Canadian Pacific extends sponsorship of CP Women’s Open through 2023
Leslie Dunning, Laurence Applebaum, Sandra Post, Keith Creel, Marlene Streit, Stuart Brindle (Justin Naro/Golf Canada)
Golf Canada
Canadian Pacific (CP), Golf Canada and the LPGA Tour officially announced today that CP has extended its title sponsorship of the CP Women’s Open for five years, beginning in 2019 through 2023. Terms of the partnership were not disclosed.
Since becoming title sponsor of the CP Women’s Open in November of 2013, CP has worked closely with Golf Canada to enhance Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship including the overall experience for players and fans. CP has also established a meaningful charitable legacy through CP Has Heart, which has raised nearly $6.5M for heart health initiatives in the event’s host communities.
“Extending our partnership with Golf Canada as title sponsor of the CP Women’s Open will enable CP to continue to make a significant difference in communities across Canada through our community investment program, CP Has Heart,” said Keith Creel, CP President and Chief Executive Officer. “Partnering with these world-class athletes and this wonderful tournament enhances pride across our company, while building deeper, stronger relationships within the host communities. Since our first CP Women’s Open in 2014 we have raised close to 6.5 million dollars for children’s hospitals and pediatric cardiac care systems across the country, and we look forward to supporting even more young hearts and families in the years to come.”
In addition to being title sponsor of the CP Women’s Open, CP is extending its role as a premier partner of Golf Canada’s National Team Program (Team Canada) and the Young Pro Squad which supports emerging Canadian professionals in their transition to the LPGA Tour and PGA TOUR. CP also proudly supports Canadian golf legend Lorie Kane and major champion Brooke Henderson as CP Ambassadors.
CP will also continue its investment as title sponsor of the CP Women’s Leadership Summit which will make its debut on August 21 during tournament week of the 2018 CP Women’s Open at Wascana Country Club in Regina, Sask.
For Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum, CP’s extended relationship with the CP Women’s Open further solidifies CP’s standing as a champion supporter of golf in Canada.
“Canadian Pacific has been an incredible partner supporting excellence in Canadian golf for the past five years and we are honoured to have them continue their title sponsorship of the CP Women’s Open,” said Applebaum. “CP is among Canada’s most respected corporations and as a deeply invested golf partner under the leadership of Keith Creel, their commitment to delivering a world-class experience for players, caddies, fans and charitable beneficiaries, has elevated the status of Canada’s National Women’s Open to one of the premier events on the LPGA Tour.”
As part of CP’s title sponsorship renewal, the purse for the 2019 CP Women’s Open will be $2.25M US beginning in 2019 with a commitment to be among the top-tier purses on the LPGA Tour for the term of the agreement.
“For our players, this championship is a must-play event with great hospitality as well as great history,” said LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan. “The LPGA’s success is made possible through partnerships like the ones we enjoy with CP and Golf Canada. I’d like to congratulate both CP and Golf Canada on this five-year sponsorship extension. With CP’s help, we’re proud to continue showcasing the LPGA Tour to millions of golf fans in Canada, across North America and around the world.”
MAGNA GOLF CLUB TO HOST 2019 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
In addition to announcing the title sponsorship renewal, Golf Canada and CP also confirmed today that the 2019 CP Women’s Open will be conducted at the prestigious Magna Golf Club in Aurora, Ontario.
The naming of Magna Golf Club as host of the 2019 CP Women’s Open kicks off an east-west venue rotation over the five-year term to bring the event to world-class facilities in host communities in which CP employees live and work across its network. The 2019 event marks the first time since 2001 that Canada’s National Women’s Open has been contested in the greater Toronto area.
“Magna Golf Club is a truly magnificent facility which will prove to be a world-class experience for the stars of the LPGA Tour,” added Applebaum. “The CP Women’s Open is one of Canada’s premier sporting events and we are thrilled to return to the Toronto area for the first time in nearly 20 years so that golf fans and partners can experience the incredible Magna Golf Club as well as the global excitement of the LPGA Tour.”
In 2019, the #CPWO will be heading to the beautiful @MagnaGolfClub in Aurora, Ont. ??⛳️
“When presented with the opportunity to host the 2019 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open Championship, we were immediately excited,” said Magna Golf Club General Manager and Director of Golf, Stuart Brindle. “The event will allow some of the world’s greatest golfers to experience Magna Golf Club, while making a tremendous impact on our local community.”
The 2019 charitable beneficiary for the CP Has Heart campaign is support of pediatric heart health initiatives will be announced in the coming months.
First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.
The 2018 CP Women’s Open will be held August 20-26 at Wascana Country Club in Regina. Additional information regarding tickets, sponsorship or volunteer opportunities can be found at www.cpwomensopen.com.
Kane says Henderson will one day win CP Women’s Open
(Brooke Henderson)
Canadian Press
REGINA – Brooke Henderson stood at the Wascana Country Club podium and looked over at the CP Women’s Open trophy, resisting the urge to pick it up.
She may not have earned the right to do that yet, but veteran Lorie Kane thinks it’s only a matter of time.
Henderson will aim to be the first Canadian since Jocelyne Bourassa in 1973 to capture the women’s national championship when Regina hosts the tournament from Aug. 20-26.
“This trophy right here has been kind of haunting me all day,” Henderson said Monday at the tournament’s media day. “I really just want to pick it up but I have to work really hard for that.”
Kane, from Charlottetown, will be competing in this year’s event for a record 28th consecutive time. She said that Henderson’s legacy is just beginning.
“I know, mark my words, that child will have that trophy in her hand at some point in her career,” Kane said.
The 20-year-old Henderson has six career victories that includes one major title at the 2016 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. Henderson won earlier this year at the Lotte Championship in Hawaii in April.
She dedicated that victory to the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team, which was involved in an April 6 bus crash that killed 16 people and left 13 others injured.
Henderson said that seeing the progress on Twitter of some of the survivors has been incredible. She added that she’s not sure whether she’ll wear a green and yellow ribbon once again in August like she did when she won the Lotte Championship.
“I’m glad I was able to win it for them and being here in Saskatchewan, to win another one and dedicate it to them would be truly special as well,” Henderson said.
The Smiths Falls, Ont., native nearly missed the cut at last year’s CP Women’s Open at her home course in Ottawa, but birdied on her final hole of the second round to qualify for the weekend.
The following day, she fired a course-record 8-under 63 to jump up the leaderboard and eventually finished the tournament tied for 12th.
Henderson said that it will be a little bit different this year playing in Regina.
“I knew almost everyone in the crowd it felt like,” she said of last year’s event.
“But it doesn’t really matter where you come from in Canada, you’re Canadian, you’re part of the family and that’s how I always feel at Canadian Women’s Opens.”
South Korea’s Sung Hyun Park won the 2017 tournament and is expected to participate once again this year. A total of 156 golfers will compete at the 2018 CP Women’s Open which has a tournament purse of US$2.25 million with the winner receiving $337,500.
Henderson is currently 18th in the world rankings and fifth on the LPGA’s money list this year with $602,142.
She had to withdraw from the U.S. Women’s Open earlier this month and head home to be with her family after her grandfather Robert Moir died from cancer on June 1. He was 81.
Henderson admits that it’s been a challenging time since his death.
“It has been pretty tough last few weeks for my whole family as well,” Henderson said Monday afternoon. “Having great family and friend support and my CP family as well and knowing that they’re always there for me has really helped with a lot of things.”
She said that her grandfather was a big part of her life and that it’s sad to see him go.
“It’s difficult to know he’s not here any longer, but he’s in a better place now.”
CP Women’s leadership summit to take place during CP Women’s Open tournament week
Lorie Kane (Bernard Brault/ Golf Canada)
Golf Canada
Inaugural event focused on networking, empowerment and philanthropy to be held Tuesday, August 21st at Hotel Saskatchewan
Tickets and corporate partnership opportunities are now available
REGINA – Golf Canada in partnership with Canadian Pacific (CP), is proud to announce that the inaugural CP Women’s Leadership Summit will take place Tuesday, August 21 at Hotel Saskatchewan in Regina as part of the weeklong excitement of the 2018 CP Women’s Open.
The CP Women’s Leadership Summit will bring together like-minded businesswomen from across the country for a day of networking, empowerment and philanthropy. The Summit will also raise awareness for the CP Women’s Open, with attendees receiving access to the tournament during the week as a thank-you for their participation.
The keynote speaker for the inaugural CP Women’s Leadership Summit will be Canadian Olympic hockey legend Hayley Wickenheiser. The five-time Olympic hockey medalist and Saskatchewan native will join a confirmed list of participating panelists that includes Joan Hardy, CP’s Vice-President of Grain and Fertilizer; LPGA Tour professional and CP ambassador Lorie Kane; Lesley Hawkins, General Manager with adidas Golf, Canada; and Shannon Cole, Senior Director of Brand Marketing with RBC. Rogers Sportsnet Central Co-Anchor Evanka Osmak will act as the emcee for the event.
“I am thrilled at the opportunity to promote diversity in both business and sport by participating in the first ever CP Women’s Leadership Summit,” said Joan Hardy, CP Vice-President, Grain and Fertilizer. “I engage with a variety of customers across Saskatchewan every day, and I look forward to bringing together a group of women who are leaders in what they do, and discuss what motivates, challenges, and inspires us to work hard and enhance our careers.”
For Golf Canada, introducing the Women’s Leadership Summit as part of Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship aligns with the organization’s commitment to developing a more inclusive culture in Canadian golf.
“Launching the CP Women’s Leadership Summit is an extension of our efforts to encourage more women and girls to engage with golf and use the CP Women’s Open as a platform to bring together like-minded businesswomen in the spirit of networking, idea-sharing and empowerment,” said Mary-Beth McKenna, a member of Golf Canada’s championship management team who is leading the event. “All of our speakers are leaders in their respective industry who will provide participants with an inspiring experience and wide array of perspectives.”
The CP Women’s Leadership Summit begins at 10:00 am on August 21 at Hotel Saskatchewan and will feature networking opportunities, a question-and-answer session with panelists along with a three-course lunch.
For more information about the CP Women’s Leadership Summit, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.cpwomensopen.com/wls.
REGINA – Golf Canada, in partnership with title sponsor Canadian Pacific (CP), has announced that many of the world’s top players have committed to compete in the 2018 CP Women’s Open from August 20-26 at Wascana Country Club in Regina.
The early player commitments to challenge for the $2.25 million USD purse—one of the largest prizes on the LPGA Tour—will include golf’s brightest stars along with rising talents in Canadian golf. Among player commitments are nine of the top 10 players from the 2018 LPGA Official Money list, including 14 of 15 in-year LPGA Tour event winners and 10 past CP Women’s Open champions.
No player will generate more excitement this August in Saskatchewan than Canadian sensation and CP ambassador Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont., who will compete in her eighth career National Women’s Open. The six-time LPGA Tour winner and major champion has amassed 27 top-10s since joining the LPGA Tour in late 2015. The graduate of Golf Canada’s National Team program is a former world No. 1 amateur who represented Canada at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she finished T7.
“This is a really exciting time to be a Canadian golf fan and a fan of the LPGA Tour,” said Ryan Paul, Tournament Director for the CP Women’s Open.
“There is tremendous momentum in Canadian women’s golf with a depth of talent at all levels of the game. Combine that with arguably the strongest field on the LPGA Tour and we can guarantee that golf fans in Saskatchewan will be treated to a spectacular world-class event at the CP Women’s Open this August in Regina.”
Canadian Golf Hall of Fame honoured member and CP ambassador Lorie Kane, a four-time winner on the LPGA Tour, will be competing in Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship for a record 28th consecutive time.
Joining Henderson and Kane in competing on home soil will be LPGA Tour members Alena Sharp of Hamilton, Maude-Aimée LeBlanc of Sherbrooke, Que., Brittany Marchand of Orangeville, Ont., and Anne-Catherine Tanguay of Quebec City. The six Canucks will be joined by several more Canadian professional and amateur golfers to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn leads a stellar list of early LPGA Tour player commitments confirmed for Wascana. Jutanugarn is a nine-time winner on the LPGA Tour, with her most recent victory coming at the U.S. Women’s Open earlier this month. The 22-year-old, who won the 2016 CP Women’s Open, currently ranks No. 2 in the Rolex World Rankings and is No. 1 on the LPGA Tour Official Money List.
Three-time Canadian Women’s Open champion Lydia Ko will be looking for a record-setting fourth title. The New Zealand native’s wins in 2012, 2013 and 2015 tie her with Americans Meg Mallon and Pat Bradley for most victories at Canada’s National Women’s Open. The 21-year-old has 15 LPGA Tour victories in total.
Defending CP Women’s Open champion Sung Hyun Park will be looking to capture her fourth LPGA victory this August in Regina. The native of South Korea currently holds the No. 6 spot on the Rolex Women’s Golf Ranking.
Lexi Thompson, who occupies the No. 3 spot on the Rolex Women’s World Rankings, will look to add her first victory in Canada to an already impressive golf resume that includes nine career wins on the LPGA Tour.
So Yeong Ryu, who won the inaugural CP Women’s Open in 2014, will also be competing at Wascana. Ryu, Jutanugarn, Park and Ko are among 10 past champions competing this year along with Brittany Lincicome (2011), Michelle Wie (2010), Katherine Kirk (2008), Cristie Kerr (2006), Laura Davies (1996) and Juli Inkster (1984).
Jutanugarn (No. 1) and Henderson (No. 5) join seven other top-10 players on the LPGA Tour Official Money List who are confirmed to compete in Regina later this summer. Other top-10 commitments include Moriya Jutanugarn (No. 3), Minjee Lee (No. 4), Hyo Joo Kim (No. 6), Jessica Korda (No. 8), Pernilla Lindberg (No. 9) and Eun-Hee Ji (No. 10).
Other exciting early commitments include in-year LPGA Tour winners Annie Park, who recently earned her first LPGA victory at the ShopRite LPGA Classic Presented by Acer and Jun Young Ko, who won this year’s ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open. International stars Shanshan Feng, ranked No. 4 on the Rolex World Ranking along with world No. 14 Anna Nordqvist are also committed to compete.
The 156 golfers teeing-it-up at Wascana Country Club will represent one of the strongest fields on the LPGA Tour with more than 92 of the 100 players on the LPGA Tour Official Money List expected to compete.
CP Has Heart Charity Campaign to benefit the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation
Canadian Pacific will continue its history of making a substantial donation to the host community through its CP Has Heart community investment program. In the four years of CP’s title sponsorship of the CP Women’s Open, $6.5 million has been raised to support children’s heart health in communities across Canada.
This year, the campaign will be supporting pediatric cardiology at Saskatchewan’s new Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon. Funds raised through the CP Women’s Open will help assist a dedicated cardiology space and specialized equipment in the new hospital, currently under construction and scheduled to open in 2019.
With a nature theme running throughout the hospital, the “Frog Pod” will be specifically used to treat pediatric cardiology patients and will include three echocardiography exam rooms, a pulmonary function technology lab, an exercise challenge room, and a regular exam room. Directly across the hall, included in the pod, is a staff echo cardiology reading room.
“CP is extremely proud to partner with Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, and to bring the 2018 CP Women’s Open to the great city of Regina,” said CP President and CEO, Keith Creel. “Saskatchewan is a vital region to our company, and we are honoured to support the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, as they help to strengthen the youngest hearts across the province.”
The funds raised through CP Has Heart will undoubtedly go a long way in helping children’s healthcare in Saskatchewan.
“We are sincerely thankful to CP, Golf Canada and the CP Women’s Open for supporting our efforts to help Saskatchewan’s little hearts through further development of the provincial pediatric cardiology program at our new children’s hospital,” said Brynn Boback-Lane, President and CEO of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundations. “This heartwarming gift will have a tremendous impact on Saskatchewan’s young patients, their families and our entire pediatric cardiac team.”
In addition to being a world-class sports property, the CP Women’s Open leaves a lasting legacy in the event’s home community.
“Golf Canada is proud to work alongside incredible partners at CP and the LPGA Tour in bringing world-class golf to Wascana Country Club, the city of Regina and the province of Saskatchewan for the first time ever,” said Golf Canada’s CEO Laurence Applebaum. “We are honoured to work alongside our partners in supporting the CP Has Heart Campaign which will make a difference in the lives of so many through the support of pediatric cardiac care at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital.”
CP Inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit to take place during tournament week
As part of the weeklong excitement of the CP Women’s Open, Golf Canada is proud to announce that the inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit will take place Tuesday, August 21 at Hotel Saskatchewan. Keynote speaker Hayley Wickenheiser, five-time Olympic medalist, will be joined by the likes of LPGA Champion Lorie Kane; CP Vice-President of Grain and Fertilizer, Joan Hardy; and many more like-minded businesswomen from across the province for a day of networking, empowerment and philanthropy.
KIDS 17-AND-UNDER GET IN FREE
Golf Canada and CP are committed to offering a fan friendly, family event with the CP Women’s Open. To introduce more juniors to the sport, children aged 17-and-under get FREE admission to the CP Women’s Open for the entire week.
Tickets for this year’s CP Women’s Open are available here.
OAKVILLE, ONT. (Golf Canada) – Golf Canada is pleased to announce its 2018 championship schedule which includes a record-30 amateur and professional competitions plus qualifiers hosted at golf facilities in communities across Canada.
The 2018 schedule is headlined by Golf Canada’s premier professional championships—the RBC Canadian Open from July 23-29 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont., and the CP Women’s Open at Wascana Country Club in Regina, Sask. from August 20-26.
The 2018 competition calendar includes eight National Amateur Championships, six Future Links, driven by Acura regional junior competitions and the World Junior Girls Championship.
Golf Canada will also host 11 qualifying events in 2018 including qualifiers for prestigious international competitions such as the Toyota Junior Golf World Cup and the U.S. Open (Local Qualifying), as well as the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur.
As the National Sports Federation and governing body of golf in Canada, Golf Canada conducts the country’s premier amateur and professional golf championships as part of its mandate to promote the sport and support the development of the nation’s top talent through world-class competition.
“Competing in a national championship is an incredible accomplishment for each of the more than 3,000 talented Canadian and international golfers who take part in our competitions,” said Golf Canada’s CEO, Laurence Applebaum. “The depth of talent, engagement among thousands of volunteers, the quality of our host venues and the committed support of corporate partners who have aligned their respected brands with our properties have been core to our competitions for more than a century. We are excited to welcome the next wave of Canadian golf champions.”
Golf Canada’s championship season kicks off April 9-12 with the Toyota Junior Golf World Qualifier at Bear Mountain Resort in Victoria, B.C. (home to Golf Canada’s National Training Centre) and concludes in September with the World Junior Girls Championship at Camelot Golf and Country Club in Cumberland, Ont.
“We’re proud to be working with many of Canada’s most renowned golf clubs from coast to coast,” said Adam Helmer, Director of Rules, Competitions and Amateur Status with Golf Canada. “Our 2018 venues are set to showcase an exciting season of competitive golf in communities across Canada and we thank our host clubs for their support.”
To view Golf Canada’s 2018 championship schedule including all host venues, registration requirements and volunteer opportunities please click here.
Golf Canada’s Championship Season at a Glance…
British Columbia will be a hotbed for Canadian golf in 2018, with the province hosting 11 Golf Canada events including the Canadian Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships as well as the Canadian University/College Championship and the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship.
The 114th playing of the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship will be contested at Duncan Meadows Golf Course in Duncan, B.C. and Pheasant Glen Golf Resort in Qualicum Beach, B.C., August 4-9. A field of 240 players will be cut to the low 70 players and ties after 36 holes, with the final two rounds contested at Duncan Meadows. The champion will receive an exemption into the 2019 RBC Canadian Open, as well as an invitation to the 2018 U.S. Amateur Championship. Additionally, the winner will receive an exemption into local qualifying for the 2019 U.S. Open, and if applicable, the U.S. Junior, U.S. Mid-Amateur or USGA Senior Amateur Championships.
The 105th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship takes place July 23-27 at Marine Drive Golf Club in Vancouver with the champion earning an exemption into the 2018 CP Women’s Open, as well as an exemption into the 2018 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship. Additionally, the winner will receive exemptions into the U.S. Girls’ Junior, U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur and USGA Senior Women’s Amateur Championships, if applicable.
The 16th Canadian University/College Championship will be held May 28 to June 1 at Chilliwack Golf Club in Chilliwack, B.C. The national championship features both a team and individual component and will serve as the Canadian team qualifier for the 2018 FISU World University Golf Championship.
The Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur will be held August 20-24 at Victoria Golf Club in Victoria, B.C. with the champion earning entry into the 2019 RBC Canadian Open.
On Saturday, July 21, as a kick-off event to the 2018 RBC Canadian Open, Glen Abbey will also open its fairways to junior competitors from across Canada for the 10th annual Future Links, driven by Acura Junior Skills Challenge National Event. Click here for qualifying info.
The 2018 RBC Canadian Open on the PGA TOUR will be contested July 23-29 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. and will mark the 109th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship. As part of a two-stage qualifying process, a trio of RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifiers will take place in British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario. The regional qualifying event in B.C. will be held at Ledgeview Golf Club, home course of Canadian PGA TOUR stars and Team Canada alumni Adam Hadwin and Nick Taylor.
The CP Women’s Open will make its first-ever stop in Saskatchewan as Wascana Country Club in Regina will host the stars of the LPGA Tour from August 20-26.
At the junior level, the 80th Canadian Junior Boys Championship will be contested from July 29 to August 2 at Medicine Hat Golf & Country Club in Medicine Hat, Alta., with the winner earning an exemption into the 2018 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship. That same week the 64th Canadian Junior Girls Championship will be contested at Beach Grove Golf Club in Tsawwassen, B.C.
Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club in Bathurst, N.B., will host the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship September 3-7 with the winner earning an exemption into the 2018 USGA Senior Amateur. The Canadian Women’s Mid-Am and Senior Championship will be held August 27-30 at Lookout Point Country Club in Fonthill, Ont., with the champion earning an exemption into the 2018 USGA Senior Women’s Amateur Championship.
Ottawa’s Camelot Golf & Country Club will open its fairways to elite talent from across the globe when it plays host to the World Junior Girls Championship from September 9-14, 2018. This year marks the fifth playing of the annual event. Camelot has previously hosted the Canadian Junior Girls Championship as well as qualifying for the CP Women’s Open. Admission and parking for the World Junior Girls Golf Championship is free. For more information, visit www.worldjuniorgirls.com.
For the second straight year, Golf Canada, in collaboration with the USGA, will host a U.S. Open Local Qualifier at Beacon Hall Golf Club in Aurora, Ont. The 18-hole event conducted on May 7 will be one of 112 local qualifiers across 45 states and Canada which serve as the first of a two-step process to qualify for the U.S. Open.
The U.S. Women’s Amateur Local Qualifier will run June 27 at the Weston Golf & Country Club in Toronto, while the U.S. Amateur Local Qualifier will take place July 16 at Pitt Meadows Golf Club in Pitt Meadows, B.C.
The Golf Fore the Cure presented by Subaru National Event will be held at The Thornhill Club on September 24. The one-day event is a celebration of the success of all Golf Fore the Cure presented by Subaru events held nationwide during the 2018 season. To date, the fundraising efforts of thousands of golfers have totaled more than $6 million for breast cancer research since the program’s inception in 2003. The program’s goal is to drive women’s participation in the game of golf through the use of fun, non-intimidating activities. Click here to learn more about Golf Fore the Cure presented by Subaru.
GOLF CANADA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Golf Canada annually conducts championships nation-wide which play host to more than 3,000 domestic and international athletes from all corners of the world. In partnership with our host clubs, thousands of volunteers, provincial golf associations and our proud sponsors, Golf Canada is dedicated to supporting player development through world-class competition since our inception in 1895. Officiated by certified Canadian Rules of Golf officials, Golf Canada’s amateur competitions are fully compliant with golf’s international governing bodies and include marquee events such as the Canadian Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships, as well as the Canadian Junior Girls and Junior Boys Championships. Golf Canada’s amateur championships are proudly supported by RBC, Canadian Pacific, Sport Canada, Levelwear, Titleist and FootJoy. For more information and scheduling visit www.golfcanada.ca/competitions.
FUTURE LINKS, driven by Acura Future Links, driven by Acura is Canada’s national junior golf program conducted by Golf Canada, the PGA of Canada and Canada’s provincial golf associations. Proudly supported by Acura, Puma, The R&A, NGCOA Canada, ClubLink and Sport Canada, the program is designed to forge a link between Canada’s youth and golf to ensure the future of the game in Canada. The program features three core areas of focus—in-school programming, facility programming and community outreach—including elements such as Golf in Schools, Learn to Play, Girl’s Club, Mobile Clinics, Junior Skills Competition and Community Golf Coach, along with six regional Future Links Junior Championships. Since the inception of the program in 1996, more than 1.3 million young Canadians have taken part in Future Links. For more information, visit golfcanada.ca/futurelinks.
Golf Canada announces Junior Ticket design winners for 2018 RBC Canadian Open and CP Women’s Open
Sarah Suozzi (Golf Canada)
Terry Lenyk
OAKVILLE, ONT. (Golf Canada) – Golf Canada has unveiled its new Junior Ticket designs for the RBC Canadian Open taking place July 23-29 at Glen Abbey Golf Club and the CP Women’s Open taking place August 20-26 at Wascana Country Club in Regina.
The designs were selected from entries received from local elementary school classes in Oakville and across Saskatchewan who signed on to participate in the second annual Junior Ticket Design Contests for each event.
When the pencil crayons were put away, Sarah Suozzi, a grade 6 student from St. Luke Catholic Elementary School in Oakville, will have her design dawn the Junior Tickets for the 2018 RBC Canadian Open. Austin Marshall, a grade 5 student from Tompkins School in Tompkins, Sask., will have his drawing featured on the 2018 CP Women’s Open Junior Tickets.
Suozzi will win a pizza party for her class and a Golf in Schools kit, as well as RBC Canadian Open tickets for her family. Marshall’s class will receive a pizza party, while he wins a life size ticket and tickets for his family to attend the CP Women’s Open.
“I’d like to thank and congratulate all students who took part in our Junior Ticket design contests,” said Bill Paul, Chief Championships Officer for Golf Canada. “We were ecstatic with the creativity and quality of all entries we received.”
Let’s hear it for our #RBCCO & #CPWO Junior Ticket design winners – congrats Sarah and Austin! ?⛳️
The winning illustrations were selected out of more than 100 entries received. Ten finalists were identified by the tournament’s marketing team and then Golf Canada staff voted the winners. The final 10 selections were also shared via Twitter and Instagram.
The contest reinforced Golf Canada’s commitment to conducting events for fans of all ages.
“Family and junior engagement is very important to golf in Canada as well as our championships,” Paul added. “We’re proud to be considered among the most fan-friendly events on both the PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour. We pride ourselves on making sure the entire family can enjoy themselves onsite. It’s about bringing everyone together to celebrate community and Canadian golf.”
Last year, nearly 20,000 free RBC Canadian Open and 7,500 CP Women’s Open Junior Tickets were printed and distributed. Free Junior Tickets were also available online for download and printing.
Complimentary Junior Tickets, applicable to kids 17-and-under, are ideal giveaways for sports teams, schools, golf tournaments and summer camps.
Free RBC Canadian Open Junior Tickets are available for download by clicking here, while CP Women’s Open Free Junior Tickets can be downloaded here. They can also be ordered through Golf Canada’s sales department at 1-855-985-5000.
Information regarding tickets, volunteer opportunities and corporate hospitality for the 2018 RBC Canadian Open or CP Women’s Open can be found at www.cpwomensopen.com or www.rbccanadianopen.com.
Steam Whistle named official beer partner of Golf Canada, the RBC Canadian Open & CP Women’s Open
Dan Pino/ Golf Canada
– Steam Whistle partners with Golf Canada to enhance the experience at Canada’s National Open Championships and on courses across the country –
Toronto, Ontario (Golf Canada) – The Good Beer Folks at Steam Whistle, Canada’s Premium Pilsner, have announced a new partnership to become the Official Beer of Golf Canada, the RBC Canadian Open and the CP Women’s Open.
Through the multi-year partnership, Steam Whistle will work alongside Golf Canada to encourage more enthusiasts to enjoy a cold Steam Whistle Pilsner during a round of golf with friends and at Canada’s National Men’s and Women’s Open Championships. The agreement represents Steam Whistle’s largest partnership in their history, a significant milestone for the independent Canadian brewer.
“We are thrilled to be the Official Beer of Golf Canada and align our brand with a sport that delivers a deep social, charitable, entertainment and environmental impact to communities nationwide,” said Cam Heaps, Chief Executive Officer of Steam Whistle Brewing. “The RBC Canadian Open and the CP Women’s Open are iconic events that Canadian golf enthusiasts are extremely passionate about. As an independent Canadian brewery, we are excited to become part of the experience and for our world-class Pilsner to be enjoyed on more of Canada’s world-class golf courses.”
Spectators at the RBC Canadian Open and CP Women’s Open will have the opportunity to engage with Steam Whistle ambassadors—known as The Good Beer Folks—and enjoy Canada’s Premium Pilsner served from one of Steam Whistle’s fleet of Vintage Vehicles on the course.
“We are thrilled to have Steam Whistle as Golf Canada’s Official Beer Partner,” said Laurence Applebaum, Chief Executive Officer of Golf Canada. “Steam Whistle’s unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship and proud Canadian identity are well positioned as the perfect beer to enjoy at our National Open Championships and after a round of golf at one of Canada’s 2,300 incredible courses.”
The Steam Whistle story began in the spring of 1998, when three friends—Greg Taylor, Cam Heaps, and Greg Cromwell—were on a canoe trip in Ontario. The trio had been colleagues at one of Canada’s premier microbreweries producing quality beer in the late 1980’s and 90’s before it was bought out by a national brewer and closed down. As they sat around the campfire, the self-named “Three Fired Guys” dreamed of one day running their own brewery and making a Pilsner that would compete with the best in the world. Over the past 18 years Steam Whistle has grown to become one of Canada’s leading premium beers enjoyed coast to coast.
As the National Sport Federation, Golf Canada operates the RBC Canadian Open, set to run July 23-29, 2018 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, as well as the CP Women’s Open which takes place August 20-26, 2018 at Wascana Country Club in Regina, Saskatchewan.
Cardiac arrest survivor to represent Saskatchewan kids at 2018 CP Women’s Open
Benjamin Fizzard (CP Has Heart Child Ambassador)
Canadian Pacific (CP) and Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation have announced 10-year-old Benjamin Fizzard of Regina as the Saskatchewan child ambassador for the 2018 CP Women’s Open taking place at the Wascana Country Club, in Regina, August 20-26, 2018.
“CP was thrilled with the outcome of last month’s Radiothon in partnership with the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, which raised $618,060 to support children who are overcoming heart problems,” said Keith Creel, CP President and CEO. “We look forward to connecting with our Saskatchewan-based CP family, our customers and stakeholders this summer in Regina at the CP Women’s Open, and will proudly continue our fundraising efforts until then.”
Benjamin has triumphed over heart challenges, including sudden cardiac arrest while playing tag at school. The announcement coincides with the official kick-off of the CP Has Heart fundraising campaign that begins today and runs until August 26.
“Even after the unimaginable heart complications that Benjamin has endured, he has made a remarkable comeback and we are so proud to have him represent Saskatchewan kids at the 2018 CP Women’s Open in Regina,” said Brynn Boback-Lane, President and CEO of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. “People across Saskatchewan are once again coming together and contributing through the CP Has Heart matching program, allowing Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation to receive DOUBLE the financial support to help kids like Benjamin who experience heart health complications. The generosity of donations speaks loudly that Saskatchewan folks truly do have heart.” Benjamin has triumphed over heart challenges, including sudden cardiac arrest while playing tag at school. The announcement coincides with the official kick-off of the CP Has Heart fundraising campaign that begins today and runs until August 26.
The CP Has Heart campaign will raise funds for a dedicated Pediatric Cardiology space, called the “Frog Pod”, in the new Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital which is set to open next year. With a nature theme running throughout the hospital, the “Frog Pod” will be specifically used to treat pediatric cardiology patients right here in Saskatchewan. With a specialized provincial team of pediatric cardiologists, the “Frog Pod” includes echocardiography exam rooms, a pulmonary function technology lab, an exercise challenge room, a regular exam room and a staff echo cardiology reading room.
CP will be matching donations made here from now through to the end of the CP Women’s Open tournament on August 26, 2018. Through the CP Has Heart campaign, CP will also match funds from community fundraisers up to $95,000 as well as offer a $225,000 match towards major gifts and provide incentive for Saskatchewan residents to join Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation’s monthly giving program, called Sunshine Makers Club.
Please visit pattisonchildrenshasheart.ca, which launches today, for information on the “Frog Pod”, our new ambassador, and to learn more about how to support pediatric cardiology in Saskatchewan.
Brooke Henderson is featured int he LPGA's 2018 ad campaign
Golf Canada
ORLANDO, Fla., – The LPGA’s 2018 advertising campaign made its debut this week on Golf Channel ahead of the season-opening Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic, with the campaign’s emphasis on ‘A Global Tour Like No Other’ and the accessibility and personality of its players.
The 2018 edition of the LPGA’s campaign was created by Austin-based ad agency Divot Group and the spots will be rolled out during telecasts on Golf Channel over the first several tournaments of the 2018 LPGA Tour season, starting with this week’s event at the Ocean Club Golf Course in Paradise Island, Bahamas.
The playful, light-hearted ad series aims to showcase the diverse nationalities of LPGA Tour players while emphasizing their approachability and personality.
One spot (Language) highlights the challenges of playing all round the world, such as the potential pitfalls of language applications, but ultimately concludes: “winning translates in any language”.
Another spot (Global Launch) features Canada’s own Brooke Henderson and states: “…to be the best in the world, you have to beat the best in the world”
And yet another (Next Wave) focuses on the “movement” happening in women’s golf with the “next wave” of competition making it tougher than ever to win on the LPGA Tour.
“Two distinct themes have emerged on the LPGA Tour: its truly global nature and the approachability and accessibility of its players,” said LPGA Chief Commercial Officer Jon Podany. “The LPGA is uniquely golf’s global tour with players representing 32 countries, tournaments in 14 countries and TV distributed to more than 170 countries.
“The best players in the world come to play on the LPGA and the competition is better than ever. This campaign brings that to life, as well as showcases the diverse personalities of our players.”
One more spot was created called Frequent Flyer, in which players joke about who has racked up the most frequent flyer miles.
The 2018 season continues to feature players from across the globe with representatives from 32 nations. Last season produced 22 different winners from eight countries while five players from four different countries occupied the top spot in the Rolex Rankings during 2017.
Further eye-catching elements last year were the depth and quality of competition. The 2017 Tour went 15 events before having a repeat winner, tied for the longest streak in LPGA history, and a record 12 players ended the season with a scoring average below 70 – the previous best was five players set in 2016.
In addition to the LPGA’s Golf Channel telecasts, the 2018 ad spots will be featured through the LPGA’s international television partners, on LPGA.com, and via the LPGA’s social media channels, including YouTube, Twitter and Facebook beginning on Thursday, January 25.
Golf Canada mourns the loss of legendary railroader & golf champion Hunter Harrison
Hunter Harrison (Golf Canada Archives)
Dan Pino/ Golf Canada
It is with great sadness and the highest regard that Golf Canada mourns the loss of former CP CEO Hunter Harrison who passed away suddenly on December 16, 2017.
“On behalf of the entire Canadian golf community as well as our partners at CP and the LPGA Tour we are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Hunter Harrison and extend our most sincere condolences to his wife Jeannie and all of his family, friends and colleagues,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “We are proud to celebrate and remember Hunter as a champion for women’s golf, high performance and junior golf during his career as the greatest railroader and one of the greatest supporters of Canadian golf during his long history with CP and other railroads. His leadership, passion for excellence and vision to support so many facets of the game had an immeasurable impact on Canadian golf.”
Under Mr. Harrison’s leadership with CP and other railroads prior, the CP Women’s Open evolved into one of the premier events on the LPGA Tour which has contributed millions to children’s charities in the event’s host communities dating back to 2006.
His legacy as an extensive partner and friend to Golf Canada also touched high performance initiatives including Golf Canada’s National Team program, the (former) Canadian Women’s Tour and national amateur competitions as well grassroots golf through the Future Links national junior golf program.
Hunter Harrison was legendary railroader who will be ceaselessly remembered for his leadership, friendship, generosity and enormous contributions to the game of golf in Canada.
What others are saying:
CP family mourns loss of legendary railroader and former CEO, Mr. E. Hunter Harrison https://t.co/RmI4d9V5R4
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Hunter Harrison, longtime supporter and friend of the LPGA and women’s golf. Hunter was instrumental in the expansion and growth of the Canadian Women’s Open. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We will miss him! pic.twitter.com/vNkcD7q67S
VERY hard to read about Hunter Harrison passing. HUGE supporter of women’s golf & someone that truly lifted the @LPGA – RIP to our friend & partner!!
CSX Corp. Chief Executive Hunter Harrison died Saturday, a day after the surprise announcement that he was placed on medical leave
Deeply saddened over Hunter Harrison’s passing earlier today. An inspirational friend to the @LPGA, golf in Canada & someone who was never too busy for me. #RIP Sir. You will be missed ⛳️ pic.twitter.com/loSE2pVJpW
