Ontario Junior (U19) Girls Spring Classic: Building Excitement for an Unforgettable Tournament
Uxbridge, ON- The 2023 Ontario Junior (U19) Girls Spring Classic is just around the corner, and anticipation is reaching its peak as young golfers from across the province gear up for this prestigious event. Taking place at FireRock Golf Club from May 21-23, it is one of the most highly regarded tournaments in junior girls’ golf.
The Spring Classic promises fierce competition, exceptional talent, and a celebration of the sport. In this pre-tournament article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this event so special and highlight some of the promising participants set to grace the fairways.
Established as a benchmark for junior girls golf in the province, the event has a rich history, and has witnessed the rise of numerous talented golfers who have gone on to achieve great success at both the amateur and professional levels. As we approach this year’s edition, the legacy of excellence continues, providing a platform for young golfers to showcase their skills and make a mark in the game.
The Spring Classic brings together a remarkable field of talented golfers, ensuring intense competition throughout the tournament. With players representing various clubs and regions, each bringing their unique playing style and strengths to the course, spectators can expect an exhilarating battle for the top honors. From long drives to precise putting, every aspect of the game will be put to the test, adding to the drama and excitement surrounding the event.
Among the participants, a group of rising stars has emerged, showcasing exceptional talent and determination. Unfortunately, defending champion Lindsay McGrath from Lake Nona Golf & Country Club and Rattlesnake Point Golf Club, has withdrawn from the tournament. This late change opens up the opportunity for a new champion to emerge from the field that includes other notable players. Keep an eye out for Michelle Xing from Station Creek Golf Club, who won the 2022 Ontario Junior U19 Girls Match Play Championship and 2022 Ontario Bantam U15 Championship. Xing’s recent performance and form has elevated her to be part of Team Canada. Another player expected to be atop the leaderboard is Emily Mckee. A current Team Ontario member, Mckee from St. George’s G&CC won the 2022 Ontario Junior Tour Championship and also won the inaugural Ontario Junior Players Invitational that took place in Myrtle Beach earlier this Spring. It is this combination of experienced contenders and emerging talent that sets the stage for an electrifying tournament filled with memorable moments and incredible displays of skill.
Beyond the competition, the Spring Classic serves as a celebration of the sport and the growth of women’s golf in the province. The tournament not only offers an opportunity for young golfers to showcase their abilities but also provides a platform to foster camaraderie, friendship, and the development of lifelong skills. It reflects the dedication of organizers, coaches, and supporters in nurturing the next generation of female golfers and encouraging their love for the game.
Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane had this to say in preparation for the tournament; “We are excited to host an amazing field of junior athletes at FireRock for the Ontario Junior (U19) Girls Spring Classic. This championship serves as a platform to highlight the incredible achievements and abilities of the top young female golfers from across the province. It also offers an opportunity early in the competitive golf season for these competitors to test their skills against their peers.”
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,
Connor Doyle, Tournament Director
For tournament results, click here.
Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Spring Classic Returns to Wooden Sticks for Victoria Day Long-Weekend
Uxbridge, ON – Golf Ontario is pleased to welcome the next generation of male junior golfers at the 2023 Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Spring Classic at Wooden Sticks Golf Club in Uxbridge between May 21-23.
The event takes place annually over the Victoria Day long weekend and features Ontario’s best male junior golfers from all across the province as they showcase their skills and passion for the game. With the tournament trophy named after Randy Millage, father of Golf Ontario Provincial Head Coach Reggie Millage, the inaugural champion and first defending champion many years ago, this tournament has seen many talented golfers compete and go on to achieve great success. Some notable names include Richard Jung, Daniel Kim, Richard Scott, Albin Choi and Peyton Callens who went on to win the Junior Boys Championship, Men’s Match Play Championship and the 2022 100th Men’s Amateur Championship.
Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane highlights the importance of this tournament for competitors. “We are thrilled to welcome a remarkable lineup of young athletes to Wooden Sticks for the Ontario Junior Boys (U19) Spring Classic,” he said. “This championship will showcase the exceptional talents of the top junior boys from across the province. It also presents an early-season opportunity for these participants to challenge themselves and test their abilities against their fellow competitors as they enter the competitive season in Ontario.”
Based on past results and achievements many players received exemptions into the tournament. The rest of the field was then determined through the five qualifying locations. The players who finish in the top ten will receive an exemption into the 2023 Junior (U19) Boys Championship at The Club at Bond Head in July. The top 10 juvenile (U17) boys from the tournament will receive an exemption into the Ontario Juvenile (U17) Championship at Elmira Golf Club in August.
The tournament will feature 60 male junior golfers, including Jameson Staab of Galt Country Club, who comes in leading all participants in scoring average with 69-par. The Kitchener native is tied for second among all Golf Ontario participants in that department and tied for fourth in all of Canada as well. Though Staab will definitely be a player to watch out for, it isn’t to say the playing field won’t be competitive as 59 other promising players will contest each other in what is expected to be a thrilling long-weekend with skill and precision all across the course.
Additional players to watch include Team Ontario’s Luke Smith who won the 2022 Junior Boys Match Play Championship last year and most recently earned a place in Final Qualifying for the 123rd U.S. Open. Zachary Smith, another Team Ontario player – won the 2022 Junior Tour Championship last fall and Andreas Diogenous a former champion at Peewee (U13), Bantam (U15), and Juvenile (U17), will be looking to finish his junior career strong and cap it off with a U19 event.
The weather is expected to be in favor of the players with sunshine all three days throughout the tournament, with highs of 22°C and lows of 16°C. Competitors will prepare for what is expected to be a challenging and promising experience ahead.
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,
Rob Watson, Tournament Director
For tournament results, click here.
Six Golfers Crowned Champion of Champions at Deer Creek Tournament
Ajax, ONT – The 2023 Ontario Champion of Champions Tournament presented by Durham Artificial Grass saw six golfers emerge as Champions on May 15 at Deer Creek Golf and Country Club in Ajax. A total of 258 golfers participated in this esteemed event as winners of their respective club championships, or equivalent event in the previous year.
The Senior Men’s Championship ended in a thrilling playoff tiebreaker, which saw Rob Gibson of Cedar Brae Golf Club edge out Rob Cowan of Westmount Golf and Country Club. The playoff took place on the par 4, 9th hole of the North Course, where Gibson, the Toronto native, finished at 2-over par (73). Cowan also finished at 2-over par (73) for a second-place finish, while David Greenaway of Barrie Country Club finished third at three-over par (74).
Nancy Vamvakas of Beacon Hall Golf Club was the Senior Women’s Champion. The native of Keswick finished 9-over par (80), while Meredith Stanford of Coppinwood Golf Club finished one stroke behind her at 10-over par (81). Denise Schaefer of Rockway Golf Course was close behind at 11-over par (82).
In the Men’s Championship it was Bradley Greenside of Tangle Creek Golf and Country Club winning by one stroke. Greenside from Barrie finished the tournament 1-under par (70) after a back-and-forth outing, which included a triple bogey on the par 5 10th. However, Greenside was able to hold on to finish one stroke ahead of Donalda Club’s David Lang and Camden Braes Golf and Country Club’s Peter Beneteau, who both finished tied for second at even par (71).
Julia Champion of Cedar Brae Golf Club lived up to her name by winning the Women’s Championship, which also went to a playoff on the South Course. Champion finished 5-over par (76), which was the same score Aurora’s Shelby Hardwick had, but due to the playoff, she had to settle for a second-place finish. Kara Anthony of Rosedale Golf Club would finish three strokes (79) behind them to finish third.
Wellandport’s Nathan Freure playing out of Sawmill Golf Course held on to secure the Junior Boys’ Championship finishing 3-over par (74), while Peter Blazevic of Markland Wood Golf Club and Justin Repovs of Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club finished 4-over par (75) to tie each other for second place.
Finally, the Junior Girls’ Championship was awarded to Oakville’s Julia Alexander-Carew, playing out of Credit Valley Golf and Country Club. She finished 1-over par (72) and six strokes ahead of Casey Kenney of Sawmill Golf Course and Naomi Goh of Tam O’Shanter Golf Course, who both finished 7-over par (78).
For more information on this tournament, including the final leaderboard and more information on each participant, visit the Champion of Champions website powered by Golf Genius.
This was the first time the Champion of Champions had been held after a three year gap due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Golf Ontario Tournament Director, Rob Watson, was pleased to see golfers take to the greens for this event again. “This was an amazing first year back,” he said. “We were honored to have the top golfers from their respective clubs here at this prestigious event, and we’re pleased that they were able to compete against and connect with one another.”
Golf Ontario would like to thank Deer Creek Golf and Country Club, and their staff, for hosting this event, as well as Golf Ontario Partner Durham Artificial Grass, the Presenting Sponsor of the tournament.
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,
Rob Watson, Tournament Director
For tournament results, click here.
Golf Ontario Brings Back Champion of Champions presented by Durham Artificial Grass
Uxbridge, ON- With the 2023 Golf Ontario season in full swing, the organization will welcome back the prestigious Golf Ontario Champion of Champions Tournament presented by Durham Artificial Grass, on May 15th at Deer Creek.
This highly anticipated tournament features the largest field of competitors of all the Golf Ontario championships this season with competitors representing over 100 clubs from across the province. The respective club champions are some of the best amateur golfers from across Ontario, and will compete for the title of Champion of Champions. With a 12:00 NOON shotgun start time, the North Course at Deer Creek will be home to the men’s, women’s and junior boys, whereas the South Course will feature the senior men’s, senior women’s and junior girls’ divisions.
The Champion of Champions tournament has a long and storied history in Ontario, dating back to the mid-1900s. Over the years, it has become one of the most highly regarded amateur golf tournaments in the province, attracting top players from across Ontario. In addition to the thrill of competition, the tournament also provides a unique opportunity for golfers to meet and connect with others who share their passion for the game. Participants will have the chance to network with fellow golfers and industry professionals, while also enjoying the camaraderie and sportsmanship that is so often associated with the sport.
To qualify for the Champion of Champions tournament, golfers must have won their respective club championship or an equivalent event in the previous year. The tournament is open to male and female golfers of all ages and is played in a stroke play format. With the inaugural tournament dating back to 1946 many individuals have captured the title, some of which include Ontario Golf Hall of Fame members Bill Morland, Gerry Kesselring, Warren Sye, and Stu Hamilton, as well as Big Break Indian Wells champion David Byrne.
Returning after a three year hiatus, the importance of the Golf Ontario Champion of Champions presented by Durham Artificial Grass cannot be understated and CEO Kyle McFarlane had this to say in preparation for the event; “We are thrilled to host the upcoming Champion of Champions tournament, and thank Durham Artificial Grass for their partnership. The event promises to be an exciting showcase of golfing talent from across Ontario. This championship holds a special significance as it provides an opportunity to celebrate the club champions from our incredible member facilities. We are excited to bring together such a talented and passionate group of golfers, and we cannot wait to see who will emerge as the ultimate champions.”
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the competitors as they prepare for what promises to be a challenging and rewarding experience at Deer Creek. With the level of talent and dedication on display, it’s sure to be a tournament to remember.
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,
Rob Watson, Tournament Director
To follow tournament scoring, click here.
Noble Estates Wine & Spirits announced as “Official Wine & Spirits Partner” of Golf Ontario
Uxbridge – Golf Ontario announced today that they are welcoming Noble Estates Wine & Spirits to their partnership portfolio as the ‘Official Wine & Spirits Partner’ of Golf Ontario.
Noble Estates has been a leading mid-size wine and spirits agency in the province of Ontario since 1990. Representing some of the best wine and spirits producers around the world, the company offers full-service sales and marketing with a team of sommeliers and wine experts. Their curated portfolio includes many exclusive wines that they deliver directly to the consumer’s home, office, or cottage. Noble Estates strives to exceed client expectations by continually adjusting to their needs and bringing the world of wine and spirits to your glass.
“With such a diverse portfolio of wine and spirits from across Canada and around the world, we are thrilled to partner with Craig and his team at Noble Estates Wine & Spirits. As our Women’s Try Golf Series continues to grow in popularity, and we continue to host important tournaments and championships across the province, we look forward to sharing all that this partnership can offer to our participants and members alike.” said Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer with Golf Ontario.
In announcing the new partnership, Craig De Blois of Noble Estates said, “We are excited to partner with Golf Ontario and share our world-class wines with their participants and members. Golf and wine both celebrate passion and enjoying life, so we are looking forward to adding to the fun of the game with our fine wines.”
About Noble Estates Wine & Spirits
Noble Estates was founded in 1990 by Philip and Debra Mirabelli. In December 2013, the company was purchased by Craig de Blois, who together with his team, is building on the very successful first 25 years. Noble is recognized as having a dynamic sales force, and is proud to represent many of the top wine and spirits producers from around the world, offering full service sales and marketing.
With a sole focus on the Ontario market and the LCBO, we promise to deliver world class Sales and Brand Management to both our suppliers and the LCBO. We pride ourselves on building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with all of our suppliers and customers. Noble strives to exceed client expectations by continually adjusting to their needs.
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:
Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Golf Ontario NTaylor@gao.ca
Victoria Pitsadiotis, Marketing Associate, Noble Estates Wine & Spirits VictoriaP@nobleestates.com
Golf Ontario Announces Ryan Finn as Chief Sport Officer
Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Golf Ontario is pleased to announce the hiring of Ryan Finn as the association’s Chief Sport Officer.
Finn’s career in golf spans over twenty-five years, and while originally from Milton, Ontario, it was in the state of Texas where he grew to become one of the most respected leaders in the golf industry in the US. With experience as a Tournament Director across golf operations and ultimately as Managing Director of Championships, Ryan is positioned to leverage his deep skill set at an essential time for Golf Ontario.
His responsibilities as Chief Sport Officer will include overseeing, managing and strategically developing critical functional areas, including membership focusing on facility relationships; junior performance and amateur competitions; grassroots and participation programs; and core member services, including Handicapping and Course Rating.
“Ryan brings a depth of leadership and industry experience. We are thrilled to have him join our team to elevate our participation, performance and membership activities,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “He is a seasoned leader and passionate advocate for golf who will bring tremendous energy and enthusiasm to improving the golfer, facility and athlete experience here in Ontario.”
The opportunity to join Golf Ontario and champion the growth of golf was an opportunity Finn could not resist.
“Golf has had a tremendous impact on every part of my life in a positive way, and I am truly elated to be joining such a passionate team that is committed to connecting people to positive and memorable golf experiences. It is an exciting time for golf, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to play a role in elevating Golf Ontario and golf in Ontario.”
Before embarking on his professional pathway, Ryan was an NCAA golfer achieving PSAC All-Conference honours while completing his BA in Sports Management at Slippery Rock University, PA. He holds several certificates and designations, including USGA/PGA Rules of Golf (highest level accreditation) and USGA/PGA Tournament Administration. He has acted as Rules Chairman at the Spirit International Amateur Championship and officiated at events, including the; U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Amateur, U.S. Mid-Amateur and more.
Finn is set to join Golf Ontario in his official capacity, effective May 10th
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:
Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Golf Ontario,
2022 Volunteer Awards presented during National Volunteer Week
During National Volunteer Week, April 16th-22nd, Golf Ontario hosted a series of Officials Days where the many volunteer officials that help deliver our tournaments and competitions gathered to kick off the 2023 season. It was during this week, and in front of their peers, that Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane presented the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award and the 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award to Jim Davidson and Dennis McEntee respectively.
The Dick Grim Distinguished Service Award – Jim Davidson
The Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award is considered the highest honor recognizing individual service to the game of golf in Ontario. The award is named after Richard H. Grimm, who was affectionately known as “Mr. Canadian Open” for his service to the event from 1965 to 1993.
Golf Ontario’s Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual’s meritorious service as a volunteer. Recipients of this award embody the principles of integrity, dignity and commitment, which are central to the volunteer experience and to Mr. Grimm’s persona. This honor recognizes individuals who over a significant period of time have demonstrated outstanding leadership and involvement in the growth of Amateur Golf in Ontario. The recipient will also demonstrate a commitment to the vision and mission of Golf Ontario by promoting and upholding the values of the association and the game.
Jim is a deserving recipient having spent huge number of hours over the last half dozen years with Golf Ontario, Golf Canada and Golf Quebec. He is very involved with the junior program and player development. He set up a junior team to compete in OVGA events and both Ontario and Quebec summer games, he is a huge support for those athletes both in preparation and at events. He is also heavily involved in the changeover to Golf Genius and has been the main support. A dedicated referee with Golf Ontario, Golf Quebec and Golf Canada, working both amateur and professional events. He was responsible for getting two interns to support the OVGA over the last three years, writing and reporting the related government grants. He launched a junior girl’s golf league hosted at the Marshes Golf Club that includes instruction and golf for girls 12-18. He is an active OVGA board member for at least 6 years.
Volunteer of the Year – Dennis McEntee
The Golf Ontario Volunteer of the Year Award has been designed to recognize and honour a GO volunteer who has demonstrated outstanding performance and contributions. The GO volunteer of the year will be someone who has played an instrumental role in promoting the growth and development of golf while preserving the integrity and traditions of the game.
Dennis began volunteering with Golf Ontario in 2019 when he helped out at the Ontario Open. From that moment on, he immediately joined our volunteer team with Golf Ontario as a tournament official. For the past couple years Dennis has gotten involved anywhere he can and always brings a positive, and welcoming attitude to any position he is asked to do.
This past season Dennis has continued that and has worked more tournament days than any other tournament volunteer this season. He has done qualifiers and multiple championships. Many where he travelled to those events, staying overnight. And when doing so he would always do full days for us, whether it would begin at registration, moving to starting as well as scoring. On top of all the events Dennis has been at this year, he also offered to start and score at the PGA Championship of Canada at Beacon Hall in June.
Dennis has also helped the tournament team “off the course” as well this season. An avid wood worker. While at home in between events he worked, Dennis made us 4 sandwich board signs for our clocks to sit on at our events. And Dennis made us 6 wood boxes to transport our tee markers in.
Dennis has been a pleasure to work with this year. He is a delight to the players. They enjoy the friendly interactions with him at the 1st tee, and he follows that up seeing them again at scoring.
Golf Ontario appreciates the contributions of so many passionate volunteers that are an extension of our professional staff, and work together with us as we strive to deliver world class competitions.
For information on how you can volunteer with Golf Ontario and play a role in shaping lives through positive golf experiences, visit our Volunteer information page here.
April is Celebrate Diversity Month
In alignment with Golf Ontario’s vision of Golf for All, we are committed to implementing structures, policies and procedures having the highest governance standards to yield organizational growth, safety of the sport and leading the adoption and implementation of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion in Ontario Golf.
The month of April is “Celebrate Diversity Month”, a month that was initiated nearly twenty years ago to recognize and honour the diversity around us every day. We welcome our community to join us and spend time this month reflecting on and celebrating differences and similarities surrounding us all.
Across our organization, our staff have been on a learning journey that has included the opportunity to acknowledge the different dimensions of diversity within our team and across our community.
The following image, available online through Korn Ferry is a tool that can be used to reflect on what may contribute to our diverse work force and extended community.
Our own Chief Executive Officer, Kyle McFarlane has chosen to share his personal dimensions of diversity, based on this tool, with the community in recognition of the month ahead.
Kyle McFarlane (he/him/his)
I am a 43 year, cisgender, Caucasian, heterosexual male.
I’m a member of Generation X, married and a father of 3. I enjoy sports and outdoor activities including golf, baseball and running.
I’m an extrovert, and visual learner. I aim to communicate directly and honestly while respecting others, and cooperating well with people.
I’m of Irish & Scottish descent, English-speaking, reside in Whitby and work in Uxbridge. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Brock University and a Master’s degree from the University of Memphis.
I’ve worked in professional and amateur sports for 25 years, and am in my 19th year with Golf Ontario, I enjoy coaching, leadership opportunities and collaborating with others.
While we recognize the importance of our diverse community, Golf Ontario is celebrating Diversity Month, this month, and will remain focused on serving the diverse members of our community by delivering safe and welcoming positive golf experiences for all. We will soon be launching our ED&I and Safe Sport webpages as a continued and intentional step in this evolving process.
If any members of our community wish to share their own dimensions of diversity during the month ahead, or to share personal experiences in and around the game of golf where diversity has played a positive role in that experience, feel free to tag us on social media @thegolfontario and use the hash tag #GolfForAll in the post.
Golf Ontario Announces 2023 Ontario Adaptive Championship at Weston G&CC
Golf Ontario is pleased to share that on the occasion of the 5th Anniversary of the event, the 2023 Ontario Adaptive Championship will be held at the prestigious Weston Golf & Country Club on July 17-18, 2023.
The Ontario Adaptive Championship was originally launched in 2019 as a provincial competition to showcase Ontario’s best golfers with a disability, and will be held for the fifth time this season. Focusing on player development, the event will ensure a proper pathway for high preforming athletes. The world ranked event will see men and women compete in low gross and net categories.
Annually ranked in the top 100 courses in Canada, Weston Golf & Country Club is no stranger to hosting major events including Arnold Palmer’s first PGA Tour win at the 1955 Canadian Open. More recently they hosted the Ontario Junior Girls Spring Classic in 2010 & 2011.
“Weston’s membership couldn’t be prouder to host this year’s Ontario Adaptive Championship,” said Alan Crossley, President Weston G&CC. “We are looking forward to sharing our course, which is steeped in history and heritage, while being able to cheer on and watch the inspiring play of these dedicated athletes. We are pleased to be able to continue our tradition of giving back to the community of golf through our on-going efforts to promote and enhance the game for all.”
Immediate past champions of the event, Natasha Stasiuk and Kurtis Barkley will surely be looking to repeat as Champions for the 5th time, having also won the event each year since inception. With a growing field of competitors each year and 2023 being a special anniversary held at such a prestigious facility, the 2023 Championship is a highly anticipated event on the calendar.
Regarding the evolution of the event, Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane said, “In alignment with Golf Ontario’s vision of Golf for All, we are motivated to increase opportunities for individuals of all abilities. With a focus on promoting inclusive environments, the term ‘Adaptive’ will now be used in place of ‘Disability’ for all related Golf Ontario programming, including new adaptive participation opportunities to connect more people to positive golf experiences.”
One of the key factors considered in moving forward with the new term of ‘Adaptive’ is that, “…it focuses on the modification of sport rather than on disability of the athlete…”1 and “…it provides an opportunity for the pursuit of excellence in sport through a full spectrum of settings for participation.”2
For more information about the championship, please go to the Official Tournament Website or contact the Tournament Team at tournaments@gao.ca .
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.
Ibid 1,2 (Winnick & Porretta, 2017)
For more information, please contact:
John Lawrence,
Director, Competitions & Performance – Golf Ontario
Nick Taylor.
Chief Marketing & Development Officer – Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario Proudly Announces New Manager of Fund Development
Today, Golf Ontario is proud to announce a critical new hire that will join our staff on Monday, March 20th to support our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan Golf For All.
Raphael Root joins Golf Ontario in this important revenue generating role to support the immediate investment in, and long term sustainability of our strategic pillars across Participation, Performance, Membership and Organizational Strength. He will prioritize the establishment of this new department and related operational strategies and best practices within the portfolio if work.
Raphael is a fundraising and sport professional with over 7 years of robust experience in sports and non-profit industries. He comes to Golf Ontario from The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation where he supported the Donor Experience and Stewardship Impact team as well as the Corporate & Community Partnerships team. During his time with the Foundation, he helped manage fundraising for the Journey to Conquer Cancer which is a family-friendly run/walk event that raised over $965,000 for cancer research. Then after, he moved to the Donor Experience team where he helped deliver impact by stewarding and recognizing countless major giving donors.
Raphael is also a veteran on the operational side of sports entertainment with more than 7 years of experience with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE). Bringing fans to their feet by creating unforgettable experiences for various properties including the Toronto Marlies, Toronto Raptors and Raptors 905.
Raphael holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto and a Post-Graduate degree in Sport & Event Marketing from George Brown College. The energy of being around competition and sports at a world-class level is what drives Raphael. He is looking forward to the opportunity to help advance the sport of Golf in Ontario.
Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer shared that, “Raphael is joining our team at the perfect time. With our Strategic Plan launched this winter, and new leadership at the Executive and Board levels, he will have a tremendous opportunity to leverage that leadership expertise, and share the story around our vision and mission with prospective donors and existing supporters as we put the pieces in place to support immediate impact on our programming and long term sustainability and growth of the organization.”
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.
For more information please contact:
Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Golf Ontario,