It has been an interesting week in golf to start the beginning of July. Here are three hot topics that began this week in the golf business:
The Good: The RCGA announced a stellar field committed to the RBC Canadian Open coming up this July at Glen Abbey Golf Club. Among the players confirmed include Sean O'Hair, Hunter Mahan and J.B. Holmes along with Ricky Barnes who is coming off a great performance at the US Open. They will join veterans such as Retief Goosen, Lee Janzen and 2010 Ryder Cup Captain Corey Pavin. Former RBC Canadian Open Champions scheduled to play include Scott Verplank, John Rollins and Bob Tway. It is a good field for the date challenged RBC Canadian Open and spectators should look forward to a great week of golf.
The Bad: The Canadian PGA announced today that they were unable to find a corporate sponsor for the playing of the 2009 CPGA Seniors Championship. The Association remains committed to the playing of the Championship in 2009 and will self-fund a guaranteed purse of $25,000. The event will be contested at The Marshes in Ottawa, ON. Tough to see one of the oldest Professional Golf Organizations facing this type of challenge, but it is good that the event will remain on the schedule this year.
The Ugly: Golf Course Industry Magazine reports that there have already been 71 golf course closures (18 hole equivalents) in the United States through the first half of the year. So far in 2009, there have been only 16.5 new courses opened (18 hole equivalents). In all of 2008 there were "only" 106 golf course closures. Overall, the net supply of golf courses has declined from a high of 16,057 in 2004 to a low of 15,931, a net reduction of 126 golf courses. While participation is showing small increases, golf course owners and operators continue to find it difficult to turn a profit in trying times.
Showing posts with label Mike Weir. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mike Weir. Show all posts
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Geoff Ogilvy wins 2009 TELUS World Skins Game at La Tempête Golf Club
Star-studded golf event a huge success on the golf course and in the Québec City community
as TELUS donates $202,000 to Opération Enfant Soleil
Geoff Ogilvy Wins the 2009 TELUS World Skins
Québec City, Québec - Geoff Ogilvy made birdie at just the right time today at La Tempête Golf Club, earning seven skins for $150,000 and going on to win the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game over Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia and Ian Poulter.
Ogilvy made birdie on the Par 5 14th hole while the four other players made par, giving him his first TELUS Skins Game title in his second appearance in the popular Canadian summer golf event. Fred Couples came in second place with four skins for $65,000, Sergio Garcia earned three skins for $45,000, and Canada’s Mike Weir and Ian Poulter each won two skins for $50,000.
"We all really enjoyed coming to Québec City, many of us for the first time, to play in front of some amazing fans," said Ogilvy. "Being able to help raise money with TELUS for a very worthwhile charity makes today a perfect day."
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", TELUS partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil this year, raising $202,000 through various initiatives for the local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec.
"Although Geoff Ogilvy will be taking home the trophy, the real winners are the kids and families who rely on the services Opération Enfant Soleil supports," said François Côté, president, TELUS Québec and TELUS Health Solutions. "At TELUS, we give where we live. We would like to thank the players and fans who helped raise an incredible amount of money to ensure more newborns with heart conditions receive the quality care they need."
"Thanks to partners like TELUS involved with Opération Enfant Soleil, sick children can receive high quality care and benefit from state-of-the-art treatments in large pediatric facilities funded by our organization. I thank all the participants for making this important event happen, said Ginette Charest, executive director of Opération Enfant Soleil."
Four of the five players in the TELUS World Skins Game were coming off a rain-delayed U.S. Open in New York, forcing the event to play all 18 holes today, while organizers also brought in PGA TOUR stars Padraig Harrington, Chris DiMarco and Michael Campbell, as well as Québec pro Rémi Bouchard, to play in a nine-hole Saint-Jean-Baptiste exhibition on Monday.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.2 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $137 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
as TELUS donates $202,000 to Opération Enfant Soleil
Geoff Ogilvy Wins the 2009 TELUS World Skins
Québec City, Québec - Geoff Ogilvy made birdie at just the right time today at La Tempête Golf Club, earning seven skins for $150,000 and going on to win the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game over Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia and Ian Poulter.
Ogilvy made birdie on the Par 5 14th hole while the four other players made par, giving him his first TELUS Skins Game title in his second appearance in the popular Canadian summer golf event. Fred Couples came in second place with four skins for $65,000, Sergio Garcia earned three skins for $45,000, and Canada’s Mike Weir and Ian Poulter each won two skins for $50,000.
"We all really enjoyed coming to Québec City, many of us for the first time, to play in front of some amazing fans," said Ogilvy. "Being able to help raise money with TELUS for a very worthwhile charity makes today a perfect day."
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", TELUS partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil this year, raising $202,000 through various initiatives for the local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec.
"Although Geoff Ogilvy will be taking home the trophy, the real winners are the kids and families who rely on the services Opération Enfant Soleil supports," said François Côté, president, TELUS Québec and TELUS Health Solutions. "At TELUS, we give where we live. We would like to thank the players and fans who helped raise an incredible amount of money to ensure more newborns with heart conditions receive the quality care they need."
"Thanks to partners like TELUS involved with Opération Enfant Soleil, sick children can receive high quality care and benefit from state-of-the-art treatments in large pediatric facilities funded by our organization. I thank all the participants for making this important event happen, said Ginette Charest, executive director of Opération Enfant Soleil."
Four of the five players in the TELUS World Skins Game were coming off a rain-delayed U.S. Open in New York, forcing the event to play all 18 holes today, while organizers also brought in PGA TOUR stars Padraig Harrington, Chris DiMarco and Michael Campbell, as well as Québec pro Rémi Bouchard, to play in a nine-hole Saint-Jean-Baptiste exhibition on Monday.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.2 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $137 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Monday Play at the US Open Alters Schedule for Monday's TELUS Skins Game
TELUS World Skins Game to proceed with Couples, Garcia, Ogilvy, Poulter and Weir after U.S. Open - Padraig Harrington, Michael Campbell and Chris DiMarco join Québec Pro Remi Bouchard on site on Monday
Québec City, Québec - Organizers of the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game are pleased to announce that the event will proceed with Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy, Ian Poulter and Mike Weir as soon as the U.S. Open ends. Weather permitting, it is possible that all five players will be at La Tempête Golf Club in time for the start of the event this Monday.
In order to thank the fans for their support, and to ensure that every minute of the day is filled with world class golf action, organizers announced that PGA stars Padraig Harrington from Ireland, Michael Campbell from New Zealand, and Chris DiMarco from the United States, would be joining top-ranked Québec pro, Rémi Bouchard, for an exhibition match on Monday at La Tempête Golf Club in Lévis.
"While the weather certainly cooperated at the U.S. Open on Saturday and we are optimistic that our five pros will arrive in time for Monday's play, we did not want to leave anything to chance," said Brad Pelletier, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Canada. "We saw this as an opportunity to thank the fans of Québec for their support from the time we announced La Tempête as the location for the 2009 event, and to ensure that this is the best TELUS World Skins Game yet."
Depending on the outcome of the U.S. Open, the TELUS World Skins Game will move forward with one of the two following scenarios:
If the U.S. Open ends on Sunday and the five originally scheduled players are in Québec on Monday, all eight pros will play in the morning Pro-Am at 8 a.m., followed by a nine-hole exhibition match featuring Harrington, Campbell, DiMarco and Bouchard at 12 p.m. The TELUS World Skins Game front nine will begin at 12:30 p.m. with Weir, Couples, Garcia, Ogilvy and Poulter.
If the U.S. Open is carried over to Monday, Couples, Harrington, Campbell and DiMarco will participate in the TELUS World Skins Game 8 a.m. Pro-Am, followed by an exhibition match at 12:30 p.m. with the same pros joined by Québec PGA pro Remi Bouchard. In this instance, ALL 18 HOLES of the TELUS World Skins Game, featuring Weir, Couples, Garcia, Ogilvy and Poulter would be played on Tuesday, June 23, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
TELUS WORLD SKINS GAME SCHEDULE
Monday, June 22
8:00 a.m. - Professionals play in Pro-Am (Front nine holes).
12:00 p.m. - Exhibition Match featuring Padraig Harrington, Michael Campbell, Chris DiMarco and Québec PGA pro Remi Bouchard.
12:30 p.m. - Front nine of TELUS World Skins Game featuring Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy and Ian Poulter (if U.S. Open concludes on Sunday).
Tuesday, June 23
8:00 a.m. - Professionals play in Pro-Am (Back nine holes).
12:30 p.m. - Back nine of TELUS World Skins Game featuring Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy and Ian Poulter (if U.S. Open is carried over to Monday, ALL 18 HOLES of the TELUS World Skins Game would be played on Tuesday).
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", TELUS has partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil, a local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec, for the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.2 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $137 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
Québec City, Québec - Organizers of the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game are pleased to announce that the event will proceed with Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy, Ian Poulter and Mike Weir as soon as the U.S. Open ends. Weather permitting, it is possible that all five players will be at La Tempête Golf Club in time for the start of the event this Monday.
In order to thank the fans for their support, and to ensure that every minute of the day is filled with world class golf action, organizers announced that PGA stars Padraig Harrington from Ireland, Michael Campbell from New Zealand, and Chris DiMarco from the United States, would be joining top-ranked Québec pro, Rémi Bouchard, for an exhibition match on Monday at La Tempête Golf Club in Lévis.
"While the weather certainly cooperated at the U.S. Open on Saturday and we are optimistic that our five pros will arrive in time for Monday's play, we did not want to leave anything to chance," said Brad Pelletier, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Canada. "We saw this as an opportunity to thank the fans of Québec for their support from the time we announced La Tempête as the location for the 2009 event, and to ensure that this is the best TELUS World Skins Game yet."
Depending on the outcome of the U.S. Open, the TELUS World Skins Game will move forward with one of the two following scenarios:
If the U.S. Open ends on Sunday and the five originally scheduled players are in Québec on Monday, all eight pros will play in the morning Pro-Am at 8 a.m., followed by a nine-hole exhibition match featuring Harrington, Campbell, DiMarco and Bouchard at 12 p.m. The TELUS World Skins Game front nine will begin at 12:30 p.m. with Weir, Couples, Garcia, Ogilvy and Poulter.
If the U.S. Open is carried over to Monday, Couples, Harrington, Campbell and DiMarco will participate in the TELUS World Skins Game 8 a.m. Pro-Am, followed by an exhibition match at 12:30 p.m. with the same pros joined by Québec PGA pro Remi Bouchard. In this instance, ALL 18 HOLES of the TELUS World Skins Game, featuring Weir, Couples, Garcia, Ogilvy and Poulter would be played on Tuesday, June 23, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
TELUS WORLD SKINS GAME SCHEDULE
Monday, June 22
8:00 a.m. - Professionals play in Pro-Am (Front nine holes).
12:00 p.m. - Exhibition Match featuring Padraig Harrington, Michael Campbell, Chris DiMarco and Québec PGA pro Remi Bouchard.
12:30 p.m. - Front nine of TELUS World Skins Game featuring Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy and Ian Poulter (if U.S. Open concludes on Sunday).
Tuesday, June 23
8:00 a.m. - Professionals play in Pro-Am (Back nine holes).
12:30 p.m. - Back nine of TELUS World Skins Game featuring Mike Weir, Fred Couples, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy and Ian Poulter (if U.S. Open is carried over to Monday, ALL 18 HOLES of the TELUS World Skins Game would be played on Tuesday).
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", TELUS has partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil, a local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec, for the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.2 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $137 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
RBC and RCGA Unveil Celebrity Participants and Concerts for Week of 2009 RBC Canadian Open
Hollywood Actor Kevin Costner, Comedian George Lopez and Network TV Star Thomas Gibson as well as NHL Superstars Martin Brodeur and Rick Nash join NBA All Star Steve Nash among notables confirmed for inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic
• Pengrowth Concert Series to feature Kevin Costner and Modern West, Tom Cochrane and Red Rider and Bachman Cummings performing live onsite at Glen Abbey following first three rounds of play
• Canada’s national Open championship to be weeklong festival in celebration of Canadian golf, including the 29th Annual SCOREGolf Awards being celebrated tournament week
• National Charity Partner Mike Weir Foundation as well as Local Community Beneficiary ROCK to benefit from RBC Canadian Open philanthropic vision
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) in partnership with title sponsor RBC, announced today that entertainers Kevin Costner and George Lopez, as well as NHL superstars Martin Brodeur and Rick Nash will join 2-time NBA MVP Steve Nash among the notable participants confirmed for inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic to be played Monday July 20 kicking off the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.
In addition, the popular Pengrowth Concert Series, introduced in 2008, will feature performing artists Kevin Costner and Modern West, Tom Cochrane & Red Rider, and Bachman Cummings performing live onsite at Glen Abbey following first three rounds of play of Canada’s national Open championship.
The announcements were made as the RCGA and RBC unveiled the full calendar of tournament week events taking place during what’s become an annual week long celebration of Canadian golf.
“The RCGA and our partners at RBC are proud that the week of the RBC Canadian Open has been defined as the chance for all Canadian golf fans and golfers to celebrate the game and our national Open championship,” said Scott Simmons, CEO and Executive Director of the Royal Canadian Golf Association. “From the way we conduct the event, our fan experience, our marketing and promotional efforts and our commitment to charitable giving, we are making this event a first class stop on the PGA TOUR.”
In 2008, the PGA TOUR recognized the RBC Canadian Open with an award for the most improved onsite presentation. Canada’s national Open championship will again feature both onsite and offsite activities expected to bolster community interest and attract record-setting attendance.
“The RBC Canadian Open has become more than just the traditional four rounds of golf, it’s a week-long event in the middle of summer that will attract thousands of people to the Toronto area for this world-class golf experience,” said Jim Little, Chief Brand and Communications Officer, RBC. “With concerts on the golf course, promotions in downtown Toronto and at our RBC branches across the Halton region, and the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic, we’re proud to welcome everyone and their families to the RBC Canadian Open.”
THE INAUGURAL MIKE WEIR CHARITY CLASSIC- Monday July 20th
As part of the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open, a new chapter in the event’s history will be written with the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic set to kick off tournament week on Monday, July 20th.
This charity based Pro-am will feature marquee celebrities from the music, sports and entertainment industries, as well at top stars on the PGA TOUR. With 100% of the net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic benefiting children’s charities, the event will assist in achieving the RBC Canadian Open’s philanthropic objectives.
The list of participating celebrities added today includes:
Kevin Costner - Two-time Oscar winner and Golden Globe Award winner
George Lopez - Comedian, Actor, and Producer and star of sitcom 'George Lopez'
Tom Cochrane - Legendary Canadian singer, songwriter and Canadian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
Thomas Gibson - Star of television hit drama Criminal Minds and former sitcom Dharma & Greg
Steve Nash - Two-time NBA MVP, 2008 inductee to Canada’s Walk of Fame
Martin Brodeur - Most All-time Wins By an NHL Goalie, Vezina Trophy winner
Rick Nash - 4 time NHL All-Star and Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner, Captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets
Watch for upcoming announcements over the next two weeks as the final celebrity names will be added and paired with PGA Touring Professionals, completing the 2009 Mike Weir Charity Classic Field. Amateurs that have purchased a team will play 9 holes with a Celebrity and 9 holes with a TOUR player as part of their once in a lifetime experience. Tickets to the event are only $15, with children admitted FREE with a paying adult.
A SEVEN-DAY CELEBRATION OF CANADIAN GOLF
The RBC Canadian Open will once again feature something for everyone through new tournament week enhancements and unique sponsor programming designed to bolster community interest and attract record-setting attendance while adding to the overall prestige of Canada’s national Open championship.
PENGROWTH Championship Pro-Am Draw Party – Tuesday July 21st
Attended by corporate hospitality buyers and sponsor partners playing in the Championship Pro-Am, this evening has been elevated with special guest hosts, appearances by past Canadian Open champions and this year’s addition of the Canadian Tenors as special musical guest.
SCORE Golf Awards – Wednesday, July 22nd
After being officially welcomed into tournament week of the RBC Canadian Open last year, the 29th Annual SCORE Golf Awards will take place Wednesday, July 22nd at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto. The annual awards show honouring excellence in Canadian golf will also partner with the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum in a special tribute to the legends of Canadian golf and the 100th playing of the Canadian Open. The evening will feature a light-hearted panel discussion with Mike Weir and Stephen Ames about their favorite Canadian Open memories moderated by SCORE Golf’s Bob Weeks.
PENGROWTH Concert Series @ the 19th hole – Thursday, July 23rd through Saturday, July 25th
The PENGROWTH CONCERT SERIES @ the 19th hole will feature three nights of musical entertainment following the completion of play on from Thursday, July 23rd through Saturday, July 25th. The schedule for the Pengrowth Concert Series @ the 19th hole is as follow:
Thursday, July 23rd (following play)
Kevin Costner and Modern West
www.kevincostnermodernwest.com
Friday, July 24th (following play)
Tom Cochrane
www.tomcochrane.com
Saturday, July 25th (following play)
Randy Bachman & Burton Cummings (Bachman Cummings)
www.bachmancummings.com
SPONSOR ACTIVATION PROGRAMS – Wednesday July 22nd through Tournament Week
RBC Canadian Open sponsors have been re-building their activation programs, both on and off-site, with a renewed focus on fan engagement and interactivity. In addition to on-site programs by Bell, Pengrowth, BMW, Molson and LG and RBC will be hosting the RBC Avion Golf Challenge in the downtown core, engaging golf fans in advance of the tournament.
Additional sponsor activities onsite include:
RBC – to conclude the activation program hosted downtown Toronto at the corner of Bay and Wellington St. executed July 13th through tournament week, five lucky finalists will attempt a 60-foot putt on the 18th green at Glen Abbey following the RBC Canadian Open closing ceremony on July 26th. Successful putts made by the finalists will earn the lucky winners $100,000 cash and will trigger a $100,000 donation to the tournament’s charity beneficiaries.
Bell - Bell will be constructing two interactive Bell Communication Centres where fans can keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues via Bell's mobile phone and high speed internet stations on site – free for RBC Canadian Open spectators.
Pengrowth – In addition to sponsoring the Pengrowth Concert Series @ the 19th hole, Pengrowth will be on site handing out a variety of items to spectators including lanyards with ticket holders along with other Pengrowth souvenirs. Care packages including personal hand wipes and Band-Aids with Pengrowth messaging for onsite spectators.
BMW - BMW will offer free shuttle service from the public parking lot in a fleet of their latest X5 xDrive35i Advanced Diesels. Various models from the BMW product lineup will be on display throughout Glen Abbey including the latest Z4 roadster as a Hole-in-One prize on the 15th hole.
LG – As the official electronics supplier to the RBC Canadian Open, LG will be operating a booth on site to showcase the latest top of the line LG technology while offering spectators a chance to win a brand new LG 240HZ HD TV.
Transitions – Transitions will be providing an area for spectators to relax and learn more about their eyesight and the benefits of Transitions products in their “Live Your Vision Lounge” adjacent to the clubhouse, between the 16th and 17th holes. With a focus on the link between healthy sight and athletic performance, Transitions will be giving away photochromic bracelets (change colour when exposed to UV rays) and UV stickers to generate awareness about the importance to protect our eyes from dangerous UV rays. The Lounge will also feature a Lens Challenge in which spectators are invited to guess which lens is photochromic, as well as contesting and a Putting Challenge with eye goggles that simulates an Eye Disease condition (Glaucoma). Lens cleaning cloths as well as information on Healthy Sight and the eye glass buying process will be distributed.
Corona Extra – Corona Extra is proud to be the official beer of the RBC Canadian Open and will be engaging spectators at the Coronaville Patio aside the main concession of the Spectator Village where guests can enjoy themselves with friends.
Fosters – Fosters will be promoting their Wolf Blass wine label through sampling atop the Executive Rooftop Patio.
Corby Distilleries – Corby Distilleries will focus on their whiskey brand The Glenlivet which will be sampled atop the Executive Rooftop Patio.
Suncor – Sunoco’s gas pump slot machine will be engaging spectators as they pull for their chance to win selected gas prizes.
COMMITTED TO A PHILANTHROPIC VISION
In 2008, RBC and the RCGA made a joint commitment to use the RBC Canadian Open to generate $5 million for charity over the first five years of RBC’s sponsorship. RBC and the RCGA are pleased to have the Mike Weir Foundation as the event's national charity partner as well as the Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK) as the local community charity beneficiary.
“It is critical that the RBC Canadian Open leave a lasting legacy in our local host communities,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “The generosity of Canadian golf fans will touch so many in need through our national charity partner, the Mike Weir Foundation, as well as our local community beneficiary, ROCK here in the Halton Region.”
As the event’s local charity partner, ROCK has built a community-based fundraising campaign leveraged around their involvement with the 2009 RBC Canadian Open. The campaign features three tiers of fundraising activities including corporate gifts and private donations; a revenue sharing model tied to the sale of RBC Canadian Open corporate hospitality and bulk ticket packages; and charitable funds raised through prizing and silent auction of RBC Canadian Open memorabilia and golf related experiences.
KIDS UNDER 15 GET IN FREE
As in past years, the RBC Canadian Open is committed to providing affordable family entertainment with the playing of Canada’s national Open golf championship. Any child 15 years of age or younger will gain free admission onto the grounds of the RBC Canadian Open provided they are accompanied by a ticketed adult. Juniors will also have the opportunity to take part in golf clinics and activities on site as part of CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.
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.
• Pengrowth Concert Series to feature Kevin Costner and Modern West, Tom Cochrane and Red Rider and Bachman Cummings performing live onsite at Glen Abbey following first three rounds of play
• Canada’s national Open championship to be weeklong festival in celebration of Canadian golf, including the 29th Annual SCOREGolf Awards being celebrated tournament week
• National Charity Partner Mike Weir Foundation as well as Local Community Beneficiary ROCK to benefit from RBC Canadian Open philanthropic vision
Oakville, Ont. (RCGA) – The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) in partnership with title sponsor RBC, announced today that entertainers Kevin Costner and George Lopez, as well as NHL superstars Martin Brodeur and Rick Nash will join 2-time NBA MVP Steve Nash among the notable participants confirmed for inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic to be played Monday July 20 kicking off the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.
In addition, the popular Pengrowth Concert Series, introduced in 2008, will feature performing artists Kevin Costner and Modern West, Tom Cochrane & Red Rider, and Bachman Cummings performing live onsite at Glen Abbey following first three rounds of play of Canada’s national Open championship.
The announcements were made as the RCGA and RBC unveiled the full calendar of tournament week events taking place during what’s become an annual week long celebration of Canadian golf.
“The RCGA and our partners at RBC are proud that the week of the RBC Canadian Open has been defined as the chance for all Canadian golf fans and golfers to celebrate the game and our national Open championship,” said Scott Simmons, CEO and Executive Director of the Royal Canadian Golf Association. “From the way we conduct the event, our fan experience, our marketing and promotional efforts and our commitment to charitable giving, we are making this event a first class stop on the PGA TOUR.”
In 2008, the PGA TOUR recognized the RBC Canadian Open with an award for the most improved onsite presentation. Canada’s national Open championship will again feature both onsite and offsite activities expected to bolster community interest and attract record-setting attendance.
“The RBC Canadian Open has become more than just the traditional four rounds of golf, it’s a week-long event in the middle of summer that will attract thousands of people to the Toronto area for this world-class golf experience,” said Jim Little, Chief Brand and Communications Officer, RBC. “With concerts on the golf course, promotions in downtown Toronto and at our RBC branches across the Halton region, and the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic, we’re proud to welcome everyone and their families to the RBC Canadian Open.”
THE INAUGURAL MIKE WEIR CHARITY CLASSIC- Monday July 20th
As part of the 100th playing of the RBC Canadian Open, a new chapter in the event’s history will be written with the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic set to kick off tournament week on Monday, July 20th.
This charity based Pro-am will feature marquee celebrities from the music, sports and entertainment industries, as well at top stars on the PGA TOUR. With 100% of the net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic benefiting children’s charities, the event will assist in achieving the RBC Canadian Open’s philanthropic objectives.
The list of participating celebrities added today includes:
Kevin Costner - Two-time Oscar winner and Golden Globe Award winner
George Lopez - Comedian, Actor, and Producer and star of sitcom 'George Lopez'
Tom Cochrane - Legendary Canadian singer, songwriter and Canadian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
Thomas Gibson - Star of television hit drama Criminal Minds and former sitcom Dharma & Greg
Steve Nash - Two-time NBA MVP, 2008 inductee to Canada’s Walk of Fame
Martin Brodeur - Most All-time Wins By an NHL Goalie, Vezina Trophy winner
Rick Nash - 4 time NHL All-Star and Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner, Captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets
Watch for upcoming announcements over the next two weeks as the final celebrity names will be added and paired with PGA Touring Professionals, completing the 2009 Mike Weir Charity Classic Field. Amateurs that have purchased a team will play 9 holes with a Celebrity and 9 holes with a TOUR player as part of their once in a lifetime experience. Tickets to the event are only $15, with children admitted FREE with a paying adult.
A SEVEN-DAY CELEBRATION OF CANADIAN GOLF
The RBC Canadian Open will once again feature something for everyone through new tournament week enhancements and unique sponsor programming designed to bolster community interest and attract record-setting attendance while adding to the overall prestige of Canada’s national Open championship.
PENGROWTH Championship Pro-Am Draw Party – Tuesday July 21st
Attended by corporate hospitality buyers and sponsor partners playing in the Championship Pro-Am, this evening has been elevated with special guest hosts, appearances by past Canadian Open champions and this year’s addition of the Canadian Tenors as special musical guest.
SCORE Golf Awards – Wednesday, July 22nd
After being officially welcomed into tournament week of the RBC Canadian Open last year, the 29th Annual SCORE Golf Awards will take place Wednesday, July 22nd at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto. The annual awards show honouring excellence in Canadian golf will also partner with the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum in a special tribute to the legends of Canadian golf and the 100th playing of the Canadian Open. The evening will feature a light-hearted panel discussion with Mike Weir and Stephen Ames about their favorite Canadian Open memories moderated by SCORE Golf’s Bob Weeks.
PENGROWTH Concert Series @ the 19th hole – Thursday, July 23rd through Saturday, July 25th
The PENGROWTH CONCERT SERIES @ the 19th hole will feature three nights of musical entertainment following the completion of play on from Thursday, July 23rd through Saturday, July 25th. The schedule for the Pengrowth Concert Series @ the 19th hole is as follow:
Thursday, July 23rd (following play)
Kevin Costner and Modern West
www.kevincostnermodernwest.com
Friday, July 24th (following play)
Tom Cochrane
www.tomcochrane.com
Saturday, July 25th (following play)
Randy Bachman & Burton Cummings (Bachman Cummings)
www.bachmancummings.com
SPONSOR ACTIVATION PROGRAMS – Wednesday July 22nd through Tournament Week
RBC Canadian Open sponsors have been re-building their activation programs, both on and off-site, with a renewed focus on fan engagement and interactivity. In addition to on-site programs by Bell, Pengrowth, BMW, Molson and LG and RBC will be hosting the RBC Avion Golf Challenge in the downtown core, engaging golf fans in advance of the tournament.
Additional sponsor activities onsite include:
RBC – to conclude the activation program hosted downtown Toronto at the corner of Bay and Wellington St. executed July 13th through tournament week, five lucky finalists will attempt a 60-foot putt on the 18th green at Glen Abbey following the RBC Canadian Open closing ceremony on July 26th. Successful putts made by the finalists will earn the lucky winners $100,000 cash and will trigger a $100,000 donation to the tournament’s charity beneficiaries.
Bell - Bell will be constructing two interactive Bell Communication Centres where fans can keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues via Bell's mobile phone and high speed internet stations on site – free for RBC Canadian Open spectators.
Pengrowth – In addition to sponsoring the Pengrowth Concert Series @ the 19th hole, Pengrowth will be on site handing out a variety of items to spectators including lanyards with ticket holders along with other Pengrowth souvenirs. Care packages including personal hand wipes and Band-Aids with Pengrowth messaging for onsite spectators.
BMW - BMW will offer free shuttle service from the public parking lot in a fleet of their latest X5 xDrive35i Advanced Diesels. Various models from the BMW product lineup will be on display throughout Glen Abbey including the latest Z4 roadster as a Hole-in-One prize on the 15th hole.
LG – As the official electronics supplier to the RBC Canadian Open, LG will be operating a booth on site to showcase the latest top of the line LG technology while offering spectators a chance to win a brand new LG 240HZ HD TV.
Transitions – Transitions will be providing an area for spectators to relax and learn more about their eyesight and the benefits of Transitions products in their “Live Your Vision Lounge” adjacent to the clubhouse, between the 16th and 17th holes. With a focus on the link between healthy sight and athletic performance, Transitions will be giving away photochromic bracelets (change colour when exposed to UV rays) and UV stickers to generate awareness about the importance to protect our eyes from dangerous UV rays. The Lounge will also feature a Lens Challenge in which spectators are invited to guess which lens is photochromic, as well as contesting and a Putting Challenge with eye goggles that simulates an Eye Disease condition (Glaucoma). Lens cleaning cloths as well as information on Healthy Sight and the eye glass buying process will be distributed.
Corona Extra – Corona Extra is proud to be the official beer of the RBC Canadian Open and will be engaging spectators at the Coronaville Patio aside the main concession of the Spectator Village where guests can enjoy themselves with friends.
Fosters – Fosters will be promoting their Wolf Blass wine label through sampling atop the Executive Rooftop Patio.
Corby Distilleries – Corby Distilleries will focus on their whiskey brand The Glenlivet which will be sampled atop the Executive Rooftop Patio.
Suncor – Sunoco’s gas pump slot machine will be engaging spectators as they pull for their chance to win selected gas prizes.
COMMITTED TO A PHILANTHROPIC VISION
In 2008, RBC and the RCGA made a joint commitment to use the RBC Canadian Open to generate $5 million for charity over the first five years of RBC’s sponsorship. RBC and the RCGA are pleased to have the Mike Weir Foundation as the event's national charity partner as well as the Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK) as the local community charity beneficiary.
“It is critical that the RBC Canadian Open leave a lasting legacy in our local host communities,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “The generosity of Canadian golf fans will touch so many in need through our national charity partner, the Mike Weir Foundation, as well as our local community beneficiary, ROCK here in the Halton Region.”
As the event’s local charity partner, ROCK has built a community-based fundraising campaign leveraged around their involvement with the 2009 RBC Canadian Open. The campaign features three tiers of fundraising activities including corporate gifts and private donations; a revenue sharing model tied to the sale of RBC Canadian Open corporate hospitality and bulk ticket packages; and charitable funds raised through prizing and silent auction of RBC Canadian Open memorabilia and golf related experiences.
KIDS UNDER 15 GET IN FREE
As in past years, the RBC Canadian Open is committed to providing affordable family entertainment with the playing of Canada’s national Open golf championship. Any child 15 years of age or younger will gain free admission onto the grounds of the RBC Canadian Open provided they are accompanied by a ticketed adult. Juniors will also have the opportunity to take part in golf clinics and activities on site as part of CN Future Links, Canada’s national junior golf program.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.
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.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club to Host 2011 RBC Canadian Open
-Canada’s national Open championship marks return to western Canada -
Vancouver, B.C. (RCGA) – The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) and RBC confirmed today that the historic Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver will host the 2011 RBC Canadian Open.
The renowned Vancouver layout – consistently ranked among Canada’s best – had previously hosted Canada’s national Open championship in 2005. The course drew rave reviews from PGA TOUR competitors, ultimately being selected by the players as one of the top courses played on TOUR that season.
“We are thrilled to bring the 2011 RBC Canadian Open back to the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “The quality of the golf course is of utmost importance to PGA TOUR players and the response to Shaughnessy from players in 2005 was overwhelmingly positive. The course is among the premier venues in all of Canada and we are delighted that the membership has agreed to host the championship in 2011.”
The decision to bring the 2011 event back to Shaughnessy ties in with RBC and the RCGA’s shared vision of conducting the championship at the finest golf courses in the country.
“RBC is committed to helping bring the RBC Canadian Open to the best courses in Canada and Shaughnessy certainly fits our vision,” said Jim Little, RBC Chief Brand and Communications Officer. “Staging the championship at one of Canada’s finest historic courses adds to the event’s prestige and we are thrilled to showcase this best in class championship to our clients, customers and golf enthusiasts in Western Canada.”
For the club, the opportunity to once again host the stars of the PGA TOUR became less a matter of if, but rather when.
“On behalf of the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club, I am very proud to welcome the PGA TOUR and the RBC Canadian Open back to Vancouver,” said Shaughnessy Club President Peter Birks. “The 2005 Canadian Open was a truly special event and our members are deeply honoured to help write the next chapter in the Canadian Open’s storied history.”
The 2005 Canadian Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club was won by PGA TOUR veteran Mark Calcavecchia who shot 5-under 275 to outlast Ryan Moore and Ben Crane by a single stroke. The 2005 event marked the return of Canada’s national Open championship to western Canada for the first time in nearly 40 years dating back to Don Massengale’s victory at Shaughnessy in 1966. The club also played host to C.W. Congdon’s Canadian Open victory in 1948.
“Shaughnessy is the type of old-style traditional golf course that players on TOUR absolutely love to play,” said Calcavecchia, whose winning score in 2005 was 5-under for the tournament. “I remember back in 2005, the players couldn’t say enough about how great the golf course was and a lot of us have wondered when the event might get back out there. I think the players would agree that it’s going to be one of the best golf courses we play in 2011.”
Calcavecchia is one of several PGA TOUR stars already confirmed for the 2009 RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club. 2009 will mark both the 100th playing of Canada’s national Open championship as well as the 25th time Glen Abbey has played host to the event.The 2009 RBC Canadian Open welcomes the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic to Monday, July 20th of tournament week. Players already confirming their participation in the celebrity Pro-Am include host Mike Weir, Calcavecchia, Anthony Kim, Camilo Villegas, Luke Donald, Stephen Ames, Fred Couples and defending champion Chez Reavie as well as two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash. All net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic will go to the Mike Weir Foundation which was recently named the national charity partner for the RBC Canadian Open.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE ANNOUNCEMENTABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit http://www.thecanadianopen.ca/www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.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 http://www.thecanadianopen.ca/.
Vancouver, B.C. (RCGA) – The Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) and RBC confirmed today that the historic Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver will host the 2011 RBC Canadian Open.
The renowned Vancouver layout – consistently ranked among Canada’s best – had previously hosted Canada’s national Open championship in 2005. The course drew rave reviews from PGA TOUR competitors, ultimately being selected by the players as one of the top courses played on TOUR that season.
“We are thrilled to bring the 2011 RBC Canadian Open back to the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “The quality of the golf course is of utmost importance to PGA TOUR players and the response to Shaughnessy from players in 2005 was overwhelmingly positive. The course is among the premier venues in all of Canada and we are delighted that the membership has agreed to host the championship in 2011.”
The decision to bring the 2011 event back to Shaughnessy ties in with RBC and the RCGA’s shared vision of conducting the championship at the finest golf courses in the country.
“RBC is committed to helping bring the RBC Canadian Open to the best courses in Canada and Shaughnessy certainly fits our vision,” said Jim Little, RBC Chief Brand and Communications Officer. “Staging the championship at one of Canada’s finest historic courses adds to the event’s prestige and we are thrilled to showcase this best in class championship to our clients, customers and golf enthusiasts in Western Canada.”
For the club, the opportunity to once again host the stars of the PGA TOUR became less a matter of if, but rather when.
“On behalf of the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club, I am very proud to welcome the PGA TOUR and the RBC Canadian Open back to Vancouver,” said Shaughnessy Club President Peter Birks. “The 2005 Canadian Open was a truly special event and our members are deeply honoured to help write the next chapter in the Canadian Open’s storied history.”
The 2005 Canadian Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club was won by PGA TOUR veteran Mark Calcavecchia who shot 5-under 275 to outlast Ryan Moore and Ben Crane by a single stroke. The 2005 event marked the return of Canada’s national Open championship to western Canada for the first time in nearly 40 years dating back to Don Massengale’s victory at Shaughnessy in 1966. The club also played host to C.W. Congdon’s Canadian Open victory in 1948.
“Shaughnessy is the type of old-style traditional golf course that players on TOUR absolutely love to play,” said Calcavecchia, whose winning score in 2005 was 5-under for the tournament. “I remember back in 2005, the players couldn’t say enough about how great the golf course was and a lot of us have wondered when the event might get back out there. I think the players would agree that it’s going to be one of the best golf courses we play in 2011.”
Calcavecchia is one of several PGA TOUR stars already confirmed for the 2009 RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club. 2009 will mark both the 100th playing of Canada’s national Open championship as well as the 25th time Glen Abbey has played host to the event.The 2009 RBC Canadian Open welcomes the inaugural Mike Weir Charity Classic to Monday, July 20th of tournament week. Players already confirming their participation in the celebrity Pro-Am include host Mike Weir, Calcavecchia, Anthony Kim, Camilo Villegas, Luke Donald, Stephen Ames, Fred Couples and defending champion Chez Reavie as well as two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash. All net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic will go to the Mike Weir Foundation which was recently named the national charity partner for the RBC Canadian Open.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE ANNOUNCEMENTABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit http://www.thecanadianopen.ca/www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.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 http://www.thecanadianopen.ca/.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Red-hot Geoff Ogilvy joins defending Masters champion Trevor Immelman and England's Ian Poulter in 2009 TELUS World Skins Game field
Québec City, Québec – Geoff Ogilvy, considered by many to be a leading contender at this year's Masters tournament, was named to the TELUS World Skins Game field today, along with the reigning Masters champion Trevor Immelman and Ian Poulter, a star on both the PGA and European Tours. The 2009 TELUS World Skins Game will take place June 22-23 at La Tempête Golf Club in Lévis, Québec.
As part of the TELUS World Skins Game's global theme, Ogilvy will represent his native Australia, with the South African Immelman and England's Poulter rounding out the field. For Immelman and Poulter, it will be their first time participating in the TELUS World Skins Game, while Ogilvy previously participated in the 2007 event. The three players join a star-studded ‘five-some' with previously announced players Canadian Mike Weir and Fred Couples of the United States.
"I really enjoyed my time playing in the TELUS World Skins Game two years ago, so I was thrilled with the invitation to return this year," said Ogilvy. "It's been a very rewarding start to the 2009 season for me. Having the opportunity to play with these great golfers immediately following the U.S. Open will not only be a treat for us as players, but hopefully for the fans as well."
Ogilvy, a six-time winner on the PGA TOUR, which includes a major victory at the 2006 U.S. Open, is arguably the hottest player in the world so far in 2009. With two wins in his six starts (Mercedes Benz Championship and World Golf Championships -Accenture Match Play Championship), he is currently ranked fourth in the world and leads both the PGA TOUR's 2009 FedExCup points race and money list.
Immelman, who was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and has ten professional wins to his credit, earned the biggest win of his young career last April with his victory at the Masters. He has also been a two-time member of the International Team at the Presidents Cup, including in 2007 when the event was played at Royal Montréal Golf Club.
"I am excited and honoured to be invited to participate in the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game in support of Opération Enfant Soleil," said Immelman as he prepared to defend his 2008 victory at Augusta National this week. "I have always enjoyed playing in Canada and I look forward to visiting Québec City this summer."
A fan favorite, Poulter is known as one of the most colourful players in golf, in part due to the radical outfits he sometimes wears on the course, but also thanks to his engaging personality. He has been a player of great impact for the European team in Ryder Cup competition, including scoring the winning points for the team in 2004. At the 2008 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, Poulter held the clubhouse lead for the final round before being defeated by defending champion Padraig Harrington and ultimately finishing in second place.
"Watching Immelman defend his Masters title against Ogilvy at the game this week will be outstanding, but I'm even more excited about watching them join Poulter, Weir and Couples, some of the most talented golfers in the world, at the TELUS World Skins," said Joe Natale, president of TELUS Business Solutions. "They'll be bringing their ‘A game' to a tournament that supports a better quality of care for sick kids in Quebec. We couldn't be happier about this star-studded line-up."
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", for the 2009 golf event TELUS has partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil, a local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec. Funds will be generated through the ‘Charity on the Course' program which includes donations made for every birdie and eagle played by the professional golfers during the competition. Golf fans will also be able to support the cause by bidding on one of the many items that will be auctioned on eBay in the weeks preceding the tournament.
Karen Radford, president of TELUS Québec, said, "With the support of golf fans everywhere, the local community and the very talented players named to the field this year, the TELUS World Skins Game will help Opération Enfant Soleil continue to increase the success rate of pediatric heart surgeries in Quebec for years to come."
Opération Enfant Soleil will use the money raised during the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game to equip the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec's Centre mère-enfant's surgical unit with the latest in multimedia technology to facilitate complex pediatric heart surgeries. The new system's extensive connectivity will enable real-time participation in surgeries from any location, thereby improving educational opportunities and providing quick access to specialists, wherever they may be.
Tickets for the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game, priced at $125 for a two-day pass, go on sale on Monday, April 13 at 10 a.m. (ET) and will be available for purchase by phone at 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or online by visiting www.telusskins.com.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung Electronics Canada Inc.
About IMG Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUSTELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.1 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $135 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
To purchase TELUS World Skins tickets, call 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or visit www.telusskins.com after April 13, 2009 at 10 a.m. ET.
As part of the TELUS World Skins Game's global theme, Ogilvy will represent his native Australia, with the South African Immelman and England's Poulter rounding out the field. For Immelman and Poulter, it will be their first time participating in the TELUS World Skins Game, while Ogilvy previously participated in the 2007 event. The three players join a star-studded ‘five-some' with previously announced players Canadian Mike Weir and Fred Couples of the United States.
"I really enjoyed my time playing in the TELUS World Skins Game two years ago, so I was thrilled with the invitation to return this year," said Ogilvy. "It's been a very rewarding start to the 2009 season for me. Having the opportunity to play with these great golfers immediately following the U.S. Open will not only be a treat for us as players, but hopefully for the fans as well."
Ogilvy, a six-time winner on the PGA TOUR, which includes a major victory at the 2006 U.S. Open, is arguably the hottest player in the world so far in 2009. With two wins in his six starts (Mercedes Benz Championship and World Golf Championships -Accenture Match Play Championship), he is currently ranked fourth in the world and leads both the PGA TOUR's 2009 FedExCup points race and money list.
Immelman, who was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and has ten professional wins to his credit, earned the biggest win of his young career last April with his victory at the Masters. He has also been a two-time member of the International Team at the Presidents Cup, including in 2007 when the event was played at Royal Montréal Golf Club.
"I am excited and honoured to be invited to participate in the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game in support of Opération Enfant Soleil," said Immelman as he prepared to defend his 2008 victory at Augusta National this week. "I have always enjoyed playing in Canada and I look forward to visiting Québec City this summer."
A fan favorite, Poulter is known as one of the most colourful players in golf, in part due to the radical outfits he sometimes wears on the course, but also thanks to his engaging personality. He has been a player of great impact for the European team in Ryder Cup competition, including scoring the winning points for the team in 2004. At the 2008 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, Poulter held the clubhouse lead for the final round before being defeated by defending champion Padraig Harrington and ultimately finishing in second place.
"Watching Immelman defend his Masters title against Ogilvy at the game this week will be outstanding, but I'm even more excited about watching them join Poulter, Weir and Couples, some of the most talented golfers in the world, at the TELUS World Skins," said Joe Natale, president of TELUS Business Solutions. "They'll be bringing their ‘A game' to a tournament that supports a better quality of care for sick kids in Quebec. We couldn't be happier about this star-studded line-up."
Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live", for the 2009 golf event TELUS has partnered with Opération Enfant Soleil, a local charity that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec. Funds will be generated through the ‘Charity on the Course' program which includes donations made for every birdie and eagle played by the professional golfers during the competition. Golf fans will also be able to support the cause by bidding on one of the many items that will be auctioned on eBay in the weeks preceding the tournament.
Karen Radford, president of TELUS Québec, said, "With the support of golf fans everywhere, the local community and the very talented players named to the field this year, the TELUS World Skins Game will help Opération Enfant Soleil continue to increase the success rate of pediatric heart surgeries in Quebec for years to come."
Opération Enfant Soleil will use the money raised during the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game to equip the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec's Centre mère-enfant's surgical unit with the latest in multimedia technology to facilitate complex pediatric heart surgeries. The new system's extensive connectivity will enable real-time participation in surgeries from any location, thereby improving educational opportunities and providing quick access to specialists, wherever they may be.
Tickets for the 2009 TELUS World Skins Game, priced at $125 for a two-day pass, go on sale on Monday, April 13 at 10 a.m. (ET) and will be available for purchase by phone at 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or online by visiting www.telusskins.com.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung Electronics Canada Inc.
About IMG Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUSTELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.1 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $135 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
To purchase TELUS World Skins tickets, call 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or visit www.telusskins.com after April 13, 2009 at 10 a.m. ET.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Mike Weir and Fred Couples headline 2009 TELUS World Skins Game
International event to raise funds for Operation Enfant Soleil and sick children throughout Quebec
Québec City, Québec - Mike Weir, one of the most successful, and beloved, golfers ever to hail from Canada, and Fred Couples, the American player aptly nicknamed 'Mr. Skins', will be headlining the famous international 'fivesome' competing in the 2009 TELUS World Skins at Lévis' La Tempête Golf Club in June.
Weir, who authored one of Canada's proudest golfing moments when he won the 2003 Masters, will be making his seventh appearance at the TELUS World Skins. Over the years, he has won 20 skins for a total of $400,000. He is also tied with George Knudson for the most career victories on the PGA TOUR by a Canadian.
"I couldn't be more excited about the chance to play in the TELUS World Skins Game and visiting the Québec City region this summer," said Weir. "I'll always remember the support that the fans in Québec showed me during the 2007 President's Cup, and I'm looking forward to showing the other players one of our most beautiful and historic cities."
Couples, a fifteen-time winner on the PGA Tour including the 1992 Masters, is one of the most popular players in the history of professional golf and is certainly no stranger to the Canadian Skins Game. He has won 62 Skins for $1,110,000 in eight appearances, the most of any player in the event's history. To date, he has won more than $4 million in the U.S. Skins Game.
"We are thrilled Mike Weir and Fred Couples are returning to headline this year's TELUS World Skins Game in June," said Joe Natale, president of TELUS Business Solutions. "TELUS is proud to be bringing the best in golf to its Canadian customers from coast-to-coast. Whether fans are on-site or watching from home, they will enjoy a truly unique experience by witnessing some of the world's finest golfers play for a worthy cause."
Karen Radford, president of TELUS Québec, said, "There is nothing more rewarding than giving back to our community and investing in its long-term sustainable growth. The players, along with all the fans and volunteers, will not only make the 2009 event one of the most memorable, they will help make a real difference in the lives of Quebec's children by supporting Opération Enfant Soleil."
Funds raised at the 2009 event will improve the quality of life for thousands of sick kids for years to come by supporting Opération Enfant Soleil, an organization that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec. The charity will use the money to equip the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec's Centre mère-enfant's surgical unit with the latest in multimedia technology to facilitate complex pediatric heart surgeries. The new system's extensive connectivity will enable real-time participation in surgeries from any location, thereby improving educational opportunities and providing quick access to specialists, all of which will increase the success rate of the procedures.
The two-day TELUS World Skins Game will be held on June 22 and 23, 2009 at La Tempête Golf Club in Lévis, the very first 18-hole golf course of international caliber in the region. Tickets for the event will go on sale on Monday, April 13 at 10 a.m. (ET) and will be available for purchase by phone at 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or online by visiting http://www.telusskins.com/.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman. Additional players for the 2009 tournament will be announced in the coming weeks and regular updates will be posted on www.telusskins.com.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.1 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $135 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
Québec City, Québec - Mike Weir, one of the most successful, and beloved, golfers ever to hail from Canada, and Fred Couples, the American player aptly nicknamed 'Mr. Skins', will be headlining the famous international 'fivesome' competing in the 2009 TELUS World Skins at Lévis' La Tempête Golf Club in June.
Weir, who authored one of Canada's proudest golfing moments when he won the 2003 Masters, will be making his seventh appearance at the TELUS World Skins. Over the years, he has won 20 skins for a total of $400,000. He is also tied with George Knudson for the most career victories on the PGA TOUR by a Canadian.
"I couldn't be more excited about the chance to play in the TELUS World Skins Game and visiting the Québec City region this summer," said Weir. "I'll always remember the support that the fans in Québec showed me during the 2007 President's Cup, and I'm looking forward to showing the other players one of our most beautiful and historic cities."
Couples, a fifteen-time winner on the PGA Tour including the 1992 Masters, is one of the most popular players in the history of professional golf and is certainly no stranger to the Canadian Skins Game. He has won 62 Skins for $1,110,000 in eight appearances, the most of any player in the event's history. To date, he has won more than $4 million in the U.S. Skins Game.
"We are thrilled Mike Weir and Fred Couples are returning to headline this year's TELUS World Skins Game in June," said Joe Natale, president of TELUS Business Solutions. "TELUS is proud to be bringing the best in golf to its Canadian customers from coast-to-coast. Whether fans are on-site or watching from home, they will enjoy a truly unique experience by witnessing some of the world's finest golfers play for a worthy cause."
Karen Radford, president of TELUS Québec, said, "There is nothing more rewarding than giving back to our community and investing in its long-term sustainable growth. The players, along with all the fans and volunteers, will not only make the 2009 event one of the most memorable, they will help make a real difference in the lives of Quebec's children by supporting Opération Enfant Soleil."
Funds raised at the 2009 event will improve the quality of life for thousands of sick kids for years to come by supporting Opération Enfant Soleil, an organization that invests in the development of quality pediatric care in Québec. The charity will use the money to equip the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec's Centre mère-enfant's surgical unit with the latest in multimedia technology to facilitate complex pediatric heart surgeries. The new system's extensive connectivity will enable real-time participation in surgeries from any location, thereby improving educational opportunities and providing quick access to specialists, all of which will increase the success rate of the procedures.
The two-day TELUS World Skins Game will be held on June 22 and 23, 2009 at La Tempête Golf Club in Lévis, the very first 18-hole golf course of international caliber in the region. Tickets for the event will go on sale on Monday, April 13 at 10 a.m. (ET) and will be available for purchase by phone at 1-866-60SKIN1 (1-866-607-5461) or online by visiting http://www.telusskins.com/.
Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 17 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman. Additional players for the 2009 tournament will be announced in the coming weeks and regular updates will be posted on www.telusskins.com.
The TELUS World Skins Game is also sponsored by Audi, Desjardins, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Québec City Tourism, Québec Tourism and Samsung.
About IMG
Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.
About TELUS
TELUS (TSX: T, T.A; NYSE: TU) is a leading national telecommunications company in Canada, with $9.7 billion of annual revenue and 11.6 million customer connections including 6.1 million wireless subscribers, 4.2 million wireline network access lines and 1.2 million Internet subscribers. Led since 2000 by President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, TELUS provides a wide range of communications products and services including data, Internet protocol (IP), voice, entertainment and video. In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $135 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered more than 2.6 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Nine TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead our local philanthropic initiatives. For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.
Monday, March 9, 2009
RBC and RCGA Name Mike Weir Foundation as National Charity Partner for RBC Canadian Open
Mike Weir Charity Classic to be held Monday of RBC Canadian Open tournament week; RBC expands relationship with Canadian golf icon; PGA TOUR stars confirm their intent to compete for Canada’s national Open Championship
Toronto, Ont. (RCGA) — The Mike Weir Charity Classic will take place on Monday, July 20 at Glen Abbey Golf Club. The high-profile charity fundraiser will feature marquee celebrities from the music, sports and entertainment industries including two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash as well as several notable players on the PGA TOUR. This star-studded event will be a true highlight of event week.
“A critical component of our being title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open is to ensure we are generating charitable legacies in our communities,” said Gordon M. Nixon, RBC president and CEO. “Creating the Mike Weir Charity Classic during tournament week is an important step towards this objective and will help improve children’s wellness across Canada.”
The Mike Weir Foundation supports numerous worthwhile causes in support of the physical, emotional and educational welfare of children. All net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic will benefit children’s charities through the Foundation.
“Supporting children’s wellness is the main goal of the Mike Weir Foundation and I am pleased to have RBC and the RCGA as partners in realizing this vision,” said Mike Weir. “I’m looking forward to the RBC Canadian Open and hosting the Charity Classic. It’s for a great cause and part of the RBC Canadian Open’s commitment to the community. It’ll be a lot of fun.”
The opportunity to add a philanthropic component to the RBC Canadian Open aligns with the RCGA’s and RBC’s long term strategic plan for the event.
“We are extremely proud to partner with the Mike Weir Foundation and welcome the Mike Weir Charity Classic to tournament week of the RBC Canadian Open,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “Adding a significant charitable element to Canada’s national Open championship is a major focus of our strategic vision for the event and together with RBC, we feel that aligning our philanthropic efforts with the Mike Weir Foundation is an ideal fit and to be in a position to announce the type of talent we have secured is very fulfilling for everyone involved.”
As part of today’s announcement, RBC also announced it is expanding its marketing relationship with Mike Weir to include all of its financial service categories.
Last week, RBC announced it had established a relationship with Stephen Ames and his foundation’s work with youth in Canada and Trinidad and Tobago. “Building partnerships with some of the most recognizable players on the PGA TOUR helps us enhance the RBC Canadian Open and drives our business objectives,” said Jim Little, RBC Chief Brand and Communications Officer. “We want to leverage our deepening role in golf to build brand experiences for our clients and golf fans in Canada as well as enhance brand awareness for RBC in the U.S. and internationally. In partnership with the RCGA, the PGA TOUR and other sponsors, we are revitalizing the RBC Canadian Open and restoring it to its rightful place as one of the premier stops on the PGA TOUR.”
Following the conclusion of the 2008 RBC Canadian Open, officials from RBC and the RCGA sat down as part of its ongoing dialogue with Team Weir to discuss the concept of adding a new event that would address two key objectives. Beyond simply raising charity dollars, the intent was to formalize the role Weir could play in helping to engage fellow PGA TOUR players to support the philanthropic mission of The Mike Weir Foundation, while helping to enhance the Field of the RBC Canadian Open.
Led in part by Weir’s input, rapport and dialogue with his peers, the RBC Canadian Open is thrilled to announce that marquee names have already committed to play in the Mike Weir Charity Classic and challenge for the 100th playing of Canada’s national Open championship, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club.
The following collection of emerging PGA TOUR superstars, world-class international players and proven veterans will be in attendance:
Anthony Kim• Two-time PGA TOUR winner• 2008 Ryder Cup hero
Trevor Immelman• 2008 Masters champion• Two-time PGA TOUR winner
Camilo Villegas• 2008 TOUR Championship winner• Two-time PGA TOUR winner
Luke Donald• Two-time PGA TOUR winner• Two-time Ryder Cup team member
Fred Couples• 15-time PGA TOUR winner, 5-time Ryder Cup team member• 4-time President’s Cup team member, 2009 President’s Cup Captain
Mark Calcavecchia• 13-time PGA TOUR winner• 2005 RBC Canadian Open champion• 4-time Ryder Cup team member
Stephen Ames• Three-time PGA TOUR winner• 2006 The PLAYERS Championship winner
Chez Reavie• 2008 RBC Canadian Open champion
Mike Weir• Eight-time PGA TOUR winner• 2003 Masters champion• 4-time President’s Cup team member• 2009 inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame
Additional PGA TOUR players and notable celebrities taking part in the Mike Weir Charity Classic will be announced in coming months as the 2009 RBC Canadian Open shapes up to be one of the highest profile events in recent history.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.
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.
Toronto, Ont. (RCGA) — The Mike Weir Charity Classic will take place on Monday, July 20 at Glen Abbey Golf Club. The high-profile charity fundraiser will feature marquee celebrities from the music, sports and entertainment industries including two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash as well as several notable players on the PGA TOUR. This star-studded event will be a true highlight of event week.
“A critical component of our being title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open is to ensure we are generating charitable legacies in our communities,” said Gordon M. Nixon, RBC president and CEO. “Creating the Mike Weir Charity Classic during tournament week is an important step towards this objective and will help improve children’s wellness across Canada.”
The Mike Weir Foundation supports numerous worthwhile causes in support of the physical, emotional and educational welfare of children. All net proceeds from the Mike Weir Charity Classic will benefit children’s charities through the Foundation.
“Supporting children’s wellness is the main goal of the Mike Weir Foundation and I am pleased to have RBC and the RCGA as partners in realizing this vision,” said Mike Weir. “I’m looking forward to the RBC Canadian Open and hosting the Charity Classic. It’s for a great cause and part of the RBC Canadian Open’s commitment to the community. It’ll be a lot of fun.”
The opportunity to add a philanthropic component to the RBC Canadian Open aligns with the RCGA’s and RBC’s long term strategic plan for the event.
“We are extremely proud to partner with the Mike Weir Foundation and welcome the Mike Weir Charity Classic to tournament week of the RBC Canadian Open,” said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. “Adding a significant charitable element to Canada’s national Open championship is a major focus of our strategic vision for the event and together with RBC, we feel that aligning our philanthropic efforts with the Mike Weir Foundation is an ideal fit and to be in a position to announce the type of talent we have secured is very fulfilling for everyone involved.”
As part of today’s announcement, RBC also announced it is expanding its marketing relationship with Mike Weir to include all of its financial service categories.
Last week, RBC announced it had established a relationship with Stephen Ames and his foundation’s work with youth in Canada and Trinidad and Tobago. “Building partnerships with some of the most recognizable players on the PGA TOUR helps us enhance the RBC Canadian Open and drives our business objectives,” said Jim Little, RBC Chief Brand and Communications Officer. “We want to leverage our deepening role in golf to build brand experiences for our clients and golf fans in Canada as well as enhance brand awareness for RBC in the U.S. and internationally. In partnership with the RCGA, the PGA TOUR and other sponsors, we are revitalizing the RBC Canadian Open and restoring it to its rightful place as one of the premier stops on the PGA TOUR.”
Following the conclusion of the 2008 RBC Canadian Open, officials from RBC and the RCGA sat down as part of its ongoing dialogue with Team Weir to discuss the concept of adding a new event that would address two key objectives. Beyond simply raising charity dollars, the intent was to formalize the role Weir could play in helping to engage fellow PGA TOUR players to support the philanthropic mission of The Mike Weir Foundation, while helping to enhance the Field of the RBC Canadian Open.
Led in part by Weir’s input, rapport and dialogue with his peers, the RBC Canadian Open is thrilled to announce that marquee names have already committed to play in the Mike Weir Charity Classic and challenge for the 100th playing of Canada’s national Open championship, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club.
The following collection of emerging PGA TOUR superstars, world-class international players and proven veterans will be in attendance:
Anthony Kim• Two-time PGA TOUR winner• 2008 Ryder Cup hero
Trevor Immelman• 2008 Masters champion• Two-time PGA TOUR winner
Camilo Villegas• 2008 TOUR Championship winner• Two-time PGA TOUR winner
Luke Donald• Two-time PGA TOUR winner• Two-time Ryder Cup team member
Fred Couples• 15-time PGA TOUR winner, 5-time Ryder Cup team member• 4-time President’s Cup team member, 2009 President’s Cup Captain
Mark Calcavecchia• 13-time PGA TOUR winner• 2005 RBC Canadian Open champion• 4-time Ryder Cup team member
Stephen Ames• Three-time PGA TOUR winner• 2006 The PLAYERS Championship winner
Chez Reavie• 2008 RBC Canadian Open champion
Mike Weir• Eight-time PGA TOUR winner• 2003 Masters champion• 4-time President’s Cup team member• 2009 inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame
Additional PGA TOUR players and notable celebrities taking part in the Mike Weir Charity Classic will be announced in coming months as the 2009 RBC Canadian Open shapes up to be one of the highest profile events in recent history.
ABOUT THE 2009 RBC CANADIAN OPEN
An exciting new era has arrived for Canada's national championship. Part of the FedEx Cup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.1 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario. Established in 1904, the tournament is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Bell, Pengrowth and BMW Group Canada. For updated corporate hospitality, tickets, volunteer and sponsorship information please visit www.rbccanadianopen.ca or call 1-800-571-OPEN.
RBC AND THE RBC CANADIAN OPEN
In partnership with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), RBC is the title sponsor of the RBC Canadian Open, the third oldest national golf championship worldwide, next only to the British Open and the U.S. Open. With a history of great players and premier fields, the RBC Canadian Open provides golf fans with the opportunity to experience the excitement of a world class event on Canadian soil. RBC also sponsors all levels of amateur sport, from grassroots programs in local communities to national sport organizations and elite-level athletes.
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
THE CANADIAN PRESS NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ont. -- Mike Weir is the first to point out that he's not getting any younger.But when you see him deftly work his way through a room of dignitaries or hear him speak about his budding golf course design business, he doesn't exactly seem like an aging athlete on the verge of fading into oblivion.
In fact, the 38-year-old looks more entrenched than ever with an evolving career that hinges on more than just his wedge game or putting stroke.With a growing roster of interests away from the links, it might be time to start referring to the Canadian icon as both a golfer and a businessman. Even Weir admits the transition is inevitable."When you're pushing 40, you've got to think about what you're going to do when you're done (playing)," he said Monday. "I still feel I can play for a long time, but you've got to set yourself up and be smart.
"To be clear, the lefty from Bright's Grove, Ont., hopes his health allows him to play at the highest level of pro golf for at least another 10 years. At the same time, it's hard to ignore the growing role of business in his life.Weir was the guest of honour at the beautiful Chateau des Charmes vineyard in the heart of Ontario's wine country for Monday's announcement that he would be moving his operation there after three years with Creekside.
The importance of his presence in the region was evidenced by the wide spectrum of people from within the province's wine industry in attendance -- not to mention the handful of local politicians.And that event was only part of the reason for this week's business trip to Ontario.
On Tuesday, he'll conduct one-hour interviews with five Canadian golf course architects who are vying to become his design partner. Each of the men has already submitted plans for a course that could be built adjacent to the Predator Ridge resort in Vernon, B.C., and will essentially be pitching themselves to Weir.His objective is to establish a long-term partnership with someone he can trust and lean on, similar to what Ben Crenshaw has successfully done with designer Bill Coore over the past couple decades.
"That would be ideal -- to have a guy that's going to be there for me," explained Weir. "When you jump around with different guys, you kind of get different flavours of golf courses all over the country."I want people to recognize my golf courses and have a feel for how it might be different than somebody else's."The design business is likely to become the crowning jewel of Weir's off-course activities, which is why he's waited until now to get it started.
His agents at IMG have received many proposals over the years and not just from within Canada. Weir has also been invited to take part in projects in places like China, Korea, Belize and the Caribbean. However, none of those offers came along at the right time.
"Since probably '99, there have been opportunities thrown my way through IMG for course designs," said Weir. "I was like, `No way I'm ready for that yet.' I was still trying to establish myself on the tour and didn't want to be distracted by that. And I also didn't really have the experience. Now that I've been 10 years out there and played a number of majors and courses all over the place, I feel like I'm ready to give my point of view. I feel like it's the right time."
Not only has he played more courses and formulated a personal taste, Weir also feels he has a better understanding of how to balance his time.Even with his new interests, Weir's main focus is going to remain on his golf game.
"As long as I'm healthy enough to keep pushing and I don't feel like I'm fading away, I'm going to keep going," he said. "The exciting thing for me with the change in my swing is I've been able to practise more. I'm not the most natural golfer in the world so I have to work really hard at it.
"To be able do that now and be mostly pain-free and see myself moving back up the world rankings, I feel like if I can stay healthy for the next 10 years I can still be very competitive.
"Weir has made almost US$24 million in official earnings over the past 10 years and established himself as the most successful Canadian golfer ever. As he pushes for similar success in his business ventures moving forward, he'll continue to lean heavily on the people that have supported for a number of years. Weir's brothers Jim and Craig each play a role in his off-course dealings along with Brad Pelletier, IMG's managing director in Toronto, and several others.
"I have a great team," said Weir.In addition to the new course design business, they help oversee a winery that will soon include a retail and hospitality space alongside Whirlpool Golf Club in Niagara. There's also his successful clothing brand, various sponsorship deals and a charitable children's foundation. Weir had none of this in mind even as recently as 15 years ago, when he was struggling to earn enough money to cover expenses and dreaming about one day reaching the PGA Tour."I just wanted to play golf, I never thought of the business side," he said.
Times have certainly changed.
In fact, the 38-year-old looks more entrenched than ever with an evolving career that hinges on more than just his wedge game or putting stroke.With a growing roster of interests away from the links, it might be time to start referring to the Canadian icon as both a golfer and a businessman. Even Weir admits the transition is inevitable."When you're pushing 40, you've got to think about what you're going to do when you're done (playing)," he said Monday. "I still feel I can play for a long time, but you've got to set yourself up and be smart.
"To be clear, the lefty from Bright's Grove, Ont., hopes his health allows him to play at the highest level of pro golf for at least another 10 years. At the same time, it's hard to ignore the growing role of business in his life.Weir was the guest of honour at the beautiful Chateau des Charmes vineyard in the heart of Ontario's wine country for Monday's announcement that he would be moving his operation there after three years with Creekside.
The importance of his presence in the region was evidenced by the wide spectrum of people from within the province's wine industry in attendance -- not to mention the handful of local politicians.And that event was only part of the reason for this week's business trip to Ontario.
On Tuesday, he'll conduct one-hour interviews with five Canadian golf course architects who are vying to become his design partner. Each of the men has already submitted plans for a course that could be built adjacent to the Predator Ridge resort in Vernon, B.C., and will essentially be pitching themselves to Weir.His objective is to establish a long-term partnership with someone he can trust and lean on, similar to what Ben Crenshaw has successfully done with designer Bill Coore over the past couple decades.
"That would be ideal -- to have a guy that's going to be there for me," explained Weir. "When you jump around with different guys, you kind of get different flavours of golf courses all over the country."I want people to recognize my golf courses and have a feel for how it might be different than somebody else's."The design business is likely to become the crowning jewel of Weir's off-course activities, which is why he's waited until now to get it started.
His agents at IMG have received many proposals over the years and not just from within Canada. Weir has also been invited to take part in projects in places like China, Korea, Belize and the Caribbean. However, none of those offers came along at the right time.
"Since probably '99, there have been opportunities thrown my way through IMG for course designs," said Weir. "I was like, `No way I'm ready for that yet.' I was still trying to establish myself on the tour and didn't want to be distracted by that. And I also didn't really have the experience. Now that I've been 10 years out there and played a number of majors and courses all over the place, I feel like I'm ready to give my point of view. I feel like it's the right time."
Not only has he played more courses and formulated a personal taste, Weir also feels he has a better understanding of how to balance his time.Even with his new interests, Weir's main focus is going to remain on his golf game.
"As long as I'm healthy enough to keep pushing and I don't feel like I'm fading away, I'm going to keep going," he said. "The exciting thing for me with the change in my swing is I've been able to practise more. I'm not the most natural golfer in the world so I have to work really hard at it.
"To be able do that now and be mostly pain-free and see myself moving back up the world rankings, I feel like if I can stay healthy for the next 10 years I can still be very competitive.
"Weir has made almost US$24 million in official earnings over the past 10 years and established himself as the most successful Canadian golfer ever. As he pushes for similar success in his business ventures moving forward, he'll continue to lean heavily on the people that have supported for a number of years. Weir's brothers Jim and Craig each play a role in his off-course dealings along with Brad Pelletier, IMG's managing director in Toronto, and several others.
"I have a great team," said Weir.In addition to the new course design business, they help oversee a winery that will soon include a retail and hospitality space alongside Whirlpool Golf Club in Niagara. There's also his successful clothing brand, various sponsorship deals and a charitable children's foundation. Weir had none of this in mind even as recently as 15 years ago, when he was struggling to earn enough money to cover expenses and dreaming about one day reaching the PGA Tour."I just wanted to play golf, I never thought of the business side," he said.
Times have certainly changed.
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