Sunny Start To The 2023 Baka Mobile Ontario Public Amateur Championship.
Toronto, ON- Sunny skies and beautiful conditions made for a great start to the 2023 Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile at Don Valley Golf Course. The first round concluded as Jager Pain (Woodbridge) and Nachcha Perkins (Oakville) lead their overall divisions.
In the Men’s Low Gross overall division, Jager Pain (Woodbridge) leads after shooting an impressive 6-under par (66) which included eight birdies. Following close behind is Ben Snaidero (Burlington) who finished at 2-under par with a score of (70). There is a three-way tie for third place as Devin Bartlett (Cambridge), Connor Parker (Toronto), and Paul Sobottka(Toronto) all finished with 1-under par (71). The B flight has two competitors tied for First; Ivan Wardman (Mississauga) and Robert Love (Toronto), both with a score of two-over-par (74). The C flight is led by Nick Moskun (Georgetown) who finished the round with a score of (73) with five birdies.
Leading the Women’s Low Gross division with four-over-par and two birdies is Nachcha Perkins (Oakville). Lori Steenson (Newmarket) finished round one in second place in the gross division with a score of (83) with two birdies. Following closely behind in Third place is Jenna Power (Georgetown) who finished the round with a score of (87). Power had the shot of the day as she holed out for an impressive eagle from the fairway on hole #4 from 167 yards out. Lori Steenson currently leads the net division by an impressive 8 strokes as she was net -1 on the day.
The second and final round will begin at 8 am September 12th off the 1st tee. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
About the Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile
The Ontario Public Amateur Championship was first played in 1958 at Don Valley Golf Course. Past winners include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Member Dave Bunker (2009, 2010), Robert Mclean (2021), Arnold Johnson (2015, 2011), Peter Willis (2014), Gail Pimm (2015) and Nobelle Park (2022). Mill Run Golf Club (Uxbridge, ON) has hosted the tournament a record nine times.
The Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile provides the perfect opportunity for those interested in trying a competitive tournament while providing gross and net flights. This allows higher-handicap players to play against players in their handicap grouping.
About Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.
Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.
For more information, please contact:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario,
Connor Doyle, Tournament Director
Don Valley Golf Course Welcomes Back The 2023 Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile.
Uxbridge, ON – Golfers return to Don Valley Golf Course for the 8th time to compete in the 2023 Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile from September 11th to 12th. Ninety-nine golfers will compete over 36 holes of championship stroke play, male players will be in competition for three flights of championship titles and women golfers will play in Gross and Net Competition.
Don Valley, the seven-time host, located in the heart of Toronto offers a variety of holes with a reputation for its exciting natural setting. With its highly sought-after tee times and year-round beauty, Don Valley Golf Course sets the stage for another year of fierce competition. Last year’s overall men’s champion Michael Naus, will be returning to defend his title.
This tournament is open to players of the Golf Ontario Public Player Program and members of a semi-public golf course. Golfers will compete in three separate flights of competition, with the A flight competing in a gross competition, while the B and C flights will play in a net competition. Golfers in the B flight will also have an opportunity to compete in the overall competition.
Tee times begin at 8 am September 11th off the 1st tee. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
About the Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile
The Ontario Public Amateur Championship was first played in 1958 at Don Valley Golf Course. Past winners include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Member Dave Bunker (2009, 2010), Robert Mclean (2021), Arnold Johnson (2015, 2011), Peter Willis (2014), Gail Pimm (2015) and Nobelle Park (2022). Mill Run Golf Club (Uxbridge, ON) has hosted the tournament a record nine times.
The Ontario Public Amateur Championship Presented by Baka Mobile provides the perfect opportunity for those interested in trying a competitive tournament while providing gross and net flights. This allows higher-handicap players to play against players in their handicap grouping.
About Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial sports organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 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.
Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @TheGolfOntario
To stay informed on Golf Ontario’s championship play, events, and additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, and like us on Facebook.
For more information, please contact:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario,
Connor Doyle, Tournament Director
Call for Expressions of Interest: Board of Directors
Golf Ontario, the Provincial Sport Organization for Golf, is currently seeking interested individuals to serve on the Board of Directors for a three-year term commencing February 2024.
If you have a strong passion for the sport of Golf and believe that it can contribute to building healthy communities, we would like to hear from you. We are searching for strategic thinkers with demonstrated expertise and experience in Community Development through Sport and/or Government Relations. Knowledge of the amateur sport system in Ontario, including the infrastructure of golf, would be highly valued. We are committed to making golf more accessible and welcoming to diverse populations and would encourage like-minded individuals to apply.
Our Vision is a simple but powerful statement: Golf for All. This Vision is brought to life in our Strategic Plan, through unique participation initiatives such as the Regional Support Strategy. We are committed to building trusting relationships with our facilities and our golf partners so that together we can expand participation opportunities not only for current players but also for those who have never had the opportunity to play the game.
The role of a Golf Ontario Board member is to act as a trustee, always serving the best interests of the organization with integrity and an open mind. The Board is responsible for upholding our by-laws, determining policy, developing and evaluating strategic priorities, and approving annual budgets.
The Board currently consists of 11 directors serving staggered three-year terms, with an option to extend for a second three-year term. We will welcome 3 new directors in 2024. In-person Board meetings are hosted quarterly (travel and accommodation reimbursement provided), while quarterly Board committee and work group meetings are held virtually.
Expressions of Interest must include the following:
• Online application form and
• Current CV (Instructions for uploading your documents are included on the application form).
The application deadline for the coming year is October 31, 2023.
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO APPLY.
With over 80 years of history and tradition, serving 100,000 members, Golf Ontario is one of the largest golf associations in the world. We strive to align with all golf stakeholders through a connected golf community while encouraging both youth and adults to play more golf, more often. Our Mission is to shape lives through golf by connecting people to positive golf experiences.
Golf Ontario is an equal-opportunity organization committed to providing accessible practices. We will make all reasonable accommodations for applicants with varying abilities to support their full participation in this process. We thank all individuals for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All Expressions of Interest will be kept in confidence.
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 500 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.
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.
2023 Indigenous Ontario Championship Recognizes Multiple Champions
With sunny skies and pristine fairways, the 2023 Indigenous Ontario Championship concluded today at Monthill G&CC. After 54 holes it was ultimately Ky Horn (Mohawks of Kahnawake) who captured the men’s overall championship and Cheryl Mitchell (Walpole Island First Nation) in the women’s overall division.
The entire event turned out to be a memorable experience for everyone involved. From rain delays to mid tournament ceremonies, the 2nd annual Indigenous Ontario Championship featured over 41 first nations groups from across the country as well as participants from the USA.
Ky Horn (Mowhawks of Kahnawake) showed off some spectacular golf through the 3 day bout. He shot a great 218 and on the final day was able to secure the win shooting 75. In second was Ian Ford (Lac Seul First Nations) who ended his final day shooting 77.
Women’s winner and two-time champion Cheryl Mitchell (Walpole Island First Nation) ended the tournament shooting a total of 236 with scores of 78, 79 and 79. In second place was Melanie Burgess (Matachewan First Nation) just five strokes back over three days at 241.
Huge thanks to the DreamCatcher Charitable Foundation for teaming up with Monthill Golf Club to raise awareness. As a collective they were able to raise twenty-two thousand dollars for the foundation. Thanks to everyone who supported this effort. We’re incredibly grateful for your partnership in driving positive change.
The day wrapped up with closing ceremonies, including speeches and plenty of smiles and applause from the hundreds viewing from around the beautiful clubhouse. Golf Ontario would like to thank all the players, staff, and volunteers for supporting the 2023 Indigenous Ontario Championship. Many thanks to Monthill and their incredible team for hosting this memorable event. Lastly, thanks to our sponsors and partners for investing in the growth of the game and our vision of Golf For All.
Make sure to visit the tournament website for the full leaderboard and information. For pictures please check out our Facebook album.
About the Indigenous Ontario Championship:
The Indigenous Ontario Championship is a 54 hole competition open to men and women of all ages. The championship features a Gross division and a Net Stableford division and also recognizes the top junior and senior players. Golf Ontario has worked closely with Indigenous leaders to ensure this event provides players and spectators with a memorable provincial championship experience. The championship will bring awareness to the growth of the game of golf and the impact it has on the communities.
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 500 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.
Stay Connected on 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:
John Lawrence, Director, Competitions and Performance, Golf Ontario
JLawrence@gao.ca
Golf Ontario Director Among Top 10 Most Influential People in Diversity & Inclusion
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On behalf of the Board and colleagues at Golf Ontario, we’d like to congratulate David Herrara for being named one of “The 10 Most Influential People in Diversity and Inclusion 2023”.
Herrara, is Head of People and Organization Analytics for Korn Ferry. With more than 15 years of experience in consulting, Mr. Herrera’s expertise is designing and implementing transformative solutions that will enable organizations to achieve their strategic imperatives. David is a passionate DE&I practitioner and subject matter expert and has advised several organizations globally on how to become more diverse and inclusive with talent and customers/clients.
During his consulting career, David has led various projects with global and local organizations in various sectors including non-for-profit, financial services, healthcare, retail and industrial, including projects in Canada, USA, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama and Chile and coordinated international projects with Europe, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Singapore and Central America.
While David is an amateur golf player, he has found passion in the game and how it can support the development of communities and youth. David brings his passion in the game and for DE&I to the Board at Golf Ontario.
In acknowledging the honor, Herrara said, “Golf Ontario’s commitment to promote DEI in golf across Ontario, and the steps we have taken to ensure that everyone feels welcomed, valued, and respected within our organization, have been instrumental in my journey and this recognition.”
Congratulations David! Golf Ontario and the community we serve are fortunate to include your passion and expertise amongst our thought leaders.
To learn more about how you can join Golf Ontario in supporting awareness and impact across key EDI initiatives and achieving our vision of Golf For All, click here.
Creighton Captures 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
Pickering, ON – The 88th Senior Men’s Championship at Whitevale Golf Club sizzled with intensity as seasoned contenders battled fiercely in the hot and steamy conditions. The competition came down to the wire on the final day, making for an exhilarating few days of golf. After 54 holes Adam Creighton takes home the Trophy.
First time champion Adam Creighton (Cherry Hill Club) played an impressive final round as he completed the 18 holes shooting (69). He finished off with a fantastic ending on the 18th sinking a spectacular putt for birdie.
Dave Speir (Sunningdale Golf & Country Club) came in second place after shooting 67, 76, 75 totaling (218) after leading the competition for the first 2 days. In a three way tie for third is Ashley Chinner (Coppinwood Golf Club) with a total score of (221). Brian Humphrys (The Pulpit Club) shot (72) on the final day which moved him up 7 spots securing him that 3rd position. Doug Brophy (Glencairn Golf Club) is the final player tied for third, following an impressive (70) on the final day which helped him climb 14 spots.
Creighton thanked Golf Ontario for orchestrating this event, and Whitevale Golf Club for hosting, and shared “It was my first event and I had a lot of fun, it was great meeting so many other great golfers”. Creighton wishes to compete at another Golf Ontario event in the future.
Bruce McEwen (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) claimed both the over 65 and over 70 age category trophies respectively. McEwen shot (225) over the 3 day event. He is taking home hardware for the first time.
Golf Ontario would like to thank the players, staff, and volunteers for supporting the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship. A huge thank you to Whitevale Golf Club for hosting this incredible event. Lastly, a huge thanks to our sponsors and partners of the association for their continued sponsorship. We’re always grateful for all your support.
Click here to view the championship website for pairings and results.
Click here to view tournament photos.
About The Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
Conducted since 1936, the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship event features Ontario’s best male amateur golfers aged 55 and over, competing over 54 holes of stroke play competition. Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Nick Weslock, one of Canada’s greatest amateurs of the century, won the event a record 11 times between 1968 and 1980. Other notable past champions include Stu Hamilton (2001, 2006), Mike Jackson (2010, 2011 and 2013) and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Warren Sye in 2012.
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 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant 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:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario
John Lawrence, Tournament Director
Join Us As We Celebrate National Intern Day!
To deliver positive golf experiences that shape lives, Golf Ontario depends on so many passionate people, from our Board, Staff, Volunteers and including our wonderful team of Summer Intern Students.
Please join us today, National Intern Day, in celebrating the young people that work hand in hand with everyone across our organization to deliver on our vision of Golf For All.
Creighton and Speir Tie After Round 2 of the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
July 26, 2023
Pickering, ON – High winds and soaring temperatures presented formidable challenges during Round 2 of the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship at Whitevale Golf Club. The demanding weather conditions tested the players, adding an element of complexity to the competition and setting the stage for a true test of skill and resilience on the course.
Adam Creighton (Cherry Hill Club) has claimed a share of the top spot, now tied for first alongside yesterday’s leader, Dave Speir (Sunningdale Golf & Country Club). Creighton’s impressive performance in round 2, marked by two timely birdies, allowed him to post a score of (76). On the other hand, Speir faced a formidable challenge today, shooting a four-over-par (76), relinquishing his sole lead. 2021 Champion Ashley Chinner (Coppinwood Golf Club) is close behind in third after getting two birdies with a score of (73).
Dominating the age categories after round 2 in both 65 and Over – 65+ and 70 and Over – 70+ is Bruce McEwen (Scarboro Golf & Country Club). McEwen completed round 2 with (76) and one birdie. As the leader in both divisions, McEwen’s command over the course has been evident, positioning him as a formidable contender.
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Cam Hreljac, a member of Whitevale Golf Club, delivered an impressive performance during round 2, propelling himself up the leaderboard by 59 spots. Hreljac’s outstanding play showcased his ability to navigate the challenges of the course with finesse, gaining him well-deserved recognition.
The field has been cut to the low 60 players plus ties to continue to play into the third and final round. The third round of the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship will begin at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday morning) off the 1st tee. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
Click here for tournament photos.
About The Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
Conducted since 1936, the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship event features Ontario’s best male amateur golfers aged 55 and over, competing over 54 holes of stroke play competition. Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Nick Weslock, one of Canada’s greatest amateurs of the century, won the event a record 11 times between 1968 and 1980. Other notable past champions include Stu Hamilton (2001, 2006), Mike Jackson (2010, 2011 and 2013) and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Warren Sye in 2012.
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 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant 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:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario
John Lawrence, Tournament Director
Speir Leads After Round 1 of the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
July 25, 2023
Pickering, ON – After yesterday’s downpour player’s exhibited unwavering determination as they teed off for round 1 amidst hot and humidconditions at Whitevale Golf Club, vying for victory in the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship.
Having made an impressive 7 birdies, Dave Speir (Sunningdale Golf & Country Club) is on top of the overall leaderboard after shooting a five-under-par (67) today. Adam Creighton (Cherry Hill Club) sits in second place after shooting a three-under-par (69) with four birdies. One stroke behind with a score of (70) is Graham Card (King Valley Golf Club) who got an eagle on hole 2, and two birdies sitting in third place.
Leading the age categories is Mark Bennett (Bayview Golf & Country Club) shooting a score of (71) with two birdies in the 65 and Over – 65+ category. Lars Melander (Oakville Golf Club) and Bruce McEwen (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) are tied for first, leading the 70 and Over – 70+ leaderboard after each shooting a (74).
Congratulations to Gerald Martin (Sunningdale Golf & Country Club) who got a hole-in-one today on hole 14. His extraordinary shot will undoubtedly be a memorable highlight of this gripping competition.
After round two, the field will be cut to the low 60 players plus ties to continue to play into the third and final round. The second round of the 88th Ontario Senior Men’s Championship will begin at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow (Wednesday morning) off both the 1st and 10th tees. For more information on the championship and to follow the leaderboard, click here for the official tournament website.
Click here for tournament photos.
About The Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
Conducted since 1936, the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship event features Ontario’s best male amateur golfers aged 55 and over, competing over 54 holes of stroke play competition. Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Nick Weslock, one of Canada’s greatest amateurs of the century, won the event a record 11 times between 1968 and 1980. Other notable past champions include Stu Hamilton (2001, 2006), Mike Jackson (2010, 2011 and 2013) and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Warren Sye in 2012.
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 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant 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:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario
John Lawrence, Tournament Director
Whitevale Golf Club to Host 88th Annual Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
July 24, 2023
Uxbridge, ON – Celebrating its 88th anniversary, the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship is set to take place at the prestigious Whitevale Golf Club on July 25-27, 2023. The championship will witness a gathering of 135 accomplished competitors, each driven by the aspiration to etch their names into the province’s golfing legacy.
The three-round 54-hole event will see the best senior men’s golfers, age 55 and older, compete for the provincial title. Over 350 players attempted to qualify for the championship through one of seven qualifiers held in June and July.
Last year’s champion John Crowther will be competing again this year, determined to defend his title once more. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Crowther faces tough competition from a lineup of past champions, including Dave Bunker, who claimed victory in 2020. Additionally, there is the return of Ashley Chinner, who won the championship in 2021 and will undoubtedly bring his A-game to vie for the championship once again. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as these seasoned golfers prepare to take on Whitevale Golf Club, making this year’s tournament a must-watch event for golf enthusiasts across Ontario.
Whitevale Golf Club is a member-owned club located in the Greater Toronto Area featuring scenic championship golf, world-class practice facilities and a state-of-the-art clubhouse. This is the first time in 15 years that Whitevale Golf Club will be hosting a major Golf Ontario Championship. “The membership and staff are looking forward to hosting the 2023 Ontario Senior Men’s Championship,” said Ryan La Rose, Head Golf Professional at Whitevale Golf Club “The excitement to welcome the best players in the province has been building over the past few months. With the spotlight now on us for the next few days, we look forward to showing the players and patrons what a special place Whitevale is. We are grateful for the many local businesses who have provided tremendous support.”
Round 1 is set to place on Tuesday morning starting at 7:30 am. Click here to view the championship website for pairings and results.
About The Ontario Senior Men’s Championship
Conducted since 1936, the Ontario Senior Men’s Championship event features Ontario’s best male amateur golfers aged 55 and over, competing over 54 holes of stroke play competition. Canadian and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Nick Weslock, one of Canada’s greatest amateurs of the century, won the event a record 11 times between 1968 and 1980. Other notable past champions include Stu Hamilton (2001, 2006), Mike Jackson (2010, 2011 and 2013) and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Warren Sye in 2012.
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 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant 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:
Greg Mitchell, Coordinator; Brand, Communications & Marketing Golf Ontario
John Lawrence, Tournament Director