The Annual General Meeting of the PGA of British Columbia was held on Monday, Feb. 23, at University Golf Club with about 40 members in attendance.
Elected at the meeting to serve on the Board of Directors for two-year terms were incumbents Don Brett-Davies, Patty Jonas and Scott Kolb along with newly-elected Kyle German.
Troy Peverley was elected as the new National Representative. Earlier, in an online election, Edd Boudreau was re-elected as the Assistants' Representative.
Other directors not up for election this year included Rob Anderson, Keith Gibson, Kevin Nesbitt, Shawn Paduano and Derek Thornley.
A meeting of the board following the AGM resulted in the election of Keith Gibson, Head Professional of Long Beach GC, as the new President of the Association, and Derek Thornley, Head Professional of Richmond CC, as Vice-President.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
CN and RCGA Announce Schedule For 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Tour
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – CN and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) are pleased to announce the championship schedule for the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Tour, Canada’s only developmental golf tour for women.
This season’s scheduled Tour events, which include a practice round, 9-hole Pro-Am and 36-holes of competition, will be held May 24-26 at Seymour Golf and Country Club in North Vancouver, B.C.; June 7-9 at the Cutten Club in Guelph, Ont.; and July 13-15 at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club in Mirabel, Que.
A notable change to the 2009 campaign will see the total season prize money increased to $180,000 (CDN). Additionally, the total number of Tour events has been reduced from four to three for the 2009 season. With the total purse increase, each 36-hole championship purse will increase from $41,250 to $60,000 for the 2009 Tour season with each champion being awarded a $10,000 winners’ cheque.
“The 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Tour season is going to be our finest to date,” said Richard Kuypers, Tournament Coordinator, CN Canadians Women Open. “We have made some significant enhancements including an increase in the purse per tournament, which will undoubtedly help to attract the best field of competitors to our championships.”
Another notable change to the upcoming championship season will see an increase in the number of Tour exemptions available into the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open, August 31-September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary.
In 2008, six exemptions were made available through the CN Canadian Women’s Tour while this season will include a seventh exemption into Canada’s only LPGA Tour event. The winner from each of the three Tour events will receive an exemption directly into the CN Canadian Women’s Open with the additional four exemptions being awarded based on the CN Canadian Women’s Tour Order of Merit standings.
“CN is committed to promoting the game of golf in local communities,” said Mark Wallace, Assistant Vice-President, Public Affairs. “The venues for this season are truly first-class. We look forward to helping bring the CN Canadian Women’s Tour to these great cities, as CN continues to work at positively influencing every community in which our trains operate.”
Seymour Golf and Country Club will open the Tour’s 2009 season, hosting their first RCGA sanctioned event, while The Cutten Club, a Stanley Thompson original design which has hosted several provincial championships, will be the Tour’s second stop of the season. The final tournament will be held at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club, host of the 1998 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.
Many of Canada’s elite female golfers have used the CN Canadian Women’s Tour to hone their skills and develop as athletes both on and off the course. CN Canadian Women’s Tour alumnae Lorie Kane, Alena Sharp, Samantha Richdale, Jessica Shepley and Cindy Pasechnik have all used their experiences on the Canadian development circuit as a catalyst to future successes.
CN DELIVERS THE GREAT GAME OF GOLF
CN is proud to support golf in Canada and is pleased to bring the best of women’s professional golf to Canada with its title sponsorship of the CN Canadian Women’s Open and the CN Canadian Women’s Tour. In addition to supporting women’s golf, CN contributes to the development of golf among young people across the country through its sponsorship of the CN Future Links program. CN is pleased to work with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) to help develop golf as a sport for women and juniors across Canada and to increase the accessibility of golf to recreational and competitive golfers. Visit www.cn.ca.
ABOUT CN CANADIAN WOMEN’S TOUR
Conducted by the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), the CN Canadian Women's Tour is one of the world’s premier developmental tours, attracting rising Canadian and international female golf professionals as well as top female amateurs. The only women's developmental tour in Canada, the CN Canadian Women's Tour will offer premier championship play at locations across Canada, competitive purses and the opportunity to earn exemptions into the CN Canadian Women's Open, Canada's only LPGA Tour event. LPGA Tour professionals such as Lorie Kane and Alena Sharp competed on the Canadian Women's Tour, and used their experiences as a springboard to future success. For more information about the Canadian Women’s Tour visit www.CNcanadianwomenstour.com.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION
The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
This season’s scheduled Tour events, which include a practice round, 9-hole Pro-Am and 36-holes of competition, will be held May 24-26 at Seymour Golf and Country Club in North Vancouver, B.C.; June 7-9 at the Cutten Club in Guelph, Ont.; and July 13-15 at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club in Mirabel, Que.
A notable change to the 2009 campaign will see the total season prize money increased to $180,000 (CDN). Additionally, the total number of Tour events has been reduced from four to three for the 2009 season. With the total purse increase, each 36-hole championship purse will increase from $41,250 to $60,000 for the 2009 Tour season with each champion being awarded a $10,000 winners’ cheque.
“The 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Tour season is going to be our finest to date,” said Richard Kuypers, Tournament Coordinator, CN Canadians Women Open. “We have made some significant enhancements including an increase in the purse per tournament, which will undoubtedly help to attract the best field of competitors to our championships.”
Another notable change to the upcoming championship season will see an increase in the number of Tour exemptions available into the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open, August 31-September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary.
In 2008, six exemptions were made available through the CN Canadian Women’s Tour while this season will include a seventh exemption into Canada’s only LPGA Tour event. The winner from each of the three Tour events will receive an exemption directly into the CN Canadian Women’s Open with the additional four exemptions being awarded based on the CN Canadian Women’s Tour Order of Merit standings.
“CN is committed to promoting the game of golf in local communities,” said Mark Wallace, Assistant Vice-President, Public Affairs. “The venues for this season are truly first-class. We look forward to helping bring the CN Canadian Women’s Tour to these great cities, as CN continues to work at positively influencing every community in which our trains operate.”
Seymour Golf and Country Club will open the Tour’s 2009 season, hosting their first RCGA sanctioned event, while The Cutten Club, a Stanley Thompson original design which has hosted several provincial championships, will be the Tour’s second stop of the season. The final tournament will be held at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club, host of the 1998 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.
Many of Canada’s elite female golfers have used the CN Canadian Women’s Tour to hone their skills and develop as athletes both on and off the course. CN Canadian Women’s Tour alumnae Lorie Kane, Alena Sharp, Samantha Richdale, Jessica Shepley and Cindy Pasechnik have all used their experiences on the Canadian development circuit as a catalyst to future successes.
CN DELIVERS THE GREAT GAME OF GOLF
CN is proud to support golf in Canada and is pleased to bring the best of women’s professional golf to Canada with its title sponsorship of the CN Canadian Women’s Open and the CN Canadian Women’s Tour. In addition to supporting women’s golf, CN contributes to the development of golf among young people across the country through its sponsorship of the CN Future Links program. CN is pleased to work with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) to help develop golf as a sport for women and juniors across Canada and to increase the accessibility of golf to recreational and competitive golfers. Visit www.cn.ca.
ABOUT CN CANADIAN WOMEN’S TOUR
Conducted by the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), the CN Canadian Women's Tour is one of the world’s premier developmental tours, attracting rising Canadian and international female golf professionals as well as top female amateurs. The only women's developmental tour in Canada, the CN Canadian Women's Tour will offer premier championship play at locations across Canada, competitive purses and the opportunity to earn exemptions into the CN Canadian Women's Open, Canada's only LPGA Tour event. LPGA Tour professionals such as Lorie Kane and Alena Sharp competed on the Canadian Women's Tour, and used their experiences as a springboard to future success. For more information about the Canadian Women’s Tour visit www.CNcanadianwomenstour.com.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION
The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
VANCOUVER PARKS GOLF - Fraserview Golf Course Recognized for Environmental Excellence
For Immediate Release
Vancouver, B.C., February 18, 2009 - Fraserview Golf Course has retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program.
Fraserview Golf Course was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2003 and is one of only 677 courses in the world to receive the honour. The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources.
Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, Mexico and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program. "Fraserview Golf Course has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property." Said Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.
"To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Sluiter. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation and Water Quality Management.
Courses go through a recertification process every two years. For more information on golf and the environment, visit www.golfandenvironment.org.
"We are very pleased Fraserview has achieved its re-certification from the Audubon as it shows we are continuing to be a leader in golf course management with our commitment to environmental sustainability," said Howard Normann, Supervisor of Golf Operations.
"We are extremely proud of our work to maintain an environmentally friendly and sustainable golf course and our golf staff and volunteers are very pleased to again be recognized for their efforts in maintaining status as a Certified Audubon Sanctuary" added Mike Ferdinandi, Superintendent at Fraserview. Vancouver Parks Golf also participated in the Vancouver Golf & Travel Show at B.C. Place on February 14th and 15th and is offering an opportunity to win one Grand Prize package. No purchase is necessary, just visit vancouverparks.ca and sign-up for the golf newsletter between February 14th and April 30th, 2009 to be entered. The Grand Prize package for one lucky winner includes:
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at Fraserview Golf Course
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at McCleery Golf Course
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at Langara Golf Course
Warm-up bucket for each player at Fraserview and McCleery Golf Courses
About Vancouver Parks GolfVancouver Parks Golf is made up of the Fraserview, McCleery and Langara Championship Golf Courses. Fraserview recently won bronze in the "Best Public Course in Canada" category, and was voted one of the "Most underrated golf courses in Canada" by the SCOREGolf Magazine Golfer's Choice Awards. McCleery boasts a very active junior instruction program which helps to get young people started in the game and has developed an inner city youth golf program that introduces the game to children of the Downtown Eastside. Langara Golf Course offers enjoyment with peace and tranquility in the heart of Vancouver. The course offers top notch greens and well protected by bunkers providing a challenge for every level of golfer.3 Great Courses...One Great Experience.
About Audubon InternationalAudubon International is a not-for-profit, environment education organization dedicated to educating, assisting and inspiring millions of people from all walks of life to protect and sustain the land, water and natural resources around them. Its award-winning education and certification programs, has helped more the 5,800 businesses, golf courses, schools, communities and new developments improve environmental performance and manage natural resources responsibly on more then one million acres of land.
For more information, contact Audubon International at 518-767-9051 or acsp@auduboninternational.org or visit their website at www.auduboninternation.org. Contact Information
For more information please visit vancouverparks.ca or contact:
Mr. Ron Caswell
Manager of Operations, Vancouver East District
604.257.8582
ron.caswell@vancouver.ca
Mr. Howard Normann
Supervisor of Golf Operations
604.718.6533
howard.normann@vancouver.ca
Vancouver, B.C., February 18, 2009 - Fraserview Golf Course has retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program.
Fraserview Golf Course was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2003 and is one of only 677 courses in the world to receive the honour. The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources.
Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, Mexico and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program. "Fraserview Golf Course has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property." Said Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs.
"To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Sluiter. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation and Water Quality Management.
Courses go through a recertification process every two years. For more information on golf and the environment, visit www.golfandenvironment.org.
"We are very pleased Fraserview has achieved its re-certification from the Audubon as it shows we are continuing to be a leader in golf course management with our commitment to environmental sustainability," said Howard Normann, Supervisor of Golf Operations.
"We are extremely proud of our work to maintain an environmentally friendly and sustainable golf course and our golf staff and volunteers are very pleased to again be recognized for their efforts in maintaining status as a Certified Audubon Sanctuary" added Mike Ferdinandi, Superintendent at Fraserview. Vancouver Parks Golf also participated in the Vancouver Golf & Travel Show at B.C. Place on February 14th and 15th and is offering an opportunity to win one Grand Prize package. No purchase is necessary, just visit vancouverparks.ca and sign-up for the golf newsletter between February 14th and April 30th, 2009 to be entered. The Grand Prize package for one lucky winner includes:
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at Fraserview Golf Course
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at McCleery Golf Course
Primetime Golf Foursome with power carts at Langara Golf Course
Warm-up bucket for each player at Fraserview and McCleery Golf Courses
About Vancouver Parks GolfVancouver Parks Golf is made up of the Fraserview, McCleery and Langara Championship Golf Courses. Fraserview recently won bronze in the "Best Public Course in Canada" category, and was voted one of the "Most underrated golf courses in Canada" by the SCOREGolf Magazine Golfer's Choice Awards. McCleery boasts a very active junior instruction program which helps to get young people started in the game and has developed an inner city youth golf program that introduces the game to children of the Downtown Eastside. Langara Golf Course offers enjoyment with peace and tranquility in the heart of Vancouver. The course offers top notch greens and well protected by bunkers providing a challenge for every level of golfer.3 Great Courses...One Great Experience.
About Audubon InternationalAudubon International is a not-for-profit, environment education organization dedicated to educating, assisting and inspiring millions of people from all walks of life to protect and sustain the land, water and natural resources around them. Its award-winning education and certification programs, has helped more the 5,800 businesses, golf courses, schools, communities and new developments improve environmental performance and manage natural resources responsibly on more then one million acres of land.
For more information, contact Audubon International at 518-767-9051 or acsp@auduboninternational.org or visit their website at www.auduboninternation.org. Contact Information
For more information please visit vancouverparks.ca or contact:
Mr. Ron Caswell
Manager of Operations, Vancouver East District
604.257.8582
ron.caswell@vancouver.ca
Mr. Howard Normann
Supervisor of Golf Operations
604.718.6533
howard.normann@vancouver.ca
Friday, February 20, 2009
RCGA Signs CE Franklin as an Official Sponsor of the CN Canadian Women’s Open
Onsite activities highlighted by ‘autograph alley’ spectator engagement
Calgary, Alta. (RCGA) – CE Franklin and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) are pleased to announce an agreement in which CE Franklin will become an Official Sponsor of the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open, August 31 to September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary. Alta.
As part of the agreement, CE Franklin receives Official Sponsor designation with benefits that include onsite branding, Pro-Am playing privileges, branding on tournament collateral material and corporate hospitality programming. As part of their tournament week onsite activation, CE Franklin will be the exclusive sponsor of “autograph alley”, an area where spectators can interact with the fan-friendly stars of the LPGA Tour following their rounds.
Besides affiliating their brand with one of Canada’s premier sporting events, CE Franklin’s involvement is rooted in supporting a property in the CN Canadian Women’s Open that is committed to making a major charitable contribution within the Calgary community.
“When we evaluated the CN Canadian Women’s Open as a potential sponsorship property, what excited us most was the opportunity to be a part of an event that was investing so heavily in the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation,” said Mike Boyles, V.P. of Brand Development, CE Franklin. “The event is committed to making a difference in the Calgary community and we are proud to be a part of this initiative that will benefit one of Canada’s most outstanding children’s hospitals.”
Earlier this year, CN and the RCGA announced that the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation had been selected as the designated community charity for the CN Miracle Match program. The CN Miracle Match program provides additional fundraising opportunities that will encourage public donations in support of the children’s hospital before and during tournament week that will be matched by CN.
“CE Franklin is coming on board as a way to give back to the local community and we are delighted to welcome them as a sponsor of the CN Canadian Women’s Open,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “On behalf of everyone involved with the CN Canadian Women’s Open, I want to extend a sincere thank you to CE Franklin for their investment in our national women’s Open championship.”
CN Miracle Match is designed to rally communities across Canada to support children’s hospitals. Each year since 2006, CN has raised funds to support a children’s hospital by matching funds raised through various initiatives that are connected with the CN Canadian Women’s Open. Additionally, tournament proceeds from the event are donated back to the children’s hospital. Over the last three years, close to $2 million has been raised through these initiatives.
Tickets for Canada’s only LPGA Tour event can be purchased online at www.cncanadianwomensopen.com or by calling 1-866-571-LPGA.
ABOUT THE 2009 CN CANADIAN WOMEN’S OPEN Stars of the LPGA Tour will be featured at the $2.75 million (USD) CN Canadian Women’s Open from August 31 to September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary, Alta. The CN Canadian Women’s Open is proudly sponsored by the Canadian National Railway Company. For updated corporate hospitality, sponsorship opportunities, daily tickets, and volunteer information please visit www.cncanadianwomensopen.com.
ABOUT CE FRANKLIN For more than half a century, CE Franklin has been a leading supplier of products and services to the energy industry. CE Franklin distributes pipe, valves, flanges, fittings, production equipment, tubular products and other general oilfield supplies to oil and gas producers in Canada. These products are distributed through its 44 branches, which are situated in towns and cities serving particular oil and gas fields of the western Canadian sedimentary basin. In addition, the Company distributes pipe, valves, flanges and fittings to the oilsands, refining, heavy oil and petrochemical industries and non-oilfield related industries such as the forestry and mining industries. For more information visit www.cefranklin.com.
ABOUT THE ALBERTA CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation raises funds for excellence in child health and family centered care. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation provides funding for innovative family centered programs, state of the art equipment, advanced medical training and internationally recognized pediatric research. For more information please visit www.childrenshospital.ab.ca.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Calgary, Alta. (RCGA) – CE Franklin and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) are pleased to announce an agreement in which CE Franklin will become an Official Sponsor of the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open, August 31 to September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary. Alta.
As part of the agreement, CE Franklin receives Official Sponsor designation with benefits that include onsite branding, Pro-Am playing privileges, branding on tournament collateral material and corporate hospitality programming. As part of their tournament week onsite activation, CE Franklin will be the exclusive sponsor of “autograph alley”, an area where spectators can interact with the fan-friendly stars of the LPGA Tour following their rounds.
Besides affiliating their brand with one of Canada’s premier sporting events, CE Franklin’s involvement is rooted in supporting a property in the CN Canadian Women’s Open that is committed to making a major charitable contribution within the Calgary community.
“When we evaluated the CN Canadian Women’s Open as a potential sponsorship property, what excited us most was the opportunity to be a part of an event that was investing so heavily in the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation,” said Mike Boyles, V.P. of Brand Development, CE Franklin. “The event is committed to making a difference in the Calgary community and we are proud to be a part of this initiative that will benefit one of Canada’s most outstanding children’s hospitals.”
Earlier this year, CN and the RCGA announced that the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation had been selected as the designated community charity for the CN Miracle Match program. The CN Miracle Match program provides additional fundraising opportunities that will encourage public donations in support of the children’s hospital before and during tournament week that will be matched by CN.
“CE Franklin is coming on board as a way to give back to the local community and we are delighted to welcome them as a sponsor of the CN Canadian Women’s Open,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “On behalf of everyone involved with the CN Canadian Women’s Open, I want to extend a sincere thank you to CE Franklin for their investment in our national women’s Open championship.”
CN Miracle Match is designed to rally communities across Canada to support children’s hospitals. Each year since 2006, CN has raised funds to support a children’s hospital by matching funds raised through various initiatives that are connected with the CN Canadian Women’s Open. Additionally, tournament proceeds from the event are donated back to the children’s hospital. Over the last three years, close to $2 million has been raised through these initiatives.
Tickets for Canada’s only LPGA Tour event can be purchased online at www.cncanadianwomensopen.com or by calling 1-866-571-LPGA.
ABOUT THE 2009 CN CANADIAN WOMEN’S OPEN Stars of the LPGA Tour will be featured at the $2.75 million (USD) CN Canadian Women’s Open from August 31 to September 6 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary, Alta. The CN Canadian Women’s Open is proudly sponsored by the Canadian National Railway Company. For updated corporate hospitality, sponsorship opportunities, daily tickets, and volunteer information please visit www.cncanadianwomensopen.com.
ABOUT CE FRANKLIN For more than half a century, CE Franklin has been a leading supplier of products and services to the energy industry. CE Franklin distributes pipe, valves, flanges, fittings, production equipment, tubular products and other general oilfield supplies to oil and gas producers in Canada. These products are distributed through its 44 branches, which are situated in towns and cities serving particular oil and gas fields of the western Canadian sedimentary basin. In addition, the Company distributes pipe, valves, flanges and fittings to the oilsands, refining, heavy oil and petrochemical industries and non-oilfield related industries such as the forestry and mining industries. For more information visit www.cefranklin.com.
ABOUT THE ALBERTA CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation raises funds for excellence in child health and family centered care. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation provides funding for innovative family centered programs, state of the art equipment, advanced medical training and internationally recognized pediatric research. For more information please visit www.childrenshospital.ab.ca.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
LPGA, Golf Channel sign 10-year pact
By BETH ANN BALDRY
Senior Writer
KAHUKU, Hawaii – When it comes to television coverage, LPGA commissioner Carolyn Bivens puts one attribute above everything else: A regular home for its tournaments. The tour’s product has never been better, she says, and fans should be able to find it.
To that end, the LPGA announced Feb. 11 an unprecedented 10-year partnership with the Golf Channel – making the tour the first stand-alone women’s sports organization to receive a rights fee agreement for domestic broadcast coverage.
“We’re not going to talk about any of the details about that,” Bivens (pictured above) said, “but it is ground-breaking.”
Beginning in 2010, Golf Channel will provide fans virtual one-stop shopping for domestic events. It will broadcast start-to-finish coverage of most domestic events, including one major championship, and international feeds of LPGA global events. In addition, Golf Channel will show early-round coverage of tournaments that will have weekend coverage on other networks. It also will continue to broadcast the Solheim Cup.
As many as six other official events – including one major – likely will be packaged and offered to one or two networks. LPGA officials didn’t provide details as to how the TV deals for these tournaments would be structured.
Historically, the LPGA has bought time, rather than receive rights fees, for its domestic events. The Golf Channel partnership marks a significant change for the tour and quickly won praise from players.
Michelle Ellis, the newly-elected president of the players executive committee, regularly receives phone calls from fans on Thursdays asking one question: What station are you on this week?
Last year the answer could’ve been ESPN2, GC, TNT or any of the three major networks. ESPN2 televised eight events from start to finish in 2008.
“The staff has worked overtime on this,” Ellis said. “It’s just an historic moment for all of us.”
When asked how much the LPGA’s coverage would be live and how much would be tape-delayed, Golf Channel President Page Thompson said it was “a little early to go into detail on that.”
Ellis isn’t concerned at all about the LPGA potentially taking a backseat to PGA Tour coverage each Sunday.
“It doesn’t really matter what time of the day it’s going to come on,” Ellis said. “If you’re a big fan of something, like myself in Australia staying up to watch the Super Bowl ...”
Said Paula Creamer: “To be able to be on a network week in, week out is very important. It’s good for the game of women’s golf.
The Golf Channel’s existing five-year deal with the LPGA expires at the end of 2009. It will continue to broadcast 12 regular-season LPGA events this year as well as the McDonald’s LPGA Championship and Solheim Cup.
• • •
Beth Ann Baldry is a Golfweek senior writer. To reach her e-mail bbaldry@golfweek.com.
Senior Writer
KAHUKU, Hawaii – When it comes to television coverage, LPGA commissioner Carolyn Bivens puts one attribute above everything else: A regular home for its tournaments. The tour’s product has never been better, she says, and fans should be able to find it.
To that end, the LPGA announced Feb. 11 an unprecedented 10-year partnership with the Golf Channel – making the tour the first stand-alone women’s sports organization to receive a rights fee agreement for domestic broadcast coverage.
“We’re not going to talk about any of the details about that,” Bivens (pictured above) said, “but it is ground-breaking.”
Beginning in 2010, Golf Channel will provide fans virtual one-stop shopping for domestic events. It will broadcast start-to-finish coverage of most domestic events, including one major championship, and international feeds of LPGA global events. In addition, Golf Channel will show early-round coverage of tournaments that will have weekend coverage on other networks. It also will continue to broadcast the Solheim Cup.
As many as six other official events – including one major – likely will be packaged and offered to one or two networks. LPGA officials didn’t provide details as to how the TV deals for these tournaments would be structured.
Historically, the LPGA has bought time, rather than receive rights fees, for its domestic events. The Golf Channel partnership marks a significant change for the tour and quickly won praise from players.
Michelle Ellis, the newly-elected president of the players executive committee, regularly receives phone calls from fans on Thursdays asking one question: What station are you on this week?
Last year the answer could’ve been ESPN2, GC, TNT or any of the three major networks. ESPN2 televised eight events from start to finish in 2008.
“The staff has worked overtime on this,” Ellis said. “It’s just an historic moment for all of us.”
When asked how much the LPGA’s coverage would be live and how much would be tape-delayed, Golf Channel President Page Thompson said it was “a little early to go into detail on that.”
Ellis isn’t concerned at all about the LPGA potentially taking a backseat to PGA Tour coverage each Sunday.
“It doesn’t really matter what time of the day it’s going to come on,” Ellis said. “If you’re a big fan of something, like myself in Australia staying up to watch the Super Bowl ...”
Said Paula Creamer: “To be able to be on a network week in, week out is very important. It’s good for the game of women’s golf.
The Golf Channel’s existing five-year deal with the LPGA expires at the end of 2009. It will continue to broadcast 12 regular-season LPGA events this year as well as the McDonald’s LPGA Championship and Solheim Cup.
• • •
Beth Ann Baldry is a Golfweek senior writer. To reach her e-mail bbaldry@golfweek.com.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Vancouver Golf Tour Press Release
Vancouver Golf Tour (VGT) Welcomes IMPACT CANOPIES CANADA as Official Corporate Sponsor
Impact Canopies Canada Official Provider of “On-Course Branding & Signage”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEVANCOUVER, BC
The Vancouver Golf Tour (VGT) is pleased to introduce Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc. as part of the team of sponsors of the 2009 VGT.
Last year, Impact Canopies supplied the VGT with custom canopies and this year plans to add to the mix by introducing more on-course branding products such as Banners, POP Display Systems, Spring Signs and Table Covers.
“I am very excited to welcome Impact Canopies Canada as the Official Provider of “On-course Branding and Signage” of the Vancouver Golf Tour” states VGT Commissioner Fraser Mulholland (pictured here with Kim Hubbs, General Manager, Vice President Sales at Impact Canopies) .
“The variety of products Impact Canopies offers will allow the Vancouver Golf Tour to showcase its Sponsors at the highest level. Not only will our players and fans in attendance feel like they are at a PGA Tour event, but they will also leave with a memorable impression of our sponsors and their brands”.
Thanks to Impact Canopies, VGT is proud to be labeled Western Canada’s Premier Development Golf Tour, giving local players the opportunity to play in a PGA Tour environment – from home!
Kim Hubbs, General Manager, Vice President Sales at Impact Canopies states “We are very proud and excited to be partnering with the Vancouver Golf Tour. The VGT is a premier tour that is providing first class tournament playing experience for both golf professionals and amateurs. Our involvement with the sport of golf and the golf industry is critical to our business. Our work with the VGT is an extension of our other important relationships with leading golf equipment manufacturers and golf associations across the country, helping them to showcase and promote their business. We feel that coming on board with the VGT is a perfect fit and we are looking forward to building a mutually beneficial and long term relationship with Vancouver Golf Tour.”
“We’re delighted to be a corporate sponsor with the VGT” says Michael Ohirko, President of Impact Canopies. “We are great supporters of the golf industry, and it is an important segment of our business. Organizations within the golf industry recognize the importance of building their brands and making use of impactful and effective signage at the events they participate in”.
About Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc. Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc., www.impactcanopy.com, is a leading company specializing in on-site event marketing products and solutions, including custom branded instant tents, flags and banners. The company’s products enable its customers to effectively promote their corporate identity and brands at trade marketing events and to enhance their brand visibility. Impact Canopies has Canadian offices in Vancouver and Toronto and a U.S. office in Los Angeles, to service its customers throughout North America.
For more information, see us online at www.impactcanopy.com, email us at info@impactcanopy.com or call usToll-Free: Canada 877-776-6655 or US 877-840-3524
Impact Canopies Canada Official Provider of “On-Course Branding & Signage”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEVANCOUVER, BC
The Vancouver Golf Tour (VGT) is pleased to introduce Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc. as part of the team of sponsors of the 2009 VGT.
Last year, Impact Canopies supplied the VGT with custom canopies and this year plans to add to the mix by introducing more on-course branding products such as Banners, POP Display Systems, Spring Signs and Table Covers.
“I am very excited to welcome Impact Canopies Canada as the Official Provider of “On-course Branding and Signage” of the Vancouver Golf Tour” states VGT Commissioner Fraser Mulholland (pictured here with Kim Hubbs, General Manager, Vice President Sales at Impact Canopies) .
“The variety of products Impact Canopies offers will allow the Vancouver Golf Tour to showcase its Sponsors at the highest level. Not only will our players and fans in attendance feel like they are at a PGA Tour event, but they will also leave with a memorable impression of our sponsors and their brands”.
Thanks to Impact Canopies, VGT is proud to be labeled Western Canada’s Premier Development Golf Tour, giving local players the opportunity to play in a PGA Tour environment – from home!
Kim Hubbs, General Manager, Vice President Sales at Impact Canopies states “We are very proud and excited to be partnering with the Vancouver Golf Tour. The VGT is a premier tour that is providing first class tournament playing experience for both golf professionals and amateurs. Our involvement with the sport of golf and the golf industry is critical to our business. Our work with the VGT is an extension of our other important relationships with leading golf equipment manufacturers and golf associations across the country, helping them to showcase and promote their business. We feel that coming on board with the VGT is a perfect fit and we are looking forward to building a mutually beneficial and long term relationship with Vancouver Golf Tour.”
“We’re delighted to be a corporate sponsor with the VGT” says Michael Ohirko, President of Impact Canopies. “We are great supporters of the golf industry, and it is an important segment of our business. Organizations within the golf industry recognize the importance of building their brands and making use of impactful and effective signage at the events they participate in”.
About Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc. Impact Canopies (Canada) Inc., www.impactcanopy.com, is a leading company specializing in on-site event marketing products and solutions, including custom branded instant tents, flags and banners. The company’s products enable its customers to effectively promote their corporate identity and brands at trade marketing events and to enhance their brand visibility. Impact Canopies has Canadian offices in Vancouver and Toronto and a U.S. office in Los Angeles, to service its customers throughout North America.
For more information, see us online at www.impactcanopy.com, email us at info@impactcanopy.com or call usToll-Free: Canada 877-776-6655 or US 877-840-3524
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
BC Golfers Receive Top Honours
Langley’s Sue Kim and Abbotsford's Nick Taylor received a big honour last Thursday.
Kim and Taylor, two of BC’s best on the golf course, were among 102 athletes in British Columbia to receive the prestigious 2009 Premier's Athletic Awards from premier Gordon Campbell in Vancouver.
The 102 athletes represented 56 different sports.
"Every one of these athletes is a strong example of what can be accomplished through dedication, hard work and a commitment to excellence," said Campbell. "They are an inspiration to all of us, and we are proud to have them represent our communities and our province."
Among her many accomplishments in 2008, Kim was the first amateur player to win not one but two back-to-back CN Women’s Tour events.
Taylor, the 2007 Canadian Amateur champion had a stellar year, playing to a top 3 finish in 6 events and claiming the number one position on the British Columbia Order of Merit and the Canadian National Order of Merit. Taylor also earned a spot in the U.S. Open.
The Premier's Athletic Awards honour the top male and female athletes in the province in each of the sports involved in the 2007/08 B.C. Athlete Assistance Program.
Nominees are nominated by their provincial organization or post-secondary institution.
Kim and Taylor, two of BC’s best on the golf course, were among 102 athletes in British Columbia to receive the prestigious 2009 Premier's Athletic Awards from premier Gordon Campbell in Vancouver.
The 102 athletes represented 56 different sports.
"Every one of these athletes is a strong example of what can be accomplished through dedication, hard work and a commitment to excellence," said Campbell. "They are an inspiration to all of us, and we are proud to have them represent our communities and our province."
Among her many accomplishments in 2008, Kim was the first amateur player to win not one but two back-to-back CN Women’s Tour events.
Taylor, the 2007 Canadian Amateur champion had a stellar year, playing to a top 3 finish in 6 events and claiming the number one position on the British Columbia Order of Merit and the Canadian National Order of Merit. Taylor also earned a spot in the U.S. Open.
The Premier's Athletic Awards honour the top male and female athletes in the province in each of the sports involved in the 2007/08 B.C. Athlete Assistance Program.
Nominees are nominated by their provincial organization or post-secondary institution.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Golf Whistler Passport
Take advantage of great golf savings in Whistler. Purchase your Golf Whistler Passport starting at just $229* and receive one round of golf, including cart, at Nicklaus North Golf Course, Whistler Golf Club and Big Sky Golf and Country Club. This represents savings of up to 40% every time you play.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Firstar Sports named Official Performance Apparel of the Vancouver Golf Tour
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vancouver Golf Tour Inc.
VANCOUVER, BC (February 13, 2009) - Firstar Sports, Inc. ("Firstar"), an innovative designer and manufacturer of technically advanced performance products, has been named the Official Performance Apparel of the Vancouver Golf Tour (“VGT”). VGT, recognized as Western Canada’s Premier Developmental Golf Tour, will feature twenty-two (22) events in 2009, concluding with a two-day Championship and an Order of Merit winner who will receive entry to the 2009 PGA Tour Qualifying School.
Firstar, best known for its athletic garments, began its Canadian distribution in 2006 and has quickly become the preferred brand of many athletes competing in sports such as hockey, lacrosse, soccer and baseball. The Vancouver based company has relationships with athletes and teams at the professional, collegiate, amateur and youth levels, and has sponsored tournaments in a variety of sports, including the 2008 International Lacrosse Federation U19 World Championships.
Firstar will be a healthy addition to Vancouver Golf Tour’s expanding list of Premier Sponsors, including its Title Sponsor MarketPlace IGA and Order of Merit Sponsor Cleveland Golf/Srixon Canada. With the partnership VGT will join a growing list of Firstar Official Supplier Properties in Vancouver including the Western Hockey League’s (WHL) Vancouver Giants and Vancouver’s only all sports radio station, the TEAM 1040.
Firstar’s uses exclusive MST™ (Moisture-System-Transference) technology and Poly-Microfibre materials to provide the ultimate in heat, moisture and odour dissipating performance golf wear. The brand made its first steps into the Golf Category in 2008, with several players wearing Firstar performance apparel on professional tours throughout North America, including 2008 PGA Arizona Senior Open Winner, John Snyder; Nationwide Tour professional Brendan Papas; NGA Hooters Tour professional Ian Hessels; and Canadian Tour professional Walter Keating Jr.
Firstar currently offers an array of performance golf apparel including the new Stealth Polo, featuring a special THR™ (Thermo-Heat Reduction) material that will reduce body heat up to six degrees celsius. Other items include outerwear, WARM-SKIN™ cold weather thermal gloves and Flex-Tech™ hats, and a performance rain jacket and pants. A line of women’s performance golf wear is also available.
“Firstar Clothing is the fastest growing performance apparel in Canada” states VGT Commissioner Fraser Mulholland. “We are very proud to sign Firstar Sports on as the Official Performance Apparel of Vancouver Golf Tour and as a Supporting Sponsor of the VGT Junior Academy”. “My personal thanks go out to Firstar for supporting our goals of grass roots golf development in the Lower Mainland and allowing us to provide our players with the best technical golf wear on the market during our events”. Remember to visit the VANCOUVER GOLF TOUR booth (309) down at the Vancouver Golf Show this Saturday & Sunday, Feb.14 & 15th at BC Place where you can win some fabulous prizes including some premier FIRSTAR apparel. Enclosed is a 2-for-1 coupon for you to use when coming down!
“Preparing Tomorrow’s Champions,” the Vancouver Golf Tour begins it’s 2009 Schedule of Events March 16 with the Brad Garside Open at King Links Golf Club in Delta, BC. For a complete list of events or further information on the Vancouver Golf Tour visit www.vancouvergolftour.com.
ABOUT FIRSTAR SPORTS, INC.Firstar Sports Inc. ("Firstar") is an innovative designer, manufacturer and distributor of technically advanced performance products. Firstar’s line of tour inspired golf wear uses exclusive MST™ (Moisture-System-Transference) technology for the very best in style, comfort and performance. Firstar's state-of-the-art BACT OUT™ antibacterial treatment and MST™ Poly Microfibre make this professional golf apparel the ultimate in heat, moisture and odour dissipating performance wear. Available in a wide of variety of performance weaves, colors and styles, choose Firstar's WARM-SKIN™ when you need to keep your body warmer during cooler temperatures and wear Firstar's COOL-SKIN™ for all your other demanding activities.
For further information on Firstar visit www.firstar.ca and UP YOUR GAME™ to the next level of performance.
Vancouver Golf Tour Inc.
VANCOUVER, BC (February 13, 2009) - Firstar Sports, Inc. ("Firstar"), an innovative designer and manufacturer of technically advanced performance products, has been named the Official Performance Apparel of the Vancouver Golf Tour (“VGT”). VGT, recognized as Western Canada’s Premier Developmental Golf Tour, will feature twenty-two (22) events in 2009, concluding with a two-day Championship and an Order of Merit winner who will receive entry to the 2009 PGA Tour Qualifying School.
Firstar, best known for its athletic garments, began its Canadian distribution in 2006 and has quickly become the preferred brand of many athletes competing in sports such as hockey, lacrosse, soccer and baseball. The Vancouver based company has relationships with athletes and teams at the professional, collegiate, amateur and youth levels, and has sponsored tournaments in a variety of sports, including the 2008 International Lacrosse Federation U19 World Championships.
Firstar will be a healthy addition to Vancouver Golf Tour’s expanding list of Premier Sponsors, including its Title Sponsor MarketPlace IGA and Order of Merit Sponsor Cleveland Golf/Srixon Canada. With the partnership VGT will join a growing list of Firstar Official Supplier Properties in Vancouver including the Western Hockey League’s (WHL) Vancouver Giants and Vancouver’s only all sports radio station, the TEAM 1040.
Firstar’s uses exclusive MST™ (Moisture-System-Transference) technology and Poly-Microfibre materials to provide the ultimate in heat, moisture and odour dissipating performance golf wear. The brand made its first steps into the Golf Category in 2008, with several players wearing Firstar performance apparel on professional tours throughout North America, including 2008 PGA Arizona Senior Open Winner, John Snyder; Nationwide Tour professional Brendan Papas; NGA Hooters Tour professional Ian Hessels; and Canadian Tour professional Walter Keating Jr.
Firstar currently offers an array of performance golf apparel including the new Stealth Polo, featuring a special THR™ (Thermo-Heat Reduction) material that will reduce body heat up to six degrees celsius. Other items include outerwear, WARM-SKIN™ cold weather thermal gloves and Flex-Tech™ hats, and a performance rain jacket and pants. A line of women’s performance golf wear is also available.
“Firstar Clothing is the fastest growing performance apparel in Canada” states VGT Commissioner Fraser Mulholland. “We are very proud to sign Firstar Sports on as the Official Performance Apparel of Vancouver Golf Tour and as a Supporting Sponsor of the VGT Junior Academy”. “My personal thanks go out to Firstar for supporting our goals of grass roots golf development in the Lower Mainland and allowing us to provide our players with the best technical golf wear on the market during our events”. Remember to visit the VANCOUVER GOLF TOUR booth (309) down at the Vancouver Golf Show this Saturday & Sunday, Feb.14 & 15th at BC Place where you can win some fabulous prizes including some premier FIRSTAR apparel. Enclosed is a 2-for-1 coupon for you to use when coming down!
“Preparing Tomorrow’s Champions,” the Vancouver Golf Tour begins it’s 2009 Schedule of Events March 16 with the Brad Garside Open at King Links Golf Club in Delta, BC. For a complete list of events or further information on the Vancouver Golf Tour visit www.vancouvergolftour.com.
ABOUT FIRSTAR SPORTS, INC.Firstar Sports Inc. ("Firstar") is an innovative designer, manufacturer and distributor of technically advanced performance products. Firstar’s line of tour inspired golf wear uses exclusive MST™ (Moisture-System-Transference) technology for the very best in style, comfort and performance. Firstar's state-of-the-art BACT OUT™ antibacterial treatment and MST™ Poly Microfibre make this professional golf apparel the ultimate in heat, moisture and odour dissipating performance wear. Available in a wide of variety of performance weaves, colors and styles, choose Firstar's WARM-SKIN™ when you need to keep your body warmer during cooler temperatures and wear Firstar's COOL-SKIN™ for all your other demanding activities.
For further information on Firstar visit www.firstar.ca and UP YOUR GAME™ to the next level of performance.
Friday, February 13, 2009
CN Canadian Women’s Open Rocked The Vote
Fans rate Canadian event second amongst all LPGA events in 2008
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) - Canadian golf fans showed their support for Canada’s only LPGA Tour stop by casting their vote in the LPGA’s “Rock the Fan Vote 2008”, making the CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Ottawa Hunt Golf Club the second best ranked golf tournament of the 2008 LPGA tour season.
In previous years, golf tournaments were rated solely by LPGA players. The Rock the Fan Vote was introduced this past year as a way for all tournament organizers to interact with fans attending LPGA Tour events. LPGA golf fans logged on to the LPGA Fan vote website and ranked their golf tournament experience in 10 important categories.
“We’re ecstatic that the fans showed their appreciation for last years event,” said Sean Van Kesteren, Tournament Director, CN Canadian Women’s Open, “Our team did an exceptional job and worked hard to make the CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Ottawa Hunt Golf Club a fun and memorable tournament for everyone. We look forward to this year’s event in Calgary with the determination to make it the best experience on the LPGA tour.”
The Rock the Fan Vote survey ranked which of the 34 LPGA events in the 2008 season gave fans the best all around tournament experience. Areas of focus included promotion of the LPGA event and entertainment for fans. Feedback from the survey for the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open will be used to assist with planning the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open in Calgary.
NORTH AMERICA’S RAILROAD CN – Canadian National Railway Company – spans Canada and mid-America, from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to the Gulf of Mexico, serving the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert, B.C., Montreal, Halifax, New Orleans, and Mobile, Ala., and the key cities of Toronto, Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Duluth, Minn./Superior, Wis., Green Bay, Wis., Minneapolis/St. Paul, Memphis, St. Louis, and Jackson, Miss., with connections to all points in North America. For further information please visit www.cn.ca.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum and CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) - Canadian golf fans showed their support for Canada’s only LPGA Tour stop by casting their vote in the LPGA’s “Rock the Fan Vote 2008”, making the CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Ottawa Hunt Golf Club the second best ranked golf tournament of the 2008 LPGA tour season.
In previous years, golf tournaments were rated solely by LPGA players. The Rock the Fan Vote was introduced this past year as a way for all tournament organizers to interact with fans attending LPGA Tour events. LPGA golf fans logged on to the LPGA Fan vote website and ranked their golf tournament experience in 10 important categories.
“We’re ecstatic that the fans showed their appreciation for last years event,” said Sean Van Kesteren, Tournament Director, CN Canadian Women’s Open, “Our team did an exceptional job and worked hard to make the CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Ottawa Hunt Golf Club a fun and memorable tournament for everyone. We look forward to this year’s event in Calgary with the determination to make it the best experience on the LPGA tour.”
The Rock the Fan Vote survey ranked which of the 34 LPGA events in the 2008 season gave fans the best all around tournament experience. Areas of focus included promotion of the LPGA event and entertainment for fans. Feedback from the survey for the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open will be used to assist with planning the 2009 CN Canadian Women’s Open in Calgary.
NORTH AMERICA’S RAILROAD CN – Canadian National Railway Company – spans Canada and mid-America, from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to the Gulf of Mexico, serving the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert, B.C., Montreal, Halifax, New Orleans, and Mobile, Ala., and the key cities of Toronto, Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Duluth, Minn./Superior, Wis., Green Bay, Wis., Minneapolis/St. Paul, Memphis, St. Louis, and Jackson, Miss., with connections to all points in North America. For further information please visit www.cn.ca.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum and CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Remembering Gordie Weber
I was fortunite to attend the Celebration of Life for Gordie Weber today. Truely a great man, not only in the world of golf, but for his work with Variety - The Children's Charity and curling events in Vancouver. Below is his obituary from today's Vancouver Sun.
WEBER Gordon PhilipPeacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Surrey Memorial Hospital. He leaves his loving wife, Garrie, of nearly 60 years; children Greg (Laurie) and Gael, and grandchildren Clayton (Peggy), Ali (David), Daniel, Sophie and great-granddaughter, Bella.
Dad was born on August 26, 1924 in Carstairs, Alberta and moved to Vancouver in 1943. Then he got busy! Dad worked for Labatts for 38 years and was totally committed to promoting their products. He was involved with Variety Club Tent 47 raising funds through many events including co-chairing the CPGA Golf Championship.
He received the Variety Club Life Patron, Heart and Pioneer Awards and served as Chief Barker. Dad golfed with some of the best pros and amateurs alike, constantly raising money for Variety Club. He was a member of Marine Drive and Seymour Golf Clubs, BC Lions Football Club, Rotary, BC Left Handers Golf Assn., NW Commercial Travelers, BC Sports Hall of Fame, directed the World Cup Soccer Championship and Hyack Festivals. He was a commissioner of Little League Baseball, organized the Red Feather Campaign, Scouts, Junior B Hockey and was a founding member of the Masonic Lodge No. 172, Capilano Winter Club and Junior B Hockey in North Vancouver.
Dad was a life member of the CPGA, Harvest Golf Club, BC Interior and Pacific Coast Curling Assns., as well as the BC Weekly Newspaper Assn. He co-chaired the World Curling Championships and Police-Fire games. Dad was also a honorary director of the Boys and Girls Club of Vancouver, International Curling, BC Pro Golf Assn. and Variety Club. His personality and enthusiasm were always larger than life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew "Gordie".
A memorial service will be held at West Vancouver Baptist Church on Tuesday, February 10 at 1:30 pm. No flowers by request. All donations in Dad's name can be directed to the Zajac Foundation, ( info@zajac.com), No. 300 - 2006 West 10th Ave., Vancouver, BC, V6J 2B3 (604-739-0444). Columbia-Bowell 604-521-4881
WEBER Gordon PhilipPeacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Surrey Memorial Hospital. He leaves his loving wife, Garrie, of nearly 60 years; children Greg (Laurie) and Gael, and grandchildren Clayton (Peggy), Ali (David), Daniel, Sophie and great-granddaughter, Bella.
Dad was born on August 26, 1924 in Carstairs, Alberta and moved to Vancouver in 1943. Then he got busy! Dad worked for Labatts for 38 years and was totally committed to promoting their products. He was involved with Variety Club Tent 47 raising funds through many events including co-chairing the CPGA Golf Championship.
He received the Variety Club Life Patron, Heart and Pioneer Awards and served as Chief Barker. Dad golfed with some of the best pros and amateurs alike, constantly raising money for Variety Club. He was a member of Marine Drive and Seymour Golf Clubs, BC Lions Football Club, Rotary, BC Left Handers Golf Assn., NW Commercial Travelers, BC Sports Hall of Fame, directed the World Cup Soccer Championship and Hyack Festivals. He was a commissioner of Little League Baseball, organized the Red Feather Campaign, Scouts, Junior B Hockey and was a founding member of the Masonic Lodge No. 172, Capilano Winter Club and Junior B Hockey in North Vancouver.
Dad was a life member of the CPGA, Harvest Golf Club, BC Interior and Pacific Coast Curling Assns., as well as the BC Weekly Newspaper Assn. He co-chaired the World Curling Championships and Police-Fire games. Dad was also a honorary director of the Boys and Girls Club of Vancouver, International Curling, BC Pro Golf Assn. and Variety Club. His personality and enthusiasm were always larger than life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew "Gordie".
A memorial service will be held at West Vancouver Baptist Church on Tuesday, February 10 at 1:30 pm. No flowers by request. All donations in Dad's name can be directed to the Zajac Foundation, ( info@zajac.com), No. 300 - 2006 West 10th Ave., Vancouver, BC, V6J 2B3 (604-739-0444). Columbia-Bowell 604-521-4881
Monday, February 9, 2009
Nick Taylor Grabs Second Straight Collegiate Win
- Team Canada players and alumni shine throughout weekend -Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) –
Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., a member of Team Canada, won his second successive college championship title after a compelling come-from-behind win at the Hawaii-Hilo Invitational in Kohala Coast, Hawaii.
Taylor started the final round two strokes back, but fired a 2-under par 70 to win by a single-stroke over University of South Carolina’s Jamie Lovemark. Taylor’s solid finish got him to 6-under for the championship (69-71-70--210) and helped his Washington University Huskies to a second-place finish among the 17-team field.
The 21-year old former Canadian Men’s Amateur champion has continued his momentum from last season when he won the CordeValle Collegiate Tournament, finished second at the World Amateur Team Championship, earned entry into the U.S Open and finished tied for 53rd at the 2008 RBC Canadian Open.
Eugene Wong, Taylor’s 2009 Team Canada teammate, also placed well in Hawaii carding a (78-75-68--221) +5 as a member of the Oregon Ducks to finish tied for 24th individually.
Team Canada alumni also excelled in the professional ranks over the weekend as Bryan DeCorso of Guelph, Ont. tied for sixth at the Nationwide Tour’s season-opening Panama Digicel Championship. Nationwide Tour rookie Dustin Risdon of Strathmore, Alta., tied for 10th (2-under) at only his fifth career start on the developmental circuit. Fellow Canadian Brennan Webb of Bracebridge, Ont., shared 19th place at even par, while Jon Mills of Oshawa, Ont., finished tied for 23rd at 1-over.
More information about Team Canada and the National Amateur Team program is available on line at www.rcga.org/teamcanada.
ABOUT THE RCGA NATIONAL TEAM PROGRAMThe RCGA National Team Program incorporates advanced coaching, sport science expertise, training camps and world-class competition. The RCGA allocates over $1 million of its resources annually to the National Team program, encompassing strength and conditioning, sports psychology, nutrition, biomechanics and technique development. Players who are selected to the National Amateur and National Developmental Teams represent Canada at six to 10 internationally-sanctioned golf competitions throughout the year. The intent of this comprehensive program is to aid Canada’s top up-and-coming amateur players in all areas of their development, helping Canada produce the best golfers in the world.Team Canada, the pinnacle of the RCGA’s High Performance Program, provides access to world class resources including coaching, nutrition, sport science, mental management, equipment and elite competitive opportunities. For more information about Team Canada or to make a donation towards the development of Canada’s future golf stars, please visit www.rcga.org.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum and CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., a member of Team Canada, won his second successive college championship title after a compelling come-from-behind win at the Hawaii-Hilo Invitational in Kohala Coast, Hawaii.
Taylor started the final round two strokes back, but fired a 2-under par 70 to win by a single-stroke over University of South Carolina’s Jamie Lovemark. Taylor’s solid finish got him to 6-under for the championship (69-71-70--210) and helped his Washington University Huskies to a second-place finish among the 17-team field.
The 21-year old former Canadian Men’s Amateur champion has continued his momentum from last season when he won the CordeValle Collegiate Tournament, finished second at the World Amateur Team Championship, earned entry into the U.S Open and finished tied for 53rd at the 2008 RBC Canadian Open.
Eugene Wong, Taylor’s 2009 Team Canada teammate, also placed well in Hawaii carding a (78-75-68--221) +5 as a member of the Oregon Ducks to finish tied for 24th individually.
Team Canada alumni also excelled in the professional ranks over the weekend as Bryan DeCorso of Guelph, Ont. tied for sixth at the Nationwide Tour’s season-opening Panama Digicel Championship. Nationwide Tour rookie Dustin Risdon of Strathmore, Alta., tied for 10th (2-under) at only his fifth career start on the developmental circuit. Fellow Canadian Brennan Webb of Bracebridge, Ont., shared 19th place at even par, while Jon Mills of Oshawa, Ont., finished tied for 23rd at 1-over.
More information about Team Canada and the National Amateur Team program is available on line at www.rcga.org/teamcanada.
ABOUT THE RCGA NATIONAL TEAM PROGRAMThe RCGA National Team Program incorporates advanced coaching, sport science expertise, training camps and world-class competition. The RCGA allocates over $1 million of its resources annually to the National Team program, encompassing strength and conditioning, sports psychology, nutrition, biomechanics and technique development. Players who are selected to the National Amateur and National Developmental Teams represent Canada at six to 10 internationally-sanctioned golf competitions throughout the year. The intent of this comprehensive program is to aid Canada’s top up-and-coming amateur players in all areas of their development, helping Canada produce the best golfers in the world.Team Canada, the pinnacle of the RCGA’s High Performance Program, provides access to world class resources including coaching, nutrition, sport science, mental management, equipment and elite competitive opportunities. For more information about Team Canada or to make a donation towards the development of Canada’s future golf stars, please visit www.rcga.org.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum and CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf.
For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Big Break Prince Edward Island announces its premiere in HD
ORLANDO, Fla. -- It is money that will matter in the 11th season of the popular Golf Channel reality series Big Break. For the first time, contestants will compete for cash - $100,000 to be exact - that can provide the winner a means to finance their dream of playing on a Tour for an entire year.
Premiering April 20 for the first time in HD, Big Break Prince Edward Island will showcase six females and six males in a competition that test every phase of their games, course management and mental toughness.
Each of the 12 contestants will compete on equal ground with no consideration of gender when it comes to elimination. Big Break showcases highly skilled golfers pitted against each other in a variety of challenges that test their physical skills and mental toughness, with the ultimate winner awarded his/her "Big Break."
The 12 competitors in Big Break Prince Edward Island are:
Kim Kouwabunpat (27, Upland, Calif.) - Focused and driven, Kouwabunpat (pronounced "Kowa boon pat") has the uncanny ability to pick herself up when she's been knocked down. The former Stanford University golfer has played on professional tours all over the world in her attempt to make it to the LPGA Tour.
Caroline Larsson (24, Orlando, Fla.) - The Stockholm, Sweden, native is considered to be one of the most talented competitors in the field. An accomplished player on the Duramed FUTURES Tour over the last two years, she competed in the 2007 LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament.
Brenda McLarnon (25, Charleston, S.C.) - The Belfast, Ireland, native is brutally honest and outspoken, and brings humor and conflict to everything she does. Having played the Duramed FUTURES Tour the last three years, she learned the sacrifice it takes to play professional golf and is ready to capitalize on the hard-earned experience.
Gerina Mendoza (23, Roswell, N.M.) - Mendoza picked up the game in her late teens but is one of the most naturally gifted competitors in the series. A member of the Duramed FUTURES Tour, last year she competed in the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament, where she missed the cut. With her length off the tee, Mendoza will be a force to be reckoned with in Big Break Prince Edward Island for both the ladies and men.
Blair O'Neal (27, Tempe, Ariz.) - A four-year starter at Arizona State University, she twice won the NCAA Long Drive Championship but has been out of professional golf since 2006 pursuing a modeling career. Before leaving the fairway for the runway, she competed on numerous Tours around the world.
Nicole Sikora (25, Yonkers, N.Y.) - Sikora may be the most inexperienced competitor on Big Break Prince Edward Island. After an unsuccessful rookie year on the DURAMED FUTURES Tour in 2007, she accepted a job on Wall Street as an executive assistant for a New York stock broker. Golf has taken a backseat, but now that her business career is on the fast track, she is slowly finding more time to re-devote to the game.
Derek Gillespie (30, Oshawa, Ontario) - The only Canadian in the cast, Gillespie was once labeled "the next great Canadian golfer" by fellow countryman and PGA TOUR professional Mike Weir. One of the most talented and experienced in the cast, Gillespie is looking to realize his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR after many years of missed opportunities and bad breaks.
Robert Read (30, Seekonk, Mass.) - Reid turned professional to play in Big Break Prince Edward Island. Read will use his humor and prodigious length to level the playing field. Quite the bomber, he has hit drives over 420 yards in long drive competitions.
Eugene Smith (30, Glen Ridge, N.J.) - Smith won the 2000 NCAA Big East Championship and later was the Seton Hall Athlete of the Year in 2001. The Canadian Tour veteran once shot 59 at his home course in New Jersey in a round that included a hole in one.
Brian Skatell (36, Virginia Beach, Va.) - A very confident player, Skatell prides himself on his meticulous work ethic and considers himself to be mentally strong. Though lacking the same amount of tournament experience as many of the other contestants, he firmly believes that even the best in the field can't match his skill level.
William Thompson (22, Bracey, Va.) - A self-admitted and rather obvious country boy, William "Football" Thompson will be one of the most unique personalities in the cast. The youngest competitor, his Big Break experience will be a trial by fire.
Aaron Wright (31, Orlando, Fla.) - Wright put his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR on hold to serve a six-year tour of duty with the Marines, including a five-month stint in Afghanistan. In 2008, the United States Navel Academy graduate played the Hooters Tour and made the cut in a Nationwide Tour event. He lost to Tiger Woods 4&3 in the quarterfinal match of the 1992 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship.
Past Big Break champions won tournament exemptions to compete on some of the world's top professional circuits, such as the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour, Nationwide Tour and Canadian Tour. Former Big Breakers Tommy Gainey and James Nitties, who tied for fourth in his third TOUR start at the FBR Open, will compete on the PGA TOUR in 2009 while four previous female contestants will play on the LPGA Tour.
Adding insight to Big Break Prince Edward Island as co-hosts will be former PGA TOUR professional Charlie Rymer and Golf Digest Senior Editor Stina Sternberg.
Shot at Mill River Golf Course in Prince Edward Island, it marks the first time a Canadian location has hosted Big Break. Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence on Canada's east coast, Prince Edward Island boasts more than 32 courses that span from one end of the Island to the other.
One of Canada's top golf destinations, Prince Edward Island offers other recreational activities, including kayaking, cycling, touring, or lazing on a sandy beach.
Premiering April 20 for the first time in HD, Big Break Prince Edward Island will showcase six females and six males in a competition that test every phase of their games, course management and mental toughness.
Each of the 12 contestants will compete on equal ground with no consideration of gender when it comes to elimination. Big Break showcases highly skilled golfers pitted against each other in a variety of challenges that test their physical skills and mental toughness, with the ultimate winner awarded his/her "Big Break."
The 12 competitors in Big Break Prince Edward Island are:
Kim Kouwabunpat (27, Upland, Calif.) - Focused and driven, Kouwabunpat (pronounced "Kowa boon pat") has the uncanny ability to pick herself up when she's been knocked down. The former Stanford University golfer has played on professional tours all over the world in her attempt to make it to the LPGA Tour.
Caroline Larsson (24, Orlando, Fla.) - The Stockholm, Sweden, native is considered to be one of the most talented competitors in the field. An accomplished player on the Duramed FUTURES Tour over the last two years, she competed in the 2007 LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament.
Brenda McLarnon (25, Charleston, S.C.) - The Belfast, Ireland, native is brutally honest and outspoken, and brings humor and conflict to everything she does. Having played the Duramed FUTURES Tour the last three years, she learned the sacrifice it takes to play professional golf and is ready to capitalize on the hard-earned experience.
Gerina Mendoza (23, Roswell, N.M.) - Mendoza picked up the game in her late teens but is one of the most naturally gifted competitors in the series. A member of the Duramed FUTURES Tour, last year she competed in the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament, where she missed the cut. With her length off the tee, Mendoza will be a force to be reckoned with in Big Break Prince Edward Island for both the ladies and men.
Blair O'Neal (27, Tempe, Ariz.) - A four-year starter at Arizona State University, she twice won the NCAA Long Drive Championship but has been out of professional golf since 2006 pursuing a modeling career. Before leaving the fairway for the runway, she competed on numerous Tours around the world.
Nicole Sikora (25, Yonkers, N.Y.) - Sikora may be the most inexperienced competitor on Big Break Prince Edward Island. After an unsuccessful rookie year on the DURAMED FUTURES Tour in 2007, she accepted a job on Wall Street as an executive assistant for a New York stock broker. Golf has taken a backseat, but now that her business career is on the fast track, she is slowly finding more time to re-devote to the game.
Derek Gillespie (30, Oshawa, Ontario) - The only Canadian in the cast, Gillespie was once labeled "the next great Canadian golfer" by fellow countryman and PGA TOUR professional Mike Weir. One of the most talented and experienced in the cast, Gillespie is looking to realize his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR after many years of missed opportunities and bad breaks.
Robert Read (30, Seekonk, Mass.) - Reid turned professional to play in Big Break Prince Edward Island. Read will use his humor and prodigious length to level the playing field. Quite the bomber, he has hit drives over 420 yards in long drive competitions.
Eugene Smith (30, Glen Ridge, N.J.) - Smith won the 2000 NCAA Big East Championship and later was the Seton Hall Athlete of the Year in 2001. The Canadian Tour veteran once shot 59 at his home course in New Jersey in a round that included a hole in one.
Brian Skatell (36, Virginia Beach, Va.) - A very confident player, Skatell prides himself on his meticulous work ethic and considers himself to be mentally strong. Though lacking the same amount of tournament experience as many of the other contestants, he firmly believes that even the best in the field can't match his skill level.
William Thompson (22, Bracey, Va.) - A self-admitted and rather obvious country boy, William "Football" Thompson will be one of the most unique personalities in the cast. The youngest competitor, his Big Break experience will be a trial by fire.
Aaron Wright (31, Orlando, Fla.) - Wright put his dream of playing on the PGA TOUR on hold to serve a six-year tour of duty with the Marines, including a five-month stint in Afghanistan. In 2008, the United States Navel Academy graduate played the Hooters Tour and made the cut in a Nationwide Tour event. He lost to Tiger Woods 4&3 in the quarterfinal match of the 1992 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship.
Past Big Break champions won tournament exemptions to compete on some of the world's top professional circuits, such as the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour, Nationwide Tour and Canadian Tour. Former Big Breakers Tommy Gainey and James Nitties, who tied for fourth in his third TOUR start at the FBR Open, will compete on the PGA TOUR in 2009 while four previous female contestants will play on the LPGA Tour.
Adding insight to Big Break Prince Edward Island as co-hosts will be former PGA TOUR professional Charlie Rymer and Golf Digest Senior Editor Stina Sternberg.
Shot at Mill River Golf Course in Prince Edward Island, it marks the first time a Canadian location has hosted Big Break. Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence on Canada's east coast, Prince Edward Island boasts more than 32 courses that span from one end of the Island to the other.
One of Canada's top golf destinations, Prince Edward Island offers other recreational activities, including kayaking, cycling, touring, or lazing on a sandy beach.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Mike Weir to Be Inducted Into Canadian Golf Hall of Fame
- PGA Tour standout to become Hall’s 64th honoured member; induction to take place as part of 100th Playing of RBC Canadian Open -
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) are proud to announce that Mike Weir has been elected as the 2009 inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.
With his induction, the Bright’s Grove, Ont. native becomes the 64th honoured member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Weir also becomes the 20th male professional golfer in the Hall of Fame and matches George Knudson with the most victories by inductees who have played on the PGA Tour.
"I am extremely honoured to share a place in the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame with the many names who have done so much for golf in Canada," said Weir. "I have so much that I still want to accomplish both on the course and in helping to continue to grow the game in Canada, but this honour will always rank as one of the greatest of my career. I'd like to thank the RCGA, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, and Canadian fans for this honour and their support."
Weir will officially be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame as part of the weeklong festivities for the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open taking place July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.
“Canada’s Golf Hall of Fame continually seeks to recognize and celebrate distinction from golfers, contributors and supporters of the game and with his career accomplishments to date, Mike Weir most certainly has earned the distinction,” said David Shaw, Chair of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. “2009 will mark a special year in Canadian golf history and we believe there is no better time to celebrate Mr. Weir’s achievements than during the 100th playing of our national Open championship.”
ABOUT MIKE WEIRThus far, throughout his illustrious playing career, Mike Weir has cemented himself as one of Canada’s most notable professional golfers. On April 13, 2003, he touched the hearts of Canadians from coast-to-coast, capturing golf’s coveted Green Jacket after winning The Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia. For his outstanding play in 2003, which included three wins on the PGA TOUR, Weir was awarded the Lou Marsh Memorial Trophy by Canadian journalists as the outstanding Canadian athlete of the year. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of his first PGA Tour victory at the Air Canada Championship in Vancouver, the first Canadian to win a PGA Tour event on Canadian soil since Pat Fletcher in 1954. Weir’s many other accomplishments include representing the International Team at The Presidents Cup on four occasions (2000, 2003, 2005, 2007) as well as representing Canada at three World Cups (2000-2002). The 38 year-old has eight PGA Tour victories which ties him with Canada’s George Knudson for the most wins on the Tour. Also a veteran of the Canadian Tour, Weir won the BC Tel Pacific Open and the Canadian Masters. As an amateur, Weir won the Canadian Juvenile, the Ontario Amateur and the Ontario Junior and Juvenile Championships as well as finishing runner-up in the Canadian Amateur in 1992, weeks before turning professional.ABOUT
THE CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME & MUSEUMThe Canadian Golf Hall of Fame celebrates the outstanding individuals of Canadian golf from players, both amateur and professional, to the builders, architects and others who have been fundamental to the evolution of the game in this country. Operated by the Royal Canadian Golf Association, the Hall of Fame, museum and library are open to visitors to discover more about the game and the inductees. For more information please visit www.cghf.org.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATIONThe Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf. For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) are proud to announce that Mike Weir has been elected as the 2009 inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.
With his induction, the Bright’s Grove, Ont. native becomes the 64th honoured member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Weir also becomes the 20th male professional golfer in the Hall of Fame and matches George Knudson with the most victories by inductees who have played on the PGA Tour.
"I am extremely honoured to share a place in the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame with the many names who have done so much for golf in Canada," said Weir. "I have so much that I still want to accomplish both on the course and in helping to continue to grow the game in Canada, but this honour will always rank as one of the greatest of my career. I'd like to thank the RCGA, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, and Canadian fans for this honour and their support."
Weir will officially be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame as part of the weeklong festivities for the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open taking place July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.
“Canada’s Golf Hall of Fame continually seeks to recognize and celebrate distinction from golfers, contributors and supporters of the game and with his career accomplishments to date, Mike Weir most certainly has earned the distinction,” said David Shaw, Chair of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. “2009 will mark a special year in Canadian golf history and we believe there is no better time to celebrate Mr. Weir’s achievements than during the 100th playing of our national Open championship.”
ABOUT MIKE WEIRThus far, throughout his illustrious playing career, Mike Weir has cemented himself as one of Canada’s most notable professional golfers. On April 13, 2003, he touched the hearts of Canadians from coast-to-coast, capturing golf’s coveted Green Jacket after winning The Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia. For his outstanding play in 2003, which included three wins on the PGA TOUR, Weir was awarded the Lou Marsh Memorial Trophy by Canadian journalists as the outstanding Canadian athlete of the year. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of his first PGA Tour victory at the Air Canada Championship in Vancouver, the first Canadian to win a PGA Tour event on Canadian soil since Pat Fletcher in 1954. Weir’s many other accomplishments include representing the International Team at The Presidents Cup on four occasions (2000, 2003, 2005, 2007) as well as representing Canada at three World Cups (2000-2002). The 38 year-old has eight PGA Tour victories which ties him with Canada’s George Knudson for the most wins on the Tour. Also a veteran of the Canadian Tour, Weir won the BC Tel Pacific Open and the Canadian Masters. As an amateur, Weir won the Canadian Juvenile, the Ontario Amateur and the Ontario Junior and Juvenile Championships as well as finishing runner-up in the Canadian Amateur in 1992, weeks before turning professional.ABOUT
THE CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME & MUSEUMThe Canadian Golf Hall of Fame celebrates the outstanding individuals of Canadian golf from players, both amateur and professional, to the builders, architects and others who have been fundamental to the evolution of the game in this country. Operated by the Royal Canadian Golf Association, the Hall of Fame, museum and library are open to visitors to discover more about the game and the inductees. For more information please visit www.cghf.org.
ABOUT THE ROYAL CANADIAN GOLF ASSOCIATIONThe Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) is the governing body of golf in Canada, representing 377,000 members at 1,600 clubs across the country. Recognized by Sport Canada as the National Sports Organization (NSO) for golf in this country, the RCGA’s mission is to grow participation in and passion for the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. The RCGA conducts programs and services to help shape the future of golf in Canada. High performance athlete development, CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program, turfgrass and environmental research, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Rules of Golf and amateur status, handicapping and course rating are only some of the initiatives the association leads for golf in Canada. In addition, the RCGA conducts Canada’s most prestigious golf championships. The RBC Canadian Open and CN Canadian Women’s Open attract the best professional golfers in the world, while regional junior and national amateur championships showcase the best in Canadian golf. For further information on what the RCGA is doing to support golf in your community please visit www.rcga.org.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Registration for all RCGA Championships is Now Open
For questions, concerns or assistance, please contact Alison Turcotte at aturcotte@rcga.org or 1-800-263-0009 ext. 250.
Click here to Register!
Click here to Register!
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