Nobelle Park of RattleSnake Point Golf Club and Barron Mundy of Mississaugua Golf and Country Club triumphed at the Ontario Junior Players Invitational in Myrtle Beach. Park, a Team Ontario member, held on to her first-round lead, finishing even-par in the final round to win at one-over for the tournament.

Mundy claimed the boys’ title with a 216 total (70-74-72), finishing even-par, while Team Ontario’s Jordan Hwang of Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club finished second at +1.

Several Team Ontario players made strong showings in the boys’ division at the Ontario Junior Players Invitational. Luke Smith of The Thornhill Club finished tied for 9th with a +10 total (80-74-72), while Chase Jerome of Royal Ottawa Golf Club claimed 3rd place with a +2 total (75-73-70). Bode Stephen of Cataraqui Golf & Country Club tied for 4th at +3 (77-73-69), and Spencer Shropshire of Hawk Ridge Golf Club finished tied for 9th with a +10 total (81-72-73). Gabriel Mainella of Summit Golf & Country Club rounded out the group, also tying for 9th with a +10 total (73-77-76). These Team Ontario athletes showcased their skill and competitiveness throughout the event.

In the girls’ competition, Team Ontario players dominated the leaderboard. Nobelle Park led the way with a +6 total (75-72-75), while her teammate and sister, Kaprice Park, finished second at +7 (75-74-74). Alexis Card of Galt Country Club secured third place with a +8. Team Ontario also placed several other players in the top 10, including Sadie Wu, Claire Roberts, Kaylan Green, Amelia McFarlane, Avery Nordman, and former Team Ontario player Angela Cai showcasing the depth of talent from Ontario.

For the full leaderboard, CLICK HERE.

FAST FACTS

• All Team Ontario Girls finished in the Top 10.
• The lowest girls’ score was 71, achieved by Riviera Lindholm (St. Georges G&CC).
• Seven of the Top 10 boys are Team Ontario members.
• The lowest boys’ score was 69, achieved by Bode Stephen (Team Ontario).
• The 5th hole was the toughest, with an average score of 3.88.
• The 4th hole was the second toughest, averaging 4.67.
• The easiest hole was the 9th, with an average score of 4.07.
• The course’s scoring average was 80.33

Golf Ontario honours the contributions of women of all ages to the sport of golf.  We appreciate you today, on International Women’s Day, and throughout the year as you participate in our Women’s Try and Women’s Learn events as well as in Golf Ontario’s women’s qualifiers and championships held annually across the province. We remain committed to increasing the number of women whose lives are positively impacted by golf experiences.

Four accomplished contributors to Canadian golf will be acknowledged for their dedicated efforts in and around the game as the 2025 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. 

Long-time Golf Canada volunteers Lee Griffin of Cambridge, Ont., Jack McDonald of Kamloops, B.C. and Jean Stone-Séguin of Rockland, Ont. along with retired PGA of Canada professional Muncie Booth of Vancouver, B.C. will be acknowledged for their tremendous contributions to Canadian golf.

“Golf Canada is proud to honour the outstanding contributions of Lee Griffin, Jack McDonald, Jean Stone-Séguin and Muncie Booth, as our 2025 Distinguished Service Award recipients,” said David McCarthy, President, Golf Canada. “The incredible dedication that these four honourees have for the game is truly outstanding. The impact they have had in both their home communities and across the country has left an indelible mark on golf in Canada and we are proud to honour and recognize them.”

Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award has been presented annually since 1993 to recognize individuals who have had an outstanding impact on Canadian golf either nationally or within their community.

The announcement of the 2025 Distinguished Service Award honourees coincides with Golf Canada’s Annual General Meeting, conducted virtually on Thursday, March 6 at 1:00 p.m. EST.

The presentation of the Distinguished Service Award to this year’s honourees will be celebrated later this season at events and locations to be determined. 

Lee Griffin (Volunteer) – Cambridge, Ont.

For more than 30 years, Lee Griffin of Cambridge, Ont. has supported the Rules of Golf provincially in Ontario and nationally at a countless number of championships. She has served as a member of the Rules & Amateur Status Committee (2020-2023) and has been an active contributor to Golf Canada’s Rules Education Subcommittee. She created a webinar series in Ontario for prospective Referees in 2010 which is still in use today. She participated in the development of the curriculum and presentations for Level 2 and Level 3 Rules Education and has served as an instructor for both levels. Griffin has also served Golf Ontario as a member and past Chair of the Rules Committee having been a referee for the past 25 years and previously with the former Ontario Ladies Golf Association. Griffin is a member of the Galt Country Club and has refereed at the U.S. Women’s Open as well as countless National Amateur Championships and Qualifiers. Her outstanding contributions to the game have also been recognized by the (former) Canadian Ladies Golf Association as its 2003 Volunteer of the Year, as well as Golf Ontario as its 2009 and 2020 Volunteer of the Year, 2011 Honorary Life Director and 2017 Distinguished Service Award recipient.

Golf Ontario is pleased to announce a new partnership with Golf Away Tours, which sees the Toronto-based travel company become the presenting sponsor of the Golf Ontario Member Golf Trips program. This partnership is designed to provide Golf Ontario members with unique golf travel experiences, connecting them to top destinations around the world.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Golf Away Tours,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle
McFarlane. “TJ and the team at Golf Away Tours are known for their exceptional service and expertise in golf travel. Their concierge-level approach is highly valued, and I’m excited for them to bring that experience to Golf Ontario members.”

Founded in 1998, Golf Away Tours is Canada’s premier boutique golf travel company, specializing in customized golf travel experiences for more than 25 years. Their core destinations include Ireland, Scotland, Portugal and the Caribbean. The Golf Away Tours team spends several weeks each year visiting destinations around the globe and scouting the best hotels, transportation, restaurants, activities and, of course, golf courses. Clients have also been set up with dream golf trips in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and continental Europe.

“At Golf Away Tours, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable golf travel experiences, and we’re thrilled to partner with Golf Ontario to bring that expertise to their members,” said TJ Rule, owner of Golf Away Tours. “Whether it’s a bucket-list trip to Scotland, a winter getaway to the Caribbean or a customized golf adventure, we look forward to helping Golf Ontario members experience the world’s best golf destinations with the same concierge-level service we’re known for.”

Golf Ontario members should keep an eye out for exclusive travel insights, destination highlights and curated golf trip opportunities from Golf Away Tours.

Understanding Handicapping: Leveling the Playing Field in Golf

Handicapping in golf is essential for ensuring fair competition, allowing players of all skill levels to compete on an equitable basis. It provides a standardized way to measure progress, set achievable goals, and enjoy the game alongside others—regardless of ability.

By adjusting scores based on course difficulty and individual skill levels, the handicap system promotes inclusivity and camaraderie within the sport. Whether playing in friendly rounds or competitive events, a handicap ensures every golfer has a fair chance to win or place, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for all.

Join Our WHS Handicapping Education Seminars

To help golfers, course operators, handicap committee members, and golf professionals better understand handicapping, Golf Ontario is hosting WHS (World Handicap System) Handicapping Education Seminars on:

March 26th: 2-4pm

April 2nd: 7-9pm

April 10th: 2-4pm

• These sessions are perfect for anyone looking to:
• Learn how handicaps are calculated
• Understand the importance of accurate scoring
• Navigate WHS rules and recent updates
• Enhance their knowledge for personal or club administration

Stay informed and improve your experience within the game by joining us for one of these valuable seminars.

SIGN UP TODAY BY CLICKING HERE

LEARN ABOUT HANDICAPPING

The Special Olympics Ontario – Ottawa chapter is gearing up for an exciting and impactful event: the 1000 Ball Challenge! This fundraising initiative will help Special Olympics athletes afford essential resources like tee times, coaching, and equipment, ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their passion for golf.

On May 24th, Special Olympics Ontario – Ottawa athletes will take on the ambitious feat of hitting 1,000 golf balls in a single day at the scenic Canadian Golf & Country Club in Ottawa. Their goal? To raise $20,000 to support their journey in the sport.

How to Get Involved

Community members can show their support in two key ways:

Donate directly to help Special Olympics athletes reach their fundraising goal. Here: www.1000ball.ca/o/special-olympics-ontario-ottawa

Create a team under the Special Olympics team page (www.1000ball.ca/o/special-olympics-ontario-ottawa) and collect pledges yourself!

Those who fundraise and create a team are invited to join the festivities on May 24th from 12-4 PM at the Canadian Golf & Country Club (7800, Golf Club Way, Ashton, ON).

This is more than just a challenge—it’s an opportunity to empower athletes and help them reach their full potential in the sport they love.

For any questions, please reach out to Raph at rroot@gao.ca.

Let’s rally together and make a difference—see you at the driving range!

Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that Susan Wright-Cassan of Thunder Bay, Ont. and Carly Crooks of Scarborough, Ont. have been named the 2024 recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

Following a national call for nominations to the Canadian golf community, Wright-Cassan and Crooks were identified by the selection committee as recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards. The recognition celebrates a pair of individuals who demonstrated excellence in using golf as a platform to positively impact their communities.

“On behalf of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation, we are very proud to recognize Susan Wright-Cassan and Carly Crooks as our 2024 Lorie Kane Community Spirt Award recipients,” said David McCarthy, President, Golf Canada. “Nominations were brought forth from across the country highlighting the many contributions of passionate individuals who willingly give their time to inspire others through the game of golf. Congratulations to Susan and to Carly for this deserved honour and we thank them for their continued contributions to the sport in their communities.”

Wright-Cassan has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Community Leader Award, having made a significant impact in her community where she has been volunteering for over 20 years. Wright-Cassan currently serves as the President of Golf Manitoba and is a member of the Emerald Greens Golf Course and Driving Range in Thunder Bay, Ont. Wright-Cassan earned her community coaching certificate from First Tee and has been teaching junior golf and supporting the introductory First Tee – Canada program in Thunder Bay. Among her many contributions to the game, she has organized a variety of programming including “Golf in Schools” for over 1000 students, “Summer Camps for Kids”, the “Thunder Bay Queens”, “Try Golf Day” held in conjunction with the Thunder Bay Multi-Cultural Association and the Superior North Ladies Golf Association which has an outreach of 800 kms. Last year, Golf Manitoba presented Wright-Cassan with her 20-year volunteer certificate in recognition of her involvement with course rating in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario.

“I want to thank those that have supported me in my golf endeavors. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Lori Kane Community Leader Award. I must thank the people with the First Tee Program and Golf in School, those that I’ve met teaching at the junior and adult levels, playing at club and competitive levels and especially to those that without thinking of it, have encouraged myself and others,” said Susan Wright-Cassan. “This is a game that I love both to play and share my passion. It is a game for all ages, juniors through senior. The social aspects at all ages, the discipline, self-imposed applications of the rules, health benefits, friendships developed and maintained over the years, and other countless benefits are a few of the reasons that I and many others are involved with the game. The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will fuel me to carry on with the programs I’m involved with.”

Crooks has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award. The 21-year-old has dedicated her summers to coaching with First Tee – Canada, both in her community and across Ontario. After completing training as a First Tee – Canada coach in 2023, Crooks has coached in First Tee – Canada programming at the RBC Canadian Open, Golf Ontario’s Indigenous Try it Day, All-Girls First Tee along with programming at Tam O’Shanter Golf Course in Scarborough, Ont.

“Winning this award is so exciting, and I couldn’t have done it without the amazing people in my corner,” said Carly Crooks. “Shout out to my coach, Sean Burke, for always pushing me to be better, and to my parents for their endless support. My twin sister has been with me through everything, and I’m especially grateful to the First Tee – Ontario team for getting me involved.”

Wright-Cassan will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of her choice. Crooks will receive a $5,000 donation towards her post-secondary education. Wright-Cassan and Crooks will be honoured during the RBC Hall of Fame Day in August during the CPKC Women’s Open at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in Mississauga, Ont.

Submissions for the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.  

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award celebrates individuals over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; who have contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or have showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The Lorie Kane Future Leader Award honours a young individual who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were named to honour the Canadian golf icon for a longstanding commitment to advancing the sport, charitable work and giving back to the game that defined her Hall of Fame career. Kane is a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada.

A call for nominations for the 2025 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will go out later this year.

Golf Ontario is thrilled to announce the 2025 Next Wave Junior Development Program, a premier initiative designed to help young golfers in Ontario sharpen their skills and reach their full potential. 

This program blends expert training with continuous support, providing a strong foundation for Ontario’s rising golf stars to thrive in competitive play.  

“There are so many good, young golfers in Ontario and it is so valuable to expose them to the Team Ontario coaches, support systems and culture,” says Reggie Millage, Team Ontario Head Coach. “The athletes in our Next Wave program can choose the elements that are most important to them and fill out all aspects of their training regimen,” he says, adding, “We want Ontario to shine on the national and international stage and this group are definitely on their way to making that happen.”  

Selected athletes will gain access to top-tier coaching, mental performance training, and strength conditioning, setting them up for long-term success. 

Meet the 2025 Next Wave Athletes 

The following talented junior golfers have been selected for the 2025 program: 

Class of 2029:

• Ava Gilbert – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Sean Burke (PGA of Canada) 

• Andrea Lai – St. Thomas Golf & Country Club 

 Class of 2028:

• Regan Andrusyk – Hamilton Golf & Country Club 

• Andrew Sudicky – St. Thomas Golf & Country Club | Coaches: Mark Elliott (Pga of Canada), Tristan Mullally (PGA of Canada) 

• Payton Pattison – Colonnade Golf & Country Club | Coach: Matt Robinson (PGA of Canada) 

• Stella Lim – Wyndance Golf Club | Coaches: Alexa Kim (PGA of Canada), Jason Helman (PGA of Canada) 

• Chloe Hassberger – Vespra Hills Golf Club | Coaches: Shana Kelly (PGA of Canada), Doug Lawrie (PGA of Canada) 

• Evelyn Ma – Station Creek Golf Club 

• Cadence Tanouye – Lionhead Golf Club 

Class of 2027:

• Sarah Du – Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club | Coach: Doug Lawrie (PGA of Canada) 

• Zach Lederer – Emerald Hills Golf Club | Coach: Danny King (PGA of Canada) 

• David Kowalewski – The Nest Golf Club | Coach: Terry O’Brien (PGA of Canada) 

• Narisse Daye – Sarnia Golf and Curling Club | Coach: Mike Martz (PGA of Canada) 

• Edward Li – Rocky Crest Golf Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada) 

• Brennan Turner – Rockway Golf Club 

• Gracie Vescan – Mississauga Golf & Country Club | Coach: James Hutchison (PGA of Canada) 

• Karson Hurlbert – Camelot Golf and Country Club | Coach: Lee Curry (PGA of Canada) 

Class of 2026:

• Michael Vivone – Royal Ottawa Golf Club | Coach: Matt DeJohn (PGA of Canada) 

• Landon Van Loon – Upper Canada Golf Course | Coach: Tristan Mullally (PGA of Canada) 

• Tristan Zhang – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Trevor Wallman (PGA of Canada) 

• Lucas Gilbart – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Sean Burke (PGA of Canada) 

• Ceilidh Spare – Rideau View Golf Club | Coach: Matt Robinson (PGA of Canada) 

• Connor Kanellis – Coppinwood Golf Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada) 

Class of 2030: 

• William Chen – Bayview Golf & Country Club 

• Chi-shen Lin 

• Katherine Xia – St. Andrew Valley Country Club | Coach: David Fritz (PGA of Canada) 

• Grace Kim – Glencairn Golf Club | Coach: Justin Kim (PGA of Canada) 

• Kaeleigh Chung – Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada)

Program Benefits

Next Wave athletes receive exclusive access to: 

• Coaching support from Team Ontario Head Coach, Reggie Millage (PGA of Canada) 

• Mental performance training with Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons 

• Strength & conditioning coaching by Dr. Nick Martichenko 

• adidas Golf Canada apparel 

• Access to the TaylorMade Performance Lab 

• Participation in Team Ontario programs like Training Days, March Break Training Camp, and Spring Training Camp

Selection Process 

Athletes are chosen based on their competitive results and rankings from the previous season within the U13, U15, and U17 divisions of the Junior Golf Pathway. 

Golf Ontario is excited to partner with Metro Golf Sportsplex to launch the 2025 season of the 1000 Ball Challenge with an electrifying kickoff event! After smashing fundraising records in 2024, we’re looking forward to hosting an unforgettable day of golf, music, food, contests, and incredible prizes—all in support of the GOLF FOR ALL Fund – a fund to financially support the advancement of critical golf programs in Ontario.

“The 1000 Ball Challenge was a fantastic event that brought our golf community together while making a real difference for our Junior Development programs at Hamilton Golf & Country Club. The energy, excitement, and camaraderie throughout the event were incredible, and the funds we raised are directly helping us develop the next generation of golfers.

I highly recommend this challenge to fellow golf professionals looking for a unique and engaging way to support their own programs. It’s a fun and rewarding experience that benefits both your club and the future of the game!”

– Brad Lawrence, Associate Golf Professional, Hamilton Golf & Country Club

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
⏰Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍Location: Metro Golf Sportsplex (125 Milner Ave, Scarborough, ON)

How to Participate

1. Register as an individual or team for the 1000 Ball Challenge.
2.  Fundraise a minimum of $200 before April 26 to secure your spot.
3. Come to the Metro Golf Sportsplex on April 26 and join the fun!

Exciting Contests & Prizes

Longest Drive Challenge (Men’s & Women’s): Win a foursome at Wooden Sticks Golf Club

Target Contest: Win a foursome to Cranberry Golf Course
First to Hit 500 Balls: Score a $250 Adidas Gift Card
Plus raffles and more prizes to be announced!

Your Impact

Funds raised will support Golf Ontario’s Golf For All Fund, advancing golf programming for all in this province.

If you are a non-profit or have golf initiatives you are passionate about – please inquire about the 1000 Ball Challenge fundraising share.

🔗 Register today and start fundraising! Visit www.1000ball.ca/kickoff

For questions, contact Raph at rroot@gao.ca.

Don’t miss this thrilling season kickoff—challenge yourself, give back, and get a head start on the season! ⛳

This past weekend at the Toronto Golf & Travel Show, visitors of the Golf Ontario booth took their best shot at guessing the number of golf balls in the aquarium tank. The competition was fierce, but one lucky winner came out on top—congratulations to Brian Mitgang, who guessed 926, closest to the exact number of 924!

Brian’s keen eye (or lucky guess!) earned him an incredible prize of 5 dozen TaylorMade TP5 MySymbol golf balls. A huge thank you to everyone who participated—we hope to see you all again next year!