Thornhill, ON — Summer like conditions welcomed the 84 players to Toronto Ladies GC for the 66th annual Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship. With hot weather came hot play, and the day proved to be competitive just like years in the past. After 18 however, it was Delaney Howson (Public Player) and Team Ontario coach, and Golf Ontario’s very own, Jessie Mercer (Black Bear Ridge GC) who came out on top.

Kicking things off on the first tee, the duo of Howson and Mercer were hot from the get-go. Going even-par after nine, the duo ramped things up even more with three straight birdies on their back nine to solidify the win. Leading the trailing duo’s in second by three strokes, Mercer and Howson’s impressive showing was one that was hard to match.

“It was a great day for us,” said Howson. “We got off to a bit of a slow start but found some momentum on the back nine. We started to play off each others strengths and found a good rhythm.” When asked about their stretch of birdies in the second half of their round, they credited it to some lucky shots.

“I chipped in on 12, Delaney stuck one tight on the next and then made a six-footer on 14 to cap it off,” said Mercer. “It was a little lucky but we definitely we’re on a roll.”

The duo finished the tournament -3 (69), and left as champions.

Trailing in second was a two way tie between the group of Kristy McLaughlin (Mad River), and Joanne River (Weston G&CC), and the group of Susan Postian (Sunningdale C) and Jane Hedges-McKinnon. The two teams finished the day at even-par (72), only three strokes behind the leaders, and although they couldn’t make up the distance for the top spot, they all showcased some sizzling play down the stretch to lock the second place position.

As for the Low Net portion of the tournament, it was home course favourites Mavis Knight and Denise Tobin (Ladies GC of Toronto) who came out on top after a six hole playoff against the talented duo of Penny Robinson and Mary Contardi (The CC West). Playing an extra hour and a half of golf, both teams showed incredible resilience and devotion, proving that they were going to battle it out until the very end.

A big thank you to Ladies GC of Toronto for being such fantastic hosts for the tournament, and thanks to our volunteers as well for for all their hard work, making this championship possible.

For full results and more information on the tournament, please visit the official tournament page HERE

For photos from the tournament, CLICK HERE

About the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship

First played in 1953, the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship is contested annually and features two-woman teams competing in a better-ball format. In total, 46 teams and 92 players took part in the 2018 event.

Ryan MacKenzie

Marketing & Communications Assistant

rmackenzie@gao.ca

– Seventeen of the 60 athletes will be returning to compete in the event, including a record fourth participation for Italy’s Nobilio –

– As the host country, Canada will field two squads of three players – 

MARKHAM, Ont. – It is a field comprised of some of the planet’s best young female golfers that will display their skills at Angus Glen Golf Club, as the sixth edition of the World Junior Girls Championship gets underway from September 24 to 27. In total, 60 athletes representing 19 countries—including two teams from host nation Canada—will compete for the team and individual titles.

“In collaboration with Golf Ontario and our partners, we are thrilled to present this first-class event featuring some the most promising female athletes the world of golf has to offer,” said Dan Hyatt, Tournament Director for the World Junior Girls Championship. “It is an honour for us to afford these talented juniors an opportunity to continue their growth and development.”

This year’s field is highlighted by 11 competitors ranked inside the World Golf Amateur Rankings (WAGR) top 100. The tournament’s top-ranked player is 2018 World Junior Girls individual champion Atthaya Thitikul (No. 2), who will represent last year’s bronze medal winners Thailand in the country’s second World Junior Girls appearance. Thitikul, the reigning Thailand Ladies Amateur champion, won the Smyth Salver award as the Low Amateur at the 2019 AIG Women’s British Open, captured the 2019 Ladies European Tour Thailand Championship and has now competed in 10 professional events worldwide.

England is the only country in the tournament to have all three team members ranked in WAGR’s top 100. Lily May Humphreys (No. 29) will make her third WJG appearance and try to improve on her T7 finish in 2017. Joining her at Markham’s Angus Glen will be Annabell Fuller (No. 46) and Euphemie “Mimi” Rhodes (No. 95).

Returning champions Italy will be able to rely on Alessia Nobilio (No. 7) to lead the team. Nobilio will look to add to her record WJG individual medal haul after capturing silver medals in 2017 and 2018. The 17-year-old, who has seven top-ten finishes this year including two victories, will be joined by newcomers Carolina Melgrati (No. 115) and Benedetta Moresco (No. 34). The trio will look to bring a third World Junior Girls team medal to Italy.

The 2019 edition of the Championship will see several players return, as 17 members of the field have played in at least one World Junior Girls Championship, including double individual silver medallist Nobilio (Italy) who became the first repeat medallist in tournament history in Ottawa last year. Six players will be appearing in at least their third edition of the event, including Canadians Ellie Szeryk (No. 724) and Emily Zhu (No. 977), Switzerland’s Elena Moosman (No. 97), Mexico’s Cory Lopez (No. 314) and England’s Humphreys. Nobilo will make a record fourth appearance at the Championship.

Sweden will look to add a fourth team medal to their trophy case after earning one silver (2014) and two bronze medals (2015 and 2017). As the only Swedish player returning to the championship, Ester Fägersten (No. 180) will be joined by first-timers Louise Rydqvist (No. 439) and Sara Ericsson (No. 230).

Along with the returning teams and players, the World Junior Girls Championship is also pleased to welcome back the representatives of Germany and the Republic of Korea after a one-year absence, as well as to host Wales for the very first time.  The inaugural Welsh team will consist of Darcey Harry (No. 578), Ffion Tynan (No. 693) and Carys Worby (No. 799).

Joining the strong international field will be the six players chosen to represent Canada. Brooke Rivers (Brampton, Ont.), Euna Han (Coquitlam, B.C.) and Zhu (Richmond Hill, Ont.) will constitute Canada One, while Lauren Kim and Angela Arora of Surrey, B.C., will team up with Szeryk (London, Ont.) to form Canada Two. Team Canada will be looking for their first medal since capturing bronze at the inaugural World Junior Girls Championship in 2014.

In 2018 at Camelot Golf and Country Club, it was Italy that prevailed over the USA to capture the crown, registering a feisty 6-under performance (138) that allowed them to catch the Americans and force extra holes. Italy eventually came up on top to win their first World Junior Girls Championship gold.

The World Junior Girls Championship is conducted by Golf Canada in partnership with Golf Ontario and supported by the R&A and the International Golf Federation. Recognized as an ‘A’ ranked event by the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR), the World Junior Girls Championship will run for its sixth time.

Angus Glen Golf Club consists of two 18-hole championship golf courses in Markham, Ontario. The North and South courses offer variety, beauty and challenges. It has been ranked as one of the top 80 golf courses in the world outside of the United States. It was home to the 2002 and 2007 Canadian Open and an official host of the 2015 Toronto Pan/Parapan American Games.

The first round of play is on Tuesday, September 24. The tournament’s closing ceremonies will immediately follow the conclusion of play on Friday, Sept. 27.

Admission to the competition is free. Additional information regarding the sixth annual World Junior Girls Championship can be found on the competition’s website.

GOLF CANADA
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing 319,000 golfers and 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to increase Canadian participation and excellence in golf. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our vision is to be a world leader in golf. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

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 450 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.

ABOUT THE WORLD JUNIOR GIRLS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP
The World Junior Girls Golf Championship is an annual event conducted by Golf Canada in partnership with Golf Ontario. The international competition features three-player teams of 18-and-under athletes. As host country, Canada will field two of the tournament’s 20 teams competing over 72 holes for both individual and team honours. The championship is conducted with support from the Golf Canada Foundation, Sport Canada; the International Golf Federation; the PGA of Canada; the R&A; and Levelwear. Admission and parking for the World Junior Girls Golf Championship is free. For more information, visit www.worldjuniorgirls.com.

ABOUT THE GOLF CANADA FOUNDATION
The Golf Canada Foundation is the leading source for golf philanthropy in Canada, awarding more than $6 million in grants and scholarships since 1982. The foundation’s mission is to support and promote programs that increase participation in golf by engaging players of all ages and abilities across Canada. For more information about what the Golf Canada Foundation is doing to support golf in your community, visit us online at www.golfcanada.ca/foundation.

Thornhill, ON — On Monday, September 22nd the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship will be getting underway at the prestigious Ladies GC of Toronto. 84 players playing in twosomes will take to the challenging course in hopes of leaving champions.

Last year’s championship saw Ivy Steinberg (Granite GC) and Kelly Koselek (CedarBrae GC) come out on top after an intense playoff battle. The tournament proved to be extremely competitive, seeing four teams tie for first after 18. Two playoff holes later, it was Steinberg and Koselek who were able to muster enough energy for one final push, beating Katrina Myers and Jacinth Hoilett for the top spot.

The duo returns again this year in hopes of claiming glory for the second consecutive time. But it won’t be an easy task with players like Judith Kyrinis (Granite GC), Alexa Ouellet (Credit Valley G&CC), and many more hot on their tails.

The talented field will take on the challenging Ladies GC of Toronto. A Stanley Thompson design, the 18-hole course from the back tees is just over 6,000 yards. It’s long and narrow fairways and small greens make it no easy task to perform well. The duo who can handle the tough conditions and greens the best will surely leave with some extra hardware in their hands.

Steinberg, Koselek, and the rest of the field take to the course at 12:00 pm. For more information on the tournament, please visit the official tournament page HERE

About the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship

First played in 1953, the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship is contested annually and features two-woman teams competing in a better-ball format. In total, 46 teams and 92 players took part in the 2018 event.

Ryan MacKenzie

Marketing & Communications Assistant

rmackenzie@gao.ca

Brampton, ON — Warm and sunny skies welcomed the golfers to the one day Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship at Brampton GC. The field of 124 went off at a 1:00pm shotgun start to see which duo would leave a champion, and hoist the ‘Oakdale Trophy’. Being the only round of the tournament, the stakes were high and the players came out ready to play.

At the beginning of the day, all eyes were on the reigning champions Mark Bennett (Bayview G&CC) and Jim Briggs (Cardinal Lakes GC). The duo came into the tournament the early favorites as they arrived with high hopes of clinching their second title in two years.

The tournament was highly competitive seeing five groups all within two strokes of the top spot, but it was home course twosome Bruno Ardito and Gary Parker (Brampton GC) who would eventually steal the show. After 18, the duo was tied with the talented team of Dan Partland (The Summit G&CC) and Christopher Kertsos (York Downs G&CC). The two teams took to the track for a playoff hole to decide who would leave a champion. Neck and neck the entire way through, it seemed like neither duo could pull ahead. It wasn’t until the third playoff hole where Ardito lined up and dropped a 30-foot putt to clinch the title.

When given the chance to speak about the tournament winning shot, Ardito simply praised his partner. “If it weren’t for my red hot partner, this wouldn’t have been possible,” he said. “It’s a great feeling winning at our home course, and we hope everyone had as much fun as we did.”

Ardito and Parker would finish the tournament with a final score of -5 (66), and take home the heavy hardware. Kertsos and Partland finished the tournament in second, trailed closely by two teams tied for third. Both duo’s of Phil Charal and Tony Robinson (The Summit G&CC), and Greg Hothman David Greenaway (Barrie CC), finished the tournament only a single stroke behind the leaders at -4 (67). The two teams had impressive showings, almost causing a four way playoff for the rights to being a champion.

Golf Ontario would like to thank Brampton GC for hosting the event, and providing spectacular food and beverage to all the players. Also a big thanks to our volunteers for making this event possible.

For final scores, visit the official tournament page HERE

For photos from the tournament, CLICK HERE

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 date of the tournament. The championship trophy was donated by the Oakdale Golf & Country Club, who annually host Golf Ontario’s Men’s Better-Ball Championship. Notable champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Famers Nick Westlock and Stu Hamilton.

Ryan MacKenzie

Marketing & Communications Assistant

rmackenzie@gao.ca

Brampton, ON — For the fourth year in a row, Brampton GC will be hosting the Ontario Senior Men’s Better-Ball Championship. The championship is set to get underway this Thursday, September 19th, where 124 players will take to the beautiful course in hopes of ending the golf season with some strong play.

With such a large field, it’s tough to say which pairing will have the upperhand heading in to event. With twosomes like home course favourites Bruno Ardito and Gary Parker (Brampton GC), Senior Men’s Amateur Champion David Greenaway and his partner Greg Hotham (Barrie CC), Robert Gibson and Colin Grieve (Cedar Brae GC), and many more, there’s talent right across the board. However, some attention will obviously be on last years champions Mark Bennett (Bayview G&CC) and Jim Briggs (Cardinal Lakes GC).

The duo took last year’s championship by storm, carding an impressive 5-under (66) after 18 to win it all. After a tough start with a bogey on the first hole, the dynamic duo never looked back adding 6 birdies to their scorecard to make up ground. The two we’re excited after last years championship round.

“It’s pretty special,” said Bennett. “It’s an Ontario Championship and we get our names on the trophy that contains players from the past few decades that have been the best of the best.” With their return to the tournament, the ball is in their court to see if they can defend their title, and etch their names into history yet again.

The 144 players will take to the beautiful Brampton GC in hopes of championship glory. The championship course was designed and built  by C. E “Robbie” Robinson in 1963, the nearest disciple of legendary architect, Stanley Thompson. With five sets of tee blocks, this par 71 ranges in length from 6558 to 5267 yards, offering a challenge to any player who takes to the tee.

“The key to the course will be controlling the distance on their approach shots,” said Head Professional Emerson Mahoney. “The greens are firm and quite large, so being on top of their distance control will quickly become a high priority come Thursday. We wish all the players goodluck and we look forward to seeing some great golf.”

The players will take to the track at 1:00pm Thursday afternoon. For more information, visit the official tournament page HERE

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 date of the tournament. The championship trophy was donated by the Oakdale Golf & Country Club, who annually host Golf Ontario’s Men’s Better-Ball Championship. Notable champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Famers Nick Westlock and Stu Hamilton.

Ryan MacKenzie

Marketing & Communications Assistant

rmackenzie@gao.ca

Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario has been providing financial assistance annually to deserving student golfers throughout Ontario who are continuing their education at the post-secondary level since 1994. This scholarship program, made possible with the support of our corporate partners and sponsors, allows us to award multiple scholarships each year that support student golfers and their post-secondary education dreams.

Back in 2016, Golf Ontario celebrated a milestone as the association surpassed $500,000 in scholarship funds awarded since the program’s inception. Three years later in 2019, $596,000 in total has now been awarded to hundreds of recipients.

In 2019, Golf Ontario has selected another 10 deserving student golfers who will receive funding to help with their post-secondary studies. We are very proud to announce the following players as our 2019 Golf Ontario scholarship recipients.

Jocelyn Menard	Golf Ontario Scholarship	GreyHawk Golf Club	Maryville University
INDIVIDUAL	AWARD	CLUB	INSTITUTION
Julia Moretto	Christine Fisher Award	Maple City Country Club	Brock University
Ranen Oomen-Danckert	Craig Revell Award	Shelburne Golf and Country Club	The University of British Columbia
Kegan Mongru	Helena Harbridge Award	Lakeridge Golf Club	Western University
Nathan Douglas	Ken Mackenzie Award	The Thornhill Club	McGill University
Jason Gage	Golf Ontario Scholarship	Beacon Hall Golf Club	Western University
Michael Guyatt	Golf Ontario Scholarship	Hamilton Golf and Country Club	McMaster University
Hayden Scott	Golf Ontario Scholarship	Westmount Golf and Country Club	Western University
Max Wang	Golf Ontario Scholarship	Brampton Golf Club	Western University
Quinn Arial	Golf Ontario Scholarship	Camelot Golf and Country Club	Holy Cross College

Golf Ontario would like to congratulate the 2019 recipients and wish them luck in their post-secondary studies.

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

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 450 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.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and Like us on Facebook, @TheGolfOntario for updates of all our activities.

Ryan MacKenzie

Marketing & Communications Assistant

rmackenzie@gao.ca

From Golf Canada

19 countries return to the site of the inaugural international competition at Angus Glen South’s Course

MARKHAM, Ont. –  The world’s top 18-and-under female junior golfers will return to Angus Glen for the sixth edition of the World Junior Girls Championship from Sept. 24-27. As host nation, Canada will send two teams of three athletes to compete for the international title of World Junior Girls champion.

Representing Canada One will be Brooke Rivers (Brampton, Ont.), Emily Zhu (Richmond Hill, Ont.) and Euna Han (Coquitlam, B.C.).

This will be the debut for Rivers at the World Junior Girls Championship. The 2019 season marks a breakout campaign for the 14-year-old, who captured the regional Future Links, driven by Acura Quebec championship alongside top 10 finishes at the Canadian Junior Girls, Ontario Women’s Amateur and Ontario Junior Girls Championships. She’s coming off a strong performance representing Canada at the Astor Trophy last month at Royal Colwood Golf Club.

Zhu, a Team Canada Junior Squad member, will compete in the World Junior Girls Championship for a second straight year. The reigning Canadian Junior Girls champion finished at No. 2 in the season-long Junior Order of Merit thanks to seven top-10 finishes, including a runner-up finish at the Ontario Women’s Amateur.

Han is also set to make her return to the competition after teeing it up in 2017. She’s on the heels of a strong season that features eight top-10 finishes, including a runner-up at the Future Links, driven by Acura Pacific Championship and a third place result at the B.C. Women’s Amateur.

As the host country, Canada reserves the right to field two teams in the 60-player, 19-country competition. Canada Two will consist of Angela Arora (Surrey, B.C.) Ellie Szeryk (London, Ont.) and Lauren Kim (Surrey, B.C.).

15-year-old Arora is currently ranked fourth in the Junior Girls Order of Merit. She has eight top-10 finishes this season, highlighted by a win at the Future Links, driven by Acura Ontario Championship. She placed 12th at the Canadian Junior Girls and finished in a tie for 4th at the B.C. Women’s Amateur.

Szeryk will make her second appearance in the international competition, having finished 27th in last year’s championship. The 18-year-old Team Canada Junior Squad member recorded three top-10 finishes this year, including a T10 result at the Canadian Junior Girls Championship at Lethbridge Country Club in Lethbridge, Alta.

Kim will make her second appearance in the event, having finished T41 in 2018. Her 2019 campaign features four victories, including a win at the Future Links, driven by Acura Pacific Championship.

“Golf Canada is pleased to select these athletes as a result of their remarkable seasons and commitment to the sport,” said Jeff Thompson, Golf Canada’s chief sport officer. “Their collective accomplishments are a result of the support and joint efforts of Provincial Golf Associations, home clubs, parents, coaches and athletes. We’re looking forward to a great championship against many of the world’s top-ranked juniors.”

Matt Wilson (Golf Canada’s women’s junior squad coach and director of next generation) will lead the two Team Canada squads with the support Reggie Millage (Golf Ontario head coach).

“Golf Ontario is thrilled to once again partner with Golf Canada to conduct this global championship at the site of the inaugural event at Angus Glen Golf Club,” said Mike Kelly, Golf Ontario Executive Director. “We are very thankful for their membership and volunteer committees for all their hard work, and are excited to host players and coaches from around the world.”

The World Junior Girls Championship is conducted by Golf Canada in partnership with Golf Ontario, and supported by the R&A and International Golf Federation. Recognized as an ‘A’ ranked event by the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR), the World Junior Girls Championship will run for its sixth time.

Angus Glen Golf Club consists of two 18-hole championship golf courses. The North and South courses offer variety, beauty and challenge. Arthur Stollery, an avid golfer, began building the golf course in 1992 in the valley where Black Angus cattle once grazed. Angus Glen has played host to the 2002 and 2007 RBC Canadian Opens, the inaugural 2014 World Junior Girls Championship and the 2015 Toronto Pan American Games.

Opening ceremonies for the championship take place on Sept. 22 followed by the first round on Tuesday, Sept. 24. The tournament’s closing ceremonies will immediately follow the conclusion of play on Friday, Sept. 27.

Admission to the competition is free. Additional information regarding the sixth annual World Junior Girls Championship can be found here.

ABOUT THE WORLD JUNIOR GIRLS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP
The World Junior Girls Golf Championship is an annual event conducted by Golf Canada in partnership with Golf Ontario. The international competition features three-player teams of 18-and-under athletes. As host country, Canada will field two of the tournament’s 19 teams competing over 72 holes for both individual and team honours. The championship is conducted with support from the Golf Canada Foundation, Sport Canada; the International Golf Federation; the PGA of Canada; the R&A; and Levelwear. Admission and parking for the World Junior Girls Golf Championship is free. For more information, visit www.worldjuniorgirls.com.

GOLF CANADA 
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing 319,000 golfers and 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to increase Canadian participation and excellence in golf. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our vision is to be a world leader in golf. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

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 450 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.

Gormley, ON — Cool and sunny skies hung over Meadowbrook GC for the second and final day of the 2019 Ontario Public Amateur Championship. The players arrived to the challenging yet fair course in hopes of a strong showing, and also a first place finish. The day proved to be competitive as they all conducted impressive play throughout.

The tournament from the very beginning this championship has been a tight race, and the final day proved to be no different. Heading into today, only a one stroke difference separated first and second, and only three strokes separated first from fifth. By the end of the round, only a few strokes separated the top five players.

But by the time it was all said and done, Jeremy Wilson (Barrie, ON), last years runner up, came out on top. With some hot play out the gate, Wilson played one of the best rounds of his career carding four birdies and only two bogeys through 18 for a total score of +1 for the tournamnt. The first half of the tournament was a battle between Peter Willis (Aurora, ON) and Mark Wiebe (St. Catharines, ON), but Wilson quickly stole the spotlight after going 3-under after 9. Showing maturity and the ability to be consistent, Wilson continued this success the rest of the way through, and despite some pressure from the players trailing, he maintained composure and finished the round with a tournament low -2 to secure the win.

It was just last year when Wilson was standing on the other end of victory. In the 2018 playing of the Public Amateur championship, the 24-year-old found himself thwarted by the talented Shyamal Nagindas (Aurora, ON) in the final round. To come so close to a championship and let it slip through his hands, it wasn’t surprising to see Wilson come out and take charge this time around.

“It’s an awesome feeling to be able to come back and win it,” said Wilson. “Second last year was still a success in my books but definitely the end goal was to win it all.” When asked about the pressures of being a finalist last year and to continue to have success, Wilson pointed out that there’s always pressure to perform.

“You always want to better yourself. I knew there would be talented competition out there again this year so there was definitely some added pressure there, but overall I’d say this wasn’t anything new to me.” Wilson finished the tournament with a total score of +1 (143).

Trailing closely behind was 2016 champion Peter Willis (Aurora, ON) with a total score of +3 (145). WIllis came out looking like he had something to prove in today’s round. Starting off -2 after 4, the champion put up a fight from the very start, and despite a few tough holes he made sure to persevere and play well the entire way through. He finished only two strokes behind Wilson.

Sitting in a tie for third were Jean-Henri Lavoie (Brampton, ON) and Daniel Racioppa (Mount Albert, ON). The duo displayed some impressive play over the course of the tournament, both finishing with total scores of +5 (147).

As for the B and C flights, it was Derek Baird (Etobicoke, ON) and Andrew Schlegel (Newmarket, ON) who took home the hardware. Baird won the B flight with an impressive net score of +2, while Schlegel won the C flight with a net score of +1.

For results and information on the tournament, visit the official tournament page HERE

For photos from the tournament, CLICK HERE

About the Ontario Public Amateur Championship

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship was first played in 1958 at Don Valley Golf Club. Past winners include: Ken Trowbridge (1970), 2018 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee Dave Bunker (2009, 2010) and Craig Loughry who has won a record four times (1997, 2001, 2005, 2006). Play of the tournament was suspended from 1984-1995. Mill Run Golf and Country Club (Uxbridge, ON) has hosted the tournament a record 9 times.

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship provides the perfect opportunity for those interested in trying a competitive tournament while providing gross and net flights. This allows higher handicap players to play against players in their handicap grouping.

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 450 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.

Ryan MacKenzie

Assistant, Marketing & Communications

rmackenzie@gao.ca

Gormley, ON — Sunny and cool skies welcomed the players to Meadowbrook GC for the first round of the Ontario Public Amateur Championship on Wednesday morning. With no returning champion, the field looked to play well and hopefully take an early lead heading into tomorrow’s final day. Day one proved to be a tight race with competitive scores throughout.

A player to watch early was last years runner up Jeremy Wilson (Waubaushene) as he came in an early favourite, but it was Daniel Racioppa (Mount Albert, ON) who would end up grabbing the lead and attention after round one the. Coming out hot, Racioppa had the best front nine of the day finishing -1, and continued his momentum throughout to finish at even-par, the top score of the day. Closing out his back nine with eight straight pars, Racioppa’s impressive play showcased a level of consistency many couldn’t duplicate in the windy conditions.

“Coming into today I knew I just had to keep the ball in front of me,” said Racioppa. “Swing easy when it’s breezy is my motto.” When asked about his mindset heading into tomorrows final round, he said he’s not going to change much.

“It all starts with commitment. If I’m committing and adjusting to the factors, I feel pretty confident in my game.”

Racioppa heads into tomorrow with a one stroke lead on Mark Wiebe (St. Catherines, ON). Wiebe also had quite the impressive round, carding three birdies and eight pars on the final nine holes. Things looked up from the start for Wiebe with two birdies on the first four holes, but he ran into some trouble shortly after. With a double-bogey on 5 and another bogey on 7, Wiebe quickly fell behind Racioppa for the lead. Despite the tough stretch, he played a solid back nine and sit just one stroke back from the lead.

Sitting another few strokes behind the two leaders are Jeremy Wilson (Barrie), Peter Willis (Aurora, ON), Jean-Henri Lavoie (Brampton, ON), and David Poutinen (Markham, ON) with scores of +3. Although a few strokes behind Racioppa, no one’s counting these four out as they look to make some ground tomorrow on the leaders.

As for the B Flight portion of the tournament, it was Jim Annett (Georgetown, ON) who came out on top with a net score total of -2 after 18. Annett heads into tomorrow with a three stroke lead over the trio tied for second, and will surely be looking to use that to his advantage during tomorrows final round.

For the C Flight portion, it was a three way tie for first between Andrew Schlegel (Newmarket, ON), Charlie Cooper (Caledonia, ON), and Joel Clarke (Toronto, ON). The trio all finished the tournament with a net score of -2 after 18. They will arrive tomorrow looking to make some room between them and those chasing  them down.

The second round will commence at 7:30am on Thursday morning once again from Meadowbrook.

For future results and information on the tournament, visit the official tournament page HERE

For photos from the tournament, CLICK HERE

About the Ontario Public Amateur Championship

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship was first played in 1958 at Don Valley Golf Club. Past winners include: Ken Trowbridge (1970), 2018 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee Dave Bunker (2009, 2010) and Craig Loughry who has won a record four times (1997, 2001, 2005, 2006). Play of the tournament was suspended from 1984-1995. Mill Run Golf and Country Club (Uxbridge, ON) has hosted the tournament a record 9 times.

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship provides the perfect opportunity for those interested in trying a competitive tournament while providing gross and net flights. This allows higher handicap players to play against players in their handicap grouping.

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 450 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.

Ryan MacKenzie

Assistant, Marketing & Communications

rmackenzie@gao.ca

Gormley, ON — On Wednesday, September 4th, the Ontario Public Amateur Championship returns for it’s 61st running of the tournament. 84 players will arrive at Meadowbrook G&CC in hopes of leaving a victor, and joining an elite group of champions.

In last years championship, it was Shyamal Nagindas (Aurora, ON) who was able to come out on top after two stellar rounds to cap off his amateur career. Finishing four strokes ahead of the second place finisher Jeremy Wilson (Waubaushene), Nagindas finished the tournament +2 after back to back rounds of +1 finishes.

However, the 26-year-old Nagindas will not be returning this year as he turned pro after his championship win in 2018. With Nagindas not returning, this leaves the top spot vacant, with many hungry players looking for success of their own.

Last years runner-up Wilson will especially be returning with the top spot in his crosshairs. Finishing only four strokes behind Nagindas, the race was as tight as ever, but he was unable to catch up after shooting +5 on the first day, even with his +1 on the second. Now understanding the importance of a solid first round, Wilson will be looking for a title of his own.

But that being said, he is not the sure bet as the field is as competitive as ever. With players the likes of Craig Loughry (Courtice, ON), Jordan Epstein (Thornhill, ON), and many others, there’s no sure guess as to who will come out on top.

Players will arrive to Meadowbrook G&CC today to warm up on the course prior to the first round getting underway tomorrow. Meadowbrook is widely known for it’s tough elevation changes and tactically placed bunkers. The 153 acre property gently meanders through established stands of coniferous trees with a series of flowing brooks and tough positioned water hazards as well, making it no easy path to a strong score for the top spot.

The tournament gets underway tomorrow, September 4th, at 7:30 AM. For future results and information on the tournament, visit the official tournament page HERE

About the Ontario Public Amateur Championship

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship was first played in 1958 at Don Valley Golf Club. Past winners include: Ken Trowbridge (1970), 2018 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee Dave Bunker (2009, 2010) and Craig Loughry who has won a record four times (1997, 2001, 2005, 2006). Play of the tournament was suspended from 1984-1995. Mill Run Golf and Country Club (Uxbridge, ON) has hosted the tournament a record 9 times.

The Ontario Public Amateur Championship provides the perfect opportunity for those interested in trying a competitive tournament while providing gross and net flights. This allows higher handicap players to play against players in their handicap grouping.

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 450 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.

Ryan MacKenzie

Assistant, Marketing & Communications

rmackenzie@gao.ca