario Scholarships.

Support the Next Generation of Golf Leaders

The opportunity to award these deserving young people is fueled by generous scholarship donations to the Golf Ontario Legacy Fund. Golf Ontario scholarship funds provide financial support for talented and determined students, enabling them to use the great sport of golf as a vehicle to pursue their academic goals and become the leaders and changemakers of the next generation.

By donating, you are not only supporting their athletic potential but moreover, you are opening doors for young people to realize their full potential in both golf and life. We hope to make an impact in these young lives that lasts a lifetime. It starts at GO!

If you are considering making an even greater impact for the next generation, Golf Ontario welcomes the opportunity for the creation of newly named scholarships. If you or someone you know is passionate about leaving a legacy in perpetuity for Ontario Golf – this could be the right opportunity for you. To learn more please contact our Fund Development Manager, Raphael Root at rroot@gao.ca.

Join us in Shaping the Lives of more young people across Ontario. Please consider supporting these critical scholarships by giving to the Golf Ontario Legacy Fund today!  To find out more about how you can make an impact visit gao.ca/donate

Click here to DONATE TODAY!

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

During our recent Annual Volunteer Appreciation Days across Ontario, Golf Ontario honoured the tireless efforts of our volunteers and proudly announced the recipients of our prestigious Volunteer of the Year and Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award for 2023. These awards recognize individuals whose unwavering dedication has left a meaningful mark on the sport in Ontario, showcasing their commitment to making a difference and enabling Golf Ontario to ‘Shape Lives Through Golf’.

Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award

Anne Edgar Dodds-Hebron: Rules Official Extraordinaire

Anne Edgar Dodds-Hebron, a steadfast figure in the Ontario golf community, has been awarded the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award, a testament to her decades of selfless service. Her impressive achievements span numerous facets of the golfing world.

Anne’s illustrious career encompasses an array of accomplishments. As a competitive golfer, she clinched numerous championships, establishing herself as a formidable force on the fairways. Beyond her prowess on the course, Anne held director-level positions at both the provincial and national levels. Her invaluable contributions to rules education have empowered countless individuals, while her role as a National and provincial Rules Referee for three decades has ensured the smooth operation of local, provincial, and national professional and amateur competitions.

Even in the face of recent health challenges, Anne has remained unwavering in her support of golf in Ontario, serving as a mentor and embodying her passion for the sport. Her sustained dedication, engagement, and contributions to the game and the Rules of Golf make her a deserving recipient of the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award.

Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award Background

Named after Richard H. Grimm, affectionately known as “Mr. Canadian Open” for his tireless service from 1965 to 1993, the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award aims to recognize individuals who exemplify the principles of integrity, dignity, and commitment central to the volunteer experience in golf. This prestigious honour acknowledges those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and involvement in the growth of amateur golf in Ontario, upholding the values and mission of Golf Ontario.

Volunteer of the Year (2 Recipients)

Ian Nordheimer: The Rules Official Extraordinaire

Ian Nordheimer has been awarded the title of Volunteer of the Year for his remarkable dedication to Golf Ontario over the past five years. In this relatively short period, Ian has become a trusted authority on the rules of golf, earning the respect of his peers. His approachability, willingness to assist fellow volunteers and active participation in tournaments throughout the province exemplify his commitment to Golf Ontario’s vision and values.

Ian’s meticulous preparation and punctuality, combined with his welcoming demeanour, make him a standout ambassador for Golf and Golf Ontario. His dedication to educating others on the intricacies of the sport, along with his respectful and collaborative approach, set a shining example for all.

Rick Corin: The Course Rater Extraordinaire

Rick Corin, with a decade of dedicated service since 2012, has earned the title of Volunteer of the Year for his exceptional contributions as a Course Rater and Team Leader. Rick consistently goes above and beyond, willingly taking on additional courses and building strong relationships with Ontario facilities. His adaptability and willingness to accommodate facilities’ needs have not gone unnoticed.

As a Team Leader in London, Rick plays a crucial role in leading his team of volunteers, ensuring smooth collaboration and optimal results.

Volunteer of the Year Background

The Golf Ontario Provincial Volunteer of the Year Award, established in 2004, celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on the growth and development of golf while preserving the sport’s traditions. To be eligible for this award, recipients must have volunteered for Golf Ontario for more than three consecutive years, made substantial contributions to promoting the organization, and not have received the award in the past three years.

In 2023, Golf Ontario proudly acknowledges these outstanding volunteers, whose unwavering commitment and contributions continue to enrich the sport of golf in Ontario. Their dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the power of volunteers in advancing the game we love.

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Golf Ontario has launched a new “peer to peer” fundraising campaign to support strategic priorities of the organization as identified through the Golf Ontario Legacy Fund such as; growing the game for girls and women, youth development programs including First Tee and Youth on Course, as well as growing the game for golfers with a disability and the Indigenous golf community.

The 1000 Ball Challenge is a fun but challenging fundraiser providing individuals and teams (foursomes) a platform to raise important funds to support the game’s growth across Ontario. Challengers will commit to hitting 1000 golf balls in a day at a range or indoor simulator as an individual or collective team effort. Donors are invited to “buy a ball or balls” at $5.00 each. There is no limit on the number of balls a donor can buy or sponsor.

The organization is thrilled to include some very notable members of the Ontario golf community registered to participate and actively fundraising in this first year campaign. Thanks to our colleagues servicing the London Ontario region through our RSS program, three Hall of Famers were invited to join the cause, and have already raised some significant donations in support of their efforts. A short biography of the accomplishments of each individual is included below.

Warren Sye – https://1000ball.ca/warren-sye 

Warren Sye was the Ontario Amateur Champion in 1988, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1996 and runner-up in 1989 and 1992.

Sye’s accomplishments include being named 2012 Ontario Senior Champion, 1983 and 1991 Ontario Champion of Champions and 1990 and 1994 Canadian Amateur Champion.

He, alongside three teammates, won the 1986 World Amateur Team Championship in Venezuela – Canada’s only win to date.

Warren Sye was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 2016.

Rick Young – https://1000ball.ca/rick-young 

Rick was inducted into the Ontario Golf HOF in 2023 following a 40-year career as one of the country’s trusted voices on the game and matters relating to the golf industry’s equipment and business sectors.   

Young is a six-time GJAC Writing Awards recipient and was recognized by Golf Ontario in 2009 for his contributions to the game. He has written two books – From Fifth to 59 to 2009: The 100 Year History of the Oxford Golf & Country Club and The 100 Year History of The Briars Golf Club

His work has appeared in numerous publications across Canada and the United States including SCOREGolf Magazine, MyGolfSpy, Toronto Star, Golf Business Canada, GreenMaster Magazine, Golf Canada Magazine, Pro Shop Magazine, Maclean’s, LINKS Magazine, Golf World, Golf Journal (USGA), Ontario Golf Magazine, GolfStyle, ClubLink Life, Fairways Magazine, London Free Press, the National Post and the Globe & Mail. He has also provided content for Golf Town, Matchplay Golf Marketing, RBC and the Province of New Brunswick.

Rick acted as the 2008-2011, 2021-2022 GJAC President, and he remains on the GJAC board as Immediate Past President and Vice-President of Outreach and Industry Relations.

Mary Ann Hayward – https://1000ball.ca/mary-ann-hayward

Mary Ann was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in 2006, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Quebec Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.

Mary Ann holds the Ontario record for most wins in a provincial championship and was the first Canadian to win the US Mid-Amateur title.

At the international level, Mary Ann has represented Canada eight times at the World Amateur Championship and 4 times at the Commonwealth Matches.

Her accomplishments include winning the 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2023 Canadian Women’s Senior Championship, the United States Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship 2005, Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship in 1993, 1996, 1999, 2004 and Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship in 1983, 1990, 1995, 1996 and 1997.

Kelly Roberts – https://1000ball.ca/kelly-roberts

Inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame in 2006, and a native of London, Kelly was the back-to-back Amateur Championship in the early 70’s. He won the 1969 Junior Championship, the 1971 Ontario School Boy Championship and the 1972 and 1973 Amateur Championships. Other highlights include the 1997 Mid-Am Championship and the 2003 Mixed Championship. 

Roberts is a former member of Golf Ontario’s Board and former Golf Canada Associate Governor. He has made his presence known in the golf community for nearly fifty years.

After contributing so much to the game for so many years, you would understand perhaps if Warren, Rick and Mary Ann had declined the opportunity to participate in this unique challenge, but their passion for the game continues to burn bright, and they share a collective desire to grow the game and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for golf in Ontario for years to come. They are truly committed to Shaping Lives Through Golf, and ensuring that golf is a game for all.

Please join us in celebrating these Hall of Famers, and consider contributing to their campaign, or even registering to participate yourself or through the creation of your own team!

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Toronto, ON –Amongst the changing fall colours Ontario’s best 60 teams competed in the 2023 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship at Oakdale Golf & Country Club. The championship began with a 10 a.m. shotgun start seeing Daniel DiFrancesco + Traynor Turkiewicz(Brantford Golf & Country Club Ltd.) emerge victorious.

One stroke ahead of second place with a score of seven-under-par (65) are Daniel DiFrancesco + Traynor Turkiewicz(Brantford Golf & Country Club Ltd.). The team made an impressive six birdies and one eagle. DiFrancesco said the conditions and greens were “unbelievable” and thanked the grounds crew for their hard work.

Following closely behind in second place was a large group of competitors with a tie between 5 different teams; Pete Sauerbrei + Simon Reyers(Cataraqui Golf & Country Club), Justin Allen + Owen Allen(Weston Golf & Country Club Ltd), Jim Zwolak + Ian Gately(Heron Point Golf Links), Sean O’Malley + Kevin Melville(Whistle Bear Golf Club), PAUL STEVENS + Matt Stevens(Kawartha Golf Club). All of the teams finished the round with a score of six-under-par (66).

Golf Ontario would like to thank all the players, staff, and volunteers for supporting the 2023 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship. Thank you to Oakdale Golf & Country Club for hosting this amazing event. Lastly, thanks to our sponsors and partners for supporting golf across Ontario.
For media coverage of the 2023 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook Page to view our photo albums. For the full leaderboard, please visit our official tournament website

For media coverage of the 2023 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship, please visit the Golf Ontario  Facebook Page to view our photo albums. For the full leaderboard, please visit our official tournament website.

About The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball

The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship has been played since 1959. All but two of the championships have taken place at Oakdale G&CC. The tournament is open to teams whose members both have up-to-date Golf Canada Handicap Factor of 8.4 or less at the time of online registration through the completion of the Championship. Each team’s combined Handicap Factor must not exceed 12.8 at the time of online registration through the completion of the Championship. Previous event winners include: Gary Cowan, Bill Morland, Nick Weslock, Kelly Roberts, Warren Sye, Matthew Ion Young, Albin Choi, Garrett Rank and Simon McInnis, Simon Reyers and Peter Sauerbrei, John Drewery and Derek McGrath, Ryan Kings and Josh Hunke.

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

For more information, please contact:

Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario,

GMitchell@gao.ca

Rob Watson, Tournament Director

RWatson@gao.ca

Toronto, ON – On Monday, October 2nd, the 64th Ontario Men’s Better Ball Championship returns to Oakdale Golf & Country Club, the site of Nick Taylor’s dramatic win at the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.  Ontario’s best 60 teams will square off in this crowning event of the 2023 Golf Ontario championship season. 

With its three nines, Oakdale is a magnificent course, rambling over rolling land, with the picturesque Black Creek running throughout the design. The players will take on the Thompson (front nine) and Knudson (back nine). This is the first time since 2018 that golfers will compete on these nines.

Some notable names are the 2022 Champions; Deer Ridge Golf Club’s Ryan Kings and Josh Hunke who finished with a strong five-under (67) on the strength of 4 birdies and an eagle, and will no doubt try to repeat this year. Other big names in the mix include former champions, John Drewery and Derek McGrath who won in 2021, 2019 Champions Garrett Rank and Mike Roberts, as well as Simon Reyers and Peter Sauerbrei who won in 2016 and 2017. Meanwhile, Oakdale hopes a few of its members will win the Championship, a feat first accomplished by current members Howard Mandelbaum and Michael Katz in 1996.

Teams will take to the course with a shotgun round starting at 10 a.m. More information on the Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship can be found on our official tournament website. 

About The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball

The Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship has been played since 1959. All but two of the championships have taken place at Oakdale G&CC. The tournament is open to teams whose members both have up-to-date Golf Canada Handicap Factor of 8.4 or less at the time of online registration through the completion of the Championship. Each team’s combined Handicap Factor must not exceed 12.8 at the time of online registration through the completion of the Championship. Previous event winners include: Gary Cowan, Bill Morland, Nick Weslock, Kelly Roberts, Warren Sye, Matthew Ion Young, Albin Choi, Garrett Rank and Simon McInnis, Simon Reyers and Peter Sauerbrei, John Drewery and Derek McGrath, Ryan Kings and Josh Hunke.

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

For more information, please contact:

Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario,

GMitchell@gao.ca

Rob Watson, Tournament Director

RWatson@gao.ca

138 Players were welcomed by beautiful fall weather at the 41^st annual Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship which took place at the prestigious Brampton Golf Club for a 1:15 p.m. shotgun start this afternoon. With just 18-holes of competitive stroke play to determine the 2023 champions, Gary Parker and Bruno Ardito emerged victorious.

Taking home the championship title with a stellar round of -7 under (64), host club members Parker and Ardito (Brampton Golf Club), battled the field to win by one stroke ahead of a tight leaderboard. Right behind the leaders with a 65 6-under par claiming the silver medal was the team of Dan O’Donoghue and Chris Markle (Kawartha Golf Club & Dalewood Golf Club). Finishing in third place with a 66 5-under par was the duo of Clint Ward and Barry Fairhurst (Royal Ashburn Golf Club).

In the post-win comments, the winning pair said with big smiles, “We played well and just “ham ‘n egged” out there today and made lots of putts.” Parker & Ardito won the Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship back in 2019. With this win Parker and Ardito earned themselves a 5-year exemption into the championship and an exemption in the 2024 Ontario Men’s Better-Ball Championship at Oakdale Golf & Country Club.

Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, referees, staff and members for supporting the 2023 Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship. To Brampton Golf Club and your team, thank you for being such excellent hosts and welcoming us once again. Lastly, thanks to our sponsors and partners for supporting golf across Ontario

To view the 2023 Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship leaderboards, visit our Golf Genius page.

About the Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship

The Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship was first contested in 1982. It is open to players aged 55 and older as of the tournament date. The Oakdale Golf & Country Club graciously donated the championship trophy. Notable champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Famers Nick Westlock and Stu Hamilton.

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 500 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.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.

Media contact:

Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing and Development Officer, Golf Ontario

ntaylor@gao.ca

Connor Doyle, Coordinator of Competition, Golf Ontario

cdoyle@gao.ca

The third and final round in the fifty four hole Ontario Junior Tour Championship at FireRock Golf Club is complete, with Alexa Ouellet of Weston Golf & Country Club and Jager Pain of Station Creek declared champions of the 4^th annual event.

Despite the forecast calling for a mostly cloudy day with periods of light rain, the first wave of players were treated to stunning pink and red skies as they warmed up on the range prior to the first pairings heading out from the first tee at eight am. Throughout the day, players dealt with mist, warm sun, light rain and a swirling wind.

Ouellet, who was the clubhouse leader each day, finished an impressive nine under par over fifty four holes of golf with scores of 68, 71 and 71. In second place was youngster Shauna Liu from Station Creek with scores of 72, 73, 68 for minus six and in third overall was Nobelle Park of RattleSnake Point at minus four following rounds of 73, 73 and 69.

There was far more movement up and down the leaderboard with the boys field, but Jager Pain was consistent over all three days and held his round one lead all the way to the final hole of play. Pain finished at minus four following rounds of 70, 70 and 72. His final round playing partners of Luke Smith (Thornhill Club) and Brayden Card (Galt Country Club) finished second and third respectively. Smith shot 73, 73 and 68 for two under par and Card was plus one after shooting 73, 72 and 72.

Ontario Provincial Head Coach Reggie Millage commented after the final round that “The results on both sides were really impressive. There were competitors chasing leaders across the board and it was a shootout on course. FireRock was set up under true championship conditions with yardage to match at over 6000 and 7000 yards respectively.”

View full results here.

Tournament photos available on our Facebook page .

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.

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