If Lauren Kim is intimidated by storied Augusta National Golf Club, it doesn’t show.

The 19-year-old collegiate golfer from Surrey, B.C., is the lone Canadian in the field at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur this week. She said that her strategy at the elite amateur event is to take the tournament one shot at a time, a strategy that paid off as she had an even-par 72 in Wednesday’s opening round.

Kim was in an 11-way tie for 29th, six shots behind leader Hannah Darling of Scotland.

“The biggest thing is to try and get up in the top 30 and make it to the weekend,” said Kim after her practice round on Tuesday. “But that’s not really going to be on my mind, I’m just going to focus on the shot ahead of me and try and stay present. That’s the most important thing.”

Kim won the 2023 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship on Aug. 4 to play at last year’s CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club in Vancouver. She also won the women’s individual stroke play championship at the Jackson T. Stephens Cup in the fourth playoff on Oct. 11.

Now a freshman on the University of Texas’s women’s golf team, Kim had a practice trip with her teammates where she got to play at Champions Retreat Golf Club, which hosts the first 36 holes of the event on Wednesday and Thursday. She also got to practice at Augusta National, which will host the final round on Saturday.

Kim said that visit helped her determine what she had to work on ahead of the event.

“I’d say a lot of shots around the greens, like short game, and it’s quite important to obviously try and hit the green but when you don’t hit the greens out here, you’ve got to make sure that you try and make the up and downs,” said Kim. “So still a lot of short game practice and putting as well.
“And some shots around the trees and some of the fairways here are a little narrow with the trees and the branches.”

Salimah Mussani, Golf Canada’s women’s head coach, is in Georgia with Kim and helped her through her official practice round on Tuesday. Mussani said that as good as Kim’s ball striking is, it’s her intellect that will see her through to the weekend.

“Her strength is her golf IQ,” said Mussani. “I think on this golf course, it’s very challenging, it’s a tough golf course, but her level of thinking her way around the golf course and managing her golf ball is going to be a real asset, especially in these first two rounds before the cut.”

That cerebral approach is why it’s so important for Kim to remain unfazed by one of golf’s most famous courses.

“She loves the big stage,” said Mussani. “She thrives in these types of situations, the Canadian Am and earlier this season the college event.
“She’s cut out for these types of things and thrives in them and really looks forward to them and looks at them as opportunities. It’s the right mindset, for sure.”

LPGA TOUR — Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont., was sixth on the Race to CME Globe standings heading into the first round of the T-Mobile Match Play presented by MGM Rewards on Wednesday. Maude-Aimee Leblanc of Sherbrooke, Que., was 130th on the LPGA Tour’s points list before play began at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas.

PGA TOUR — Two-time Valero Texas Open champion Corey Conners returns to TPC San Antonio this week going for his third title at the event. Conners is the highest ranked Canadian in the field, sitting 47th on the FedEx Cup standings and the official world golf rankings. The product of Listowel, Ont., will be joined by Adam Svensson (78th) of Surrey, Ben Silverman (96th) of Thornhill, Ont., Taylor Pendrith (103rd) of Richmond Hill, Ont., and Roger Sloan (179th) of Merritt, B.C.

KORN FERRY TOUR — Edmonton’s Wil Bateman is ranked 15th on the second-tier Korn Ferry Tour’s points list heading into this week’s Club Car Championship. He will be joined at the Landings Golf & Athletic Club by Etienne Papineau (30) of St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Que., Myles Creighton (37th) of Digby, N.S., Jared du Toit (68) of Kimberley, B.C., and Sudarshan Yellamaraju (122nd) of Mississauga, Ont.

“Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists; it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.”
(George Dei, Canadian Professor)

In Canada, one in 66 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way a person communicates and relates to people and the world around them. It can affect body language, social interactions and relationships, and sensory processing. (Autism Ontario)

Creating a welcoming, safe, and empowering environment for children from all backgrounds and abilities is a priority for staff across the country. At the core of First Tee’s mission is inclusion.

First Tee – Canada partners with youth organizations across the country to provide all children with the opportunity to play golf in a welcoming environment.

In British Columbia, First Tee – BC has made an impact in Vancouver’s autism community by working with the Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

“One in 30 children in BC are on the spectrum,” said Jake Winn, Senior Manager of Programs, Canucks Autism Network. “By joining forces with First Tee, we’re giving kids an opportunity to try something new and discover a sport that they may have never tried before. Programs like First Tee broaden the horizons for children on the autism spectrum.”

The Canucks Autism Network provides year-round programming for children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum across BC. Their programs for children aged three to 12 focus on sports and recreation so they were thrilled to add golf to their portfolio of offerings.

“We love the fact that First Tee lessons are adaptable,” said Winn. “We can change games on the fly depending on the group and alter tasks and challenges per athlete. It’s not a one size fits all. It’s customizable and accessible for each participant to be engaged.”

First Tee – BC Coach Tyler McKay has been leading the programming efforts.

“Tyler knew how to interact with the kids and instilled confidence in the participants and their families,” said First Tee – BC Program Manager, Scott Stefani. “The feedback from parents and Canucks Autism Network staff was overwhelmingly positive. To see our team and the First Tee program itself create a buzz around our sport and make children excited to play golf is so exciting.”

The positive response from parents and participants is a testament to the importance of a dedicated coach, and First Tee – Canada has no shortage of those.

Similarly, on the east coast, First Tee – Atlantic’s coaches are also offering golf to children with exceptionalities.

First Tee – Atlantic partnered with the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, thanks to the efforts of Coach Wayne Allen and his daughter Coach Rosie Allen, Golf Canada’s 2023 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award recipient.  

The father-daughter duo has made a significant impact on children in their community of Corner Brook, Newfoundland over the last two years, and have gone above and beyond to create environments where all feel welcome.

In addition to obtaining a First Tee coach certification, coach Wayne completed Ernie Els’ #GameOn Autism Golf Program training, which is infused with evidence-based practices for teaching golf to people with ASD.

The time and effort put into this partnership have not gone unnoticed.

A parent of a participant left positive feedback for Coach Wayne. “Thank you for making a space for these kiddos to come together and belong to something. They are often left out of mainstream sports.”

Coaches like Wayne are proudly paving the way for a more inclusive sport across Canada.

Today, and every day, First Tee – Canada celebrates diversity and believes children of all abilities deserve to feel safe, empowered, and welcome in the sport of golf.

2023 Annual Report & Financial Statements are now available.

Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Member Doug Roxburgh Named an Honorary Life Governor with Golf Canada in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the sport.

CPKC Women’s Open Volunteers Cheryl Lee & Carolyn Naylor recognized as 2023 Co-Recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award

Longtime Volunteer and junior golf supporter Duncan Mills, Industry Veterans Tiffany Gordon, and the late Denzil Palmer along with former SCOREGOLF Publisher Kim Locke to be recognized with Golf Canada’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award

Golf Canada’s 2024 Annual Meeting culminated on Thursday, March 7 with the election of David McCarthy of Toronto to serve a second term as the 117^th President of the National Sport Federation.

McCarthy, who recently retired as a senior partner at Stikeman Elliott LLP, has been a volunteer with Golf Canada for more than 20 years across various committees, councils, and championships. A member of the Donalda Golf & Country Club, the St. Andrews Golf Club, and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, McCarthy has served on the Board of Directors of Golf Canada since 2018.

“I am extremely honoured that the Nominating Committee has extended its confidence in me to serve a second term as President of Golf Canada,” said McCarthy. “We are coming off a remarkable 2023 season of strong participation and incredible performances by our Canadian golfers domestically and on the world stage. We are also excited to introduce this year an initiative to use golf to promote mental health and physical well being. There is a great momentum in Canadian golf and together with the Board of Directors, our industry and provincial association partners and volunteers from coast to coast, I look forward to helping advance our sport in 2024.”

Based on the report of Golf Canada’s Nominating Committee, McCarthy will be joined on the 2024 Board of Directors by returning Vice-President Adam Daifallah of Montréal, Que. in leading the 13-member Board of Directors who will work closely with Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum and Golf Canada’s management team.

Returnees to the Board of Directors include Susan MacKinnon of Calgary, Alta., Jean-Sébastien Monty of Montréal, Que., Michelle Collens of Vancouver, B.C. Kelly Roberts of London, Ont. and Patrick Kelly of Victoria, B.C.

New additions to Golf Canada’s Board of Directors include Lori Dithurbide of Halifax, N.S., Katie Mahon of Kingston, Ont., Louise Patry of Montréal, Que., Nafeez Hirji of Calgary, Alta., Peter Broome of Jupiter, Fla. and former LPGA Tour player and Team Canada graduate Britanny Marchand of Mooresville, N.C.

For the biographies of Golf Canada Board members, click here.

Golf Canada also announced during its Annual General Meeting that Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Doug Roxburgh of Vancouver, B.C. has been named an Honorary Life Governor of Golf Canada in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the association and the sport.

As part of its Annual General Meeting, which was conducted virtually, Golf Canada also released the organization’s 2023 Annual Report including its Financial Statements which are available here.

Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor named 2023 Co-Recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award…

In the continued celebration of volunteerism, Golf Canada recognized Vancouver natives Cheryl Lee and Carolyn Naylor as the 2023 recipients of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award. The duo served as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Player Services Committee for the 2023 CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club.  Now in its 18^th year, candidates for the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award are put forth for consideration in acknowledgment of significant contributions to the game of golf in their community. Click here for more.

Volunteer Duncan Mills, Industry Veterans Tiffany Gordon, and the late Denzil Palmer along with former publisher Kim Locke to Receive Golf Canada’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award…

Golf Canada announced that four accomplished golf contributors – volunteer and junior golf supporter Duncan Mills of Edmonton, Alta., respected PGA of Canada professional Tiffany Gordon of Calgary, Alta., former SCOREGOLF Publisher Kim Locke of Toronto and the late Denzil Palmer, the longtime respected club manager who spent nearly 30 years as General Manager and Secretary of Royal Montreal Golf Club – will be acknowledged for their tremendous contributions to the sport as the 2024 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. The presentation of the Distinguished Service Award will be celebrated in person with the recipients later this year. Click here for more.

Golf Canada’s 2024 Annual Meeting was conducted virtually on Thursday, March 7 with volunteers, staff, member clubs, and industry stakeholders participating.

Get ready to tee off in style as PUMA Golf unveils the latest PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection.

Known for his unparalleled charisma and impeccable fashion sense, The King himself continues to inspire generations of golfers and style mavens alike.

In a celebration of Arnie’s enduring legacy, this collaboration pays homage to The King’s iconic influence on the game and its fashion evolution, blending timeless charm with a dash of contemporary flair.

Designed to turn heads on and off the course, the PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer Collection features sleek and sophisticated looks that redefine golf fashion. From classic polos to stylish caps and limited-edition footwear, each piece exudes the essence of Arnie’s signature style.

PUMA athlete Rickie Fowler, who shared a special bond with the late Mr. Palmer, will proudly sport the collection at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, honoring The King’s unparalleled legacy with every swing.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Arnold Palmer team to bring the AP Collection to life,” said Chris MacNeill, Team Head of PLM – Golf Apparel & Accessories at PUMA Golf. “Our aim is to capture the essence of Mr. Palmer’s timeless style, blending classic colors and premium materials to create pieces he’d be proud to wear himself.”

The 2024 Spring/Summer PUMA Golf x Arnold Palmer collection features a stunning lineup of six polos, a sleek full-zip jacket, pleated shorts, stylish caps, a chic golf visor, and four limited-edition footwear styles. Each piece bears the iconic umbrella logo, celebrating The King’s lasting legacy and setting the LE shoes apart with their unique flair.

Among the highlights are the PHANTOMCAT NITRO™ version, boasting cutting-edge technology, and the Avant version, crafted from premium waterproof leather and sporting a sophisticated color palette.

Get ready to elevate your golf game and channel your inner Arnie because the Arnold Palmer Collection hits online and retail stores on March 4, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to score these stylish pieces and make a statement on the green!

For more information on the 2024 PUMA GOLF x Arnold Palmer Collection, visit ca.pumagolf.com.

Pompey wins Community Leader Award; Allen wins Future Leader Award following submission of nominations from the Canadian golf community

Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that Simeon Pompey of Montréal, Que. and Rosie Allen of Corner Brook, Nfld. have been named the 2023 recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

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

“We were pleased to receive so many worthy nominations from across the country recognizing the contributions of individuals who use the game of golf in a way to inspire and contribute to their community,” said Golf Canada President, David McCarthy. “Golf Canada and the Foundation are incredibly proud to celebrate Simeon Pompey and Rosie Allen as our 2023 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Award recipients and I am pleased to congratulate both on this much deserved honour and thank them for their continued contributions to our sport in their communities.”

Pompey earned the 2023 Lorie Kane Community Leader Award for his continuous devotion to helping others in his community through the sport of golf. Pompey has been a long-time supporter of First Tee which led him to be at the heart of the program’s success in Montréal since the launch of First Tee – Premier départ Quebec in 2021.He has also played a key role in the launch of golf programming in the Indigenous community of Kahnawake, on the south shore of Montréal. Pompey has been leading life-skills focused golf classes for over 15 years for children and families coming from underrepresented communities and low-income neighbourhoods in Montréal. Pompey also teaches in the Community, Recreation and Leadership Training at Dawson College, where he serves as a mentor to many of his students.

“I am still shocked to have been selected as the winner of the Lorie Kane Community Leader Award for 2023. Now that it has sunken in a bit, I want to thank you all wholeheartedly for this prestigious recognition. I humbly accept the award on behalf of all the children and their families who have benefitted from the values learned through the great game of golf especially First Tee. Thanks to Golf Canada and First Tee, I have been able to introduce the game of golf to mostly inner-city children whose path in life would not have included the great game of golf and the many life-skills that it teaches,” said Simeon Pompey. “I thank Golf Canada, Golf Quebec and First Tee – Canada for this incredible honour as it validates my life’s mission of helping young people reach their true potential. Thanks to First Tee, the trajectory of a child can be changed positively in a profound way.”

Allen has been named the recipient of the 2023 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award. The 15-year-old has played an instrumental leadership role in helping to develop the First Tee – Canada program at her home course, Blomidon Golf Club in Corner Brook, Nfld. Allen has devoted her time to First Tee programming as well as helping to plan and run events for her club’s junior girls’ program. She has also been a key influence working with the Autism Society in Corner Brook on both developing and running a program for junior golfers between the ages of 5-9 with various forms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Allen is an accomplished player having been a member of the provincial development team for four years and winning events in her home province. She has future goals of playing in the Canadian Junior Girls Championship, presented by BDO, and competing in the 2025 Canada Games.

“It is amazing to win this award and I’m very grateful to win something named in Lorie Kane’s honour. I was lucky enough to meet Lorie at the CPKC Women’s Open in 2019 when I was just 11 years old, and she was so nice. I hope I can inspire children in the game of golf the way she inspired me,” said Allen. “I love teaching kids and really enjoy seeing their development through the different programs that we offer. My favorite group of children are those with ASD. They are amazing kids, and it is so rewarding to watch them enjoy the game of golf and the different games we design for them. To know that I can be a part of their development is an honour.”

Pompey will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of his choice. Allen will receive a $5,000 donation towards her post-secondary education.

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

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

The Lorie Kane Future Leader Award honours an individual 19 years of age or younger who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

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

A call for nominations for the 2024 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will go out later this year.

Even the dating web site eHarmony recognizes that, listing “15 reasons to date a golfer.” Among them, “golfers strive for emotional balance,” “they know how to make conversation,” “golfers understand they must forget mistakes and move on,” and “committed golfers are in it for the long haul.” Finally, these relationship experts point out, “you’ll be spending countless hours together in pristine park-like settings. Not a bad way to nurture romance.”

They might have mentioned etiquette, balance, equity and all those other fundamental values in the game. As well, the rules would be worth mentioning. Not the new Modernized Rules of Golf, although those certainly have their place in the actual playing of the game.

If you want golf to help forge and strengthen a romantic bond, you would be well advised to follow these guidelines which I have learned (often the hard way, particularly No. 1) over three decades of golfing with my beloved.

1. Be mindful

If you’re not asked, resist the urge to offer your well-intentioned opinion if your partner is having an off day. You most likely don’t have the instruction credentials to rectify the situation. Second, even though they love you, it is more likely that you will only add to the frustration.. If you are going to follow only one rule, make it this one.

2. Go on vacation

Take a golf vacation together. Sitting on the beach is all fine and good, but getting out on the course and sharing some conversation and laughs is far better.

3. Nine and dine

Whether it’s an organized weekly couples’ league or just an impromptu outing for just the two of you, nine holes followed by a leisurely dinner and drinks is a wonderful way to unwind and catch up.

4. Don’t take it too seriously

Sure, you want to play your best but the object of the exercise is to enjoy each other’s company.

5. Include family

If you have kids or grandkids, invite them to play a few holes with you. Or maybe it’s your brother and sister-in-law or other relatives you love but don’t get to see often enough. Golf is a great excuse to reinforce those family ties.

I speak from experience, as I mentioned earlier. My wife took up golf after I did and fell for it as hard, or maybe harder, than she fell for me. We’ve done all things listed above, from golf vacations to couples’ nights to including family. And while the pure meaning of Valentine’s Day is focused on your one and only, and my wife and I have spent many delightful hours golfing together, I can tell you that one of my everlasting memories is the sight of our son and his grandfather golfing together. That’s something else I truly love.

Resources and Talent ID Video Series

Golf Canada seeks to provide more player development support for promising junior golfers at younger ages through the newly created Talent Identification layer of the Team Canada system.

Under the leadership of Tristan Mullally as the National Head of Talent Identification, Golf Canada is working to coordinate with provincial associations, junior golf coaches and parents to provide player development support for promising junior golfers at younger ages.

The Talent ID Video Series is intended as a resource for parents and coaches of players on the competitive pathway between the approximate ages of 10-14 years old. The series covers five topics that Golf Canada believes are important for the parents and coaches of competitive players to consider. Each video features Team Canada women’s mental performance coach Lindsay Berard alongside national team coaches and players sharing their experiences. Additionally, each video comes with three accompanying PDF resources with practical tools and further information.

How to play for Team Canada

When Should My Kid Specialize?

Deciding when the time is right to specialize can be a difficult decision for both parents and athletes. This decision might come naturally to some, and others might find it quite challenging. Golf Canada’s Chief Sport Officer Kevin Blue and former LPGA member Augusta James share information to help parents and coaches understand the realities of specialization for young golfers.

Mental Health Matters

Unlike an injury or physical pain that tends to be easier to recognize and rehabilitate, mental health can sometimes feel more complicated. Many parents and coaches are unsure of how to support their athlete’s mental health due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of the topic. As a parent or coach, it is okay for you not to have all the answers! You can start by building an understanding of mental health as it relates to what you see, hear, and experience when being around your athlete. Golf Canada’s mental performance coach Lindsay Berard speaks with Team Canada’s men’s head coach Derek Ingram on the importance of supporting athletes with their mental health.

Should I Coach My Kid?

Parents may consider taking one or several roles during an athlete’s journey (e.g., technical coach, emotional support, caddy, scheduling/management, etc.). As an athlete continues to develop and becomes more skilled in their sport, there comes a time when a parent’s role might change in terms of their training involvement. Knowing that most parents will pass the torch off to another coach at some point or another, it leaves the question; how can I support my athlete even if I’m not their coach? National Head of Talent Identification Tristan Mullally offers perspective on how parents can find a role that best suits their athlete’s development and former LPGA member Augusta James shares how her parents helped her to be her best.

Don’t Make it Easy on Your Kid

It can be difficult to watch your athlete struggle and feel the need to protect your athlete so they don’t have to experience the hardest parts of striving in a sport they love. But what if jumping in and avoiding the hurt is actually taking away a valuable opportunity for your athlete? When we think about preparing athletes for the next level, it’s not just the swing and technique that matters, it’s also about their ability to control their emotions, recover from mistakes and manage tough moments. Team Canada men’s head coach Derek Ingram and former LPGA member Brittany Marchand discuss the importance of athletes developing self-reliance and learning to deal with adversity, and how their parents and coaches can help.

The Ride Home

Golf is not a linear sport. Supporting an athlete through the highs and lows of the game may feel difficult at times. There is no script or one best answer on how to approach an athlete, but there are some things you can keep in mind as you debrief a round and work through challenges. How you handle these moments will determine whether they continue to engage, open up about what is really going on, or if they are willing to come to you for support in the future. NextGen Assistant Coach and former LPGA member Jennifer Ha discusses how parents and coaches can mindfully support their athletes, and Korn Ferry Tour member Stuart Macdonald speaks to how his family helped him on his golf journey.

The Financial Assistance Program, which is supported by Golf Canada, The Gary Cowan Heritage Fund and the Canadian Senior Golfers Association, supports golfers, mainly juniors, with financial aid to help offset expenses that come with traveling and competing in National Championships and regional competitions.

Initiated in 2022, the Financial Assistance Program was introduced with the understanding and goal that financial constraints shouldn’t be a barrier to compete in high performance championships. A number of donors contribute to this program which started out in 2022 and the fund allocation continuous to grow.

How the Program Works? 

Please check the specific overview documents under the application process heading for full criteria breakdowns.

2024 Financial Assistance Program

Continuing in 2024, the Financial Assistance Program will see an increase in funds available to eligible participants and their families for the following competitions:

• NextGen Championships (all six Championships) 

• Canadian Junior Girls Championship, presented by BDO (Marine Drive Golf Club, July 21 – 25) 

• Canadian Junior Boys Championship, presented by BDO (Innisfail Golf Club, August 12 – 16) 

• Canadian U15 Championship, presented by BDO (Elmira Golf Club, August 27 – 30) 

• Canadian All Abilities Championship, presented by BDO (Timber Ridge Golf Club, September 9 – 12) 

Application Process 

Once you have reviewed the eligibility guidelines in the overview document. Please see below for the specific application forms for each championship. 

Timeline and Acceptance of Application Process 

In general, applications will be reviewed and accepted beginning thirty (30) days prior to the championship. An approval letter will be sent to the participant that has submitted a successful application outlining next steps before the championship begins. 

An accepted applicant MUST compete in their respective championship in order to receive the approved funds through the Financial Assistance Program. 

Disbursement of funds will begin following the conclusion of the championship and payments will be deposited within thirty (30) days from the conclusion of the championship. 

About the Canadian Seniors’ Golf Association (CSGA)

The CSGA is a trustee of the Golf Canada Foundation supporting the First Tee program and three Golf Canada scholarships. This includes the support of the Financial Assistance Program that is aimed at lifting the restrictions on financial obstacles that will not hinder a high performance athlete from playing in National Championships or NextGen competitions. Through these programs, the CSGA is delivering on its initiative to grow the game. 

About the Gary Cowan Heritage Fund 

The Gary Cowan Heritage Fund (GCHF) was established with the Golf Canada Foundation (GCF) in conjunction with The Canadian Seniors’ Golf Association (CSGA) to provide needed support to financially restricted junior golfers that will enable them to pursue their golfing aspirations. The GCHF will supply funding through existing Golf Canada programs and will work to fund future programming to support junior golfers.

A Steering Committee will support the GCHF by:

• Suggesting to GCF the use of funds from the GCHF to be used in support of existing Golf Canada financial support programs.

• Providing financial support for Golf Canada pilot programs to support junior golfers outside of existing Golf Canada programs.

• Supporting the fundraising initiatives of the Gary Cowan Heritage Foundation.

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Select tickets now available for 113th playing of Canada’s National Open Championship

Oakville, Ont. – Golf Canada, in partnership with RBC is pleased to announce that select tickets are now available for the 2024 RBC Canadian Open taking place May 28 – June 2 at the historic Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Hamilton, Ont.

Leading the charge for the 113th playing of Canada’s National Open Championship will be defending champion Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C. along with two-time RBC Canadian Open champion and world no.2 Rory McIlroy.

Taylor, a three-time PGA TOUR winner will become the first Canadian in nearly 70 years to compete as defending champion coming off a historic four-hole playoff victory over Tommy Fleetwood this past June at Oakdale Golf and Country Club in Toronto.

Last week, Golf Canada and RBC also announced a revised brand identity for the 2024 RBC Canadian Open logo that pays tribute to Taylor’s iconic 72-foot putt that secured the first Canadian win at the RBC Canadian Open in 69 years.

McIlroy won his first of two Canadian Open titles by a convincing seven shots at the 2019 RBC Canadian Open hosted at Hamilton Golf and Country Club. The 24-time PGA TOUR winner went on to successfully defend his RBC Canadian Open title in 2022 at St. George’s Golf and Country Club. McIlroy will be looking to claim his third Canadian Open title in 2024 and join three-time champions Tommy Armour, Sam Snead, and Lee Trevino.

“There is incredible momentum for the RBC Canadian Open’s return to Hamilton with our historic defending champion Nick Taylor and our previous two-time winner in Rory (McIlroy) leading the early charge,” said RBC Canadian Open Tournament Director Bryan Crawford. “Hamilton has been an exceptional host venue for the championship, and we are looking forward to delivering another exciting festival experience for golf fans next summer.”

The 2024 RBC Canadian Open returns to the storied Hamilton layout for the seventh time and first since 2019. It will be the first opportunity for the stars of the PGA TOUR to experience the newly renovated Harry Colt design led by Martin Ebert. The two-year renovation project, which saw the return of key Colt design elements from the course’s past, including the complete rebuild of all 27 greens and bunkers, was named the “Best New Restoration” by Golf Digest for 2022.

One of Canada’s premier annual sporting events, the 2024 RBC Canadian Open offers three select ticket options now on sale for golf fans to experience the thrill of live professional golf at Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship. The advance ticket options include:

• Any Day Ticket: Access to the RBC Canadian Open on any one day, Tuesday through Sunday (on-sale for a limited time, while supplies last.)

• Weekly Grounds Ticket: Access to the full week of the tournament, Tuesday through Sunday.

• 1904 Club Weekly Ticket: Access for all four days of Championship play from Thursday through Sunday.

The official charitable beneficiary of the RBC Canadian Open is First Tee – Canada. As part of the championship’s commitment to junior golf, admission all week is free for youth aged 12-and-under.

Volunteer, sponsorship, and corporate hospitality opportunities are also available. To purchase tickets or for more information on the 2024 RBC Canadian Open, please visit rbccanadianopen.com.