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  

An incredible Adaptive Golf Month has concluded with big news for Ontario. Six Canadian golfers with a disability are now ranked in the top 50 globally. Throughout the month, adaptive athletes showcased their skill, passion, and competitive spirit and their efforts are now being recognized on the world stage.

Leading the pack are Chris Willis and Kurtis Barkley, who now sit back-to-back in The World Amateur Golf Rankings at No. 11 and 12. Willis, who captured the title at this year’s Golf Ontario Adaptive Championship, continues to build on his strong season. Barkley also competed at the provincial championship and remains one of the country’s most consistent and respected adaptive players.

Another notable is Josh Hunke, currently ranked 24th in the world, further demonstrating the depth of Ontario talent.

A standout story from this month’s rankings shift is Reggie Millage, who jumped an incredible 106 spots to reach No. 43 in the world, despite having only four official events to his name. A respected competitor, Millage also serves as the head coach of Team Ontario, bringing deep experience and leadership to both his players and his own game.

Also making headlines this month was Natasha Stasiuk, who won the women’s division at the 2025 Golf Ontario Adaptive Championship. A longtime leader in Canadian adaptive golf, Stasiuk continues to pave the way for women in the sport through her strong play and inspiring presence on and off the course.

Golf Ontario’s Adaptive Golf Month wrapped up with more than just great events, it delivered real change. What began as a celebration of inclusive and accessible golf continued the breakthrough momentum for Canadian adaptive athletes, both in spirit and in the world rankings. Golf Ontario played a key role by supporting high-level events, providing athletes with valuable ranking opportunities and national exposure. Through storytelling, digital coverage, and strong partnerships, Golf Ontario helped elevate Canadian adaptive golfers on the global stage.

These impressive rankings are a testament to the dedication, skill, and resilience of Canadian adaptive golfers. Supported by organizations like Golf Ontario, ParaSport Ontario and Special Olympics, these athletes are breaking barriers and inspiring others to pursue the game at all levels. As Adaptive Golf Month wraps up, one thing is clear, Canada is proving it belongs at the very top of adaptive golf.

To explore the rankings and follow the progress of golfers with a disability worldwide, visit the official World Rankings page here. 

To learn more about adaptive golf, visit www.golfontario.ca/adaptivegolfmonth and follow @TheGolfOntario on social media for stories and testimonials celebrating Adaptive Golf Month.

At Shelburne Golf and Country Club, junior golf isn’t just a summer activity, it’s a long-term investment in the future of the game, built on a legacy of leadership and love for the sport.

Located on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, the 18-hole course has become a local leader in youth golf development. That’s thanks to a forward-thinking rental club program, an inclusive lineup of junior offerings for all ages or stages, and the continued vision of General Manager Megan Young, who is proudly building on the foundation built by her father, Sam Young, a Canadian Golf Legend and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee. 

“We start our kids as young as three years old,” Megan says. “A lot of clubs still limit junior access, but golf is missing the boat when we do that. We’re shaping the future of the game by making it accessible and enjoyable from the start.”

Clubs That Grow With Them

A big part of Shelburne’s junior program is its club rental option. Kids get properly sized clubs and a stand bag for the whole season. That means families don’t need to spend a lot of money right away, and young golfers can learn with the right equipment from the start.

Programming for Every Age

Shelburne offers something for every stage of a young golfer’s journey:

• Turkey Saturdays welcome kids ages 3–5 for free drop-in lessons, with clubs provided and no registration required. Held from 2–3pm each Saturday, it’s a low-pressure, fun introduction to the sport.
• The Junior-Junior Program (ages 6–9) builds on those basics with weekly clinics, mentorship from advanced juniors, and access to a dedicated three-hole course. Participants can even play the full course on weekend evenings when accompanied by an adult.
• From ages 9–18, golfers can participate in Junior Clinics, offered multiple times per week, focusing on skill development, course strategy, and more.
• For those looking to take their game to the next level, the Advanced Junior Program offers winter training, a March Break trip to Pinehurst, and competitive junior tournament experience, all backed by year-round coaching and full club access.

A Legacy in Action

At Shelburne, junior golf is rooted in family. The club’s youth  programs were founded by Canadian golfer, Sam Young, a 2011 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee. His daughter, who has taken over for him, explains that his commitment to junior development began decades ago, when he coached his very first junior Gar Hamilton, who was inducted alongside him.

Now led by his daughter, Megan Young, Shelburne continues that mission. “Golf has to have a future”, she says. “My dad spent his entire career teaching kids how to play. He believed that golf is a lifelong game, and if you teach someone to enjoy and succeed at it, they’ll play forever.”

That legacy is alive and well today, reflected in every child who picks up a club for the first time at Shelburne without worrying about common barriers like cost or accessibility.

By putting inclusion, accessibility, and passion at the heart of their programming, Shelburne Golf and Country Club is doing what all of us at Golf Ontario strive to do: shape lives through golf.

Ready to get your young golfer started? Click here to explore Shelburne’s Junior Golf programs.

After three days of competitive play at the stunning Lora Bay Golf Club, the 90th Ontario Men’s Senior Amateur Championship has come to a close, crowning champions in both the Overall Senior Men’s Division and the 70-and-Over Division.

Taking place from July 22–24, the championship brought together the province’s top senior golfers, all competing for a provincial title on one of Ontario’s most scenic and challenging courses. 

Overall Senior Men’s Champion: Ashley Chinner

Ashley Chinner emerged at the top of the leaderboard in the overall division, finishing with rounds of 70, 68, and 70 for a three-day total of 208 (-8) over 54 holes. The Coppinwood Golf Club-based player and Golf Ontario hall of fame member showed precision off the tee, sharp iron play, and the composure of a champion to earn his second Ontario Senior title.

Past champions in the field included names like Dave Bunker (2020, 2024) and Adam Creighton (2023), making this year’s title one of the most competitive. 

• 2nd Place: Mike Kray (Rattlesnake Point Golf Club) – 213 (-3)
• 3rd Place: Don Martone (Crimson Ridge Golf Club) – 214 (-2)

70-and-over Champion: Tim Lee 

In the 70-and-Over Division, Tim Lee of Beverly Golf & Country Club captured the title with rounds of 74, 74, and 79, finishing at 227 (+11). The veteran golfer outlasted a strong group of experienced players and celebrated the achievement with his first-ever hole-in-one during the first round of the tournament.

• 2nd Place: Rob Myhill – 231 (+15)
• 3rd Place: Peter Baldasso – 235 (+19)

65-and-Over Division Champion: Lars Melander

In the 65-and-Over category, Lars Melander of Oakville Golf Club posted an impressive three-round total of 221 (+5), with scores of 72, 74, and 75. Melander’s consistent play stood out in a strong age bracket and highlighted the depth of talent across all divisions in this year’s championship.

Thank You to Lora Bay

Golf Ontario extends its sincere thanks to Lora Bay Golf Club, its staff, and volunteers for helping deliver another successful championship. The venue, with its elevated fairways and Georgian Bay backdrop, proved once again to be a true test for Ontario’s top senior amateurs.

For full scores and leaderboard: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11292481570662828158

Championship Photo Album

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

After a one-year hiatus due to severe flooding in Toronto last year, the Ontario Adaptive Open returns with renewed spirit and purpose. This inclusive event, held July 14th-15th at the prestigious Weston Golf and Country Club, exemplifies Golf Ontario’s continuous dedication to accessibility in the game as part of Adaptive Golf Month.  

The Ontario Adaptive Open provides a competitive and welcoming atmosphere for golfers with physical, neurological, and sensory disabilities. The event not only recognizes athletic excellence but also reflects Golf Ontario’s overall dedication to growing the game for all.    

John Lawrence, Tournament Director at Golf Ontario, says, “The Ontario Adaptive Open showcases the true spirit of golf. It brings together incredible talent and inspiring stories. We’re proud to host a competition that highlights both the skill and determination of athletes”  

The tournament will feature several of the sport’s most accomplished adaptive golf champions. On the men’s side, Kurtis Barkley, a four-time Adaptive Open winner, will once again contend for the title. He’ll be joined by Chris Willis of Pheasant Run Golf Club, currently ranked No. 12 in the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD), and Jackson Policicchio of Sarnia Golf & Curling Club, fresh off his gold-medal performance at the 2025 Ontario Paragames. 

On the women’s side, competition will be equally fierce. Five-time Ontario Adaptive champion Natasha Stasiuk, who recently placed fifth at the USGA Adaptive Open, returns alongside fellow Ontario Paragames competitor Tess Trojan, bringing elite skill and determination to this year’s event. 

Hosting the championship for another year, Weston Golf and Country Club continues to be a proud supporter of adaptive golf in Ontario. 

“It is with immense pride that we welcome the Ontario Adaptive Open to Weston,” says Colleen Gibbs, President of Weston Golf and Country Club. For our club, this event represents the heart of the game: creating opportunities and celebrating a passion for competitive golf that unites us all. The positive impact these incredible athletes have on our community is immeasurable, and we are honoured to support their journey and champion a more inclusive future for golf.” 

Golf Ontario extends its sincere thanks to Weston Golf and Country Club for their continued support and commitment to hosting this meaningful championship. Their dedication to inclusive golf has helped make the Ontario Adaptive Open a premier event for athletes of all abilities. 

Stay Connected  

For full tournament results and leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11301007747438397881 

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

Golf Ontario is proud to announce applications for the 2025 Scholarship Program will officially open on May 16, 2025, and will close on June 30, 2025.

This annual initiative supports Ontario student-athletes who demonstrate excellence both academically and within the golf community.

Scholarship Overview

Since 1994, Golf Ontario has awarded scholarships to hundreds of deserving students, thanks to the generous support of donors and partners. These scholarships aim to ease financial burdens and empower recipients to pursue their academic and athletic goals.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for a Golf Ontario scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a resident of Ontario
• Maintain a minimum overall academic average of 75%
• Hold an active Golf Ontario or Golf Canada membership
• Demonstrate active involvement in golf through competitive play, community engagement, volunteerism, or industry experience

Required Application Materials

Applicants are required to submit:

• A completed online application form
• A one-page personal essay titled “How Golf Has Shaped My Life”
• An academic transcript
• Proof of college or university acceptance or enrollment
• A letter of recommendation
• A resume
• An additional letter of reference

Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Special Scholarship Awards

In addition to general scholarships, Golf Ontario offers several named awards honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport:

• Ken McKenzie Award: Recognizes a student who embodies McKenzie’s dedication to junior golf development.
• Christine Fisher Memorial Student Award: Awarded to a female golfer demonstrating academic excellence and community involvement, with preference given to applicants from the Waterloo Region or those attending the University of Waterloo.
• Craig Revell Scholarship: Honours a student who exemplifies Revell’s respect for the game and academic achievement.
• Helena Harbridge Scholarship: Supports a student-athlete who has overcome adversity, reflecting Harbridge’s perseverance and dedication.
• Dave Mills Scholarship: Celebrates a student pursuing post-secondary education, reflecting Mills’ lifelong commitment to golf development.
• Baka Mobile Scholarship: Supports one male and one female junior golfer pursuing post-secondary education in Ontario.
• Bill Bath Scholarship Award: Recognizes a student from The Regional Municipality of Durham who demonstrates Bath’s passion for golf and community service.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted online from May 16 to June 30, 2025. Interested applicants can find more information and submit their applications HERE.

For questions or to learn more about supporting the scholarship program, please contact fundraising@golfontario.ca.

Golf Ontario remains committed to fostering the growth of student-athletes and looks forward to supporting the next generation of leaders in golf and beyond.

Junior golf in Ontario isn’t just about tee times — it’s where young talent begins to take shape.

Across the province, regional tours allow junior players aged 6 to 18 to compete, improve their skills, and fall in love with the game. These programs, whether in the heart of the GTA, along the shores of Lake Erie, or in northern regions, are building more than just swings; they are also developing character. With an emphasis on skill development, sportsmanship, and personal growth, Ontario’s junior golf environment is shaping the next generation of champions on and off the course.

Ontario has an extensive network of junior golf tours, several of which have become important parts of their local communities. The Junior Tyson Tour, established in 1968, holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest junior golf tour and it continues to provide a competitive and inviting atmosphere for young players in the London region. Similarly, the Hamilton Halton Junior Golf Tour, founded in 1984, was Ontario’s first structured junior tour and remains a premier platform for high-level competition among players aged 10 to 18.

Across the province, tours such as the Niagara District Junior Tour, Simcoe County Junior Golf Tour, Pepsi Titleist Junior Tour, North Eastern Junior Golf Tour, and Lambton Golf Tour, among many others, give junior golfers a regional stage to test their skills, elevate their game, and proudly represent their communities.

At the core of Ontario’s junior golf development is the Junior Golf Pathway, a structured program that guides young players from recreational beginnings to high-level competitive opportunities. Designed for athletes who want to improve, the pathway offers guidance on tournament selection, access to quality coaching, and support for long-term development in the sport. It includes four progressive levels: Emerging, Advancing, Competitive, and Performance. Each stage reflects a player’s development and level of commitment. As athletes gain experience and grow their skills, the pathway helps them transition from learning the fundamentals to competing at provincial, national, and even international levels. At every stage, the focus remains on building confident, well-rounded players who are prepared for success.

For Golf Ontario, junior tours are more than just a series of events, they are a vital part of shaping the future of the sport. As Alexandra Taylor, Manager of Junior Performance, explains, these tours form a foundational piece of the Junior Golf Pathway by providing the structure young players need to develop key skills and confidence. “Junior tours matter because they are where it all starts,” she says. “They help young players fall in love with the game, learn to compete, and begin charting their path, whether toward provincial teams, post-secondary golf, or a lifelong passion for the sport”. These tours play a central role in the Junior Golf Pathway by providing meaningful opportunities for competition, connection, and growth.

As Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane adds, the Junior Golf Pathway is designed to act as the bridge between early participation in regional tours and long-term development in the sport. “These tours offer structured, age-appropriate competition that allows athletes to test their skills, learn from their experiences, and measure their progress,” he says. “They’re often the first step for players aspiring to move through our Junior Golf Pathway and into provincial championships.” He emphasizes that the impact of junior tours extends beyond competition. “They also contribute to Golf Ontario’s mission of ‘Shaping Lives Through Golf,” McFarlane says. “Junior tours don’t just develop great golfers—they create moments that build character, confidence, and lifelong skills on and off the course.”

This vision aligns closely with Golf Ontario’s broader mission of shaping lives through golf and its commitment to ‘Golf for All’, ensuring that every young athlete has access to meaningful, inclusive experiences that foster personal development, a love for the game, and a lasting connection to the sport.

From the first tee to the provincial stage, Ontario’s junior golf tours and the Junior Golf Pathway provide young athletes with the tools to grow, compete, and thrive. Rooted in community and backed by a commitment to long-term development, these programs are not only shaping future champions but also creating positive experiences that last a lifetime. With every swing, junior golfers across the province are building the foundation for a strong, confident, and a connected future in the game.

To learn more or find a junior tour near you, visit https://juniorgolfpathway.ca/  

The spark of a new idea among friends at last year’s Canadian Women’s Mid-Am in B.C. has blossomed into a meaningful new tradition.

On May 11, a group of passionate and skilled women golfers will gather at Cutten Fields in Guelph for the inaugural Crown Invitational—an exciting event launching to reignite women’s mid-amateur golf in Ontario.

The Crown Invitational is rooted in love for the game, shared purpose, and spirited competition. It was created by a player-led committee of five committed women golfers—Alexandra Taylor, Jessie Mercer, Emily Phoenix, Mary Beth McKenna, and Meredith Fairbairn—who united around a common goal: to bring their vision to life. At the heart of their mission is a commitment to helping women reconnect with competitive golf.

“We were all together at the Canadian Mid-Am in B.C. when the idea came up—we just thought, why not host something ourselves?” says Taylor.

That moment of inspiration turned into the first step in making the event a reality. The committee envisioned a welcoming and accessible tournament for women who may have stepped away from competitive golf after their junior or collegiate years.

“The idea was to create a mid-am invitational that could bring women back into competitive golf—especially those who played in college or as juniors,” she explains.

With 13 players registered for this year’s inaugural event, the field will feature four groups—meeting the team’s initial goal and laying the foundation for future growth.

“There are 13 registered this year. Our goal was four groups—and to build on that each year,” adds Taylor.

The format is designed to balance structure and inclusivity. A and B teams will be assigned for the better ball competition, with an additional individual scoring category.

“We’ll have A and B teams for the better ball, plus an individual category as well,” says Taylor.

Cutten Fields has a long-standing tradition of hosting major tournaments. But to Steve Bryant, Director of Golf, this event holds personal significance.

“We’re usually the ones who host major tournaments,” Bryant said, “but we’re always happy to help out—especially when a Cutten Fields member like Mary Beth steps forward.”

Mary Beth McKenna, a Cutten Fields member and the event’s lead organizer, said the idea came from recognizing the lack of opportunities for women to continue playing competitive golf after university.

“Life becomes busy after school,” she shared, “and there are limited opportunities for women to remain actively involved competitively.”

From the setting at Cutten Fields to the thoughtfully crafted format, every element of the event has been intentionally designed. The goal is to create a supportive and fun environment that encourages women to return to competition—without the stress of rankings or qualifications.

The Crown Invitational and its mission reflect Golf Ontario’s vision of Golf For All—”We shape lives by connecting people to positive golf experiences”—by offering welcoming, inclusive spaces for golfers of all backgrounds, abilities, and life stages. This event exemplifies what it means to build a sense of belonging in golf: breaking down competitive barriers and welcoming women back to the course to play the game they love.

The Invitational paves the way for continued participation and long-term growth in the women’s game. Even in its first year, the Crown Invitational is poised to become a lasting, player-first tradition—seamlessly combining camaraderie and competition for women in golf.

There are golf tournaments. And then there’s the GTA AM Tour — now in its 22nd season and still raising the bar.

Led by Mark Young, the tour started as an opportunity for amateur golfers to play competitive rounds on elite courses around the province. But over the years, it’s become something much more: a vibrant, welcoming and remarkably polished community where players come to compete, connect and feel like pros—even if they’re carrying a 14 handicap.

“People might join us because they want access to amazing courses or to test themselves in a competitive environment,” says Young. “But what keeps them coming back—year after year— is the community. It’s the players, the sponsors, our tour team, the host clubs. Everyone contributes to something bigger.”

And that something bigger is built on intention and care.

“When someone signs up, I personally call them,” Young adds. “Whether they’re new or returning, it’s my chance to welcome them or catch up. I love that moment —it’s how we set the tone from the very beginning.”

A First-Class Experience, Built for Amateurs

From the moment players arrive at an event, the details speak volumes. Knife-flag banners line the driveway. Staff members greet players by name. Flights are structured for fair competition, with Golf Canada-certified referees on site and experienced spotters placed throughout the course. Tee times are spaced for pace-of-play efficiency, and every tournament has a distinct energy—polished, professional, but never stiff.

“You play like an amateur, but you’re treated like a pro,” says Young. “That’s our promise. That’s why we invest in every little piece of the experience—from the driveway to the scorecard.”

The tour is divided into four Flights by handicap, plus an Open Net Stableford format—allowing players of all levels to find the right fit. Each event also has more than $3,000 in prizing courtesy of tour sponsors. And when it comes to handicapping, the tour goes beyond the basics.

“We have a dedicated Handicap Committee that reviews every player’s index before an event,” Young explains. “These guys are sharp — they spot anomalies, dig into score patterns, and follow up directly when needed. Fair play is non-negotiable.”

Golf, Friendship and Growth

But for all its competitive structure, it’s the culture that sets the GTA AM Tour apart. It’s a place where players feel supported—where long-time veterans mentor newcomers, where rivalries are friendly, and where friendships that start on the tee box often stretch beyond the fairways.

“One of the most rewarding parts of what we do is watching relationships form,” says Young. “Some of our players met on the tour more than 20-years ago—and they’re still friends today.”

That same energy makes it a welcoming space for players just stepping into tournament golf.

“Playing competitive golf for the first time can be intimidating,” Young admits. “But our players tell us time and again—once they’re out there, they feel supported. They learn the ropes, they gain confidence and they start to love the challenge.”

It’s not just talk. One player, Peter, wrote that by his third event, “the nerves had disappeared,” and that he was learning more about rules and pace of play than he ever expected. That kind of growth is what the tour is all about.

And it’s not only the players who notice.

“We’ve heard from superintendents at host clubs who say our players actually leave the course in better shape than a typical day of play,” Young says. “That means something. We’re proud of that.”

A Shared Mission with Golf Ontario

This season, the tour enters a new chapter through an industry partnership with Golf Ontario. With a strong base of players from both public and private clubs—many of whom also play in Golf Ontario championships—the alignment was a natural one.

“We recognize the value the GTA AM Tour provides to the amateur golf community. The tour creates a welcoming competitive environment for players to sharpen their skills, build confidence, and experience the thrill of tournament golf,” says Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “We’re proud to see many GTA AM Tour participants taking the next step by competing in our provincial championships—bringing with them the experience and competitive edge they’ve developed on tour.”

And that connection goes beyond words—it’s already turning into action.

As part of the partnership, the GTA AM Tour is embracing the 1,000 Ball Challenge, Golf Ontario’s fundraising campaign in support of junior golf and community impact initiatives. And in true tour fashion, it’s not just about participating—it’s about turning it into a competition.

Each Flight will form its own team and take part in a season-long Flight vs. Flight fundraising challenge to see who can rally the most support.

“We thought, why not bring our players together in a way that’s both meaningful and fun?” says Young. “This lets them show their competitive spirit while supporting the future of the game. That’s a win-win.”

Looking Ahead

With another season on deck, Young is already looking forward.

“I can’t wait to see the players again—to hear their stories, to see how they’ve worked on their game over the winter,” he says. “Our tour team pours their beings into every event, and that shows. We love what we do, and I think people feel that.”

Whether you’re a returning competitor or thinking about joining your first event, the GTA AM Tour offers more than just a tournament—it offers a community. A place to grow, compete, and belong. And now, with deeper ties to the provincial golf ecosystem, the future is brighter than ever.

Ready to Compete?

Join the GTA Am Tour at www.gtaamtour.com

Support Golf For All

Support Golf For All
Learn more about the 1,000 Ball Challenge and donate today at www.1000ballchallenge.ca