Golf Ontario is excitedly looking forward to the upcoming golf season and would like to remind everyone the Handicap Season is set to commence on April 15th. This signifies the start of a thrilling period for golfers throughout Ontario as we gear up for a new season on the greens.
To enhance our golf community’s experience, we’re reaching out for your cooperation by asking you to complete an important survey.
Opening Date Survey
Your insights into the local golf scene are invaluable. If you’re aware of any opening dates for golf courses in your area, we encourage you to share this information with Golf Ontario through THIS LINK.
While we already have knowledge of many opening dates, we recognize that these are prone to change due to weather conditions. Rest assured, all submitted opening dates will be shared with our community via Golf Ontario’s social media platforms and website.
Nobelle Park and Gabriel Mainella Winners at Ontario Junior Players Invitational
Golf Ontario
A perfect day for golf in Myrtle Beach, S.C., was underscored by the thrilling final round of the Ontario Junior Players Invitational at the scenic Moorland Course of Legends Golf Resorts.
In the girls’ competition, Nobelle Park of RattleSnake Point Golf Club, leading after the first round, proved unbeatable. The Team Ontario athlete sailed through her even-par final round to clinch the title. Her Team Ontario teammate, Aryn Matthews of Bigwin Island Golf Club, closely followed throughout the round but couldn’t narrow the gap despite posting a strong 72 on her scorecard. Alexa Ouellet of Weston Golf & Country Club, another Team Ontario member, finished in third place.
Park’s performance on the back nine, featuring birdies on the 15th and 16th, secured her victory at one-over par for the tournament.
On the boys side, Gabriel Mainella of Summit Golf & Country Club emerged victorious after a day-long battle with Bode Stephen from Cataraqui Golf & Country Club, claiming the boys division title. Jordan Hwang of Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club took third place, achieving the tournament’s lowest score of 69 in his final round.
Mainella’s win was highlighted by five birdies, including a two-under par on the back nine, enabling him to win by a single stroke over Stephen, with both players scoring 69 on the final day. Mainella shared his excitement about the victory, saying, “obviously a big tournament and my first win… it’s a tough stretch of holes down the back and I kind of got nervous…but excited I got the win.
Tournament Director, Connor Doyle, highlighted the excellent start to the season, noting the excitement of the tournament’s conclusion.
Golf Ontario expressed gratitude towards Legends Golf Resort and its staff for their outstanding hospitality during the past week.
The 77-player field featured many of Ontario’s top junior golfers, all of whom were looking to take home the championship title from the challenging and beautiful Moorland Course at the Legends Golf Resorts.
This year’s event saw an extension to 54 holes, an increase from last year’s 36 holes. Furthermore, participants have the opportunity to earn points towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking and Junior Golf Scoreboard rankings.
For the full leaderboard and final round tee times, CLICK HERE.
FAST FACTS
Seven of the Top 10 girls are Team Ontario members.
The lowest girls’ score was 69, achieved by Alexa Ouellet (Team Ontario).
Six of the Top 10 boys are Team Ontario members.
The lowest boys’ score was 69, achieved by Jordan Hwang (Team Ontario).
The 12th hole was the toughest, with an average score of 4.88.
The 7th hole was the second toughest, averaging 3.65.
The easiest hole was the 16th, with an average score of 3.94.
The course’s scoring average was 78.27.
The Moorland Course was once ranked as the 37th toughest golf course in America by Golf Digest.
Ontario’s Top-Ranked Juniors Tee Off in Myrtle Beach
Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario kicked off its 2024 championship schedule with the Ontario Junior Players Invitational Monday in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Team Ontario’s Nobelle Park of Rattlesnake Golf Club and last year’s second-place finisher, leads in the girls’ division thru 36 holes. Park delivered commendable scores of 74 and 73, securing a two-stroke advantage over her Team Ontario teammate Aryn Matthews of Bigwin Island Golf Club, who posted scores of 72 and 77, finishing at 3-over par.
In the boys’ division, Next Wave athlete Gabriel Mainella of the Summit Golf & Country Club, climbed to the top of the leaderboard with solid rounds of 74 and 73, bolstered by eight birdies on the first day. He enters the final round with a one-stroke lead over Team Ontario’s Bode Stephen of Cataraqui Golf & Country Club, who carded rounds of 72 and 75 to stand at 5-over.
The 77-player field features many of Ontario’s top junior golfers, all of whom are looking to take home the championship title from the challenging and beautiful Moorland Course at the Legends Golf Resorts.
The competitions biggest change this year is the extension to 54 holes, an increase from last year’s 36 holes. Furthermore, participants have the opportunity to earn points towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking and Junior Golf Scoreboard rankings.
“It was great to see how well the players handled the 36 holes today, we should be in for an exciting finish,” Ontario Players Invitational Tournament Director Connor Doyle says.
The tournament concludes on Tuesday with the final 18 holes, starting at 8 a.m. from both the 1st and 10th tees.
For the full leaderboard and final round tee times, CLICK HERE.
QUOTABLES
“I’m nervous for tomorrow … but I hope play wel l… it’s tough competition.” — Nobelle Park, Team Ontario Athlete,
“Today was definitely fun. I started off the day really well with an even par… but quickly kind of on the back stretch … lost a little bit in the second round.” — Aryn Matthews, Team Ontario Athlete
“The conditions were tough, it was windy and cold in the the start of the morning. Feel like I did really good at the start. Pushed through the windy conditions.” — Gabriel Mainella, Next Wave Athlete
FAST FACTS
Seven of the Top 10 Girls are Team Ontario Athlete
Lowest Girls Score of the day: Team Ontario’s Alexa Ouellet, 69
Six of the Top 10 Boys are Team Ontario
Lowest Boys score was 72: By 5 players
Course scoring average was 81.6
Team Ontario athlete and third-place finisher at last year’s Junior Players Invitational, Jordan Hwang of Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club, currently sits third again.
The 77-player field features many of Ontario’s top junior golfers, all of whom are looking to take home the championship title which will be contested March 11-12 at impressive Moorland Course at the Legends Golf Resorts.
This year marks the event’s second installment, featuring significant updates. Notably, the competition will extend over 54 holes, an increase from last year’s 36 holes. Furthermore, participants will now have the opportunity to earn points towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking and Junior Golf Scoreboard rankings.
John Lawrence, Golf Ontario’s Director of Competitions and Performance, expressed enthusiasm about this year’s enhancements to the events. “Launching our championship season with the Ontario Junior Players Invitational is thrilling,” Lawrence says. “Expanding the championship to 54 holes and including ranking points elevates the players’ experience, mirroring the collegiate competition atmosphere.”
The invitational will see players take on 36-holes on Monday, with the final 18-holes coming on Tuesday.
This year’s field includes all 16 Team Ontario members as well as 10 Next Wave athletes. The field is rounded out by an impressive group of players who were offered invites based on their 2023 performance.
Among the 78-players in the 2024 Ontario Junior Players Invitational, there are:
Team Ontario: All 16 members of Team Ontario are in the invitational’s field. They are: Alexa Oueullet; Angela Cai; Aryn Matthews; Bridget Yu; Kaprice Park; Nobelle Park; Shelby Hardwick; Wendy Li; Ben Sheridan; Bode Stephen; Chase Jerome; Dawson Lew; Graydon Laughlin; Jordan Hwang; Nathaniel Yoo; Rylan Hall.
Brampton Golf Club’s Manav Bharani, winner of the 2023 Ontario Bantam (U15) Boys Championship makes his Players Invitational debut.
2023 Ontario Super Camp and Junior Tour Champion, and Team Ontario athlete Alexa Ouellet of Weston Golf and Country Club.
Last year’s runner up, the No. 2-ranked player on the 2023 Junior Golf Pathway Rankings and Team Ontario athlete Nobelle Park of Rattlesnake Golf Club.
Team Ontario athlete and third-place finisher at last year’s Junior Players Invitational, Jordan Hwang of Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club.
FAST FACTS
Championship Venue: The Moorland Course at The Legends Resort
Golf Ontario Announces Next Wave Junior Development Program
Golf Ontario
Golf Ontario proudly introduces the 2024 Next Wave Junior Development Program, designed to nurture and elevate the skills of Ontario’s young golfers.
This thoughtful initiative aims to blend specialized training with ongoing support, providing a solid foundation for the province’s future stars to shine in the competitive golf landscape.
“We’re so proud and excited to introduce the Next Wave Junior Development Program and all the 15 young athletes who will be part of the program in 2024,” says Golf Ontario’s Chief Sport Officer, Ryan Finn. “We truly believe this program aligns with everything we’re already doing with the Junior Golf Pathway, but also adds another layer of development that is directly aimed at junior golf athletes who are looking to advance in their competitive journey.”
The 2024 Next Wave Junior Development Program includes members (with their personal coaches in parentheses):
Sierra Kowlayshyn, Sawmill Golf Course (Travis Glass, PGA of Canada)
Ava Gilbert, Summit Golf & Country Club (Sean Burke, PGA of Canada)
Kirsten Lee, Brampton Golf Club (Sean Casey, PGA of Canada)
Cole Thompson, Lookout Point Country Club (Adam Steinschifter, PGA of Canada)
Ben Julie, Sawmill Golf Course (Doug Lawrie, PGA of Canada)
Matthew Simpson, Lambton Golf & Country Club (Sean Casey, PGA of Canada)
John Yang, Summit Golf & Country Club (Trevor Wallman, PGA of Canada)
Tristan Zhang, Summit Golf & Country Club (Trevor Wallman, PGA of Canada)
Josh Ye, Summit Golf & Country Club (Trevor Wallman, PGA of Canada)
Aiden Pavey, Hidden Lake Golf Club(David Banks, PGA of Canada)
Bo Dong, Angus Glen Golf Club (Dong Hee Lee)
Sadie Wu, Station Creek Golf Club (Dong Hee Lee)
Gabriel Mainella, Summit Golf & Country Club (Tyler Marchand, PGA of Canada)
Landon Van Loon, Upper Canada Golf Course (Tristan Mullally, PGA of Canada)
Michael Vivone, Royal Ottawa Golf Club (Derek MacDonald, PGA of Canada)
Targeted towards junior-aged athletes competing in local, regional, and provincial championships, the program is dedicated to helping them fulfill their aspirations of becoming members of Team Ontario, Team Canada, and earning spots on collegiate golf teams. The program is centered around the mental, physical, technical, and tactical facets of golf, the program offers early access to specialized team training; setting the stage for their future achievements.
Next Wave athletes will enjoy exclusive benefits, such as: Coaching support from Team Ontario Head Coach, Reggie Millage; sessions with Team Ontario Mental Performance Coach, Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons, strength and conditioning coaching by Dr. Nick Martichenko; Next Wave athlete clothing from adidas Golf Canada; and access to the TaylorMade Performance Lab.
Additionally, Next Wave athletes can sign up for exclusive Team Ontario programs like Training Days, March Break Training Camp, and the Spring Training Camp.
Selection for the program is based on the athletes’ competitive performances and rankings in the U13, U15, and U17 divisions of the Junior Golf Pathway from the last season.
Golf Ontario looks forward to the prospects the Next Wave Junior Development Program offers to Ontario’s emerging golf stars and the association extends gratitude to TaylorMade Golf Canada, Adidas Golf Canada, and Humber College for their support of this transformative initiative.
Accessing the Official R&A Rules of Golf has become easier as Golf Canada has integrated them into its popular Golf Canada Mobile App.
This inclusion allows golfers of all levels and abilities to quickly reference the Official Rules of Golf and find answers to common situations that emerge on the course through the Player’s Rule Finder.
With nearly 30 diagrams and over 50 how-to videos, golfers will reduce confusion and uncertainty by learning the ins-and-outs of the game directly from the R&A. Along with the USGA, the R&A has been golf’s leading governing body responsible for the rules of the game.
“The integration into the Golf Canada Mobile App allows more straightforward access to the rules of golf,” said Mary Beth McKenna, Director, Amateur Championships and Rules, Golf Canada.
“Golfers will be able to determine the specific rule-related situations they encounter on the course more easily through the Player’s Rules Finder interface. In addition to the rules of golf, there are resources on committee procedures and the Rules of Amateur Status, amongst other helpful tools. To provide access to even more Canadian golfers, the app is available in both English and French,” added McKenna.
With more than 300,000 Canadian golfers using the Golf Canada Mobile App on an annual basis to post scores, find courses from coast-to-coast, build scorecards, discover course maps, and specific GPS distances, the inclusion of the Rules of Golf will allow Canadian golfers to access first-hand situational knowledge by applying golf’s official rules during their round.
To view the Rules of Golf on the Golf Canada Mobile App, select “More” then scroll down and click on “Rules of golf”.
Also included in the latest version of the Golf Canada Mobile App is an enhanced scorecard graphic. This feature builds on the August 2023 app feature release aimed to help golfers stay connected off the course, highlighted by the ability for golfers to post images and videos to document their rounds.
Increase the fun, shoot lower scores, impress your group by flashing your newfound golf knowledge and share your scorecards.
Join Canada’s largest golf community by downloading the Golf Canada App today. It’s free and available in the App Store and Google Play.
Did you know that the Golf Canada App is just one of the many benefits of being a Golf Ontario Member? If you’re not already a member and looking to become one, CLICK HERE to learn more about all the amazing benefits.
In the wake of the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) hosted by Golf Ontario, we are thrilled to unveil our 2023 Yearbook. This edition is a testament to our enduring commitment to the “Golf for All” vision, offering an in-depth exploration of the core pillars our strategic framework emphasizes: Participation, Performance, Membership, and Organizational Strength.
Kyle McFarlane, the CEO of Golf Ontario, elaborates in the yearbook, “These pillars form the foundation, guiding us toward our mission of Shaping Lives Through Golf and shared commitment to elevated golfing experiences in our province.”
Golf Ontario is excited to announce the continuation of its longstanding partnership with Baka Communications, celebrating 20 years of unwavering collaboration. This renewal underscores Baka’s role as the presenting partner for the Ontario Public Amateur Championship and its support for the Public Player membership program.
Since initiating their partnership in 2004, Baka Communications has passionately supported amateur golf in Ontario, aligning its mission with Golf Ontario’s dedication to nurturing golf’s growth at the grassroots level. The Ontario Public Amateur Championship stands as a pinnacle event in the golf calendar, offering a competitive platform with both gross and net flights, and showcasing Baka’s commitment to fostering competition and sportsmanship within the amateur golf scene.
“Our partnership has not only endured over time but has also adapted to the evolving dynamics of the sport,” says Baka Communications President, John Marion. “Baka is honoured to continue as the presenting partner for the Ontario Public Amateur Championship, support the Public Player membership program, and contribute to Golf Ontario’s broader fundraising initiatives.”
Beyond the championship and membership program, Baka Communications will support Golf Ontario’s 1000 Ball Challenge, aiding in fundraising efforts for golf programs and initiatives across the province. Additionally, Baka will sponsor a yearly Golf Ontario scholarship to assist an aspiring student-athlete golfer from Ontario, demonstrating Baka’s commitment to developing golf talent both on the course and in the classroom.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Baka Communications for the 20th year,” says Golf Ontario’s CEO, Kyle McFarlane. “Their consistent support has been crucial in elevating the quality of our events and programs,” he says, adding, “we anticipate another year of fruitful collaboration, as we work together to promote golf’s growth and positively impact lives through the sport.”
The enduring partnership between Baka Communications and Golf Ontario reaffirms their joint commitment to the advancement of golf, building upon two decades of success, and contributing to a lasting legacy within the Ontario golf community.
Golf Ontario thrilled to recruit accomplished and innovative golf marketer
Golf Ontario
Chris Fry appointed as the association’s new Director of Marketing and Communications, officially starts February 12, the beginning of an exciting new chapter!
Uxbridge, ON – In a strategic move signaling a new era of innovation, growth, and storytelling, Golf Ontario is delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Fry as the new Director of Marketing and Communications. A progressive thinker in the golf world, Fry is poised to infuse the association with his creative ideas and extensive industry experience.
Fry will step into this role following an impressive tenure as Founder and Creative Director at Albatross Images, where he advanced golf marketing ideas with his inventive prowess. His appointment marks a significant milestone for Golf Ontario, aligning perfectly with their forward-thinking goals and mission to make golf accessible to all.
Celebrated for his original approaches to marketing and storytelling at Albatross Images, Fry’s vision is set to amplify Golf Ontario’s brand narrative, supercharge its digital marketing, and strengthen partnerships—key elements in propelling the association’s strategic ambitions.
Prior to his entrepreneurial venture, Fry played pivotal roles at TaylorMade Golf Canada and the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of Canada. His expertise in sports marketing and strategic communications involved spearheading comprehensive marketing campaigns, nurturing pivotal partnerships, and leading diverse teams towards unified objectives.
Over the years, Fry’s creative work has been featured in various national and international publications, including SCOREGolf, The Globe & Mail, The Golfer’s Journal, and numerous online platforms. He has also received multiple awards from the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC).
“Joining Golf Ontario represents a dream convergence of my professional expertise and my personal passion for golf,” says Fry. “I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to lead Golf Ontario’s marketing and communication strategies, ensuring they resonate with golfers of all levels and backgrounds.”
Fry is recognized for his hands-on approach to team leadership, with a demonstrated ability to attract, retain, and develop high-performing teams. His background in fostering strong relationships with colleagues, donors, corporate partners, and industry stakeholders will be invaluable in enhancing Golf Ontario’s partner and industry relations.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to the Golf Ontario team,” says Kyle McFarlane, CEO of Golf Ontario. “His extensive experience and passion for the game make him the ideal successor to head our marketing and communications efforts, helping us embark on the next chapter for the association.”
Fry will officially take the helm as Director of Marketing and Communications at Golf Ontario on Monday, February 12, heralding an exciting new chapter for the association.
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.
Golf Ontario is Excited to Release the 2024 Championship Schedule
Golf Ontario
Uxbridge, ON – The 2024 golf season is just around the corner, andGolf Ontario is proud to release its 2024 Championship Schedule, featuring the best provincial championships in the country hosted at some of Ontario’s finest golf courses.
In what will be another brilliant year for championship golf in Ontario, the schedule will feature a number of prominent courses and new locations that extend far and wide to host the best players across the province.
The 2024 Championship Schedule and registration timeline updates can be accessed by clicking the link below:
“We are once again honoured and excited to release one of the most diverse and inclusive championship schedules in amateur golf, working with many of Ontario’s most renowned golf clubs,” said Golf Ontario Director of Competitions and Performance John Lawrence. “Our 2024 venues are set to showcase an exciting season in communities across the province, and we can’t thank those member clubs enough for hosting our events.”
Golf Ontario will announce outstanding championship dates/locations as they are confirmed. The full schedule of qualifying sites will be available in the next update on January 22nd, 2024.
Registrations for the 2024 Golf Ontario championship season will begin on Friday, February 17th at 9:00am, each championships-specific registration opening date will be made available in the January 22 update.
Highlights and Important Notes for the 2024 Championship schedule:
As previously announced, the 2024 Championship season will kick off with the return of the Ontario Junior Players Invitational. The 2024 tournament is scheduled to take place March 11-12 at Legends Golf Resort – Moorland Course in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, exclusively for 78 of the top Junior (U19) boys & girls from Ontario.
The City of London and area will be a hot bed for Golf Ontario championships in 2024. Beginning in May, the annual Junior Girls Spring Classic will return to FireRock Golf Club, May 21-23. In June, the Men’s and Senior Men’s Match Play Championship will take on the challenging links-style Tarandowah Golfers Club, June 10-13, and two weeks later the 109th Ontario Women’s Amateur & Mid-Amateur Championship will be hosted by West Haven Golf & Country Club, June 24-27. The City of London and FireRock Golf Club will also host the Ontario Summer Games golf competition from August 2-4.
West Haven Golf & Country Club, host of the 109th Ontario Women’s Amateur & Mid-Amateur Championship, June 24-27, 2024.
As part of their 125th anniversary celebrations, St. Catharines Golf & Country Club will host the 102nd Ontario Men’s Amateur, June 24-27. This will be the second time hosting the Men’s Amateur, St. Catharines, previously hosted in 1999.
The Ontario Junior Boys & Girls (U19) Championships will be conducted the week of July 8-11. After completing a full bunker renovation this past season, Otter Creek Golf Club, which hosted the Ontario Men’s Amateur in 2020, returns to the schedule as host of the 102nd Ontario Junior Boys Championship. Meanwhile, Beverly Golf & Country Club, the home of LPGA veteran and two-time Junior Girls Champion Alena Sharp, will host the 89th Ontario Junior Girls Championship.
The Ontario Senior Men’s Championship will travel to one of Eastern Ontario’s most prominent venues, the Brockville Country Club, July 23-25. NEW for 2024, the 70 and over division will have 24 spots made available to register for. The 70 and over competition will be awarded after 36 holes and played from a separate yardage setup. The overall Senior Men’s champion and 65 and over champion will be awarded after 54 holes.
The most significant shift in the schedule will see the Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship move to the end of July in 2024 from its usual June dates. After hosting a very successful Canadian Junior Boys Championship in 2023, North Bay Golf & Country Club will host the province’s best male amateur players over 25 on July 29-31.
NEW for 2024, the Ontario Women’s Four-Ball Championship will feature a separate Senior Women’s Four-Ball competition in which players aged 50 and over can choose to play in their own division. The Senior Women’s competition will play from a shorter yardage setup. This year’s event will return to the historic Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto on September 16th.
Golf Ontario would like to thank all member clubs who have committed to hosting championships and qualifiers for their continued support heading into the 2024 championship season. Updates regarding the remaining championship dates/locations will be made immediately as they are confirmed.
