Looking for a School Golf Fundraiser? Durham College Found Success with the 1000 Ball Challenge

When the Durham Lords golf team signed up for Golf Ontario’s 1000 Ball Challenge this spring, the objective was straightforward: raise funds to support their student-athletes.

What they discovered was a fundraising model that delivered far more than financial support.

The event brought players together, engaged the local golf community and generated funding that will directly benefit the program’s growth. For collegiate and high school golf programs looking for new ways to support their athletes, Durham College’s experience offers a blueprint worth considering.

“The 1000 Ball Challenge was a great fit for our program because it combines golf, teamwork and community engagement in a unique way,” said Durham College Head Coach Lucas Pichl. “It provided our student-athletes with an opportunity to challenge themselves while raising funds that directly support their development.”

The idea gained traction after Durham coaches and players learned more about the initiative through Golf Ontario staff and examples from previous participants. From there, the program worked collectively to organize the event, promote fundraising efforts and encourage support from alumni, family members and community partners.

The result was more than just a successful fundraising campaign.

Why It Worked

For many school golf programs, fundraising often feels like another responsibility on an already full plate. Durham’s experience highlighted three key benefits that made the 1000 Ball Challenge worthwhile.

It Was Easy to Rally Support Around

Because the challenge is simple and easy to understand, players, parents, alumni and supporters quickly got behind the initiative. Coaches and student-athletes worked together to spread the word and build momentum leading into the event.

Golf Ontario Handles the Heavy Lifting

One of the biggest advantages for Durham College was the support provided by Golf Ontario throughout the process.

Participating teams receive a customized online fundraising page, promotional posters, QR codes, charitable tax receipt administration, event support and ongoing guidance from the Golf Ontario team. Programs also retain 80 per cent of the funds they raise, creating a simple and effective way to generate meaningful support for student-athletes.

Rather than building a fundraiser from scratch, coaches can focus on engaging their players, supporters and community while Golf Ontario manages much of the administrative work behind the scenes

The Impact Is Tangible

Funds raised through the challenge help address needs that often fall outside traditional athletic department budgets.

For the Durham Lords, that includes additional team apparel, rain gear, training aids, equipment and player development opportunities that enhance the overall student-athlete experience.

“Every dollar raised has a direct impact on the quality of the student-athlete experience,” said Pichl.

It Strengthened Team Culture

Perhaps the most valuable outcome wasn’t financial at all.

The challenge created an opportunity for players to work toward a common goal while supporting one another throughout the day.

“Our players had a fantastic experience,” said Pichl. “The challenge was physically demanding but also incredibly rewarding. It pushed them to stay focused, work together and support one another throughout the day.”

Beyond the golf itself, the event created lasting memories and gave players a sense of pride knowing they were helping support the future success of their program.

More Than a Fundraiser

As participation in school golf continues to grow across Ontario, coaches are constantly looking for ways to create opportunities for their athletes while managing the costs associated with travel, competition, apparel and equipment.

The 1000 Ball Challenge offers a unique solution because it combines fundraising, team building and community engagement into a single event.

“The benefits extend well beyond the funds raised,” said Pichl. “It strengthens team culture and builds connections within the golf community.”

Pichl believes the challenge is something other school golf programs should seriously consider.

“We would encourage other collegiate golf programs across Ontario to get involved because the benefits extend well beyond the funds raised.”

Interested in Bringing the 1000 Ball Challenge to Your School?

Golf Ontario provides participating teams with:

  • A dedicated online fundraising page
  • Promotional materials and QR codes
  • Charitable tax receipt administration
  • Event support and guidance
  • An 80 per cent share of funds raised

Whether you’re a collegiate golf team, high school program or golf academy, the 1000 Ball Challenge offers a proven way to raise funds while strengthening team culture and engaging your community.

Ready to bring the 1000 Ball Challenge to Your School Golf Team?

For coaches searching for new ways to support their athletes, Durham College’s experience demonstrates what’s possible when fundraising, team building and community engagement come together.

The next success story could be yours.

Ontario Juniors Commit to Collegiate Golf

Golf Ontario continues to see strong representation at the next level, with many athletes who have competed in Golf Ontario championships and several current and former Team Ontario players earning opportunities to continue their golf careers in post-secondary programs.

This year, a total of 27 junior athletes have committed to collegiate golf programs, including 13 competing at the NCAA Division I level.

NCAA D1 Commitments

Junior Boys:

  • Matthew Simpson (Team Ontario, Lambton Golf & Country Club)  – Loyola University Maryland 
  • Dimitri Protopapas (Team Ontario, The Nest at Friday Harbour) – Central Michigan
  • Spencer Shropshire (Team Canada NextGen, Hawk Ridge Golf Club) – University of Michigan
  • Jager Pain (Team Canada NextGen)University of Virginia 
  • Lucas Gilbart (Summit Golf & Country Club) – Long Island University 
  • Hunter Policicchio (Sarnia Golf & Curling Club) – Indiana Tech University 
  • Will Hindemit (The Club at North Halton) – Louisiana Tech 
  • Nathan Le-NguyenLehigh University
  • Barron Mundy – University of Louisville 

Junior Girls:

  • Michelle Xing (Team Canada NextGen) – UCLA 
  • Claire Roberts (Whistle Bear Golf Club) – University of Tennessee Chattanooga
  • Carlee Meilleur (Golf Ontario Players Club) – University of South Florida 
  • Angela Cai–  Brown University 

Other Commitments 

  • Ashton Rinaldi – Davenport University 
  • Zack Moore – Davis & Elkins College
  • Brayden Card – UBCO Heat
  • Ryan Broderick – LeMoyne-Owen College 
  • Jackson Pracey – Wagner College 
  • Jackson Murphy – UBCO Heat
  • Ryan Seymour – Bishops 
  • Byron Etheridge – Rocky Mountain College in Montana 
  • Jack Bennett – Northwestern Oklahoma State University
  • Sydney Gibson – Daytona State 
  • Sadie Wu – Williams College 
  • Vera James – Western University 
  • Paige Sefton – Wayne State University 
  • Ceilidh Spare – Weatherford College 
  • Ty Tischler – Christian Brothers University

These commitments reflect the depth of talent within Ontario’s junior golf system and highlight the continued success of athletes developing through Golf Ontario competitions and high-performance programs.

Golf ontario’s junior Development & Competitive Pathway

 Junior golf pathway rankings   

Fitzsimmons Claims Second Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at Manitou Ridge

McKELLAR, ON – The 34th Golf Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship concluded on Wednesday, June 17, after three rounds of play at Manitou Ridge Golf Club

This championship brought together some of the province’s top amateur golfers aged 25 and older to test their skills across the unique terrain of Northern Ontario.

The Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship has crowned many of the province’s best golfers throughout its history. Several past champions returned to the field this week, including Ryan Tsang, David Lang, Ryan Kings, Charles Fitzsimmons and defending champion Cam Burke. The championship’s rich history is filled with memorable moments and exciting finishes – and this year was no exception.

Championship Play 

Monday marked the start of official play, as players took to the course at Manitou Ridge Golf Club. Kyle Gordon set the pace early, taking an early lead with a score of 68 after the opening round of play. 

Tuesday’s second round narrowed the field; a cut was made after two rounds of play. Gordon maintained his position at the top of the leaderboard, while Fitzsimmons climbed into a share of the lead. The pair entered the final round tied at 6-under par with matching 36-hole totals of 138, setting the stage for an exciting finish. 

Wednesday began with rainy conditions, but the weather did little to impact the excitement of play. Gordon and Fitzsimmons remained close throughout the day, with Gordon holding the lead at 5-under par heading to the 18th hole. 

Fitzsimmons capitalized on the final hole to secure the championship title and claim his second Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. After a back-and-forth final round, he finished one stroke ahead to complete the comeback victory. 

“Winning is always a really special thing; winning a provincial championship is even more special,” said Fitzsimmons. “It’s been seven years since my first one, so it was a bit of a long stretch there, and I’ve been close a couple of times, so to get it done here, it means a lot.”

Reflecting on the final round, Fitzsimmons emphasized the importance of perseverance. 

“Winning golf tournaments is hard,” he said. “That was the kind of thought I had going through my mind on the back nine. I hit a couple of tough shots and Kyle played really well for a long stretch there, but I just kept saying it’s hard to win golf tournaments; stay in there, see what you can do.” 

Final Leaderboard

  • 1. Charles Fitzsimmons (Beacon Hall Golf Club) finished at 4-under par with rounds of 70-68-74 for a three-round total of 212.
  • T2. Tyler Stone (Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club) finished at 3-under par with rounds of 75-67-71 for a total of 213.
  • T2. Kyle Gordon (Coppinwood Golf Club) finished at 3-under par with rounds of 68-70-75 for a total of 213.

Championship Highlight Moments 

The championship featured several memorable moments throughout the three rounds of play. 

  • One of the week’s standout moments came on the 10th hole, where Torey Peet recorded a rare albatross. 
  • Jackson Bowery recorded the championship’s lowest single-round score, carding a 66 in the third round of play. 

Beyond the competition, players and spectators embraced the true Northern Ontario experience, with frequent wildlife sightings throughout the week – including a curious bear wandering throughout the course and driving range. 

Thank You Manitou Ridge

Throughout the championship, competitors praised the outstanding conditions at Manitou Ridge, particularly the quality of the greens, which remained in excellent condition despite changing weather conditions.

Golf Ontario extends a sincere thank you to everyone at Manitou Ridge for their generosity, hospitality and dedication in hosting this year’s Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. 

Stay Connected

Final Leaderboard

Championship Photo Album

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


Major Championship Season Tees Off at Manitou Ridge: 34th Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship

McKELLAR, ONT – Golf Ontario’s major championship season kicks off June 15-17 as the province’s top amateur golfers head to Manitou Ridge Golf Club for the 34th Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. 

One of Golf Ontario’s most competitive championships, the Mid-Am annually attracts more than 500 qualifying attempts before narrowing the field to the province’s best golfers aged 25 and older. This championship will crown both the Mid-Amateur and Mid-Master (40+) divisions, with players also competing for exemptions into national championships and spots on Ontario’s interprovincial team. 

A Championship Test at Manitou Ridge

This year’s championship will take place at Manitou Ridge Golf Club, offering players the opportunity to test their strategy, accuracy and finesse as they navigate the field. Designed by Canadian architect Thomas McBroom, Manitou Ridge is consistently recognized among Canada’s top 100 golf courses and offers one of the most unique championship tests in Ontario. 

Located in McKellar, the course winds through the natural terrain of the Canadian Shield and is known for its elevation changes, rocky landscape and scenic views. Players will need to balance power and precision throughout the course as they compete for provincial titles and national championship exemptions. 

“Hosting this championship is a tremendous honour for Manitou Ridge,” said Head Professional Alex Catherwood. “Our membership takes great pride in our facilities, and we are excited to showcase our course to some of the best mid-amateur golfers in the province.” 

What Players are Competing For

In addition to provincial titles, competitors will be battling for opportunities on the national stage. The top 35 finishers will earn quota spots into the 2026 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, while the top three players will represent Ontario on the interprovincial team.

Players to Watch

Cam Burke 

The defending champion returns seeking a third consecutive Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur title after victories in 2024 and 2025. Burke also captured the 2024 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. 

Kyle Gordon

Entering the championship with strong momentum, Gordon recently won the Cherry Hill Invitational and an RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifier. He also finished runner-up at last year’s Mid-Amateur Championship. 

Charles Fitzsimmons 

Team Ontario coach, Charles Fitzsimmons, returns to the field after being named Golf Ontario’s 2025 Men’s Mid-Amateur Player of the Year. The 2019 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion is also a three-time Ontario Men’s Match Play Champion and remains one of the most accomplished players in the field.

The depth of the field continues with reigning Mid-Master Champion Derek Dalziel, 2025 Canadian Senior Men’s Champion Don Martone, 2025 Ontario Men’s Senior Match Play Champion and 2025 Ontario Men’s Senior Championship runner-up Mike Kray, and Jonn Drewery, who recently captured the 2026 Ontario Men’s Champion of Champions title.

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Notable Names in the Field

There are many strong competitors with experience and understanding of the challenges that will unfold throughout the major championship.

Past Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Champions

  • Cam Burke (2025, 2024)
  • David Lang (2022)
  • Dave Bunker (2021, 2014, 2011, 2007)
  • Ryan Tsang (2020)
  • Charles Fitzsimmons (2019)
  • Garrett Rank (2018, 2015)
  • Ryan Kings (2017)
  • Kelly Roberts (1997)
  • Stu Hamilton (1998, 1993) – Golf Ontario Hall of Fame member

Championship Schedule

Championship play is set to begin Monday, June 15, through Wednesday, June 17. After two rounds of play, the field will be reduced to the low 60 players and ties. 

With provincial championships, national exemptions and interprovincial team positions on the line, Ontario’s best mid-amateur golfers will have plenty to play for as Golf Ontario’s major championship season begins at Manitou Ridge. 

Stay Connected

Live Scoring, Pairings & Results

Full Player Roster

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

Ontario Takeover: Provincial Talent Dominates 2026 RBC Canadian Open 

Golf Ontario proudly recognizes the outstanding group of athletes with provincial ties who have earned exemptions into the 2026 RBC Canadian Open at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley. This year’s list reflects the strength of Ontario’s player development pathway, with several past Team Ontario members and Golf Ontario Men’s Amateur champions earning their place in Canada’s national open.    

2026 Exemptions 

Among the 13 players receiving exemptions, nine are Canadian, including several with deep roots in Golf Ontario programming:  

  • Dawson Lew: Past Team Ontario athlete (2024-2025), Team Canada NextGen member (2026), and 2025 Ontario Junior Spring Classic champion.  
  • Ashton McCulloch: Former Team Ontario standout and one of Canada’s top emerging professionals.  
  • Justin Matthews: Another graduate of the Team Ontario system, continuing his rise through the professional ranks.  
  • Sudarshan Yellamaraju: Former Ontario Men’s Amateur Champion (2017)  
  • Corey Conners: A past Golf Ontario Men’s Amateur champion and two‑time PGA tour winner.  
  • Mike Weir: 2003 Masters champion and former Golf Ontario Men’s Amateur champion (1990, 1992).  

These players represent the success of Ontario’s development pathway, from junior golf to the professional stage.  

Ontario’s depth of talent was even on display at the final qualifier, where Toronto native Eric Zhao (2007), the 2025 Ontario Men’s Amateur Champion, tied for first with a 4‑under‑par 67 to earn his place in the field. 

Spotlight: Dawson Lew’s Continued Rise  

While the 2026 exemption list is filled with Ontario success stories, Golf Ontario is especially proud to highlight the progress of Dawson Lew, born April 9, 2009, and a dedicated member of Coppinwood Golf Club.  

Lew’s development through the Ontario system has been one of the most impressive:  

  • 2025 Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Spring Classic Champion: Fired an impressive 11‑under‑par at Wooden Sticks to secure the title.  
  • Willingdon Cup Victory: Played a key role in helping Team Ontario capture the prestigious national team championship at the Canadian Men’s Amateur.  
  • Junior InterProvincial Team Championship (Silver Cup): Contributed to Team Ontario’s win, securing a second national team trophy in the same season.  
  • Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship RunnerUp: Finished 7‑under (281) through 72 holes at Deerhurst Highlands.   

Golf Ontario is thrilled to acknowledge Lew’s latest milestone. This prestigious opportunity places Lew alongside PGA tour professionals and highlights the steady progress of Ontario’s player development pathway. His invitation recognizes his strong performances, work ethic, and the support of the coaches, teammates, and programs that have shaped his journey.  

Golf Ontario congratulates Dawson on this achievement and looks forward to supporting him as he continues to represent our province and country on the national stage.  

Amelia McFarlane and Stefi Markovich claim Women’s and Women’s Senior Ontario Match Play titles 

The 2026 Ontario Women’s and Women’s Senior Match Play Championships wrapped up at Cataraqui Golf and Country Club following three days of competitive play from June 6-8. With semifinal and championship matches contested on Monday, players battled through challenging conditions and tightly contested matches to determine this year’s champions.

Women’s: 

The Women’s Match Play final featured Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club) and Mackenzie Cloutier (Club de golf Le Blainvillier), both advancing after hard-fought semifinal matches. Cloutier secured her spot in the final with a 20-hole victory, while McFarlane earned a narrow 1 UP win to move on.

The championship match proved to be just as competitive, with momentum shifting throughout the round. McFarlane held a slim lead late in the match, going 1 UP through holes 15 to 17, before Cloutier battled back to square the match on the 18th hole. The pair headed to an extra hole, where Amelia McFarlane ultimately secured the victory on the 19th hole, claiming the 2026 Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship. McFarlane’s win also highlights her status as a Team Ontario athlete and caps off an impressive weekend of play!

Women’s Senior: 

The Women’s Senior final brought together Lise Jubinville (Hylands Golf Club) and Stefi Markovich (Lookout Point Country Club Ltd), following strong semifinal performances. Jubinville advanced with a 2&1 victory, while Markovich earned a convincing 3&2 win to secure her place in the final.

The final match, which teed off at 12:30 p.m., was closely contested throughout. Both players demonstrated steady play, but it was Stefi Markovich who maintained her composure down the stretch, ultimately securing a 1 UP victory to capture the 2026 Ontario Women’s Senior Match Play Championship.

A memorable finish at Cataraqui

With dramatic finishes in both divisions and several matches extending beyond regulation, the championship showcased the depth of talent in Ontario’s women’s game. Cataraqui Golf and Country Club provided a strong test throughout the week, setting the perfect stage for two deserving champions.

For final results, click HERE

Click here for the Championship Photo Album

Golf Ontario Reaches Remote Community: Marten Falls First Nation

Golf Ontario pride is spreading across the province—most recently to the remote northern community of the Marten Falls First Nation. Marten Falls is a small Oji-Cree community of 300 people, located deep in the boreal forest north of Hearst.

Due to the remote geographic location, the children in this community do not have the opportunity to participate in recreational sports as most do across the province. The lack of local golf courses or access to proper equipment makes it an ongoing struggle to introduce children to the game.

Gabe Recke-Smith, a teacher at Henry Coaster Memorial School, has taken the initiative of introducing the children in his classroom to the game of golf.

“I started introducing golf informally because I genuinely believe in what the sport can offer these kids: focus, patience, self-regulation, a relationship with the outdoors, and a skill they can carry with them for the rest of their lives,” says Recke-Smith. “Golf connects naturally to the values already present in this community: respect for the land, quiet discipline, and perseverance.”

While the game fits well within the community, a lack of equipment has made it difficult for the children to fully learn and enjoy it. Recke-Smith shared with Golf Ontario that while he attempted to use his personal clubs in the classroom, they did not fit the students properly. He emphasized the need for appropriate equipment to support learning.

Inspired by the enthusiasm of the students and the work already taking place in the classroom, Golf Ontario was proud to support Henry Coaster Memorial School with a donation of junior golf equipment. The contribution provided students with an opportunity to continue exploring the game and developing their skills with proper equipment.

“Marten Falls is a small and remote community—its youth share the same curiosity, passion and potential as golfers across the province,” says Golf Ontario’s manager of Participation, Madelyn Grossi. “Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating communities that are often far removed from the traditional golf opportunities.”

What began as one teacher introducing a new activity to his students has grown into a meaningful connection to the game. Golf Ontario is honoured to play a small role in supporting that journey and highlighting the impact that golf can have in communities of all sizes across Ontario.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT POSITIVELY IMPACTING GOLF IN ONTARIO

Evan Klein and Jay Campbell claim Men’s and Men’s Senior Ontario Match Play titles 

After four days of competitive play from June 1-4, the 2026 Ontario Men’s and Men’s Senior Match Play Championships concluded at Tarandowah Golfers Club, with both finals teeing off at 7:30am. on Thursday morning. 

Mens: 

The Men’s Match Play final featured Evan Klein (Cutten Fields) and Will Hindemit (The Club at North Halton), both entering the championship match following strong semifinal performances, Klein advancing with a 2&1 victory and Hindemit moving on after an impressive 4&3 win.

The final was tightly contested from start to finish, with neither player able to pull ahead by more than a hole. On the final hole, Evan Klein secured a 1 UP victory, earning the 2026 Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship and capping off a composed and consistent week of golf. 

Men’s Senior:

The Men’s Senior final brought together defending champion Mike Kray (RattleSnake Point Golf Club) and hometown competitor Jay Campbell (Tarandowah Golfers Club). Kray entered the match after a solid 4&3 semifinal win, while Campbell advanced with a narrow 1 UP victory.

What followed was a dramatic, back‑and‑forth battle that extended well beyond regulation. After 18 holes, the match remained tied, sending the players into a tense sudden playoff. The duo continued for three additional holes before Jay Campbell finally broke through on the 21st hole, securing the win and claiming the 2026 Ontario Men’s Senior Match Play Championship.

Campbell’s victory was made even more memorable by achieving it on his home course!

A strong week of Match Play golf

With two competitive finals and standout performances across both divisions, the 2026 Ontario Men’s and Men’s Senior Match Play Championships added another exciting chapter to the event’s history at Tarandowah. 

For final results, click HERE

Championship photo album

Ontario Women's Match Play Championship

2026 Ontario Women’s & Women’s Senior Match Play Championship Heads to Cataraqui

The 2026 Ontario Women’s & Women’s Senior Match Play Championship is set to return to Cataraqui Golf & Country Club from Saturday June 6th – Monday June 8th welcoming a strong field of the province’s top female amateurs and senior competitors for three days of match play action.

Match Play Format

The championship will once again feature one of golf’s most competitive and unpredictable formats. Each hole is played against a single opponent rather than the full field.

“Match play places a premium on adaptability and patience,” said Iain Reston, Head Professional at Cataraqui Golf & Country Club. “Players must balance aggressive play with smart course management depending on the situation of each hole and match.”

The championship will begin with 18-hole stroke play qualifying to determine the match play draws. A total of 44 players are registered to attempt to qualify for the Women’s Match Play Division, with the top 16 players from Saturday’s round advancing to match play competition.

The Women’s Senior division features 23 competitors attempting to qualify, with the top eight players from Saturday’s round advancing to match play.

About Cataraqui Golf & Country Club

A fixture on Ontario’s championship golf calendar, Cataraqui Golf & Country Club continues its tradition of welcoming elite amateur competition.

“Hosting the Ontario Women’s and Women’s Senior Match Play Championships once again is a tremendous honour for Cataraqui Golf & Country Club and a reflection of the Club’s longstanding reputation as one of the premier championship venues in the province,” said Iain Reston. “It speaks to the quality of our Stanley Thompson design, the condition and presentation of the golf course, and the commitment of our staff, volunteers, and membership to delivering a first-class championship experience.”

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Notable Players in the Field  

Women’s:

  • Amelia McFarlane – Team Ontario. 2025 Ontario U17 Girls Champion
  • Avery Nordman – Defending Women’s Match Play Champion
  • Carlee Meilleur – 2022 Ontario Women’s Amateur Champion, former member of Team Canada’s Next Gen & Team Ontario

Women’s Senior: 

  • Nachcha Perkins – Defending Women’s Senior Match Play Champion
  • Mary Ann Hayward – Has won the Eastern Provinces Championship 8 times. Member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, Ontario Golf Hall of Fame, and Quebec Golf Hall of Fame.

Stay Connected

Live Scoring, Pairings & Results:  https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/12385915246571735290 

Full Player Roster:  https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/12385927389115369727 

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

Golf for All NGA

NGA celebrates 100th season as Northern Ontario Amateur & Golf Ontario Qualifiers head to Sudbury 

The Northern Golf Association (NGA) marks its 100th season in 2026, and that milestone adds added significance to this weekend’s Northern Ontario Amateur & Golf Ontario Qualifiers, taking place June 6-7 at Timberwolf Golf Club in Sudbury. 

Now in its 97th running, the championship continues its long-standing tradition in Northern Ontario, with nearly 100 players competing across four divisions: Men’s Senior Amateur, Men’s Amateur, Men’s Mid-Amateur, and Junior Boys U19, for spots in provincial championship fields. 

Host Venue: Timberwolf Golf Club 

Timberwolf Golf Club returns as an NGA championship host for the second time, with the challenging par-72 layout stretching more than 7,100 yards. The Sudbury venue has also hosted multiple elite junior championships, including three Ontario Junior Boys (U19) Championships and the 2013 Golf Canada Junior Boys Championship. 

Championship History 

As the NGA celebrates its 100th season, NGA President Archie Berube reflected on the growth of the championship and its place in the region’s golf calendar. 

“The NGA is very proud to host the 97th Northern Amateur at Timberwolf Golf Club this weekend. The event has grown a lot over the past few seasons, and it’s encouraging to see golf continuing to thrive throughout our region,” says Berube. “As we celebrate the NGA’s 100th anniversary this year, the Northern Amateur serves as the perfect start to a season that recognizes our deep history and what lies ahead.” 

The championship’s rich history includes several of Northern Ontario’s most accomplished amateur golfers: 

  • Bill Morland: holds the championship record with 12 Men’s Amateur titles and six Men’s Senior Amateur titles. He is also a former Golf Ontario Men’s Amateur champion and a member of the Golf Ontario Hall of Fame. 
  • Dave Morland: captured five Men’s Amateur titles and two Men’s Senior Amateur titles. He is also a former Golf Ontario Men’s Amateur champion. 
  • Vince Palladino & Jim Lamontagne: share the second most Men’s Amateur titles in championship history with six each. 

Notable Names in the Field 

The championship field once again features a strong mix of experience and talent, including multiple past NGA champions who have proven themselves at this level: 

  • Don Martone: Men’s Senior Amateur defending champion, as well as winner of last year’s Canadian Men’s Senior Championship. 
  • Vincent Palladino: Men’s Amateur defending champion 

Stay Connected 

Learn more about the NGA’s 100th season at https://www.golfnga.com 

To view past NGA champions: https://www.golfnga.com/past-champions 
 

Follow results from the Northern Ontario Amateur & Golf Ontario Qualifiers:  

June 6: Opening Day 

June 7: Championship Play Continues