Gravenhurst, ON – The final day of the Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championship was a soggy one, with the rain beginning just before the semifinals teed off and getting increasingly heavier throughout the final round. With the rain cooling down the competition, we watched fierce players battle for a spot in the final championship round.

Taking home hardware at the 2021 Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championship are your victors, Charles Fitzsimmons (St. Thomas G&CC) and Hailey Katona (Tilbury GC). The two winning competitors took down legendary Golf Ontario champions, collegiate athletes, and Team Ontario athletes to claim their titles. 

Fitzsimmons, the Team Ontario Mental Coach and 2019 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion, commented that days one through three were a lot of fun. “I got to play against some great competitors and people I knew from University, as well as some of the kids from Team Ontario. I had some really good matches with a couple going down right to the wire so that was just an absolute blast, and just any chance I have to compete with the kids I coach is a lot of fun. I had some great competition all the way through, including Bavake (Sihota) yesterday, and then of course this morning which is always a tough match against the legend Dave Bunker.” Competing in his first Golf Ontario Match Play Championship, Fitzsimmons commented that “Taboo is a great course for Match Play. It really puts a premium on hitting good shots and keeping the ball in play, and that suits my game well. We were lucky that we could today in with the rain.” Fitzsimmons next championship tournament will be the Canadian Amateur. 

On the Women’s side, Katona had a chance to put her skills to the test against well-known champions Judith Kyrinis and Terrill Samuel, commenting that “they are amazing people and unbelievable players, so kind and just amazing Women overall. I’m so honored that I was able to play with them and meet them.” Heading into the semifinal round “I knew that I had to play well this morning if I wanted to get into the final match, and I did just that. I didn’t get too far ahead of myself, I just stayed in the moment. Sadie (Dewinton-Davies) is a great player and I knew that I needed to make birdies. In the final round, Ashley (Lafontaine) was amazing as well and during the last few holes, the rain started coming down harder on us, so that made it a little bit tougher.” Never having played Taboo Muskoka, Katona loved the course and commented on how great the conditions were. You can follow along with Katona during her next competition at the Alberta Ladies in two weeks, with the Canadian Amateur and Ontario Amateur to follow.

Congratulations to runner-up’s Jeffrey Fang (Station Creek GC) and Ashley Lafontaine (Royal Ottawa GC), who both competed against experienced opponents. To close out the championship, Fitzsimmons shared how great it is to be playing competitive golf again and that “obviously COVID has been a tough year and a half on everyone, so it’s awesome that we can make this happen. A huge thanks to Golf Ontario for all they do and it’s great to see everyone again.” We’re thrilled to welcome Golf Ontario competitors back to the tee and are looking forward to a packed summer of competitive play.

To view the leaderboards from the 2021 Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championships, visit our Golf Genius page. For media coverage, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums. 

About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship

Established in 1986, The Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event. Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne and Dave Bunker.

About the Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship

The Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship was first played in 1975 and has several notable past champions including: World, Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Marlene Stewart Streit, six-time champion Mary Ann Hayward, Terrill Samuel, and Heather Kuzmich.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of May 31st, **subject to change)

• At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult). 
• Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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

Gravenhurst, ON – The Round of 16 kicked off this morning at Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf, with the Women’s Match Play beginning day one of their championship. Strong competition created exciting play as we witnessed past Golf Ontario champions, collegiate athletes, and bright juniors excel on the challenging course.

With both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinals taking place today, Hailey Katona (Public Player) defeated veteran opponents Terrill Samuel (Weston G&CC) and Judith Kyrinis (The Thornhill Club). Team Ontario athlete and 2020 Super Camp Champion, Alessandra Nagayo, moves to the semifinals following a win over ArynMatthews (Lindsay G&CC) and Ashley Chow (Lake Joseph GC). Following a successful USGA Junior Girls qualifier, Ashley Lafontaine played exceptionally with a win in her quarterfinal match against Hailey McLaughlin (Public Player) in extra holes.

Tomorrow morning at 7:46 a.m., Sadie Dewinton-Davies (Public Player) and Hailey Katona will get the Women’s semifinal match underway. Following at 7:54 a.m. is Nagayo and Lafontaine. Check out the leaderboard and pairings for the final, here.

In Men’s Match Play news, Charles Fitzsimmons (St. Thomas G&CC) defeated Ty Stansfield (The Thornhill Club) and Bavake Sihota (Public Player) to punch his ticket for a semifinal showdown against four-time Match Play Champion, Dave Bunker (Cherry Hill Club). Bunker took down Jacob Presutti (Brampton GC) and Cam Kellett (St. Thomas G&CC) in fashion, while Dave Crawford (Dundas Valley G&CC) battled for a win against 2020 Junior Boys’ Championship, Nolan Piazza (Cherry Hill Club).

Former Team Ontario athlete, Jeffrey Fang (Public Player), held his own again opponents to secure him a 7:38 a.m. tee time against Crawford. The opening match of the semifinals at 7:30 a.m. will be against Fitzsimmons and Bunker, which is guaranteed to be a heated battle between two exceptional opponents.

The Ontario Match Play finals will take place following the semifinal round. Leaderboard information, pairings, and tee times can be found on our Golf Genius page. For media coverage of the Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championship, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums.

About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship

Established in 1986, The Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event.  Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne and Dave Bunker.

About the Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship

The Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship was first played in 1975 and has several notable past champions including: World, Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Marlene Stewart Streit, six-time champion Mary Ann Hayward, Terrill Samuel, and Heather Kuzmich.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of May 31st, **subject to change)

• • At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• • No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• • No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult).
• • Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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

Brantford, ON – Following the Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championships, it’s now time for the Juniors to take the spotlight. From June 26th to 28th Golf Ontario welcomes the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls’ Spring Classic to the Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course. 

City of Brantford’s Business Manager of Golf Operations and PGA of Canada Head Professional, Jeff Moore, explains that “with the recent name change to Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course to honour our Lord Mayor, hosting this event is a natural fit to showcase our golf course and new clubhouse.” Offering a mature 18-hole championship layout, “we’re recognized as a leader in Junior Golf in Canada and our membership is thrilled for the club to host the championship. Many have volunteered their services over the 3-day event to provide the competitors with a world-class championship experience.”

The field is full of strong competitors, many of who have won Golf Ontario Championships in the past. Team Ontario Golf athletes competing in the classic are Alessandra Nagayo, Alissa Xu, Bo Brown, Jillian Friyia, and Rozlyn Rooke. With the 2021 Women’s Western Junior taking place the day before, Ella Weber, Alexis McMurray, and Sarah Gallagher of Team Ontario will not be attending. 

Tee time for Round 1 on Saturday, June 26th is set for noon. To view tee times and follow along with the leaderboard, visit our Golf Genius page here. 

Melancthon, ON – What a whirlwind of Match Plays and Springs Classic’s, as Golf Ontario prepares to conduct their fourth championship in just six days since the start of the 2021 Championship season. With that being said, we are thrilled to welcome the Ontario Junior (U19) Boys’ Spring Classic to Shelburne Golf and Country Club. Competing from June 28th to 30th, players can expect a challenge of the start as they stare down a tree dead centre of the fairway.

The family-owned course has a great reputation as one of the best practice facilities in Southern Ontario. Sam Young, the owner and operator, is an Ontario Hall of Famer and has been teaching for years with many students going on to have successful golf careers. In the last few years, Shelburne has undergone renovations, adding nine new tee decks for an additional 230 yards.  

Team Ontario Golf athletes competing in the championship are first-year squad member Andreas Diogenous, Ellis Kinnaird, Owen Kim, Matthew Martel, Ryan Somerville, and Ty Stansfield. Returning athletes competing in the Spring Classic are Ben MacLean, Peter Blazevic, and Thomas Latter.

Tee time for Round 1 on Monday, June 28th is set for noon. To view tee times and follow along with the leaderboard, visit our Golf Genius page here. 

About the Junior Spring Classic (U19) Championships

The Junior Spring Classic (U19) Championship is contested annually usually over the Victoria Day long weekend but has been pushed back due to covid compliances and features many of Ontario’s best male and female junior golfers. The field of competitors gained entry to the competition through a qualifying process earlier in the season.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of May 31st, **subject to change)

• At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult). 
• Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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.

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

Gravenhurst, ON – Competition heats up as we completed the Round of 32 at Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf. A major highlight of the round was a hole-in-one on three, a par-3 from 185 yards, by Michigan Wolverines athlete Bavake Sihota (Golf Canada Club). Sihota would go on to win his match 2-up against opponent Ty Celone (Golf Canada Club).

Past Men’s Match Play Champions moving onto the Round of 16 include four-time champion, Dave Bunker (Cherry Hill Club), and 2018 champion Cam Kellett (St. Thomas G&CC). Team Ontario Golf athlete and first year squad member, Ty Stansfield (The Thornhill Club), took his opponent, Zachary Smith (Brampton GC), 5 & 4 to earn a spot in Thursday’s round. Stansfield and Charles Fitzsimmons (St. Thomas G&CC), 2019 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion and Team Ontario’s Mental Coach, will battle for a place in the Round of 8.

Tee time for the Round of 16 on Wednesday, June 24^th is set for 7:30 a.m.. The Round of 8 will take place in the afternoon, from approximately 12:30 to 1:50 p.m… For media coverage of the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums. To follow along with the leaderboard, visit our Golf Genius page here.

In addition to the Men’s Match Play, the Ontario Women’s Match Play beings tomorrow at 8:34 a.m.. The Championship runs from June 24^th to 25^th, with sixteen competitors looking to claim the crown. Follow along with the leaderboard, here.

About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship

Established in 1986, The Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event.  Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne and Dave Bunker.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of May 31^st, **subject to change)

• At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult).
• Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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

Gravenhurst, ON – The first round of the 2021 championship season is in the books, after an exciting Round of 64 at the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship. High winds, cloud coverage, and cool temperatures made for a brisk summer day at Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf. The conditions of the course, however, were as wonderful as we could have hoped for. Managing Director of Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf, Nigel Hollidge, revealed pre-championship that the course is in the best condition it’s been in years. 

With 64 competitors battling head-to-head for a position in the Round of 32, we saw some incredible talent from a field of players across a wide spectrum of age and experience. Veteran Golf Ontario champions played with ease on the challenging Canadian Shield landscape. Collegiate players freshly home from a packed schedule of competitive play impressed, as they skillfully closed out the match with holes remaining. 

Competitors to take note of heading into the Round of 32, are past multi champions Dave Bunker, Charles Fitzsimmons, Nolan Piazza, and Andreas Diogenous. Team Ontario Golf competed well today, with six athletes playing their way into tomorrow. This includes Peter Blazevic, Ty Stansfield, Thomas Latter, Ryan Somerville, Owen Kim, and Andreas Diogenous. Former Team Ontario athlete, Jeffrey Fang, has also claimed a spot. The competition, like the course, will be extremely challenging. 

Tee time for the Round of 32 on Wednesday, June 23rd is set for 7:30 a.m. For media coverage of the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship, please visit the Golf Ontario Facebook page to view our photo albums. To follow along with the leaderboard, visit our Golf Genius page here. 

About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship

Established in 1986, The Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event. Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne and Dave Bunker.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions
(as of May 31st, **subject to change)

• At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult). 
• Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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

Gravenhurst, ON – After an uncertain spring, Golf Ontario is relieved and extremely pleased to usher in the 2021 Championship season. The 2021 schedule will see an increased number of championships from 2020, strategically squeezed into a smaller than normal operating timeframe. The efforts of the Golf Ontario tournament department have been huge, and have been instrumental in working with our host facilities, competitors and other stakeholders to deliver a tournament schedule that offers ample options for world-class competition.

Driving Golf Ontario into the 2021 season, we welcome to the tee the Ontario Men’s and Women’s Match Play Championships. Taboo Muskoka will be the host of the Men’s (June 22-25) and Women’s Match Plays (June 24-25). With a field of size of 64 for the Men’s Championship and 16 for the Women’s Championship, Taboo will offer competitors a challenging layout carved into the dramatic Canadian Shield landscape. Consistently voted among Canada’s Top 100 courses and renowned for its panoramic beauty, the Taboo golf course is a captivating gateway to Muskoka, one of Canada’s truly outstanding golf destinations.

Managing Director of Taboo Muskoka Resort and Golf, Nigel Hollidge, shared that “the course is in the best condition it’s been in in years. We wintered really well, the spring has offered very good growing conditions, and we hired a new Superintendent this year, Owen Leewith, who has been wonderful. All around, we are very happy with the condition of the golf course.” When asked about the challenge competitors may experience, Hollidge let on that the turf team plans to quicken the greens. “If we are able to get the green speed up, which I think we will be able to, I do see the greens being a challenge for the players. The rough will be challenging, but Taboo is not an easy golf course that’s for sure. I think the players will find it challenging, but fair.”

Tee off will begin at 7:30 a.m. on June 22^nd for the Men’s Match Play Championship. The field is scattered competitors across the age spectrum, including notable past Golf Ontario champions Dave Bunker, Nolan Piazza, Ashley Chinner, Andreas Diogenous, and Charles Fitzsimmons. To follow along with the leaderboard, visit our Golf Genius page here.

The Women’s Match Play Championship gets underway on June 24^th, with memorable past Golf Ontario champions Judith Kyrinis and Terrill Samuel in the field. You can follow the leaderboard, here.

About the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship

Established in 1986, The Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship is contested annually and features 64 of Ontario’s best amateur golfers that have qualified through one of six qualifying tournaments held earlier this season, or who have gained an exemption into the event.  Notable former champions include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Ian Leggatt, David Hearn, David Byrne and Dave Bunker.

About the Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship

The Ontario Women’s Match Play Championship was first played in 1975 and has several notable past champions including World, Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Marlene Stewart Streit, six-time champion Mary Ann Hayward, Terrill Samuel, and Heather Kuzmich.

Key Provincial Competitions Protocols/Restrictions (as of May 31^st, **subject to change)

• At all times, and in all places, 2-metre physical distancing must be respected.
• No Caddies permitted except for the Ontario Disability Championship.
• No spectators, including coaches, are permitted (**Exceptions: Players 18 & under may have one accompanying adult).
• Restricted field sizes (see individual championship websites)

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.

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

It is with profound sadness we report the passing of former Golf Ontario Executive Director, Dave Mills after a short battle with cancer. Dave has been an incredible leader and advocate for golf in Ontario and he will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to meet him.

Since 1986, Dave Mills has been involved with the GAO/OGA. Serving on the Board of Directors from 1989-1997, Mills was appointed Executive Director in 1997. During his term, he turned around an association that was experiencing significant financial and administrative challenges.

Throughout Dave’s term as Executive Director, he led numerous initiatives to help shape the game of golf in Ontario: the GAO Scholarship Program, educational seminars, Golf in Schools, learn to play clinics, new provincial championships, Team Ontario, participation in Canadian and Ontario Summer Games, a partnership with the Ontario Golf Magazine to be the official magazine of the Association, the establishment of the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame, and helping to have golf recognized as an “Official Sport” by Sport Canada. Perhaps one of his greatest accomplishments was leading the process to amalgamate the Ontario Golf Association with the Ontario Ladies Golf Association, to create Golf Ontario, now one of the largest amateur golf associations in North America.

Mill’s expertise went far beyond the board room. He was also a certified rules official and volunteered passionately at numerous GAO events, including the Canadian Open, Canadian Amateur, and Telus Skins Game. Retiring from the GAO in 2014, Mills would continue to volunteer at provincial events. Golf Ontario was extremely fortunate to have his presence at the 1st annual Provincial Super Camp during Thanksgiving weekend 2020, where he announced the first tee, captured action shots of some of the best juniors in the province, and had the honour to award the winners.

In retirement, Mills also dedicated his time to re-establish the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame. Now known as the Dr. Robert L. Vaughn atrium, this Hall of Fame can be viewed in the Belleville CAA Arena (Yardmen Arena).

Dave Mills had a great love for the game of golf and for his wonderful family, and he cherished every moment he got to tee it up with friends and family.

Our deepest condolences to the Mills family and friends. Golf Ontario is forever grateful for your leadership Dave.

A special announcement to honour his legacy will be coming soon.

Uxbridge, ON – Niagara Golf (www.niagaragolf.org) is extremely pleased to introduce the Niagara Golf “Wall of Recognition” in conjunction with Golf Ontario. Together, along with the assistance of many active and retired leaders in the Niagara golf industry, this ‘Wall of Recognition’ will proudly share the history of golf in the Niagara Region.

“In Niagara, we are very passionate about recognizing those who have made an impact on the game of golf in more ways than winning,” shared the Selection Committee. “We cannot think of a better way to honour those pioneers than having them recognized and inducted into the Niagara Golf Wall of Recognition. The Niagara Golf Wall of Recognition recognizes not only players that have exceeded expectations, but also the Professionals, Owners, Press, Management, and Volunteers who have made a significant impact and/or influence on golf in Niagara.”

Of the long list of notable inaugural inductees, a few to highlight in the Class of 2021 are Canadian golf legends Marlene Stewart Streit, Cathy Sherk, and Rod Spittle. All members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, these three legends account for more than 75 championship titles between them. To view the full list of inductees for the Class of 2021, please visit golfniagara.org/wall.

John White, a PGA of Canada Director of Golf Operations at Beechwood Golf & Social and one of five members on the Wall of Recognition Selection Committee, is “so excited that the Niagara Wall of Recognition came to fruition due to the hard work of the committee. It has been a dream of mine to create a platform to recognize all the people of Niagara that have done great things and contributed to the golf community. Niagara has so many special people and now we can tell their story for all golfers to learn about them for years to come.”

As a hot spot for golf, Niagara, where men, women, and juniors of all ages have a place to play, practice, and love the game of golf, we hope to one day see these young players take their place on the Wall of Recognition.

Do you know someone that would be the perfect candidate for the Niagara Golf Wall of Recognition? Visit golfniagara.org/wall for the Induction Criteria and to fill out a Nomination Form. For all other inquires and to get involved in Niagara Region, please view the contact information below.

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 Niagara Golf on Facebook at facebook.com/GONiagaraRegion for further information.

For more information please contact:

Alexandra Taylor, Regional Coordinator, Golf Ontario; ATaylor@gao.ca

Carrie Julie, Regional Manager, Golf Ontario; CJulie@gao.ca

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

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

For Immediate release
April 26, 2021

Uxbridge – Golf Ontario announced today that they have added Solo Golf as the ‘Preferred Single Rider Golf Cart’ of Golf Ontario.  This exciting new partnership recognizes Solo Golf as one of the most innovative new players in the Canadian market, and celebrates the world-class product options that it is introducing.

Dave Struthers, Sr. Director of Marketing and Partnerships at Golf Ontario is ecstatic to be welcoming Solo Golf to the family of Golf Ontario partners. “While our primary focus has been, and will continue to be, working hard with the government to get golf courses reopened, it is also important that we are continuing to add partners that help us executive the amazing grow the game initiatives we are known for. This new partnership with Solo Golf is timely, and presents new options to our golf course facilities in terms of single rider cart options” said Struthers. He continued “The Solo Golf team has introduced an innovative lineup of single rider cart options, and we are thrilled to help connect them with our facilities” said Struthers.

Solo Golf products have been very successful in the United States and have recently launched in Canada, with a significant focus on the Ontario market. There are 3 options for these single rider carts: a 2-wheel, 3-wheel , and a 4-wheel option. Solo Golf carts, like other carts across the province will be covered for those golfers who are members of Golf Canada/Golf Ontario. The Incident Protection is part of that membership and reimburses the member up to $2,500 for golf cart related accidents.

“Solo Golf is also thrilled to partner with Golf Ontario”, said Chris Bean, Director of Sales, Solo Golf.  “Golf Ontario has a long history of delivering leadership in golf, and we are excited to be partnered with them as we increase our presence in the Ontario market. The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for everyone and we are pleased to bring another option for safe play to add to the incredibly safe protocols that courses across the province had in place last year. We look forward to working with facilities across Ontario to offer Solo Carts as a timely and innovative cart option for the almost 100,000 members of Golf Ontario”, continued Bean.

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 getting the game of golf into our school systems, to keeping the Ontario golf community aware of all relevant issues and hosting the best amateur tournaments in Canada, Golf Ontario is a passionate group dedicated to making golf better for everyone in Ontario. We share a love and passion for golf, while preserving its past, fostering its future, and championing golf’s best interests for everyone who enjoys the sport.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario

www.gao.ca

About Solo Golf

Solo Golf is a Canadian-owned company, based in the Muskoka region of Ontario. They have regional operations in Calgary and Montreal to support their network across Canada. They are a team of innovators and golf enthusiasts who want to change the game. They have witnessed the single rider cart movement in the US, and have built the infrastructure to bring it to Canada.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @sologolfcanada

www.sologolf.ca

For more information please contact:

Peter MacKellar, Manager, Marketing and Communications. Golf Ontario
905-852-1101 ext. 224
PMacKellar@gao.ca

New Junior Golf Pathway will deliver clarity for athletes, parents and coaches through a NEW digital platform and consolidated competitive opportunities.

New partnership with the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) will feature a season-long points ranking system, AJGA playing status for top ranking juniors, and a new season-ending Tour Championship

Uxbridge, ON

An almost 2-year long collaboration between Golf Ontario and over 10 local junior golf tours in Ontario will culminate in the launch of the new Junior Golf Pathway. This new initiative will help to revolutionize junior golf in Ontario, and will bring all key stakeholders together to deliver benefits in 3 key areas:

1. To provide clarity in the current competitive junior golf space,
2. To outline a clear path through the junior golf pathway for aspiring competitive junior golfers.
3. Connect young golfers and their families with training & competitive opportunities best suited to their skill levels.

At the core of this new initiative is the Junior Golf Pathway website (www.juniorgolfpathway.ca) that includes the newly developed Junior Golf Pathway framework. Athletes, coaches and parents can easily access information and get inspiration to make informed decisions on what training environment, competition or talent ID initiatives they should be participating in.

There will be many great tools available on this new site for young golfers and their families.

• Players will be able to complete an online player profile to help showcase them on this resource.
• There will be a searchable Coach look up tool that will allow junior golfers to find the appropriate coach for their skills levels
• There will be a searchable Tournament tool that allows players to find competitive events at the appropriate level of their development, and bring these into their profile
• A Tour navigation page will be set up to significantly help clarify the partner tours that are available for a player to hone their development.

Mike Kelly, Executive Director of Golf Ontario, “This is an exciting innovation and we invite the entire Ontario golf community to be part of it. The mission of the Junior Golf Pathway is very simple: to ensure that competitive junior golfers stay on course to reach their highest potential. Through robust training tools and resources as well as a powerful marketing engine for tour operators and PGA of Canada coaches, the Junior Golf Pathway will simplify access, modernize a new competitive pathway, and ensure a positive experience for athletes and parents.”

This site has been built so that all of the local tours are incorporated, providing a one-stop shop for junior competitive options. These tours are: The CJGA, Golf Canada, Golf Ontario, Hamilton Halton Junior Golf Tour, Jamieson Junior Tour, Maple Leaf Junior Tour, Niagara District Junior Tour, North Eastern Junior Golf Tour, Ottawa Valley Golf Association, Pepsi-Titleist Junior Tour, Play Junior Golf Tour, Simcoe County Junior Golf Tour, Tee-It-Up Junior Golf Tour, Tyson Tour, and US Kids Niagara.

To learn more, please go to www.juniorgolfpathway.ca to understand all of the key tools that will be available for junior golfers. This initiative will truly help drive clarity in this space and will create a welcome environment for junior golfers to make the right decisions for their individual development.

In addition, and in conjunction with this Junior Golf Pathway launch, Golf Ontario is proud to announce a new partnership with the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). This partnership will ensure a stronger connection between the many tours, events, and championships in Ontario and the AJGA organization and ranking system. The AJGA operates on a successful Performance Based Entry (PBE Stars) system, meaning athletes must have past success in order to qualify for AJGA events. Ontario’s Junior Rankings have been revised to better reflect competitive golf in the province and athletes will now be able to gain PBE exemptions and Stars through play in championships across Ontario.

As part of this partnership, in 2021, the top two golfers on each of the U17 and U19 Boys and Girls rankings will earn fully exempt AJGA status for the 2022 season. As well, the top two U15 ranked boys and girls will earn 12 PBE Stars and the top two U13 ranked boys and girls will earn 8 PBE Stars. In 2022 this will increase to ten exempt players per gender for the 2023 season.

Building on the success of the inaugural 2020 Golf Ontario Super Camp, The Tour Championship, will serve as a new, penultimate event of 2021 for Junior golfers to improve their rankings. This transition will add a day of competition to the 2021 Super Camp, making for two days of Golf Canada National Testing Protocols, and three days of Tour Championship tournament play. Qualification for this event will be open to the top 45 Boys and Girls (with at least one year of junior golf eligibility remaining) on the JGP rankings as of August 31^st, 2021. In 2022, The Tour Championship will become an official AJGA Open event and provide even more AJGA exemptions and PBE Stars. Ontario invitations will be determined based on Ontario Junior Rankings and will offer the same PBE Stars as the Ontario Junior Championships.

Kelly continued to say that “Thanks to the support of so many passionate tour operators and coaches as well as our facilities, volunteers and Golf Canada, junior competitive golf in Ontario will be incredibly strong for many years to come. As we embark on this new chapter, we appreciate your passion and energy that will drive the sport and junior golf forward.”

“The new Junior Golf Pathway will be a tremendous asset for families with junior golfers of all levels in Ontario,” said Mark Oskarson, AJGA chief operating officer. “The AJGA is grateful to join with Golf Ontario in this initiative and be a part of helping to further inspire those players looking to play college golf.”

About Junior Golf Pathway
The launch of the Junior Golf Pathway represents a collaboration between Golf Ontario and the many golf tours available to junior golfers across the province. The Junior Golf Pathway is an interactive tool and resource to assist junior golfers to reach their highest potential. From what tournaments to play, to finding coaches to assist development, this website with help juniors build their path in junior golf and beyond. Visit www.juniorgolfpathway.ca to learn more.

Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @JrGolfPathway
To stay informed on the Junior Golf Pathway information, events, and additional updates, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook. Make sure to visit the website (www.juniorgolfpathway.ca) for further information.

About the American Junior Golf Association
The AJGA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the overall growth and development of young men and women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf. The AJGA provides valuable exposure for college golf scholarships and has an annual junior membership (boys and girls, ages 12-19) of more than 7,000 members from 50 states and 60 foreign countries. Through initiatives like the Achieving Competitive Excellence (ACE) Grant, a financial assistance program, and Leadership Links, a service-oriented platform that teaches juniors charitable-giving skills, the AJGA fosters the growth of golf’s next generation.

TaylorMade and adidas are the AJGA’s National Sponsors, supporting the AJGA for more than 25 years. TaylorMade has served as the Official Ball of the AJGA since 2016. adidas has been the Official Apparel and Footwear of the AJGA since 2017. Rolex, in its fourth decade of AJGA sponsorship, became the inaugural AJGA Premier Partner in 2004.

AJGA alumni have risen to the top of amateur, collegiate, and professional golf. Former AJGA juniors have compiled more than 900 victories on the PGA and LPGA Tours. AJGA alumni include Rickie Fowler, Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Patrick Reed, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Tiger Woods, Paula Creamer, Ariya Jutanugarn, Cristie Kerr, Stacy Lewis, Brittany Lincicome, Anna Nordqvist, Inbee Park, and Lexi Thompson.

About the Participating Local Junior Tours.
15 local junior golf tours will provide the backbone for the new Junior Golf Pathway. Each of these tours provides important opportunities for junior golfers to hone their competitive skills, and all of these tours will work together to provide more clarity and a more cohesive ranking system to identify the best golfers in the province, both female and male. Visit www.juniorgolfpathway.ca/tours to learn more.

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.

For more information please contact:

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