Uxbridge, ON – Every year, Golf Ontario conducts multiple amateur championships in the province of Ontario. As part of our registration process, we normally include the opportunity for golfers to donate to a cause. Historically, these donations have gone to support junior golf in Ontario.

This year, with the many challenges COVID-19 has presented, we felt it was important to give back in a different way. During registration for the 2020 championship season, we offered golfers the opportunity to donate to Frontline Workers. All funds generated through these donations would then be divided up and given back equally to a local hospital in each of our championship communities.

“2020 has been a unique year for competitive golf and it was important to us to develop safety protocols that allowed us to conduct a championship season”, said Golf Ontario’s Manager of Sport, Mallory Dayman. Reflecting on the season, “each of our participants, volunteers and staff stayed vigilant to those protocols throughout each event ensuring a safe environment for all.  We cannot thank our host clubs and their communities enough for welcoming Ontario golfers this season, and it’s the least we can do to support the frontline workers locally by making these donations supported by the players.”

These are challenging times for everyone, and we are extremely proud and thankful to recognize the amazing work that our Frontline Workers have been doing throughout this pandemic. Through the contributions of our championship players, as well as the amazing golf facilities that hosted our championships this year, we are proud of the funds we have raised to support Frontline Workers.

Golf Ontario has matched these donations to ensure that we were giving back to the hospitals in our championship communities in a meaningful way. We are pleased to announce donations to each of the following hospital foundations:

• Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Saugeen Golf Club
  • https://smhfoundation.ca/
• Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Dalewood Golf Club
  • https://nhhfoundation.ca/
• Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, on behalf of Otter Creek Golf Club
  • https://www.tillsonburghospital.on.ca/give-back-donate
• Headwaters Health Care Foundation, on behalf on Shelburne Golf and Country Club
  • https://hhcfoundation.akaraisin.com/ui/donations/donations/start?it=1&amt=50
• Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Cambridge Golf Club
  • https://cmhfoundation.ca/donate/
• Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Meadowbrook Golf Club
  • https://www.helpmsh.ca/
• South Muskoka Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Taboo Muskoka Resort & Golf
  • https://www.healthmuskoka.ca/
• Lennox & Addington County General Hospital, on behalf of Loyalist Country Club
  • https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/lennox-addington-county-general-hospital-foundation/campaign/support-the-lennox-addington-county-general-hospitals-covid-19-efforts/
• Stevenson Memorial Hospital Foundation, on behalf of Woodington Lake Golf Club
  • https://transformingstevenson.ca/

Rhonda Cunningham, Executive Director for the Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation was delighted when the news came through of the donation. “What a lovely email to receive on a dreary Monday morning!  Thank you so much for supporting our frontlines with this meaningful donation.”

If you missed the chance to donate during the registration process, or would like to make a donation now, please view the links provided.

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Uxbridge, ON – In this edition of the Golf Ontario Summer 2020 recap, we are rewinding the clock to reflect on August, the busiest month of our 2020 championship schedule.  During the month of August, we experienced lengthy rain delays at the Ontario Women’s Amateur and Mid-Amateur Championship, challenging rounds at the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship and cool opening tee offs to hot afternoons at the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship. Through it all, though, the golf talent from our championship participants continued to be front and center.

August Championships

Teeing off the start of August, Golf Ontario welcomed the Ontario Women’s Amateur and Mid-Amateur Championship to Dalewood Golf Club from August 4^th to 7^th. Following a 3.5-hour weather delay in round one, the Amateur leader was Claire Hernandez (Thornhill Club) sitting at two-under including four birdies on her round. Hall of Famer, Judith Kyrinis (Granite GC), lead in the Mid-Amateur category after a one-over round with much golf still left to play.

The start of round two came with sunshine and clear skies, but as the day progressed, the wind increased and so did the scores. With the Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship moving into their final round the next day, leader of round two Nonie Marler (Public Player), completed her round with a notable four birdies and three bogeys (144). Climbing the leaderboard of the Women’s Amateur Championship was G.O. Public Player, Sydney Naro. Naro shot a one-under on the front and two-over on the back, for an overall one-over through 2 rounds (142). Following in second with four birdies for the day, was first round leader Claire Hernandez (Thornhill Club).

(Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Champions, left to right: Judith Kyrinis, Nonie Marler, Terrill Samuel)

With the third and final round coming to an end for the Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship at Dalewood Golf Club, Public Player Nonie Marler (Marine Drive GC) took home the prestigious title with three near flawless rounds and a three day total of 218. Climbing the leaderboard in the final round, Terrill Samuel (Weston G&CC), played her best round of the championship finishing with a one-under par 71 (222). Falling to third, 2017 Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Champion Judith Kyrinis (Granite GC), completed the day with a tough 76 (224).

With one more round to go for the Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship, sitting atop the leaderboard was Michigan State University golfer, Sydney Naro (Public Player), with consistent play over the three rounds (214).

(Ontario Women’s Amateur Champion, Sydney Naro)

Lots of sunshine, smiles, and great play were found on the course today for the final round. Sealing the deal with four consistent rounds of golf, Michigan State University golfer, Sydney Naro (Public Player), brought home the Ontario Women’s Amateur crown with an even par round to end the championship at even overall (285). In a great fight for the silver and bronze, Brooke Rivers (Brampton GC) and Kristen Giles (Eagle River GC), went stroke for stroke most of the round with Rivers prevailing to finish second, one stroke behind Naro. Giles finished 2 shots off the pace for her third-place finish. With three late birdies down the stretch, Rivers really put pressure on Naro to hang on to the lead. Giles also had a birdie streak of her own down the back nine, but just like Rivers, couldn’t quite catch the leader.

View the leaderboard from the Ontario Women’s Amateur and Mid-Amateur Championship at Dalewood Golf Club, here.

All photos from the championship can be found here: round one, round two, round three, round four.

Heading into our third of nine championships, Golf Ontario was thrilled to welcome the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship to Otter Creek Golf Club from August 11^th to 14^th. Living up to expectations, the first round proved to be very competitive, with eleven players within three strokes of the lead.

Leading the pack, however, after day one was David Lang (Donalda Club) who fired a solid one-under to take a one stroke lead into round two. Dave Bunker (Cherry Hill Club), Kyle Chung (Brampton GC), Thomas Code (Highland CC), Jonathan Cranton (Donalda Club), Nathan Kraynyk (Eagles Nest GC) and Arnold Johnson (Public Player) all sit tied in second place, one shot back after each scoring a solid even-par round.

A cool, calm morning kicked off round two, with Robbie Latter (Credit Valley G&CC) taking the lead after a stellar bogey free round and a strong four-under, including 4 birdies. Latter would now sit at two-under overall after two days, for a 2-shot lead. Charles Fitzsimmons (Thornhill Club) and local favorite Peyton Callens (Otter Creek GC) both fired solid three-under pars, to follow closely behind at even par total after two rounds.

Round three brought a beautiful and calm morning as players looked to make some noise on moving day. Remaining the Championship leader was Robbie Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), who fired a stellar three-under (69) round including five birdies and an eagle, to now sit five-under overall after three days. Hot on his heels however was Cougar Collins (TPC at Osprey Valley), who fired the competitions best round of six-under (66) so far through three days. Collins sat two-under on the tournament and in second place after setting the pace with an eagle on the third hole.

(Ontario Men’s Amateur Champion, Cougar Collins)

It was a very competitive field throughout the entire week, and the final round was no different with the Championship coming down to the last few windy holes to determine the 2020 champion. Clawing his way to victory down the final stretch was Golf Canada Amateur Squad Member, Cougar Collins, with an even par round (72) to finish the Championship at two-under. He got some help from second and third round leader, Robbie Latter (Credit Valley G&CC), who stumbled just slightly down the back stretch and lost the lead after a double bogey on 13. Latter impressively fought back to remain tied with Collins until the seventeenth, where he would drop a shot once again. Latter finished at five-over (77) on the day, and a bogey on the 18th would help secure Collins the victory. Tied for second with Latter was Thomas Giroux (North Club of Halton), who finished the day and the week with a solid even par.

View the leaderboard from the Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship at Otter Creek Golf Club, here.

All photos from the championship can be found here: round one, round two, round three, round four.

For the halfway point of our 2020 championship season, and teeing off from August 18^th to 21^st at Shelburne Golf and Country Club, we welcomed the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship. Ominous grey clouds and windy conditions greeted the first round of competition. The strong field was not only currently being led by three Team Ontario members, but by three Juvenile (U17) Girls’. Taking the lead in round one, Nicole Gal (Oakville GC) had a solid start with five birdies, leaving her sitting two-under par. Tied for second, Sarah Gallagher (Blue Springs GC) and Katie Cranston (Oakville GC) headed into round two sitting one shot back.

Dealing with better conditions in round two, the players battled for a spot in the top 42 plus ties before the cut heading into round three. With lots of movement on the leaderboard, Katie Cranston (Oakville GC) and Nicole Gal (Oakville GC) switched positions, with Cranston taking the lead and Gal dropping to second. Cranston shot an impressive round of 68 with five birdies (139), while Gal’s two birdies helped to leave her three-under par for the round.

Round three presented the players with more windy conditions, as everyone looked to make some moves. Unaffected by the wind, Katie Cranston (Oakville GC) completed a solid round while remaining at the top of the leaderboard with an overall score of eight-under par (208). Sitting in second is the round one leader, Nicole Gal (Oakville GC), after a plus three round thanks to some tougher greens.

(Ontario Juvenile (U17) & Junior (U19) Girls’ Champion, Katie Cranston)

With the weather on everyone’s side today, the players looked to finish their final round on a high note and take advantage of the sun and the calm winds. Heading home with very full hands, the 2020 Ontario Juvenile and Junior Girls’ Champion is Team Ontario member Katie Cranston (Oakville GC). Cranston carded a two-over 74 on the final day, to finish a stellar week of golf at six-under par 282, for an impressive 4 stroke victory. A strong group of Juvenile (U17) players dominated the (U19) leaderboard this week, as Nicole Gal (Oakville GC) walks away with the silver after a final round 70 to finish the week at two-under (286). Jillian A Friyia (Highland CC) and Rozlyn Rooke (Blue Springs GC) shared the bronze in a three-way tie (289) with Junior (U19) player, Raesa Sheikh (TPC at Osprey Valley).

View the leaderboard from the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Championship at Shelburne Golf and Country Club, here.

All photos from the championship can be found here: round one, round two, round three, round four.

What an exciting and incredibly busy month August was! Before we say goodbye to our 2020 season, join us next Thursday when we will be looking back on the month of September. See you for more from #ThrowbackThursday next week!

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Uxbridge, ON – As the leaves change colour and the wind gets colder, Golf Ontario would like to start to take some time to reflect on the unique 2020 Championship season. Back in the spring, with early uncertainty around COVID, we were worried that the championship season might not make an appearance until 2021. With help of our amazing staff, players, and volunteers though,  we were able to make a condensed season possible. During these challenging times thanks to COVID-19, we were pleased to see all players, staff, and volunteers respecting the protocols set in place to keep everyone safe while competing.

In the end, the condensed season contained nine championships, each with a reduced amount of players to respect the restrictions set in place.

Please join us as Golf Ontario reflects on some amazing shots, successful championships, and the crowned champions this past summer. This week, we are teeing off with the 2020 season recap for the month of July.

July Championships

With COVID-19 driving a slice into the early part of the 2020 season, Golf Ontario was excited to finally get underway with our first of nine Golf Ontario provincial championships. Teeing off the season, we welcomed the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship to Saugeen Golf Club from July 27^th to 30^th.

Leading the pack for the first half of the day in round one, Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club) completed the front in three under and was even par on the back. Playing strong with a later tee time, Yuqi Liu (The Country Club – West), took the lead with two-under on the front and back. Results from round one showed Yuqi Liu leading at four-under, and Nolan Piazza and Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui G&CC) tying for second at three-under.

Heading into round two, the Junior (U19) Boys’ saw a switch in leaders, as Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club) overtook round one leader Yuqi Liu (The Country Club – West). Piazza completed his front nine two-under and then went one-under on the back, to finish off round two with a 69 (138). As for the Juvenile (U17) Boys’, Ben MacLean (St. Catharines G&CC) fell to second on the leaderboard with three over on the front and one under on the back, finishing with 74 (144). Taking the lead was Ty Stansfield (Thornhill Club), with an even par on the front and an impressive four under on the back for a 4-under 68 (142).

As the competition thickened in round three, Junior Boys’ Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club) and Yuqi Liu (The Country Club – West) finished the day with an overall eight under (208). Sitting in third was Ty Stansfield, who would be playing in the final group with Piazza and Liu for round four. With an impressive showing on the front, Juvenile player Ty Stansfield (Thornhill Club) started the day with four straight birdies, enroute to a one-under 71 to keep him atop the Juvenile leaderboard (213).

With an impressive finish in his fourth and final round, Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club) took home the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship title for the second time in three years. Winning the Ontario Juvenile (U17) Boys’ Championship title was Andreas Diogenous (Whistle Bear GC).

View the leaderboard from the Ontario Juvenile (U17) and Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship at Saugeen Golf Club, here.

Photos from the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship can be found here: round one, round two, round three, round four.

Other Notable Events

In July, Golf Ontario announced the addition of Durham Artificial Grass to their family of partners to help continue to bring more value to the Association and its’ members. As part of this partnership and the NEW 2020 Golf Ontario Championship calendar, Durham Artificial Grass was slated to present the Ontario Senior Men’s and Women’s Championships, to be held September 8^th to 10^th at Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf. Read more about the partnership, here.

For the 2020 Championship season, Golf Ontario also introduced a FrontLine Workers donation program as part of the registration process, to give back to the local communities we played in. At each championship, donations were given to local hospital foundations, with the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Championship donating to the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation.

With only one championship during the month of July, please stay tuned for recaps of the rest of our championships in the coming weeks. Next Thursday, we will be looking back on the month of August, when some of Golf Ontario’s biggest championship were held. Make sure to check back on Thursday!

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Belleville, ON – Windy conditions welcomed the final round of the Golf Ontario Provincial Super Camp, hosted by the beautiful Black Bear Ridge Golf Course. The cool winds gave players an additional challenge on the course today, as the leaderboard saw higher scores over the last day of competition.

Holding her position on the leaderboard for the Junior Girls’, Alessandra Nagayo (Don Valley GC) takes home the championship title with a total of one over par (145) and a nine-stroke lead over the silver medalist. Finishing in second, Alissa Xu (Station Creek GC – North) scored two birdies to score ten over par overall (154). In a tie for the bronze medal, Sarah Gallagher (Blue Springs GC) and Rozlyn Rooke (Blue Springs GC) finish with 156.

Following her win, Nagayo said “it’s a great way to end the season. It was quite a tough course but it was a really fun event, and this was the first time I’ve complete the National Testing Protocols so it was a great experience. Coach Reggie and all the volunteers were really nice to work with as well”. Reflecting on her highlight of the Provincial Super Camp, Nagayo commented “the Short Course Competition was really fun as Emily McKee (Rattlesnake Point GC) and I won for the Junior Girls’”. Heading into the off-season, Nagayo is looking to improve her strength to drive the ball further.

Advancing on the Junior Boys’ leaderboard to win the gold medal, Ashton McCulloch (Cataraqui G&CC) secures the title with an eagle on seven and one under par on the day (147). Taking home the silver medal two strokes behind, Ryan Somerville (The Summit G&CC) finishes with 149. Securing the bronze medalist position, Peter Blazevic (Markland Wood GC) shot nine over par overall (153).

McCulloch was pleased with his Provincial Super Camp experience, saying “it was amazing. Being able to compare myself against the top 30 players in the province, seeing what parts of my game needs improvement, and what parts of the game I’m excelling at, was a great experience. I think I played good this week and I’m happy to come out with a win”. One of McCulloch’s highlights of the four days at Super Camp was getting to play the Black Bear Ridge Golf Course, as “it’s in such good shape. I’ve played it earlier in the year and it’s held up pretty good through the fall. It’s just an amazing test of golf”. McCulloch plans to focus on his distance this off-season as well.

Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for their support of the 1^st Annual Provincial Super Camp. To the wonderful Black Bear Ridge Golf Couse, late owner Brian Magee, Bill Kerr (Head Golf Pro), and Greg Fach (Superintendent), thank you for being gracious hosts on such a well-conditioned course. A big thank you to the officials and volunteers, as you are extremely valuable and we appreciate the time you take out of your week to assist. Lastly, a huge thank you to our sponsors and partners, Adidas, Taylor Made, Modern Golf, Dormie Workshop, Durham Artificial Grass, Humber College, Barcelo Bavaro Grand Resort, Baka Mobile, and Play Golf Myrtle Beach. We are grateful for your continued support!

For future results and information on the Provincial Super Camp, click here for the Boys’ and here for the Girls’.

For photos of the Provincial Super Camp, click here.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (subject to change)

• No caddies permitted. (all events)
• No spectators, including coaches and media, permitted. (**Exception: Players 18 & Under may have one accompanying adult)
• All events will be a single tee start – no shotguns or split tees.

Click here for the full version of the Championship protocols. **These protocols are subject to change as new guidance is received from the government.

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Belleville, ON – With fall golf in full swing, players have been enjoying the moderate temperatures during the first couple days at Black Bear Ridge Golf Course, for the 1^st Annual Golf Ontario Provincial Super Camp.

The first two days of testing included the Golf Canada National Testing Protocols, a Session with Sport Psychologist Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons, and an Interactive Rules Session with Jim Davidson of the OVGA. Golf Canada National Testing Protocols (NTP) are standardized tests that provide feedback on all parts of the game, which can be compared to other athletes at the provincial and national level, and provide data for coaches and players. The NTP includes separate tests for putting, chipping, pitching, sand bunkers, ball speed, and wedge and long game combine with Trackman.

Players also completed a practice round and competed in a Short Course Competition during the first two days. Winners of the competition on the Boys’ side included a tie between pairings of Justin Matthews (Bigwin Island GC) and Noah Campbell (Coppinwood), and Cameron Pero (Picton G&CC) and Matthew Javier (Scarborough G&CC), at a score of three under par. On the Girls’ side, pairing Emily McKee (Rattlesnake Point GC) and Alessandra Nagayo (Don Valley GC) won with a score of two-under par.

Thank you to Ryan Robillard of Ambassador Golf Club, Doug Lawrie of Focus Golf Group, Jim Davidson of Ottawa Valley Golf Association, and Emily Phoenix of Golf Canada for your amazing support and assistance during the Provincial Super Camp. Also a huge thank you to TaylorMade for providing the Trackmans during our testing, as they were critical during our combines. Moving forward, the Provincial Super Camp will be an integral part of the soon to be launched New Junior Competitive Pathway.

Following round one of competition, the current leaders for the Boys’ are Jordan Hwang (York Downs G&CC) with 72, Ryan Somerville (The Summit G&CC) with 74, and Isaiah Ibit (GreyHawk GC) with 75. On the Girls’ side, the current leaders are Alessandra Nagayo (Don Valley GC) with 74, Rozlyn Rooke (Blue Springs GC) with 75, and Alexis McMurray (Glen Abbey GC) with 76.

The final round begins at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. For future results and information on the Provincial Super Camp, click here for the Boys’ and here for the Girls’.

For photos of the Provincial Super Camp, click here.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (subject to change)

• No caddies permitted. (all events)
• No spectators, including coaches and media, permitted. (**Exception: Players 18 & Under may have one accompanying adult)
• All events will be a single tee start – no shotguns or split tees.

Click here for the full version of the Championship protocols. **These protocols are subject to change as new guidance is received from the government.

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Whitby, ON – From sunrise to sunset, participants from Golf Ontario, Golf Canada, TaylorMade, adidas, and 94.9 The Rock walked and played one-hundred holes of golf with proceeds going to support the great new Youth on Course program.

On October 6^th, twenty golf lovers took on the formidable challenge to walk one-hundred holes of golf in one day to raise money and awareness for Youth on Course. Now in its 14^th year, Youth on Couse currently operates in thirty-eight states/provinces in two countries, serves over 95,000 youth members, and provides access to affordable golf at 1,400+ facilities in North America. The program recently launched into the Ontario market.

Ryan Starr, Director of Golf Lakeridge Golf Club and Partner of Geared to Golf, who participated in the 100 Hole Hike had some very positive feedback following the event. “It was a top shelf event put on by Jason Hraynyk (Manager, Business Development) and the Golf Ontario team. Having twenty players participating in the event was great, as the flow on the course was awesome and everyone kept a really good pace! The radio station and our partnership with 94.9 The Rock has been fantastic, and they really contributed a ton to the radio coverage for this event. For us, it was a lot of exposure for not only the golf course, but for our new pilot project The Joint Restaurant and Ted Reader’s BBQ. Everything Youth on Course is doing for Junior golf is right in our wheelhouse, as Eldorado GC is our largest property in terms of Junior golf camps, clinics, and Programs”.

Kyle McFarlane, Sr. Director at Golf Ontario added his enthusiasm as well: “From Golf Ontario’s standpoint, with all the sponsors on board and delivering a first-class event from top to bottom, we were thrilled with this event and we are definitely looking forward to seeing what the second year of this event will bring. The amazing funds raised will help us deliver affordable golf to junior golfers across Ontario”.

On the overall Team Leaderboard for the 100 Hole Hike, Golf Canada and Golf Ontario have currently raised the third highest amount towards Youth on Course. With over $30,000 dollars raised towards subsidized rounds of golf for junior golfers, Golf Canada and Golf Ontario could not be prouder. “It was such a fun day and an amazing event! After playing one-hundred holes of golf, we all thought we would be in pain, but the overall experience outweighed the 28+km walked and 200 plus swings taken. We are very proud to see the attention the 100 Hole Hike gained from the public and our many supporters. This event was a huge hit thanks to our amazing sponsors, who kept us energized and fueled up, so that we could conquer the task at hand and support Youth on Course and Junior golfers”, added Dave Struthers, Sr. Director at Golf Ontario.

Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for their support of the 1^st Annual 100 Hole Hike. To the wonderful Eldorado Golf Club, Bruce’s Golf, Geared to Golf, and Ted Reader’s BBQ, thank you for being gracious hosts for this amazing event. A huge thank you to 94.9 The Rock for the extended promotion of this event and coverage. Lastly, a big thank you to our sponsors and partners, TaylorMade, adidas, BioSteel, HUB, Discovery Dream Homes, All or Nothing Brewhouse, Georgian Bay Spirit Co., Cadence Music Group, Golf Historical Society of Canada, Nikon, Desjardins, MadeGood Foods, Sark Reality, Michael Kelly’s Homemade Cooking and Eatery, OJTBF Non For Profit Group Benefits, and Great Canadian Meat. We are grateful for your support!

Pledges are still open online if you’d like to support the participants who completed the 100 Hole Hike. To support the participants and Youth on Course, you can pledge any amount towards any golfer by visiting https://www.100holehike.org/CanadaOntario.

For photos of the 100 Hole Hike, click here.

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Tottenham, ON – Windy conditions ushered in the final round of the 2020 Ontario Disability Championship, at the stunning Woodington Lakes Golf Club, in partnership with Special Olympics Ontario. Even as high winds prevailed throughout the day, player’s scores remained fairly similar to round one.

Taking home the Men’s 2020 Ontario Disability Championship title, for the second year in a row, is Kurtis Barkley (Cedar Glen GC) after an impressive showing of 145 over two rounds. As the wind may have been stronger today, Barkley’s score sure didn’t show that, as he continued to excel and finish just one-over par on the day. Four strokes behind in second place and taking home the silver medal, is Josh Williams (Craigowan G&CC), following a round of two birdie shots and two-over par (148). Winning the bronze medal, Gary Bos (Public Player) experienced a bit of a roller coaster in his round today, after a couple shooting a mix of birdies, bogeys, and double bogeys (157).

Reflecting on the championship win, Barkley said “it feels pretty good, as it was definitely tough out there today and the whole championship really was a grind”. Barkley commented that a highlight of the championship was competing as “me and my caddy Marissa, as it almost felt like a team event. It felt like her and I against the field, and she kept me focused when I lost a few shots”. In closing, Barkley would like to thank “everyone back home, Cedar Glen GC, and the community. A big thanks to Todd Keirstead and Team TK for helping everyone with the journey that we’re on”. Barkley is looking forward to competing in events for the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD) in 2021.

On the Women’s side, also taking home the 2020 Ontario Disability Championship title for a second year in a row, is Natasha Stasiuk (Heron Point Golf Links) (171). Stasiuk was much happier with her round today, after finishing the final round with an eleven-over par (83). Taking home the silver medal with 205 on the championship is Public Player Tessa Trojan.

Very pleased with her second championship title, Stasiuk had the following to say. “It feels pretty good. I know I didn’t shoot the best yesterday, so heading into today’s round I was just focused on shooting better. I think the birdie on the last hole made me feel a lot better, knowing that I can do it even though I struggled a little bit this week. I loved playing with Tess, as she always makes me happy and it’s really nice to know somebody here. I’d say my putting was the biggest struggle today, in addition to the wind, but I was more prepared to deal with those conditions today”. Stasiuk would like to thank “Woodington Lakes GC, Special Olympics, and Golf Ontario for putting on this wonderful championship. It makes me feel included and I don’t feel judged when I play here”.

Golf Ontario would also like to highlight those who placed in the Men’s and Women’s Net Stableford division. For the Men, taking home a gold medal with 109 points is Gary Bos (Public Player), a silver medal with 101 points is Glenn Babcock (Richmond Hill GC), and a bronze medal with 100 points is Edward Urquhart (Public Player). On the Women’s side, capturing the gold medal with 85 points is Tessa Trojan (Public Player), and a silver medal with 81 points is Natasha Stasiuk (Heron Point Golf Links). Congratulations to all players who competed!

Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for their support of the 2^nd Annual Ontario Disability Championship. To the wonderful Woodington Lakes Golf Club, John Chetti (General Manager), Phil Hidden (Head Golf Pro), Rob Sloan (Superintendent), and Olivia Traetto (Food and Beverage Manager), thank you for being gracious hosts on such a well-conditioned course. A big thank you to the officials and volunteers, as you are extremely valuable and we appreciate the time you take out of your week to assist. Lastly, a huge thank you to our sponsors and partners, Special Olympics Ontario, Adidas, Taylor Made, Modern Golf, Dormie Workshop, Durham Artificial Grass, Humber College, Barcelo Bavaro Grand Resort, Baka Mobile, and Play Golf Myrtle Beach. We are grateful for your continued support!

For future results and information on the Ontario Disability Championship, click here.

For photos of the tournament, click here.

About The Ontario Disability Championship

In 2019, Woodington Lake Golf Club hosted the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. Played over a 36-hole competition for Men and Women, the Ontario Disability Championship is an inclusive event in which athletes with disabilities compete in a provincial championship environment. The championship promotes awareness and participation for golfers with disabilities and provides a platform for future talent identification. The Ontario Disability Championship is a counting event on the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD).

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Tottenham, ON – A beautiful day greeted the players for round one of the 2020 Ontario Disability Championship, at the gorgeous Woodington Lakes Golf Club, in partnership with Special Olympics Ontario. As the warm weather continued into the day, winds began to pick up around noon, giving the later groups more of a challenge on the back nine. 

Leading the Overall Men Gross following round one, is defending champion Kurtis Barkley (Cedar Glen GC), with an even-par round after shooting an eagle on the first hole and four birdies for the day. Following just two strokes behind in second place (74), is Josh Williams (Craigowan G&CC), who followed suit with Barkley in shooting an impressive eagle on the first hole. Holding third place with a five-stroke lead over fourth is Public Player Gary Bos. 

Reflecting on the round, Barkley said “today I just played my own game, and tried to hit fairways and greens. I lost two balls, a tee shot and an iron shot, and I putted okay on the greens. I found that the greens are very tough, in terms of around them for chipping, and the wind was also a challenge when it started to pick up on the back nine”. Very happy to start the day with an eagle, Barkley commented that “on the tee shot I was just trying to avoid the water, so my drive went down the left side, leaving me witha  good yardage and nice little club. I was able to land it about five feet out from the flag, and I watched Josh roll his in from about twenty feet. It’s nice to start that way!” Overall, Barkley found that “each green is very tough, as the angulation of the greens is quite challenging. You had to chip it perfectly to make the ball land nicely beside the hole”. 

Currently in first for the Overall Women Gross is another defending champion, Natasha Stasiuk (Heron Point GL), with an 88 after round one. Sitting in second place, just 13 strokes behind Stasiuk, is Public Player Tessa Trojan.  

Following the round, Stasiuk said “my strategy was to keep the ball in play and to not get into trouble, even though I was in trouble a lot of the time. My direction was a challenge today, as I often found myself behind the trees. Overall, I would say that my long game was stronger today and I was using mostly my wood and driver”. Reflecting on which holes were the most challenging, Stasiuk commented “holes number two and fifteen were the most challenging for me today, as there was a crosswind when I was trying to get it over the water”. When asked if the wind had an effect on her game today, Stasiuk replied quickly with “oh yes. The last couple of rounds I’ve played haven’t been in the wind, so I wasn’t really prepared for it I guess”. Stasiuk and Trojan will tee off at 10:21 a.m. tomorrow. 

The final round of the Ontario Disability Championship will begin at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow. For future results and information on the championship, click here. 

For photos of the tournament, click here. 

About The Ontario Disability Championship 

In 2019, Woodington Lake Golf Club hosted the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. Played over a 36-hole competition for Men and Women, the Ontario Disability Championship is an inclusive event in which athletes with disabilities compete in a provincial championship environment. The championship promotes awareness and participation for golfers with disabilities and provides a platform for future talent identification. The Ontario Disability Championship is a counting event on the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD). 

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (subject to change) 

• No spectators, including coaches and media, permitted. (**Exception: Players 18 & Under may have one accompanying adult)
• No motorized carts permitted. (**Exception: Single rider carts only for Senior & Disability Championships)
• All events will be a single tee start – no shotguns or split tees.
• Restricted field numbers. (see individual championships)
• Qualifiers will have limited field sizes. Entries will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

Click here for the full version of the Championship protocols. **These protocols are subject to change as new guidance is received from the government. 

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information. 

For more information please contact: 

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca 

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca 

Tottenham, ON – After a very successful launch in 2019, the Ontario Disability Championship will return to the beautiful Woodington Lake Golf Club from September 28^th to 29^th. The Championship will showcase some of the world’s top athletes with a disability, competing in a provincial championship environment. Focusing on player development, this inclusive event will ensure a proper pathway and better competition opportunity for some of the highest performing disabled athletes. This event will be included in the list of events eligible for world ranking points and will see both Men and Women compete in both low gross and net stableford categories.

As part of this year’s event, Special Olympics Ontario is pleased to partner with Woodington Lake Golf Club to help support and promote the event.

The beautiful course features rolling terrain, carved from towering pine forest and lush natural environment. General Manager of Woodington Lake, John Chetti, is very happy to be supporting this event. “Woodington Lake Golf Club is honoured to again be hosting the Ontario Disability Golf Championship. The 2019 event was extremely special and we saw some incredible competition. Having a new partnership with Special Olympics Ontario will enable us to take this event to the next level. Our facility is well suited to host the regions’ best athletes with disabilities for this Championship and we look forward to again having a front seat to witness some amazing golf at this Championship”.

The Ontario Disability Golf Championship is a marquee event on the championship calendar. Returning to the field to defend their title, is Natasha Stasiuk (Oakville, ON) in the Women’s Division and Kurtis Barley (Chesterville, ON) in the Men’s Division.

We are also excited to have introduced a Front Line Workers donation program this year as part of our registration process, to give back to the local communities we will be playing in. The Front Line Workers’ donations from the Ontario Disability Championship will be donated to Stevenson Memorial Hospital.

First tee off for round one on Monday, September 28^th is set for 9:00 a.m. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here.

ABOUT THE ONTARIO DISABILITY CHAMPIONSHIP

In 2019, Woodington Lake Golf Club hosted the inaugural Ontario Disability Championship. Played over a 36-hole competition for Men and Women, the Ontario Disability Championship is an inclusive event in which athletes with disabilities compete in a provincial championship environment. The championship promotes awareness and participation for golfers with disabilities and provides a platform for future talent identification. The Ontario Disability Championship is a counting event on the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD).

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (subject to change)

• No spectators, including coaches and media, permitted. (**Exception: Players 18 & Under may have one accompanying adult)
• No motorized carts permitted. (**Exception: Single rider carts only for Senior & Disability Championships)
• All events will be a single tee start – no shotguns or split tees.
• Restricted field numbers. (see individual championships)
• Qualifiers will have limited field sizes. Entries will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

Click here for the full version of the Championship protocols. **These protocols are subject to change as new guidance is received from the government.

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca

Bath, ON – The beautiful weather continued into the final round of the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, presented by BioSteel, at the brilliant Loyalist Country Club. With low winds and high competition, the final round was a nail bitter as players looked to climb the board for a podium finish.

Holding his own and leading the way for the entirety of the three days, Ryan Tsang (Cedar Brae GC) takes home his first Golf Ontario Championship title, as the winner of the 2020 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. In an impressive showing over the last few days, Tsang was able to hold his position in the final round after firing three consecutive birdies on the final three holes. The low score of 207 put him three strokes ahead of the two-way tie (210) for the silver medal. Taking home the silver medal are both 2019 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion, Charles Fitzsimmons (Thornhill Club), and David Lang from the Donalda Club. Fitzsimmons was cool and collected, as he played another consistent round to finish with one-under par on the day. Lang had a rocky front nine, shooting a couple of bogeys and double bogeys, but finished the round strong after carding seven birdies on the day to go along with a beauty eagle on the eighteenth.

Reflecting on the final round, Tsang said “I just tried to play normally like I did in the first two rounds, and honestly there wasn’t much of a difference today, besides being able to lay up on the eighteenth and make birdie on the last three holes. Today was a bit tougher as it was a little windy and the nerves were going off a bit, but I held it together and crossed the finish line”. With a commanding lead heading into the final round of eleven-under par, Tsang commented that “the lead was pretty big, but with eleven-under, I thought that any one of these guys could do that as well”. When asked where this win sits in Tsang’s overall golf career so far, he felt that “this win is probably up to par with my Toronto Star win of 2014, but since there’s no Toronto Star anymore, this is probably the biggest win I have”. Ryan Tsang went on to thank Cedar Brae Golf Club, the three players who joined him from Cedar Brae GC (Wesley Kwok, Robert Gibson, and Brett Geiser), and of course his Mom and Dad for the continued support.

Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for their support of the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. To the wonderful Loyalist Country Club, Geoff James (Director of Sales & Marketing, PGA of Canada Head Professional), Austin James (PGA of Canada Assistant Professional), and Jim Burlington (Operations Manager), thank you for being gracious hosts on such a well-conditioned course. A big thank you to the officials and volunteers, as they are extremely valuable and Golf Ontario appreciates the time they take out of your week to assist. Lastly, a huge thank you to the many Golf Ontario sponsors and partners, Adidas, Taylor Made, BioSteel, Modern Golf, Dormie Workshop, Durham Artificial Grass, Humber College, Barcelo Bavaro Grand Resort, Baka Mobile, and Play Golf Myrtle Beach. Your continued support is important to these championships.

For future results and information on the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, click here.

For photos of the tournament, click here.

About the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship

Since 1993, the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur championship has proven to be one of Ontario’s most sought after and important Championship titles. The 54-hole competition caters to Ontario’s best golfers age 25 and older that have gained entry into the event through qualifying tournaments or an exemption.

Despite its young history, the championship has developed a notable list of past champions including Garrett Rank (2015, 2018) and Golf Hall of Fame members Stu Hamilton (1993, 1998), Kelly Roberts (1997), Dave Bunker (2007, 2011, 2014).

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. Make sure to visit our website for further information.

For more information please contact:

Brianna Christopher, Assistant, Marketing Communications.
Golf Ontario
BChristopher@gao.ca

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications.
Golf Ontario
PMacKellar@gao.ca