Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship Heads to Sarnia
Ontario’s Top Mid-Amateurs Set to Compete at Sarnia Golf & Curling Club
June 16–18 | Sarnia, ON
The 2025 Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship will take place June 16–18 at Sarnia Golf & Curling Club, bringing together many of the province’s top amateur golfers aged 25 and older. Over three days and 54 holes of stroke play, competitors will navigate a challenging layout.
“We’re excited to be back at Sarnia Golf & Curling Club, an established Stanley Thompson design with a deep golf history,” says John Lawrence, Tournament Director at Golf Ontario. “The course always provides a true championship test.”
Past Champions
This year’s field features a strong mix of past champions and rising talent.
Notable former winners include Garrett Rank (2015, 2018), along with Ontario Golf Hall of Famers Stu Hamilton(1993, 1998), Kelly Roberts (1997), and Dave Bunker (2007, 2011, 2014, 2021). Charles Fitzsimmons and Cam Burke, both consistent contenders will also be in the mix.
“The Men’s Mid-Am always brings a unique intensity,” said Lawrence. “With such a seasoned group, there’s an elevated level of competitiveness. Every shot matters.”
More Than One Title on the Line
In addition to the overall championship, the event also includes the Mid-Master division, contested by players aged 40 and older.
“There’s great excitement around the Mid-Master division,” said Lawrence. “Players take a lot of pride in competing for that trophy, and the added layer of competition makes the event even more compelling.”
A Community and Club Steeped in Golf History
The championship’s return to Sarnia Golf & Curling Club brings the spotlight back to a respected course known for its strategic layout and deep-rooted golf culture.
“Our course is fair but challenging,” said Jamie Parkinson, Head Golf Professional at Sarnia G&CC. “Many of the Mid-Am participants have played in our Men’s 2-Day Invitational and know what a treat it is to play here.”
Sarnia Golf & CC also has a proud legacy in this event: club members Dan Houlihan and Graham Hill are both past Mid-Am champions. Hill will tee it up again this year.
“The community is really excited to host,” added Parkinson. “We have some talented local players in the field, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see one of them in contention.”
With strong local support, a competitive field, and a classic venue, this year’s Mid-Am promises to be one of the highlights of the summer golf season.
Stay Connected
Live Scoring, Pairings & Results: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11292327413817592206
Full Player Roster: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11292327384960780650
For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook
Avery Nordman and Nachcha Perkins Crowned Women’s and Senior Women’s Match Play Champions at Cataraqui
KINGSTON, ON – The 2025 Ontario Women’s and Senior Women’s Match Play Championship wrapped up at the historic Cataraqui Golf & Country Club, where two players emerged victorious after a weekend of high-level head-to-head competition.
In the Women’s Match Play Championship, Avery Nordman of Canadian Golf & Country Club claimed the title after a thrilling final match against Kelly Zhao, securing a 2 & 1 victory.
Entering the bracket as the 8th seed, Nordman battled through each round, including a hard-fought semifinal match against Sadie Wu, before sealing the championship Monday afternoon.
Over in the Senior Women’s division — making its official debut this year — Nachcha Perkins (Golf Ontario Players Club – Halton Hill) made history as the inaugural Ontario Senior Women’s Match Play Champion winning 7 & 6.
Entering the tournament as the top seed, Perkins delivered consistent, composed play throughout the event. Her dominant final match performance against Lise Jubinville secured a decisive 7 & 6 win and imprinted her name in the record books.
For full results, click HERE.
Charles Fitzsimmons and Mike Kray claim Men’s and Men’s Senior Ontario Match Play titles
SPRINGFIELD, ON: The 2025 Ontario Men’s and Senior Men’s Match Play Championship saw two standout performances at Tarandowah Golfers Club, as both champions rose to the occasion against elite competition.
Charles Fitzsimmons (Summit Golf & Country Club) claimed the Ontario Men’s Match Play Championship, defeating Peter Blazevic (Greystone Golf Club) 1UP.
This marks Fitzsimmons’ third title at the event, having previously won in 2021 and 2022. With three championships in five years, his reign of dominance at the Ontario Men’s Match Play continues.
On the Senior Men’s side, Mike Kray (RattleSnake Point Golf Club) edged out Dave Bunker (Cherry Hill Club) 1UP to secure the Ontario Senior Men’s Match Play Championship.
Kray entered the tournament as the 8th seed and advanced smoothly through the bracket. In the final, he faced Golf Ontario legend Dave Bunker — a four-time Men’s Match Play champion — making his debut in the Senior Men’s division.
Kray ultimately prevailed, defeating the seasoned champion to become the Ontario Senior Men’s Match Play Champion — capping off an incredible run and writing a memorable chapter in his golf journey.
For final results, click HERE.
Ontarians Ready to Shine at 2025 RBC Canadian Open
June 4–8 | TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley
The RBC Canadian Open returns to Ontario this summer, bringing PGA tour excitement to TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon from June 4-8.
As Canada’s national championship, the RBC Canadian Open has long been a celebration of the country’s top golfing talent. With a deep field of Canadian players, including several with strong ties to Golf Ontario programs, fans can expect a thrilling week of competition on home soil.
Ontario Athletes in the Field
This year’s field features a remarkable group of Ontario-born players, many of whom rose through the ranks of Golf Ontario’s provincial championships or Team Ontario program:
- Taylor Pendrith
- Corey Conners
- Mackenzie Hughes
- Ben Silverman
- Mike Weir
- Sudarshan Yellamaraju
- Matthew Anderson
- Ashton McCulloch
- Richard T. Lee
- David Hearn
- Cougar Collins
- Matt Scobie
- Matthew Javier
- Matt Hoffman
- Justin Matthews
A Strong Canadian Contingent
Beyond Ontario, the 2025 RBC Canadian Open will feature a deep lineup of Canadian talent from coast to coast. Fans will recognize several national standouts, including:
- Nick Taylor, Adam Hadwin, Adam Svensson, Hunter Thomson, Myles Creighton, A.J. Ewart, Wes Heffernan, Roger Sloan, Brett Webster
With a blend of PGA tour veterans and rising stars, the Canadian presence in this year’s field highlights the depth of talent across the country. Whether it’s a familiar face or a new name on the leaderboard, fans can expect exciting performances from Canadians and Ontarians throughout the week.
Notables: Mike Weir (31st appearance) Corey Conners, Taylor Pendrith, Mackenzie Hughes
🎟 Get Your Tickets: Tickets for the 2025 RBC Canadian Open are available now. 2025 Canadian Open Tickets
📲 Instagram Feature: Check out our Instagram post highlighting the Ontario players in this year’s field. https://www.instagram.com/p/DKfBznIMnZN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Teeing Up 90 Years of Family, Fun, and Fairways: The Father & Three Sons Classic
Rooted in tradition and driven by family, the Father & Three Sons Classic is where generations come together through the game they love.
In 2025, the Father & Three Sons Classic celebrates an incredible milestone: its 90th anniversary. What began in 1935, has grown into a beloved experience and meaningful tradition for families that bring fathers and their sons together for a weekend of friendly competition, shared laughs, and lasting memories.
Michael Boyer and his sons, Jason, Ryan and Brandon will host this year’s event at Monterra Golf at Blue Mountain, a perfect setting to celebrate 90 years of good golf and great company
Open to families with a father and three (or more) sons, the event embraces all ages and abilities – with players ranging in age from 9 to 87 years old, and from beginners to seasoned golfers. Whether it’s your only round of the year or one of many, the Classic offers an inclusive and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Though it first began as a formal competition, the tournament has evolved into a yearly celebration for families. With relaxed pairings and a focus on fun over scorecards, it’s less about the leaderboard and more about making memories together.
Ken Lancaster serves as treasurer of the Father and Three Sons Golf Classic committee—a board formed in 2022 and made up of four fathers and three sons, dedicated to preserving the tournament’s legacy and guiding its future.
“It is all about family,” says Lancaster. “What an amazing time to spend with my sons, and just as special to see other fathers doing the same.”
“What drew me to the event was that it was for my dad,” says Cam Lancaster, one of Ken’s sons. “I had never seen a brotherhood like we’ve built with the Father and Three Sons.”
That sense of connection is what sets the tournament apart. “Unlike other golf events, which are based on geography or club affiliation, this one is open only to families with a father and at least three sons who enjoy golf,” says committee chair Gary Issacs. “That’s what unites us, but every family comes from different places and walks of life.”
“Other events are largely about scoring,” says committee member Ernie Coetzee. “This tournament is primarily about family, and about a shared experience with other families that have become friends.”
As the Father & Three Sons Classic celebrates its 90th anniversary, it reflects the community, history, and connection that make golf matter, while supporting Golf Ontario’s mission to grow the game and bring people together!
The 2025 tournament takes place on August 15.
To learn more or register your family, visit: fatherandthreesons.ca
2025 Ontario Men’s & Senior Men’s Match Play Championship Tees Off at Tarandowah
The 2025 Ontario Men’s & Senior Men’s Match Play Championship returns to Tarandowah Golfers Club from June 2–5, uniting Ontario’s top 96 amateur golfers for a premier showcase of skill and strategy in a match play format.
Among this year’s competitors, Josh DiCarlo (Men’s Division) and Darren Shaw (Senior Men’s Division) headline the field as the defending champions, both aiming to repeat their impressive 2024 victories.
Tarandowah’s challenging layout has proven to be an ideal setting for this format. “Tarandowah was built for a Match Play Championship,” said Mason Cowan, Coordinator of Competitions at Golf Ontario. “Golfers will need to keep their ball in the fairway to stay out of trouble. Wind can play a major factor into a lot of shots as well. A true links style course, that can pose a challenge for all competitors.”
Cowan also emphasized what he hopes players take from the experience:
“It’s an honour to play best on best, and they’ve earned their way into this event by playing great golf. Tarandowah is a tough course that can test a player’s mental toughness.”
This year’s field is stacked with past champions and rising stars.
In the Men’s division, keep an eye on:
• Cam Pero – 2023 Men’s Amateur Champion
• Charles Fitzsimmons – Two-time past Match Play Champion
• Zachary Smith – 2024 Runner-Up & former Team Ontario athlete
In the Senior Men’s division, top contenders include:
• Dave Bunker – Three-time Men’s Match Play Champion and multi-time Golf Ontario titleholder
• Adam Creighton – 2024 Senior Amateur Champion
• David Greenaway – 2019 Senior Amateur Champion
The match play format adds a unique intensity to the event.
“Match Play is a style of golf that really challenges competitors to maintain mental toughness,” Cowan added. “Players are constantly experiencing highs and lows in a match play round, hole-by-hole. Factoring in the great layout Tarandowah has to offer, this will be another exciting Men’s & Senior Men’s Match Play Championship.”
Ted Pease, General Manager of Tarandowah, also shared his excitement:
“Tarandowah provides a great challenge for all golfers and is truly a top-tier match play venue. The course is in great shape, and we hope all competitors enjoy their experience here.”
Stay Connected
Live Scoring, Pairings & Results: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11289510399092771225
Full Player Roster: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11289510362753321323
For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.
Golf Debuts at the 2025 Ontario Parasport Games at Cardinal Lakes
From May 31 to June 1, Welland, Ont., welcomes athletes from across the province for the 2025 Paragames Ontario Championship, held as part of the Ontario Parasport Games.
Hosted at the scenic Cardinal Lakes Golf Club, the event will showcase skill, resilience, and passion of para-athletes, celebrating both high-level competition and the inclusive spirit of the game of golf.
The Ontario Parasport games are a multi-sport event bringing together athletes with disabilities to compete in various sports. For the first time in the games’ history, golf will be included, marking a major step forward for inclusivity in the sport.
According to James Murphy, executive director of Parasport Ontario, support from provincial sport organizations like Golf Ontario plays a crucial role in the continued development of para-athletics.
“It’s important for sport organizations like Golf Ontario to support events like this to showcase their commitment to adapted sport and inclusion,” says Murphy. “From grassroots programming to performance pathways, this tournament is an essential step in creating meaningful competitive opportunities for para-athletes.”
John Lawrence, director of competitions at Golf Ontario, agrees that the addition of golf to the games is a major milestone.
“This is a unique opportunity, and it’s the first time we’ve played golf in these games,” Lawrence says. “Playing in a golf championship is exciting on its own, but to be a part of something bigger like a multi-sport event adds a whole new level of experience for these athletes.”
This year’s championship also builds on Golf Ontario’s long-term commitment to growing opportunities for para-athletes.
“In Ontario, there’s currently one provincial championship, which is the Adaptive Open, but now this adds another competitive experience for players,” Lawrence adds.
The impact of the championship is expected to reach beyond sport and into the community.
“It is the hope people are able to go out and watch these amazing para golfers in action at Cardinal Lakes,” says Dan Kennedy, executive director of Sport Niagara. “This will hopefully translate to more people in the Niagara community getting inspired by what they see and what can be possible with the right support, guidance and adaptation and removing any barriers to participation,” he says, adding, “this is the lasting legacy that will hopefully occur from the games and showcasing this provincial excellence in paragolf and many other great parasports at these Ontario Parasport Games.”
For more on the Ontario Parasport games and the full schedule of events, visit www.niagara2025ontarioparasportgames.ca
For more information about the 2025 Para Golf Championship, CLICK HERE.
Special Olympics Ontario – Thunder Bay Takes on the 1000 Ball Challenge to Fundraise for Athletes to Fundraise for Golf Programs
The Special Olympics Ontario – Thunder Bay chapter is gearing up for their first-ever 1000 Ball Challenge! On September 13th, Thunder Bay will gear up to raise important funds at Northern Light Golf Complex. This fundraising initiative will help local athletes with disabilities access essential golf resources — including tee times, coaching, equipment, and travel — ensuring they have every opportunity to pursue their passion for the game.
“Special Olympics Ontario – Thunder Bay is making history as the first Northern Ontario team to take on the 1000 Ball Challenge,” said Raphael Root, Fund Development Manager at Golf Ontario. “This groundbreaking effort could open the door for even more opportunities across the region. Adaptive golf is key to our Golf For All vision, and through partnerships like this, we’re turning that vision into reality.”
The event also reflects a growing collaboration between Special Olympics Ontario and Golf Ontario, both committed to breaking down barriers and making golf more inclusive and accessible.
“Our program currently supports 37 registered athletes,” said Nancy Rissanen of Special Olympics Thunder Bay. “Being in Thunder Bay, travel for tournaments is a major expense. Fundraisers like this are key to making competition possible for everyone.”
“It’s vital that we work with organizations like Golf Ontario,” Rissanen added. “Everyone deserves the chance to be active and involved in sport. We’re proud to host this event and strengthen our golf program for athletes across the region.”
How to Get Involved
There are two great ways to support Special Olympics athletes in Thunder Bay:
- Donate to help the team reach their fundraising goal:
www.1000ball.ca/o/special-olympics-ontario-thunder-bay - Create a team under the Thunder Bay Special Olympics page and collect pledges with friends, family, or coworkers!
Everyone who fundraises and joins the team is invited to take part in the event on September 13th at Northern Light Golf Complex, where each team will aim to hit 1,000 golf balls in support of local athletes.
This is more than just a challenge — it’s a chance to empower athletes and help grow the game of golf in Ontario.
Questions? Contact Raphael Root, Fund Development Manager at Golf Ontario, at rroot@golfontario.ca.
Nobelle Park Captures 2025 Ontario Junior Girl’s Spring Classic Title at FireRock
The 2025 Ontario Junior Girls’ Spring Classic concluded May 20th at FireRock Golf Club, with Nobelle Park of RattleSnake Point Golf Club capturing the title once again after a composed final round of 71. Park finished the 54-hole championship at 10-under-par (209), opening with back-to-back rounds of 69 before sealing the win on the final day.
“This means my hard work has paid off,” said Park. “Working out and keeping my game together during the winter means that I did everything right—and it really builds my confidence.”
Kaprice Park, also of RattleSnake Point, placed second at 3-under-par (216), followed by Cindy Yan of Golf Canada ClubHouse in third at 2-under-par (217).
Known for its elevation changes, tight fairways, and demanding greens, FireRock provided a true championship test. Park navigated the course with confidence and consistency, pulling ahead with steady play down the stretch.
The Spring Classic once again showcased the impressive depth of talent emerging through Ontario’s junior golf ranks. From experienced competitors to rising stars in the U17 division, the field demonstrated maturity, resilience, and high-level shot-making throughout the week. Park’s back-to-back victories underscored both her dominance and the overall strength of competition—highlighting a bright future for junior golf in the province.
For full results, click here.
Follow @thegolfontario for more highlights, photos, and player features.
Dawson Lew wins Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Spring Classic
Wyndance Golf Club’s Dawson Lew delivered a clutch final-round 66 at Wooden Sticks Golf Club to win the 2025 Ontario Junior (U19) Boys Spring Classic, finishing at an impressive 11-under-par.
Lew’s stellar Tuesday performance pushed him past a competitive field, narrowly edging out the runner-up by a single stroke to claim the title. His consistency and composure under pressure were key in securing his latest victory.
In addition to winning the overall title, Lew also led the U17 category — finishing an impressive nine strokes ahead of the next closest competitor in that age group.
With the top-five finish, Lew, alongside Spencer Shropshire, Luke Smith, Rylan Hall, and Eric Zhao, has officially earned a spot in the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys Championship, set for August 12–15 at Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club in Bathurst, New Brunswick. Notably, all three podium finishers — Lew, Shropshire, and Smith — are members of Team Ontario.
Already a two-time champion — holding titles as the Ontario Juvenile Boys’ Champion and MJT Team Challenge winner — Lew’s latest win at the 2025 Spring Classic continues to solidify his status as one of the province’s top junior talents.
For the full leaderboard, Click Here.