After two days of competitive play, the 2025 Ontario Public Amateur Championship crowned its champions on August 28 at Mill Run Golf Club in Uxbridge. Despite periods of heavy rain, players pushed through the conditions and delivered an exciting finish across all flights.

Low Gross Overall Divisions

Men’s –
In the men’s division, Jay Finlay of Port Perry claimed the title with rounds of 72 and 71 for a two-day total of 143 (+1). Ben Snaidero of Burlington opened with an impressive 69 before closing with 76 to finish two shots back at 145 (+3), while Scott Herod of Cambridge remained steady with scores of 74 and 73 to take third at 147 (+5). The leaderboard stayed tight throughout the day, with all three contenders within striking distance at various points. At one stage, the standings even looked headed toward a playoff, but Finlay held firm down the stretch to secure the victory.

Women’s –
In the women’s division, Elaine Surjoprajogo of Brampton posted rounds of 76 and 81 for a total of 157 (+15) to capture the title. Just one shot back was Angelina Chang of Aurora, who bounced back on day two with a 76 to finish at 158 (+16). Rounding out the top three was Rachel Sidor of Stouffville, who put together rounds of 79 and 82 to finish at 161 (+19). The battle proved to be a thrilling one, with Surjoprajogo and Sidor trading the lead throughout the final round before Surjoprajogo pulled ahead late. Chang’s strong second round also put her in the mix, creating a dramatic finish with the top three separated by only four strokes.

Net Flight Champions

Beyond the overall titles, champions were also crowned across the flighted net divisions. Finlay’s steady play earned him the Men’s A Flight victory with his 143 (+1), while Akshay Gupta secured the Men’s B Flight with the same total after rounds of 69 and 74. In the Men’s C Flight, Nick Moskun claimed top honours with a two-day total of 149 (+7). On the women’s side, Rachel Sidor captures the Women’s Net Championship, pairing rounds of 73 and 76 for a winning total of 149 (+7).

Thank you to Mill Run Golf Club

Golf Ontario thanks Mill Run Golf Club for once again providing an outstanding stage for the Ontario Public Amateur Championship. With its versatility and long history of hosting, Mill Run continues to be an ideal home for this event, offering both a challenging test and a welcoming atmosphere for competitors.

Championship Photo Album:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1360801235728100&type=3

For full scores and leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11301121104074033407

Photos, highlights, and final round content: @thegolfontario on Instagram and Facebook.

For more than three decades, the Golf Ontario Scholarship Program  has championed the dreams of student golfers across the province. What began in 1994 as a commitment to easing the financial pressures of post-secondary education has grown into a tradition of celebrating well-rounded student-athletes who excel in both academics and athletics. The program has created opportunities for hundreds of student golfers, thanks to the generosity of corporate partners and sponsors who share a commitment to advancing both education and the game of golf.

Through the generosity of its donors, Golf Ontario proudly awards scholarships named in honour of remarkable Ontarians: Ken McKenzie, Christine Fisher, Craig Revell, Helena Harbridge, Dave Mills, and Bill Bath, whose legacies continue to inspire the next generation of golfers. Supported by partners like Baka Communications, a steadfast advocate for amateur golf in Ontario, these scholarships recognize student-athletes who excel in academics, demonstrate a passion for the game, and pursue their goals with dedication and excellence. Each scholarship tells a story of commitment, passion, and the enduring impact of those who helped shape golf in Ontario.

Congratulations to all the 2025 scholarship recipients!

Full List of 2025 Scholarship Award Recipients:

• Jadelina Tep-Chhun  – St.Thomas Golf & Country Club / Christine Fisher Memorial Scholarship
• University of Waterloo, Kinesiology 

• Russel Aide  – Black Bear Ridge Golf Course / Helena Harbridge Memorial Scholarship
• University of Arizona,  Engineering 

• Ben Sheridan – Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club  / Ken McKenzie Scholarship 
• Robert Morris University, Finance 

• Wendy Li – Summit Golf & Country Club / Craig Revell Scholarship 
• Boston University, Health Science

• Jaiden Brown – Dalewood Golf Club / Bill Bath Scholarship 
• Eckerd College, Economics

• Female: Emma Hansen – Blue Springs Golf Club / Dave Mills Scholarship 
• Elon University, Strategic Communications

• Male: Bennett Brazier – Beach Grove Golf & Country Club / Dave Mills Scholarship 
• Monmouth University, Business Administration

• Eric Wen  – Whistle Bear Golf Club / Golf Ontario Support Scholarship
• Fairleigh Dickinson University, Electrical Engineering

• Female: Avery Nordman  – Canadian Golf & Country Club / BAKA Golf Ontario Scholarship
• Longwood University, Kinesiology

• Male: Liam Rice  – Picton Golf & Country Club / BAKA Golf Ontario Scholarship
• Loyalist College, Pre-Service Firefighting Education & Training

About Golf Ontario Scholarship Program

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

Wishing our 2025 scholarship winners the very best as they pursue their education and continue making an impact in the world of golf!

Click here for all past Recipients

Mill Run Golf Club in Uxbridge will welcome Ontario’s best public players Aug. 27-28 for the 2025 Public Amateur Championship presented by Baka Mobile.. This championship offers a stage for public player golfers to compete at a high level and test their games on a championship layout.

Tournament Director Mason Cowan emphasized the importance of the Public Amateur Championship within Ontario’s golf community, “Unlike some championships that are exclusive to private club members, this event is designed for public players. It levels the playing field and ensures that talent from all backgrounds has the opportunity to compete in a professionally run, provincial-level event.”

Cowan added that Ontario has a strong base of golfers who develop their game on public courses, and this championship provides them with valuable exposure and opportunity, “This championship gives them a platform to showcase their skills and often serves as a stepping stone to higher-level competitions.”

Championship Format

A full field of 120 players will take on 36 holes over two days at this year’s championship. The men’s competition is divided into three flights: the “A” flight for gross scoring, and the “B” and “C” flights for net play, with “B” flight golfers also eligible to contend for the overall title.

The women will compete in their own division, with both gross and net champions recognized. This year also marks a milestone, with 14 women in the field, the highest number of female competitors in this championship’s history. 

The structure of this tournament ensures every golfer has a meaningful opportunity to compete, regardless of experience or handicap. By recognizing both gross and net champions, the championship celebrates achievement across all skill levels.

Players to Watch / Defending Champions (2024)

• Joshua Taylor : Men’s A Flight Champion
• Jamie Howe : Men’s B Flight net Champion
• Joe Smith : Men’s C Flight net Champion
• Jenna Power : Women’s overall & net Champion

These players have already proven they can perform under pressure, and each will aim to build on last year’s success in pursuit of another championship.

Mill Run Golf Club: A Familiar Stage

Mill Run Golf Club in Uxbridge has a long history with the Public Amateur Championship, having hosted the event nine times, more than any other tournament venue. 

Tournament Director, Mason Cowan, praised the course’s versatility, “The Grist/Wheel rotation ranges from 5,200 to 6,500 yards, accommodating all divisions. It offers players a variety of looks off the tee and into the greens, with challenges that include risk-reward doglegs, elevation changes, and multi-tiered greens.”

With a full field of talented public players, the 2025 Ontario Public Amateur Championship promises two days of exciting golf at Mill Run.

Stay Connected  

For full tournament results and leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11301121073539500252

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

Brooke Henderson captured her second CPKC Women’s Open title at Mississauga Golf and Country Club, making it one of the most meaningful wins of her career.

She closed with a 4-under 67 to edge Australia’s Minjee Lee by a single shot, ending a two-year stretch without a victory.

“This one I think might be the longest in between victories, so for that reason it makes it super special,” said Henderson. “To be able to win the Canadian Open, the CPKC Women’s Open, for the second time is so special.”

As a junior, Henderson won back-to-back Golf Ontario championships, capturing the Ontario Junior Girls’ Championship in 2011 and 2012, and later added the Ontario Women’s Amateur title in 2014.

The Mississauga win is her 14th LPGA Tour title and second CPKC Women’s Open, the first coming in 2018.

To read more, click HERE

Charles Fitzsimmons is now a 3-time national champion, after holding on to win the 2025 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship by one shot at Seymour Golf and Country Club in North Vancouver, B.C.

Fitzsimmons shot a 3-over 74 to finish the tournament at 1-over to edge Dustin Franko (Delta, B.C). by one shot. Fitzsimmons posted rounds of 71-72-68-74-285 to become the fourth three-time winner of the national championship. 

“Still processing the win, it feels great,” said Fitzsimmons following his win on Friday. “Today was a real challenge, Dustin played solid and he and I were going back and forth, it was just pressure filled for every moment and a really good challenge. My games been close all summer and to be able to get the win here is really special.”

Fitzsimmons is a mental coach of Team Ontario, as he balances competitive play with his coaching duties. The win marks three Men’s Mid-Am titles for Fitzsimmons tying him with Dave Bunker (2008, 2009, 2010), Garrett Rank (2014, 2015, 2016) and Joseph Deraney (2018, 2019, 2023). The four trail only seven-time winner Graham Cooke and four-time winner Stu Hamilton on the all-time winners list.

“It’s pretty special to be named amongst that group of players that have won this tournament three times. I probably would have never dreamt I could have done that as a kid so to be here now still kind of feels like a dream. It’s really cool to be part of Golf Canada history that way,” added Fitzsimmons.

Fitzsimmons will receive direct exemptions into the 2025 U.S Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at Troon Country Club in Scottsdale, Ariz. from September 13 -18, the 2026 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship along with a 10-year exemption into the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship.

To view full leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11312253993171864018?locale=en 

McFarlane Secures First Provincial Title

Team Ontario’s Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa H&GC) captured her first provincial championship title at the U17 Championship, capitalizing on a hot start in the opening rounds. McFarlane finished with a total score of 212 (-1), securing scores of 66, 69 and 77 over the week of play. After putting herself in a strong position early, McFarlane was able to lean on that lead during the final day of play – showing composure in unfamiliar territory as she closed out the win.

Team Ontario coach Reggie Millage noted that McFarlane has been on the verge of a breakthrough for some time. Her strong opening rounds here, combined with momentum from a solid performance at the Canadian Junior Girls Championship, helped her capture her first provincial title.

Chasing her closely was Riviera Lindholm (St. George’s G&CC), who delivered an excellent final round. Lindholm’s steady play and ability to sink long-range putts up to the final hole kept the pressure on McFarlane throughout the day.

Other top finishers in the U17 Girls division include:

2nd: Riviera Lindholm (St. Georges G&CC)

T3: Evelyn Li (Brampton GC)

T3: Ava Gilbart (Summit G&CC)

Vivone Pulls Ahead on the Back Nine

Within the U17 Boys division, Michael Vivone (Royal Ottawa GC) rose to the occasion after starting the final round in fourth place. He finished with a total of 206 (-7), carding rounds of 65, 73 and 68. The round quickly turned into a tight battle, with a group of players all within reach of the lead and trading shots throughout the final holes of play.

It was on the back nine where Vivone found his rhythm, relying on clutch putting to separate himself from the field. “My putting on the front nine was a bit shaky, but I settled in well on the back nine” Vivone states. That recovery under pressure proved decisive, as he pulled ahead late in the final round to capture the U17 Championship title.

Other top finishers in the U17 Boys Division included:

2nd: Karson Hurlbert (Camelot G&CC)

T3: Dimitri Protopapas (The Nest at Friday Harbour)

T3: Grayson Carter (Listowel GC)

T3: Max Li (Summit G&CC)

Additional Championship Highlights

Beyond the leaderboard battles, the championship delivered additional memorable moments. Team Ontario’s Sadie Wu (Summit G&CC) made her mark in round one with her first hole-in-one, an achievement that energized the field and stood out as one of the week’s highlights.

Thank You

Golf Ontario extends our appreciation to Timber Ridge Golf Course for hosting the 2025 U17 Championship and providing an excellent stage for players to showcase their skills.

Championship Photos: HERE

For full scores and leaderboards: HERE

Photos, highlights, and final round content: @thegolfontario on Instagram and Facebook.

The R. Bruce Forbes Trophy will remain with Team Ontario for a third consecutive year following a come-from-behind victory at the 2025 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at Seymour Golf and Country Club in North Vancouver, B.C.

Team Ontario entered Wednesday’s final round trailing Team Nova Scotia by four shots in the Inter-Provincial Team Championship, but posted a combined score of even par to finish at 2-over, three clear of the opening-round leaders.

Representing Ontario were Derek Dalziel of London, Ont., Kyle Gordon of Whitby, Ont., and Stephen Brown of Corunna, Ont. Dalziel led the way with a 1-under 70 that included a hole-in-one on the par-3 fifth hole, while Gordon’s 1-over 72, highlighted by a hole-out eagle on the par-4 17th, also counted towards the team’s total.

Each of Ontario’s past three victories have come with new team members, underlining the depth of talent across the province.

To view full leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11312250173435988390?locale=en

Golf Ontario is proud to announce that Carriage House Wealth is returning as the presenting sponsor of the Junior Golf Drive, happening Monday, September 8 at Granite Golf Club.

“We’re excited to have Carriage House Wealth back as the presenting sponsor of the Junior Golf Drive. Kevin Cooper and his team share our passion for developing high-performance junior golf, and their support ensures our young athletes have the resources and training to succeed,” says Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “Together, we’re making sure tomorrow’s golf champions are made right here in Ontario.”

The Junior Golf Drive plays a vital role in supporting Ontario’s top junior golfers with funding for training, travel, and competition.

The results are already showing. In 2025, Team Ontario members captured such events as the Canadian Junior Boys’; Ontario Women’s Match Play; Ontario Junior Boys’; Ontario Spring Classic; numerous AJGA events and the Can-Am Matches title—a true testament to how dedicated support for high-performance junior golf is helping athletes succeed on the national and international stage.

Hosted at the exclusive Granite Golf Club, the Junior Golf Drive offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Ontario’s most sought-after private courses while supporting the next generation of champions. Participants will enjoy a memorable day on the course alongside some of Ontario’s most promising young talent.

Spots are still available. Don’t miss your chance to play Granite Golf Club and support junior golf.

Register your foursome at juniorgolfdrive.ca or email fundraising@golfontario.ca today.

Golf Ontario has officially announced its roster for the 2025 Canada Summer Games, with four standout junior golfers set to represent the province in St. John’s, Newfoundland from August 18–25. The golf competition will run August 19–22 at the historic Bally Haly Golf & Country Club, a course steeped in Newfoundland golf history. 

The Canada Games are a national showcase of youth athletic talent, and earning a spot on Team Ontario is a major milestone for any athlete. The event brings together the country’s best in a multi-sport environment that fosters competition, camaraderie, and lifelong memories. 

The Ontario golfers arrived on August 17, followed by a training day on August 18. Competition begins the next day, culminating with the Closing Ceremonies on August 24. The team returns home August 25. 

Ontario Golf Roster – 2025 Canada Summer Games 

Carlee Meilleur – Golf Ontario Players Club (Leeds-Grenville County) 

Evelyn Ma – Station Creek Golf Club 

Ashton Rinaldi – Barrie Country Club 

Matthew Simpson – Lambton Golf & Country Club 

These four athletes have earned their place through hard work and consistent performance. Each will carry the Ontario flag with pride as they compete against Canada’s best junior golfers. 

Coaching Staff 

Head Coach – Carla Munch 

A veteran of the national coaching scene, Carla Munch leads the team with decades of experience. A PGA of Canada Professional, she has guided the University of Waterloo Women’s Golf Program since 2004 and currently serves as Managing Partner and Head Pro at Cambridge Golf Club. 

Munch is no stranger to the Games, having coached Ontario in 2013, 2017, and 2022. She has also represented Canada at multiple FISU World University Games and was awarded the PGA of Canada’s Ben Kern Coach of the Year (2019). Her recent induction into the Cambridge and Waterloo Region Sports Hall of Fame highlights her impact on the sport. 

Team Manager – Cole Miranda 

Cole is currently enrolled in the Sport Business and Recreation Management Program at The University of Waterloo. He has completed the PGA of Canada’s Community Golf Coach Program and was the 2024 Tee it Up Junior Golf Tour Champion. Cole serves as an assistant coach at many junior golf camps and clinics at Cambridge Golf Club and maintains a 4 handicap. 

Cole is an accomplished athlete and was named the Graduating Athlete at his high school. He currently plays Junior hockey for the Welland Canadians in the GOJHL and enjoys skiing in the winter months. 

The 2025 U17 Championship will showcase some of Ontario’s brightest young talents, with a field stacked with champions and rising stars. Players with provincial and national success will battle over three rounds, from August 19-21, at Timber Ridge Golf Course – a setting that demands strategy, patience and precision.  

Located in Brighton, Ont., Timber Ridge sets the stage with its picturesque parkland layout and 18 demanding holes. With more than 80 strategically placed bunkers, rolling fairways, and tiered greens, the course will push players to think strategically and manage every shot with precision. 

Beyond the scorecard, this championship promises a true test of resilience. Tournament Director Mason Cowan says, “The lessons from the course will teach players to stay patient and level-headed for years to come, beyond the game of golf.” The mental battles required to navigate Timber Ridge’s challenges will shape these young athletes not only as golfers but also as competitors who carry composure and confidence well into the future. 

Boys to watch: 

Dimitri Protopapas :

• Ontario Junior Boys Match Play Champion
• T-5 at 2025 Ontario Junior Boys’ Amateur

Bode Stephen :

• Team Ontario Athlete 
• AJGA Forest Lake Championship Champion (2025) 
• T-5 at 2025 Ontario Junior Boys’ Amateur 

Chase Jerome:

• 6th at 2025 Ontario Men’s Amateur 
• T-7 at 2025 Ontario Junior Boys’ Amateur 

Joseph Totino :

• Team Ontario Athlete 
• Ontario U15 Champion (2024) 
• Runner-up at Ontario Junior Boys’ Match Play 

Girls to watch:

Additional Team Ontario Athletes: Kaprice Park, Amelia McFarlane, Sadie Wu. 

Next Wave Athletes: Karson Hurlbert, David Kowalewski, Lucas Gilbert, Landon Van Loon, Conner Kanellis, Brennan Turner, Andrew Sudicky, Zach Lederer, Michael Vivone, Andrea Lai, Regan Andrusyk, Narisse Daye, Katherine Xia, Ava Gilbart, Kaeleigh Chung, Ceilidh Spare, Cadence Tanouye and Grace Kim.  

Stay Connected 

For full tournament results and leaderboards, click HERE

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