News

Tournament News

When Jeff Murdoch turned 50 in February, he added this to his summertime to-do list — trying to earn a tee-time to compete alongside the PGA TOUR Champions stars at the 2024 Rogers Charity Classic. 

He’s now one step closer. 

Murdoch was one of two PGA of Alberta members to advance through Friday’s pre-qualifier at Hamptons Golf Club. 

The final qualifier to round out the 78-man field is set for Tuesday at Elbow Springs. 

“I kind of set my goals on this in February and it just motivated me to keep my game in shape, to keep me in shape and keep me motivated,” Murdoch said. “I just wanted to do it to show my kids that it’s OK to try and OK to fail. So I’m pretty happy.”

There was no failure Friday.

Murdoch, who has maintained his PGA of Alberta membership but now works as a fire captain in Edmonton, carded a 3-over 75. After a lengthy wait to find out how that score stacked up, he made a clutch par on the first playoff hole.

Randy Robb, the director of coaching and high performance at Mickelson National Golf Academy, also advanced with a par in that three-for-two playoff.

“I didn’t expect this at all,” said Robb, who is a three-time winner of the PGA of Alberta’s Junior Leader of the Year award and continues to work with some of the most talented up-and-comers in the Calgary area. “I’ve been in Saskatoon all week at the Canadian Men’s Amateur, supporting the guys and walking the course, and I hadn’t touched my clubs in six days. 

“I was in Quebec at the PGA Seniors’ Championship of Canada the week before, so it’s not like I hadn’t played. But you know, we talk to our students about trying to ramp up going into an event. And then you get to the tee today and it’s like, ‘OK, which wedge is in here?’ 

“I made an eagle on No. 16, so that really helped. I didn’t expect 75 to be in a playoff, but I hung around and now we’ll see what happens Tuesday at Elbow Springs. That’s kind of fun.”  

Wouldn’t it be fun if he could play his way into the star-studded field for the 2024 Rogers Charity Classic? 

That award-winning tournament runs Aug. 16-18 at Canyon Meadows and features some of the biggest names in the birdie-making business — Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington, and Mike Weir.

Robb has, over the years, encouraged countless students to attend the annual PGA Tour Champions shootout.

“I remember being there several years ago when Freddy (Couples) shot 61,” he reminisced. “And you’re thinking, ‘Whoa, that’s incredible!’ ”

The lineup for Tuesday’s final qualifier at Elbow Springs also includes Edmonton’s Larry Petryk, the reigning winner of the PGA of Alberta Seniors’ Championship. His provincial title provided a bye through the pre-qualifier.

As Murdoch, formerly the director of golf at Cougar Creek, prepared Friday for his three-hour drive home, he was excited about pulling a U-Turn to return to Calgary in just a couple of days.

And he was admittedly a bit emotional as he thought about calling his loved ones to share the news that he was through to the next stage of the qualifying quest.

“I have a 20-year-old at RCMP school and an 18-year-old about to start university, so I just wanted to show them that dad could still play some good golf,” said Murdoch, who won the PGA of Alberta’s Club Professional Championship in 2009. “And yesterday was my anniversary and I’m off playing a practice round. So I’ve got a really supportive family.

“It’s still a big road ahead of me,” he added, looking ahead to Tuesday’s shootout at Elbow Springs. “It’s still an uphill climb. But I’m up for the challenge and can hold my head high.”

Tournament News

CALGARY—Calgary’s Mitchell Fox is having a summer to remember, rattling off his third victory of the PGA of Alberta’s 2024 tournament series on Wednesday at the Sirocco Golf Club.

The Apprentice Professional from the Speargrass Golf Course carved out rounds of 66-65—131 (-13) for a four-shot victory at the Cobra/Puma Golf Assistants Championship.

“It’s a huge relief for me. I’ve come close the last three or four years in a lot of events. I’ve been edged by one by Wes (Heffernan) last year in the Assistants, so it is nice to come out on top,” said Fox, who also won a Players Tour event and the Kailani Pro-Pro Scramble. “Looking at the names on that (Assistants) trophy, it is nice to add my name to that group of guys.”

After throwing together a card of five birdies, an eagle and one bogey in his first 18-hole spin, Fox kept the pedal down in Wednesday’s final round.

“The match was tough. Any time you are going head-to-head with a guy like Wes, and having guys like Mike Belbin and Dillon Batsel hanging around you know it is going to be a tough day,” added Fox. “I knew I had to go out there and shoot a low score no matter what with Wes chasing me down, so I think that helped me.”

Mission accomplished!

With Heffernan on his tail Fox carded seven birdies in a bogey-free round on the final day.

“I didn’t play as good yesterday as I did today. I made a ton of putts yesterday, got some breaks off the tee where I made some bad tee shots but today, I just played really well all day,” said the former Canadian Tour player. “I putted well, I hit it well. The key over the last two days was probably that it was my better putting over two days all year. I hit it really good.”

Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance) made a charge, opening his final round with 30 on the front side, but came up just shy in trying to successfully defend his title after stumbling down the finishing stretch with a bogey and double-bogey in his five holes coming home. Heffernan closed with rounds of 69-66—135 (-9) for second place. Dillon Batsel (Desert Blume Golf Club) settled for third place at 138 (-6) in the field of 68 players.

Complete Results:

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Tournament News

Sirocco GC hosted round 1 of the Cobra/Puma Golf Assistants Championship today with 68 of Alberta’s Assistant Professionals looking to set themselves up to hoist the trophy on Wednesday. 

A change in weather brought some familiar faces to the top of the leaderboard as Mitchell Fox (Speargrass GC) got off to a hot start as he finished the day shooting a 6-under 66. Fox had five birdies and an eagle to hold a three shot lead over back-to-back defending champion, Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre).

Dillon Batsel (Desert Blume GC) and Mike Belbin (Royal Mayfair GC) are sitting in a tie for third after opening the tournament with a 2-under 70. They will both look to stay in the mix later in the morning on Wednesday.

Tee times for round 2 will start at 7:00am.

Leaders After Round 1

Round 2 Draw

Buying Show News

Enhanced Show experience set for October 22-24 at Calgary’s BMO Centre (Hall B).

With the golf season swinging into August, attendee registration is now open for the 2024 PGA of Alberta Buying Show, scheduled to take place at Calgary’s BMO Centre (Hall B), October 22-24.

It is our goal to deliver an enhanced experience at the 2024 PGA of Alberta Buying Show while bringing together golf professionals, industry suppliers, and sales representatives as facilities from across western Canada prepare their inventories for the 2025 season.

The only show of its kind in Canada, this year’s premier gathering of the golf community in western Canada will deliver:

• new product and trends in the golf industry for 2025;
• exclusive networking events, an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow attendees and exhibitors while expanding your professional network;
• complimentary food and beverage options for attendees, courtesy of our partner Gordon Food Service (GFS), will be available in the 19th Hole;
• education sessions focused on relevant topics to the golf industry that are designed to help PGA of Canada members advance professionally;
• PGA of Alberta Awards Cocktail Reception & Ceremony to recognize the trailblazers, innovators, and champions in our community who continue to drive the golf industry forward.

Don’t miss out on the chance to forge meaningful connections, exchange insights, and unlock new opportunities for your 2025 season. Secure your spot today and be part of this one-of-a-kind event for the golf industry in Canada by registering your team today using the following link: 2024 PGA of Alberta Buying Show Attendee Registration

The 2024 PGA of Alberta Buying Show will operate under revised hours: October 22 (9 am – 5 pm); October 23 (9 am – 5 pm); October 24 (9 am – 3 pm). All exhibitors will be on the floor until the close of the show floor on the final day. A Business Professional Dress Code will also be in effect for the duration of the PGA of Alberta Buying Show for all attendees and exhibitors. Not sure what to wear? Take a look at our infographic for more details.  

We hope to have you join us for this premier event filled with opportunities for viewing, buying, networking, industry recognition, education, and social activities in Calgary this fall.

If you have any questions related to the PGA of Alberta Buying Show, please contact Michelle Moody at [email protected].

Tournament News

CALGARY—Matthew Mah and Mitchell Fox took top team honours in the main division of the Kailani Pro-Pro Scramble event at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club (Hawk Course) while Katy Rutherford and Amy Popkes were crowned queens of the women’s division.

Mah (Millwoods Golf Course) and Fox (Speargrass Golf Club) edged out a professional tandem from Earl Grey Golf Club - Scott Stiles and Pat Wilmot – after making birdie on the first extra hole. Both teams completed the 18-hole test on the southern skirts of Calgary with 12-under-par 60s.

Six other teams finished one-shot back at 61 (-11) in the field of 59 teams made up of PGA of Alberta professionals throughout the province.

Katy Rutherford and Amy Popkes also needed to work overtime to take top spot in the women’s division. The dynamic duo squared off with Kim Valleau (Winston Golf Club) and Rhonda Carter (Blue Devil Golf Course) in a one-hole playoff that was also determined with a birdie.

Congratulations to Matt Dykstra (Blackhawk GC) for his hole-in-one on hole #2 and Wayne Fairbairn (Willow Park G&CC) for making an albatross on hole #18.

Complete Results:

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Association News

We are excited to announce that the new Education Committee has been formed for the remainder of 2024 and for 2025. Thank you to all the applicants who have volunteered their time and passion to help support our Association.

A message from Chair, Todd Halpen:

" We are really looking forward to working closely with the new members of the Committee.  We are extremely pleased the we have members from both Public and Private facilities that will bring in their personal experience and club experiences to help make the education events beneficial for the association. With this committee we are looking to execute long range planning to ensure success for all our events in the future."

The new committee consists of:

1. Todd Halpen (Chair)
2. Miles Mortenson (Board Member)
3. Kevin Chow (Board Member)
4. Shannon Riana (Assistant’s Board)
5. Tyler Leicht (Assistant’s Board)
6. Stephan Yanitski
7. Elizabeth Stewart
8. Chris Horton
9. Stefan Cox
10. John Randle
11. Nic Longley 
12. Doug Repp

The Education Committee will sit with a minimum of 8 Members and maximum of 12 and shall meet as a committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the chairs for:

1. Spring Seminar.
2. PD Series.
3. Teaching Summits.
4. Buying Show Education.
5. Further education development that works within the scope of the PGA of Canada curriculum.
6. Proactively obtain input and suggestions from members on their level of satisfaction with suggestions for improvement of the education portfolio.
7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
8. Undertake other activities assigned by the Board of Directors.
9. Review the terms of reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.

The committee chair will provide a report on committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal committee meetings have taken place.

Tournament News

Camilla Ruesga Rojas and Jayden Arnold win U15 titles

EDMONTON—Calgary’s Sophie Dhaliwal and Edmonton’s Tate Bruggeman were crowned the queen and king of the Play Golf Alberta Junior Masters event for 2024, hosted by the PGA of Alberta at Royal Mayfair Golf Club.

Dhaliwal, who plays out of the Wingfield Golf Club in Calgary, won her second-straight Junior Masters title. Dhaliwal fired back-to-back 73s to run away with a nine-shot victory (146) in the Overall Girls Division (U19).

“I love the course. It is so well maintained from the tee deck to the putting greens, and I love playing tournaments in Edmonton,” said Dhaliwal, who stumbled out of the gate, opening with double bogeys in both of her rounds.

“A lot of my time on the course was spent on bouncing back. I struggled with the first couple of holes on the front nine, so my goal was to make a bunch of birdies, come back, manage my emotions. My putting was very good on the first day and it helped me on the second day as well.”

It certainly did.

The youngster mixed four birdies together with two doubles and four bogeys in her opening 18-hole spin. She played steady, making one birdie coming home in her final round.

Three players were deadlocked in second at 155. Emma Liu (Windermere Golf and Country Club) and Eva Hogue (Edmonton Golf Club) fired rounds of 80 and 75, while Jayla Kucy (Camrose Golf Club) carded scores of 74-81 in the field of 17 athletes.

Camilla Ruesga Rojas (Pinebrook Golf and Country Club) was tops in the U15 Girls Division at 78-75—153.

Tate Bruggeman lit up the Royal Mayfair Golf Club with a sizzling 64 in the final round of the boys event to take a five-shot victory. A member of The Derrick Golf and Winter Club, Bruggeman carded three birdies a side to finish 5-under-par and lead the 59 junior boys players in the two-day event with a score of 71-64—135.

“I hit the golf ball pretty solid both days. Yesterday, I was just a little bit off. I didn’t give myself enough really good looks and couldn’t make a ton of putts, but I got off to a good start today, kept it rolling, made a couple of 15 to 20-foot putts on the back nine that I hadn’t seen going in lately,” said Bruggeman.

The northern Alberta teen bookended his junior competitive golfing career at the Royal Mayfair.

“Today was just kind of a nice way to cap off my junior career. About 10 years ago, I played my first junior tournament ever here, so it was a special week,” said Bruggeman. “Royal Mayfair is a world-class golf course. It was in great shape and the staff and volunteers did an awesome job. I love the course, it was in great shape. The staff and volunteers did a great job. I always enjoy playing this PGA of Alberta event.”

Bruggeman began the final round one-shot back of Matthew Keane (Bearspaw Golf Club). Keane finished even-par 70 both times out for a total score of 140 and second spot. Ryan Gillis (Pinebrook Golf and Country Club) and Peter Hlushak (Windermere Golf and Country Club) placed third with combined scores of 144.

Jayden Arnold (Earl Grey Golf Club) was the U15 Boys Division champion after heating up the Royal Mayfair track with rounds of 68-69—137.

Complete Results:

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Partner News

Levelwear pledges the following levels of support to the Red Cross Alberta 2024 wildfire relief fund:

• 100% of all net proceeds from levelwear.com from July 27-31
• 100% of all net proceeds from sales in the official CPKC Women’s Open merchandise tent July 27-28, visit their Instagram for more information.
• A donation of 2000 units of new men’s, women’s and youth apparel to the region

For more information on how to support, please visit levelwear.com.

Tournament News

Royal Mayfair GC hosted 56 of the provinces top juniors on Sunday at the Play Golf Alberta - Royal Mayfair Junior Masters presented by Sundog Eyewear/Blue Tees.

The girls teed off first and Camilla Ruesga Rojas (Pinebrook G&CC) leads the U15 division after round 1. Camilla will take a 5-shot lead into day 2, looking to claim her division for the first time.

The race for the U19 girls overall title will see leader Sophie Dhaliwal (Wingfield GC) try and defend her title after carding 4 birdies to finish the day at 73. Sitting closely behind her is Jayla Kucy (Camrose GC), who finished today just one shot back of Dhaliwal. Jayla won the overall title in 2021 and she will try and capture her second title when they tee off together at 8:50am.

The boys were also in action and the U15 leader is Jayden Arnold (Early Grey GC) after 4 birdies set him a top the division, finishing the day at 68. Erik Petersen (Carnmoney GC) and Chase Strang (Pinebrook G&CC) sit just 4 shots back with 18 holes to play on Monday.

The low round of the day belongs to Peter Hlushak (Windermere G&CC) where he birdied 5 holes in a row to lock in a 67 after round 1. Matthew Keane (Bearspaw GC) and Chase Lassman (Stony Plain GC) will join Peter in the final group, looking to build off their rounds of even par and take home their first overall boys title. 

Rounds 1 Results

Round 2 Draw

Association News

Janelle Istvanffy understands the impact of an event like this. She has experienced it first-hand.

Istvanffy is now an associate professional at Earl Grey Golf Club, proudly playing host this week to the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open. It brings back memories from 1999, when the LPGA Tour paid its first visit to the Calgary area.

“I grew up at Priddis Greens and I remember watching the du Maurier Classic in 1999, when I was just a little kid,” Istvanffy said. “I remember Karrie Webb walked off the 18th green after winning and handed me a golf ball. I still have vivid memories of that.

“It’s fun seeing our juniors now have those same experiences. We hosted a junior Ryder Cup on Saturday (prior to tournament week) and as part of it, we got them to all take pictures in front of the trophy before they teed off. And just seeing their smiles, it was like, ‘That was me, back in 1999.’ You can really see that these are memories that they will carry with them forever.”

It’s not just the junior members at Earl Grey that are in pinch-me mode this week as Brooke Henderson, Lydia Ko and others dig divots on their home turf.

For the staff of seven PGA of Alberta professionals at this private facility, including three women, this is truly something special. 

“It’s been like the dream come true that I didn’t even know I had,” said associate professional Jennifer MacKinnon, who has witnessed the evolution of Earl Grey through a major redesign (2018), a centennial celebration (2019) and now an event that is drawing international eyeballs. “It’s just an opportunity that I feel like I’m so fortunate to be a part of. I’ve been here for eight years, so I’ve gone through all of the construction and changes and I think it’s amazing that the rest of the world gets to see our little slice of heaven.

“And now, to see all these famous people that I never in my wildest dreams thought that I’d be able to be two feet from, it’s just so cool.”

It’s even cooler when those big-name birdie-seekers are heaping praise on your course, when golf fans around the globe are going to be seeing the highlights on TV or on social media.

Earl Grey’s head professional, Pat Wilmot, has encouraged his staff to “take it in, enjoy every moment and be proud of position you’re in and that you’re a part of what built it.” 

They have done precisely that.   

Associate professional Shannon Raina was thrilled to tee it up in the pro-am, strolling the fairways alongside LPGA Tour regulars Bianca Pagdanganan and Jenny Shin. She called it “a top experience of my life” and “a day I’ll never forget.”  

Apprentice professional Josh Berze has been hauling a bag as a caddie.

Istvanffy was among those who attended the CPKC Women’s Leadership Summit on Tuesday, where the speakers included the commissioner of the LPGA Tour and president of the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League. Istvanffy described that event as “a 12 out of 10” and added “it really set the stage for a great week because we talked about how we can champion women’s sports.”

“I’m just trying to be a sponge,” MacKinnon said during the hubbub of CPKC Women’s Open week. “Just taking the opportunity to connect with coaches — whether it be a swing coach or a mental coach or physiotherapist — and just watching their practice routines and stuff that I can then take back into my day-to-day role here and share with our members when I’m coaching them. So just trying to soak up as much as possible.”

The members at Earl Grey, regardless of age or gender, are doing the same. Many are volunteering at the tournament.

“I hope it keeps building the love of the game,” Raina said. “Even for myself, I felt reinvigorated by playing in the pro-am. I was like, ‘Man, I want to practice more. I want to play more.’ I saw a couple of our junior members out there and they were watching Brooke Henderson with wide eyes. Maybe this just makes them love golf even more. 

“You don’t have to be a pro golfer, but if you just keep loving the game … If that is what happens, I think that’s incredible.”

MacKinnon, too, has first-hand experience with that.

When the LPGA Tour played at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton in 2007, she was among the junior participants in the pro-am. She remembers posing for a photo with Alena Sharp, who has been competing in the CPKC Women’s Open for two decades now. 

“So, it’s kind of coming full circle. It’s cool to be a part of it on this side now,” MacKinnon said. “The more that they get the itch after this week, the better. Shannon already has a huge junior program going here.”

Indeed, there are about 200 juniors at Earl Grey. When they hosted a girls-only night in June, the sign-up sheet filled up fast.

What’s especially meaningful is that when the LPGA Tour stars pack up and head off to the next stop at the Olympic Games in Paris, those youngsters will still have three strong role models in Istvanffy, MacKinnon and Raina.

There can’t be many courses in Canada, or anywhere, with this many females on their professional staff.  

“I think the girls here will grow up seeing that as normal,” Istvanffy said. “And that’s really cool.”

“It’s nice to have them as my co-workers as well as my friends,” Raina added. “The golf industry, for females, is not an easy place to be all the time. But it doesn’t feel like that at Earl Grey because it’s almost like there’s more of us than there are men. It’s super cool, and we’re pretty close. I just think having us together navigating this all is really important.”

Tournament News

On Thursday, ladies from Calgary and surrounding areas joined their PGA of Alberta golf professionals at the Winston Golf Club to compete for the 2024 Pro-Lady South Title. Nestled into the floor of an escarpment and bisected by Nose Creek, the Winston’s 18 hole, Par 72 layout includes a challenging and enjoyable course living up to its claim of "Calgary’s inner city hidden gem".

The team from Water Valley GC, Jeremy Dueck and Megan McKenzie, had it rolling as they topped the field with 45 stableford points on their way to victory. "What a fabulous experience playing in my first Pro-Lady event," said McKenzie. " I loved the stableford format, as it made it fair across the playing field. Super fun course with some challenging greens, but they ran so true it was awesome to see the longer putts drain right to the hole - and we made some long putts yesterday!"

The PGA of Alberta will host the second iteration of the Pro-Lady on August 12th at the Ranch G&CC.

Tournament News

CALGARY—Michael Harrison stormed his way back from a five-shot deficit in the blistering heat to win the 2024 PING Club Professional Championship on Tuesday at the prestigious Calgary Golf and Country Club.

The head professional at the Coal Creek Golf Resort fired a one-under-par, 69, to secure himself the opportunity to playoff against David MacComb (Royal Mayfair Golf Club). The duo carded identical scorecards of 73-69—142 over the two-day event on the tight 6,503-yard track.

“It was hot and a challenge both days. I didn’t get off to the fastest start in round one, but I battled back, just kind of hung around and stayed really patient today,” said Harrison, who was born and raised in Camrose, Alta. “Today I got off to a much better start. I felt like I was there all day, had much better looks and a few good saves with a lot of good bounces. The course was in great shape – they did an awesome job hosting here.”

The graduate from the University of Alberta who played college golf at Augustana Campus, made a stellar par on the 18th and final hole to keep his hopes alive.

“That was a big save on 18 to finish my round and get into a playoff with Dave. I was very happy with that,” he said.

The duo headed back to the par-5 opening hole to determine the winner.

“That is my first playoff. I’m brand new to that kind of feeling,” added Harrison. “I wanted to play aggressively, kind of how I started the day, so I pulled driver and was trying to flag hunt into that first playoff hole. Luckily, it was a two-putt birdie and that was enough.”

MacComb was forced to settle for second place at 142 after making bogey on the extra hole. Three others were tied for third spot at 143 including defending champ, Samuel Kirkness (Inglewood Golf and Country Club), Dallas Cantera (Cardiff Golf and Country Club) and first-round, co-leader, Kevin Black (Redwood Meadows Golf and Country Club).

Black had a three-shot lead in the field of 69 PGA of Alberta pros after Monday’s opening round after carding a 68 alongside Matthew Kirlin (Lynx Ridge Golf Course).

Complete Results:

Next up on the PGA of Alberta’s tournament schedule is the adidas Golf – EFW Radiology Pro-Lady South event, July 25, at The Winston Golf Club.

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Tournament News

Championship season kicked off today at Calgary G&CC with 69 Club Professionals battling to claim top spot. The smoldering weather continued down by the Elbow River, which offered no reprieve from the record temperatures that will continue tomorrow in Calgary. Tee times will start at 7:30am for round 2 of the PING Club Professional Championship.

Kevin Black (Redwood Meadows G&CC) and Matthew Kirlin (Lynx Ridge GC) lead the field after round 1, both shooting a 2-under 68. Dallas Cantera (Cardiff G&CC) looks to make a push tomorrow morning after finishing 3 shots back of the leaders carding a 1-over, 71.

Leaders After Round 1

Round 2 Draw

Awards News

The PGA of Alberta is asking its membership to nominate deserving colleagues who have made significant contributions to the game of golf over the past year for one of nine awards that will honour their extraordinary achievements in 2024.

The call for nominations will be officially open July 23 – August 27, 2024. Members who submit a nomination will receive two, Top-100 points. Winners for each award will be announced at the PGA of Alberta Awards Cocktail Reception and Ceremony slated for October 23, closing out the second day of the PGA of Alberta Buying Show at Calgary’s BMO Centre.

“The PGA of Alberta Awards program is a critical pillar for recognizing and celebrating the efforts of our members’ exceptional contributions to golf in our communities,” said Chris Paskin, Chair of the PGA of Alberta Awards Committee and head golf professional at Valley Ridge Golf Club.

“The role of the local golf professional extends far beyond playing competitively or helping others with their games. Golf professionals are community leaders who are crucial to nurturing the sport’s growth and sharing the life skills the game presents within the community. I think it is important to recognize the tireless efforts of these professionals, regardless of the role they are playing, and I highly encourage all of the members of our association to get involved in this process and nominate one of their peers today.”

Members and industry affiliates are encouraged to nominate as many individuals as possible during the process via the PGA of Alberta website for one of the following awards:

• Apprentice Professional of the Year
• Class "A" Professional of the Year
• Club Professional of the Year
• Coach of the Year
• Executive Professional of the Year
• Junior Leader of the Year
• Retailer of the Year 
• Sales Representative of the Year
• Teacher of the Year

You can review the full criteria for each award here: PGA of Alberta Awards Criteria

Once the nomination period closes, all nominees will be notified by e-mail they have been nominated for an award. Nominees are then required to complete an application to move forward in the awards process.  

“A sub-committee comprised of awards committee members and past winners of the respective award will review all of the nominations. Using a platform called SmarterSelect, a ranking system will be followed to determine the five finalists in each category,” said Paskin, who added that nominees are encouraged to also submit a video bio as part of their application.

The five nominees with the highest ranking are then presented to a 12-member main awards committee who are all past Club Professional of the Year recipients. The committee will rank the finalists once again to determine a winner.

The PGA of Alberta will also use the celebration ceremony to present the Jack Skellern Patron of the Year, Top 100 winner, Championship winners, Order of Merit champions, and Player of the Year.

Association News

The stats, both in terms of kids impacted and kilometres on the odometer, are mighty impressive.

And Matt Seifert is adamant that he is just getting started.

Seifert is determined to both give back and grow the game. That’s why he just returned from his latest RV road-trip to northern Alberta, travelling from course to course — and from campground to campground — to conduct clinics for juniors and women at facilities that don’t employ a certified teaching pro.

“There’s about 150 courses (across the province) with PGA of Alberta pros,” Seifert said. “And there are just shy of 300 that I’ve found that do not have a pro. My goal is to go to every single one of them. The only problem is it will take me about 10 years.”

That’s not so much a problem as a passion for Seifert, also an instructor at Golf Future in Calgary.

Two summers back, he was on the road for a 24-day stretch. He even made it as far as the Northwest Territories.

He had to cancel his plans in 2023 due to forest fires but was determined to hit the highway again.

“This latest one was 13 days, just me and a truck and trailer,” said Seifert, who covered more than 3,200 kilometres on his most recent roadie and worked with upwards of 500 golfers along the way — roughly 400 juniors, 140 women, and 20 dads or husbands. “I made it all the way up to High Level, which is the most northern golf course in Alberta. I made it to Fairview, where I had probably the best experience I’ve had on the RV tour. I actually had to go back for my day-off because there was such a demand for lessons.”

Seifert knows first-hand that the demand isn’t limited to Alberta’s major centres. 

While he’d started to groove his golf swing as a youngster in Calgary, he was just about to start Grade 10 when his family moved to the village of Linden, a farming community with a population in triple digits.

The nine-hole Acme Golf Club became his home hangout.

“All of a sudden, everything I had in the city, all the golf resources, everything was gone and I was kind of left to fend there for myself,” Seifert said. “But I just worked really hard and there were some people that didn’t know a lot about golf but still inspired me to pursue it as a career when no other kid in town was even looking at golf as a career. So, I was lucky. 

“I guess I’m one of the few professional athletes to ever come out of Kneehill County. So that’s pretty cool for me.”

There have been, in Seifert’s golf journey, plenty of pretty cool moments.  

He’s competed on the mini tours. He’s worked in Australia and New Zealand. He has volunteered at the Hero World Challenge in Bahamas, a star-studded shootout that benefits the Tiger Woods Foundation. That has provided the opportunity to chat with some of the biggest stars in the sport — from Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa to Nelly Korda and Michelle Wie and even Tiger himself. Seifert has a cherished photo with the 15-time major champion.  

“I’ve dined with celebrities and I’ve caddied for presidents and I’ve met Tiger Woods,” said Seifert, not boasting but rather explaining why he feels indebted to the game of golf. “I’m like, ‘This shouldn’t have happened to a small-town kid.’ This RV tour means the world to me, because it wasn’t supposed to happen to me. But it did.”

That is exactly why Seifert, who just turned 40, gasses up and hits the road — because he hopes it will eventually happen again for some other kid from some other speck on the map in rural Alberta. 

He plans to focus a little closer to Calgary in 2025, since he’ll soon have a baby at home. He has already started a list of stops in southern Alberta. 

“I’ve had parents who will tell me, ‘I haven’t been able to make my kid smile in two months and all of a sudden, you have them smiling and they want to come back to the golf course the next day,’” Seifert said. “For me, I get emotional just talking about it. But that was my goal to start. It wasn’t about making money. I just wanted to give back to the game of golf. It was if one small-town kid sees my tour bag, like I saw Ron Laugher’s or Dale Tomlinson’s or Greg Griffith’s when I was kid … If one kid decides to pursue golf and they get to live half the life I’ve lived travelling the world, to me that’s it. One kid is enough. 

“I’m very lucky right now that dozens and dozens of these hundreds of kids are starting to think, ‘I want to work in a pro-shop’ or ‘I want to play on the PGA Tour or the LPGA Tour.’

Things like that probably weren’t on their minds until I rolled through.

“I know we’re definitely inspiring a few kids out there. And with kids and sports, that’s what it is all about.”

Tournament News

 CALGARY—Chris Horton was crowned champion of the Players Tour presented by Duca del Cosma after carding back-to-back birdies in a playoff that extended two extra holes under blistering Alberta sun at the Mckenzie Meadows Golf Club on Thursday.

Horton, an Apprentice Professional at the Golf Channel Academy at Cottonwood Golf and Country Club, matched jabs with Kevin Black, in the playoff after both Calgarians carded 7-under-par 65s.

The head-to-head duel continued into the first extra hole, a 555-yard par-5, where the PGA of Alberta pros both made birdie. Horton continued his birdie streak to the 351-yard par-4 to lock up the victory.

“I was excited to head out against Kevin. I wasn’t sure if he was going to make it back,” said Horton, who added Black was the first group out on the day and left the property after his round so had to be called back for the playoff. “We both made some birdies and then he was in the fairway bunker on the second hole, and I hit it in close to seal the deal.”

Horton made the turn in 34 after carding four birdies and two bogeys on the opening side before catching fire on a back nine that saw him rattle off five birds in a six-hole stretch.

“On the front nine I had a few soft bogeys so I wasn’t sure how the day was going to go, and then I got it going on the back and finished well,” said Horton, who was hitting bombs in addition to firing darts at the flagsticks.

“I knew the course was fairly short, with short par-4s that you can get to in one. I just stayed aggressive all day. I hit three of them under regulation with a lot of two-putt birdies. It made it feel like a pretty easy round out there. It was an awesome, the course is in great shape, and the greens were rolling well.”

Black, who holds the post as Director of Golf at Redwood Meadows Golf and Country Club, was also as hot as the prairie sun on the closing nine, firing five birdies and an eagle of his own for a round of 36-29—65.

Five southern Alberta pros posted 18-hole spins of 67 (-5). Tyler LeBouthillier (365 Golf Inc.), Jason Stanier (Inglewood Golf and Curling Club), Austin Keller (The Links of Glen Eagles), Ethan Palmer (Cottonwood Golf and Country Club), and Samuel Kirkness (Inglewood Golf and Curling Club) all finished deadlocked in third place in the field of 70 players.

Terry Carter claims top spot in the senior division

Terry Carter (National Golf Academy at McCall Lake) was the lone golfer in the 18-man senior division to shoot a sub-par round. After opening with an eagle, Carter mixed together third birdies and one double-bogey for a score of 69 (-3).

Darryl James (National Golf Academy at Shaganappi) shot an even-par 72 for second place. Andre DiBartolo (Edmonton Garrison Memorial Golf and Country Club) and Brian Bassen (Strathmore Golf Club) matched rounds of 73 to finish T3 under ideal conditions.

Complete Results:

The PING Club Professional Championship is next up on the 2024 tournament docket where a field of 71 PGA of Alberta pros will tee it up at the pristine Calgary Golf and Country Club, July 22.

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Association News

The Education Committee would like to announce that the committee has  officially been dissolved and is commencing a new application process.  If you wish to be considered for the Education Committee, please submit a brief cover letter stating why you wish to be involved and a summary of your contributions to the association in recent years.

All submissions should be sent to Thomas Powley ([email protected]) before the deadline of July 23rd at 4:00PM. The new committee will be announced by August 2nd.

Responsibilities
The Education Committee shall meet as a committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the chairs for:

1. Spring Seminar.
2. PD Series.
3. Teaching Summits.
4. Buying Show Education.
5. Further education development that works within the scope of the PGA of Canada curriculum.
6. Proactively obtain input and suggestions from members on their level of satisfaction with suggestions for improvement of the education portfolio.
7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
8. Undertake other activities assigned by the Board of Directors.
9. Review the terms of reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.

The committee chair will provide a report on committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal committee meetings have taken place.

Top 100 Points - Each member will receive 5 Top 100 points for being a part of the committee (see more information here).

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Partner News

Fresh Golf Solutions will join the PGA of Alberta Senior Championship at Trestle Creek GR on August 26th & 27th

Fresh Golf is a search firm that specializes in finding leaders in the Golf & Club world. Since early 2022, Fresh Golf has found candidates for Head Professionals, General Managers, Superintendents, Marketing & Communication, Sales, Chefs, C.O.O.’s and Executive Directors. 

To separate itself from other search firms – besides pricing that all Clubs can afford – the advisory and search team is the most connected team in the industry because they are still active members of the golf world. 

Fresh Golf Solutions has had a number of searches for golf roles in Alberta market recently. They also updated their website, continue to supply weekly emails to the golf community about all the roles in Golf & Clubs and expanded their recruiting team. In addition, they assist candidates’ growth by offering to assist in resume review at no cost.

If your facility needs help finding a leader in the future or you want to know what you need to be ready for your next job search, please go to www.freshgolf.ca or contact:

 Scott Kolb - Founder and lead recruiter
[email protected]

Tournament News

LACOMBE, Alta.—Adam Bruce celebrated a two-shot victory at the Players Tour 1-Day presented by Duca Del Cosma at the Lacombe Golf and Country Club on Thursday.

The born and raised Edmontonian, who is the head golf professional at Northern Bear Golf Club, topped the 64-man field with a sizzling round of 67 In near perfect conditions.

“It was pretty boring to be honest for the first 14 holes, but I managed to birdie my last four,” said Bruce, who found his passion for tournament golf while playing on the MacEwan University Varsity Golf Team. “I got a couple of lucky breaks, but it was a pretty solid round. The course is in amazing shape and the greens rolled very true. Putting is usually a struggle for me but on greens like this it is tough to have a bad day putting.”

David MacComb (Royal Mayfair Golf Club) was the next best finisher, posting a round of 69. Gage Murphy (GOLFTEC Sherwood Park) completed his 18-hole spin of the testy Lacombe track at 70.

Complete Results:

Next up on the summer PGA of Alberta calendar is the Pro-Junior at the Valley Ridge Golf Club, July 9.

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Welcome to the Association

Congratulations to the 3 players who passed the Play Ability Test yesterday at Lacombe GC. The 3 players all successfully passed after shooting the target score (79) or (81) for +50 to become an Apprentice Professional of the PGA of Canada.

Partner News

"Sundog Eyewear is proud to sponsor the Pro-Pro Scramble event this year, continuing our longstanding partnership with the PGA of Alberta," said Corey Austin, GM of Sundog Eyewear. "Our mission is to enhance the performance and comfort of golfers with high-quality eyewear. As we expand our offerings with brands like Barstool Sports, Blue Tees, Black Clover, CMC Design, and Tour Tee, our golf professional partners have embraced these brands, allowing us to deliver exceptional products to golfers in Alberta. We are excited to support Alberta’s golf professionals and celebrate our partnerships at the Pro-Pro Scramble Event."

About Sundog Eyewear...

Sundog Eyewear is committed to providing performance-driven sunglasses for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Our advanced lens technology ensures superior clarity, protection, and comfort, meeting the unique needs of golfers in various conditions. Sundog remains a top choice for Alberta Golf Professionals, representing brands such as Barstool Golf, Blue Tees, Black Clover, CMC Design, and Tour Tee. The list of brands Sundog represents continues on our mission to provide high-quality, performance driven products that are industry leading in their respective categories.

For Pro Shops, we offer customizable solutions tailored to your needs. Join us in our commitment to excellence and experience the Sundog Eyewear difference.

For more information, please visit www.sundogeyewear.ca or contact:

Kim Carrington – Southern AB

403.804.5464

[email protected]

Shawn Stewart – Northern AB

780.220.7888

[email protected]

Association News

Program focused on introducing people with a physical disability set for August 16 in Calgary

Golf professionals in Alberta are teeing up a drive to break down barriers and make the game more inclusive for people with physical/cognitive disabilities, Indigenous communities, and women, by hosting a series of community outreach learn-to-play sessions at facilities throughout the province this summer.

Funded by Jumpstart, PGA of Alberta’s Assistants Board will host a series of clinics in Calgary and Edmonton with the goal of making the game of golf a more welcoming and inclusive place for all to enjoy.

“We created this program as a way for our PGA of Canada Golf Professionals to not only assist with instructing the grass roots portion of the game, but to also reach those demographics who can sometimes be unserved when it comes to receiving golf instruction” said Bryce Halverson, Head Associate Golf Professional at Carnmoney Golf Club.

“The PGA of Alberta is committed to elevating the experience for numerous traditionally under-serviced demographics in the community by doing our part to provide positive experiences through golf instruction and activities. We hope to further strengthen the overall local golf community with inclusivity and diversity,” added Stephen Yanitski, Assistant Golf Professional at Valley Ridge Golf Club.

Both Halverson and Yanitski, along with Jumpstart and the PGA of Alberta, created a plan to serve this need, and identified four key community groups they will open doors to, and positively impact in 2024: people with a physical disability; Indigenous communities; women/girls; and Els for Autism/Special Olympics.

A FREE program for golfers of any age with physical limitations will be available on August 23rd from 12 noon – 5 p.m. at the Valley Ridge Golf Club in Calgary. A total of 24 participants will be instructed by six PGA of Alberta Assistants Board members through four, one-hour stations: driving range; putting green; short game area; and activity time. Equipment will be provided and prizes up for grabs. Registration is available at www.golfgenius.com/ggid/aw9g3p/register.

PGA of Alberta golf professionals Shannon Raina (Earl Grey Golf Club) and Tyler Leicht (Derrick Golf and Winter Club) will team up to host a FREE one-day summer camp for up to 16 Indigenous youth at Rundle Park Short Course in Edmonton on August 16, 2024. Participants will receive six hours of FREE instruction, access to equipment, lunch, and a sleeve of golf balls at the conclusion of the camp. Registration details are to follow. 

Calgary-based professionals – Amy Popkes (Silver Springs Golf and Country Club) and Lisa Rosengarten (Glencoe Golf and Country Club) will lead a series of FREE events focused on supporting Els 4 Autism, Aspergers Friendship Society, and Special Olympics.

A Special Olympics Tournament was held at Silver Springs Golf and Country Club, June 20. Additionally, an Els 4 Autism tournament will be held on August 12 at The Links of Gleneagles. Prior to taking the course, all kids will participate in a two-hour instructional clinic as a way to get them involved in the game.

Over the last two months, Elizabeth Stewart (Petroleum Golf and Country Club) and Gina Nelson (Highlands Golf Club) introduced more than 70 junior girls and young women to the game. Four instructors joined forces to teach newcomers to the game in May at Victoria Golf Club. Participants then tested their skills in a fun round of golf at Rundle Park in June, creating an additional opportunity to bring young girls and women around the city together. PGA of Alberta Golf Professionals were on-hand to provide instruction throughout the round. 

“I personally experienced the power sport can have, as a young child and now in my career as a golf professional. Sport and physical activities are fundamental for all of us to learn new skills, boost confidence, build self-esteem,” said Elizabeth Stewart, Associate Golf Professional at Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club. “These clinics will not only introduce kids from these communities to the game, but they will create opportunities to meet other kids, and provide new experiences while having fun putting, playing and just enjoying themselves. Gina and I are hopeful that introducing young girls and women to the sport while representing women in prominent roles in the golf industry will inspire each of them to pursue their goals and success in their own lives. Representation and participation in golf are integral to ensuring this demographic feels that they belong in the golf community.”

Joey Busetto and fellow pros at the Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club will also host two more FREE adaptive golf lessons throughout the summer: July 26 (chipping, pitching, putting) and a three-hole on-course session August 23 where a golf professional will be in each group. Registration is available through the following link: https://www.parasportsab.com/we-offer/adapted-golf-9/.

For more information about the PGA of Alberta, please visit www.pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

Todd Kuczma, beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the age of 48 years.

Todd was born in Ontario and moved to Alberta when he was four years old. Growing up he moved with his family to Houston, Texas and Red Deer before finally settling in Calgary in 1988. Todd had an incredible sense of humour, (he could make anybody laugh), an easy-going personality, patient, kind and would do anything for the people he loved at the drop of a hat. Todd was friends with everyone he met for life. From an early age, he participated and excelled in sports. He had two great loves in his life – his son, Jake and the game of golf.

In his early twenties, he became a member of the Canadian Professional Golfer’s Association and worked at several golf courses in and around Calgary. In 2015 he left the industry to work for Canadian Engravers. At about the same time he started his own business under Blackwolf Golf Inc. It was a way for his friends and golf associates to participate in high-level golf competitions at affordable rates. Later he was able to successfully add engraving golf merchandise as a significant part of the business.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta, 5757 – 4^th Street SE, Calgary, AB  T2H 1K8, www.kidscancercare.ab.ca.

Obituary

Tournament News

CALGARY—Calgary’s Craig Gibson and Jason Renneberg joined forces to win the 2024 Sunice Bobby Jones Tournament of Champions presented by Motocaddy Canada at the Carmoney Golf Club on Monday.

Gibson, a PGA of Canada professional down the road in the south end of Calgary at the Sirocco Golf Club paired up with his club champion, Renneberg, where the duo fired a sizzling 8-under-par 64 in the breezy conditions.

“It was a beautiful day. The golf course is in amazing condition, playing hard and fast out there. Jay and I made a lot of putts today. We made some nice bombs to make some birdies,” said Gibson. “We had a nice hot finish with three birdies on the last five holes that sealed the deal for us.”

The Tournament of Champions brought together 52 PGA of Canada professionals in Alberta with the club champion from their home course.

“It’s a great tournament,” added Renneberg. “It was a great opportunity to come and play the course and with my pro. Craig is a stud so is very easy and fun to play with.”

Kevin Graf and Jason Haley from Woodside Golf Course in Airdrie, Alta. finished one-shot off the leading mark in second place. Eric Locke and Nick Pothier from Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club carded a 67 to finish in a three-way tie for third with Jamie Gerlitz and Matt Whittaker from Picture Butte Golf Club and Samuel Kirkness and Gerry MacDonald Jr. out of the Inglewood Golf and Country Club.

Complete Results:

Next up on the 2024 PGA of Alberta Tournament schedule is the Players Tour 1-Day event at the Lacombe Golf and Country Club, July 4.

Tournament News

PGA of Alberta hosted their first Pro-Am of the season at Cardiff G&CC, a semi-private golf club located just 12 minutes north of St. Albert. Built on one of Alberta’s first underground coal mines, its unique setting offers challenges to golfers of all levels, including Seniors from around the province who joined their club professionals to compete for the 2024 Pro-Senior title.

The team from Edmonton Petroleum G&CC, Jeremie Pasitney and Ted Asai, lead the field with 45 points in the best ball stableford format. On their way to victory, Pasitney and Asai carded 2 eagles and 7 birdies to edge out the team from Picture Butte GC, Jamie Gerlitz and Clint Collier, by one. In solo third place, Jeff Cuthbertson and his partner Paul Prefontaince from Stony Plain GC, did their best to chase down the leaders with 8 birdies of their own but ended 2 points shy of our winners.

Tournament News

EDMONTON—Calgary’s Mitchell Fox made it look easy on Tuesday despite challenging conditions to close with a 5-under-par, 67 for a handy five-shot victory at the Players Tour 2-Day competition at the Cougar Creek Golf Resort near Edmonton.

The Apprentice Professional from the Speargrass Golf Course charged into Oil country, teeing up his work week by taking a two-shot lead into Tuesday’s final round of the 36-hold event. Fox was one of two players in the field of 45 to break par, posting a 69 on the 6,542-yard layout in Monday’s opening round.

The former Canadian Tour player mixed together one eagle with five birdies and two bogeys for a sizzling 67 in the final trip around the tree-lined, rolling layout to secure the win (69-67—136).

“I played really good today. It is the type of course that you have to find your way around it, and hit to certain spots, but the course is in great shape, it was a good day and I’m happy with how I played,” said Fox, the son of a Class A Professional who turned pro himself in 2007 before joining the PGA of Canada just four years ago.

Tyler LeBouthillier (365 Golf Inc.) was one of two other players behind Fox to card a round in the 60s in the final round.

LeBouthillier chalked up five birdies of his own to go along with one bogey to lock up second spot with rounds of 73-68—141. Adam Bruce (Northern Bear Golf Course) also fired a 68 to finish in a tie for fourth place at 145 with Jeff Cuthbertson (Stony Plain Golf Course). Cuthbertson was one of just four players to go sub-par on Tuesday.

Kevin Black (Redwood Meadows Golf and Country Club), who was sitting in second spot at 71 after the opening round, dropped a spot on the leaderboard following a final-round 18-hole spin of 73 for a total of 144.

Complete Results:

The Pro-Senior Pro-Am, presented by Golf Trends Inc. and Levelwear is next on the 2024 tournament docket. A field of 46 teams will tee it up at Cardiff Golf and Country Club on June 20.

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/

Tournament News

The first 2-day Players’ Tour event teed off today at Cougar Creek GR just west of Edmonton. After a rainy and windy start, the skies opened up to a beautiful afternoon for the 45 players in the field, who hope for calmer weather tomorrow morning as round 2 begins at 7:30am. 

Mitchell Fox (Speargrass GC) leads the field by 2 after five birdies lead to an opening round of 69. Following close behind is Kevin Black (Redwood Meadows G&CC) who had three birdies of his own to finish the day with a 1-under 71.

Leaders After Round 1

Round 2 Draw

Association News

Right from Day 1, Chris Cooke may have been destined to follow his father, Darren, into the golf industry.

Darren has been a staple for the past 36 seasons at Canmore Golf & Curling Club where he serves the dual role of general manager and director of golf. Chris is now the head professional at neighbouring Silvertip Resort, another beauty in the Bow Valley.

“The day that Christopher was born, he didn’t go straight home from the hospital. He came to the golf course first,” Darren reminisced. “There was a group of old guys that played cards in the pro shop all winter long, so we had to come and show him off. So, the first stop was the golf course.

“And ever since then … ” 

Chris grew up at Canmore Golf & Curling Club, as much a constant as the stunning mountain views. It was, as he put it, both his “daycare” and “playground.”

He was only eight when he picked the range for the first time. When he was attending high school just down the street, Darren noticed that his lunch bill at the course was usually doubled. 

After Chris completed his collegiate golf career at the University of Central Arkansas, he ultimately decided to try for his pro card. 

He and his dad are now PGA of Alberta peers. When asked about his son, “proud” is the word that Darren uses most often.

“He always seemed to be where everybody came to have fun,” Chris said, sharing his childhood impressions of the life of a golf pro. “And when you get to work at a place where everybody goes to enjoy themselves, it makes for a pretty good work environment, for the most part. 

“We’re here to facilitate enjoyment, to facilitate camaraderie, to facilitate fun. It’s just such a great sport to be involved with.”

Now in his ninth season as a pro, Chris has even more appreciation for why his father has such a sterling reputation in the golf biz. Darren was the PGA of Alberta’s Club Professional of the Year in 2014. 

“He really cares about everyone else before himself,” Chris said. “There is no job that is too big or too small for him to take on, and I have always really respected him for that. Some people think, ‘Oh, as a golf pro, you just walk the range and teach a few lessons.’ They don’t tell you that sometimes you have to clean the bathrooms or once in a while, you have to do some real dirty jobs that aren’t very glorious. But it’s all about getting it done.” 

Whatever it is that you’re trying to get done, it helps to have somebody you can lean on for advice, experience or just a sounding board. For this father-son duo, that goes both ways. Golf isn’t the Cookes only shared passion. They also like to strap on the pads and tend the nets at the hockey rink.

“We share a lot of conversations back and forth, and I learn a lot from him too,” Darren said. “With the PGA of Alberta and PGA of Canada, it’s always been about networking and helping each other and sharing. Of course, when it’s your family member, sometimes those conversations are easier and sometimes they’re a little more difficult.

“I know in our area, with all of the golf courses, you can ask anybody around here and you’ll get an honest answer about what’s going on. Everybody is willing to help out. And when it’s your son, you answer that phone quickly and maybe get it done a little quicker, because it’s a part of you.”

For the Cookes, golf has been a big part of their lives. This Father’s Day will be extra special for Chris — his first with a child of his own. His daughter, Ruth, was born last August. And yeah, she is already a regular at the course.  

“Through the winter, there was a simulator set up in the Canmore pro shop,” Chris said. “So, I would take her around there quite frequently and we’d hang out with Grandpa and I’d hit a couple shots and she’d be cruising around and she just wanted to grab every golf club or every golf ball she could see. It’s cool to see her so excited already and I just want to continue to expose her to all the greatness that golf can deliver. If she chooses it as one of her pastimes, great. And if not, so be it. She’ll have a lot of other activities going on. But just the way she’s already grabbing that golf club, I think she’s going to be hooked.”

That would be a case of history repeating itself.

“There’s not many places I’d rather be other than the golf course or hanging out with my family,” Chris beamed. “And at the golf course, I get to do both.”

Association News

Mathew MacDonald and Weston Gillett can look out the window and sometimes feel like they’re watching a rewind from their junior-golf days.

That’s one of the unique perks of working as head professional at the same course where you first fell in love with the sport. In MacDonald’s case, that would be Olds Golf Club. Gillett, meanwhile, learned the finer points of the game on the fairways and greens at Lacombe Golf & Country Club. 

“I can’t remember who came up with the term, but I was what they called one of the ‘grapes’ of the pro-shop, because I would just hang around,” MacDonald said with a chuckle. “There were weeks when I was out here seven straight days as a kid. It was basically whenever mom and dad were able to get me to the golf course, I was usually more than willing to go.

“So yeah, I can definitely see a part of myself in some of these youngsters.”

Gillett, his fellow PGA of Alberta pro, knows that feeling.

Long before he had an office at Lacombe Golf & Country Club, he was one of the young whippersnappers with a stall in the junior club storage area. 

Whenever he wanted to practice or play, he’d simply lace up his sneakers and walk to the course. When he arrived, he typically had to empty his pockets.

“Luckily, I didn’t live too far from here,” Gillett reminisced. “Back when I was a kid, the highway wasn’t as busy as it is now. I wouldn’t recommend walking anymore, but it wasn’t that busy back then. 

“So, I’d walk over, and then on the other side of the highway, there’s ball diamonds across

from our ninth hole. I used to walk up between the ball diamonds and the golf course and I’d find tons of golf balls. I remember never having to buy balls because I’d find them as I was walking.”

Gillett had such fond memories of his upbringing at Lacombe Golf & Country Club — and his stints as a high-schooler on the maintenance crew and pro-shop staff — that he admits there was a bit of apprehension as he pondered whether to apply to be the head pro in his hometown. He’s now in his sixth season in the role after making the move from Drayton Valley. 

“This golf course, this Club, it’s always been very important to me because it’s kind of where I grew up, and I didn’t want to go in and have a negative outlook if something were not to be quite as I perceived it,” Gillett explained. “But it’s been really good. It’s all been super positive.”

MacDonald is just getting settled into his new job as pro/manager at Olds. He worked up the road in Innisfail for the past three years. 

“This was always something that was in the back of my mind that I wanted to potentially do,” he said. “I mean, this course kind of gave me my start in the golf world — both as a back-shop kid when I was younger and again as I was starting to make my way into the professional ranks. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for the town of Olds and for the golf course. When I had an opportunity to jump up and take the position, I jumped into it with both feet. It’s been a really fun experience so far. It’s very interesting. I always say it’s very weird that I get to sit on the other side of the same desk where I used to get in trouble if I did something wrong out here.

“But it’s been a lot of fun. Pretty cool.”

For Gillett, MacDonald, and other professionals now working at the same facilities where they were first introduced to the game, the best part isn’t the opportunity to occasionally relive their youth. 

 It’s the opportunity to influence the next wave. 

When Gillett was a smooth-swinging junior, Kevin Snell was head pro at Lacombe. He was delighted when Snell, a PGA of Alberta life member, stopped by on his first day on the job to offer his congratulations. 

“I see a lot of kids that come out here, and I see a little bit of myself in them,” said Gillett, now a proud father of three. “I was always treated really, really well by the previous pros when I was kid and they’d take me out to play. I know the first couple times that I played with Kevin when I was 12 or 13 years old, I was just in awe of what he could do with the golf ball. In the grand scheme of things, it wasn’t like Tiger Woods or anything. But to me, it was.

“I can remember walking in the shop and Kevin had his bag there with his name on it, and I thought that was so cool. I thought that was just one step below seeing Tiger Woods.”

MacDonald, too, can rattle off a list of pros who had a major impact on his growing love for golf and instilling the values that you learn while chasing birdies and pars — honesty, integrity, and responsibility to name a few.

“One of the things that I’ve always remembered is that those individuals always made time for me, always took time to say hello or come walk out on the putting green to see how I was doing,” MacDonald said. “They always made themselves very available. They were very generous with their time. And I always try to remember that — that I probably wouldn’t be here in the position that I’m in if it wasn’t for their encouragement, their kindness and their willingness to have that influence on my golf game and my life. I always try to remember that no matter what comes up, it’s the people first and making sure that people feel valued and welcomed. A simple tip on the driving range can go a long way toward helping a relationship grow. In my case, it helped me create a career out of it.”

Tournament News

Kirkness claims 2024 title in second extra hole, Carr captures seniors crown after first playoff hole

EDMONTON—Samuel Kirkness and Glenn Carr proved victorious following extra holes at the Players Tour presented by Duca del Cosma at the Mill Woods Golf Course.

Kirkness (Inglewood Golf and Country Club) captured the main event in a two-hole playoff, while Carr (Lakeside Golf Club) triumphed in the first extra hole to take the seniors’ category. 

Kirkness – the 2023 Club Professional Championship winner – finished deadlocked at 70 with Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre), Jacques Plouffe (Royal Mayfair Golf Club), Nick Vandermey and Keith Whitecotton (The Quarry) following an 18-hole spin of the 6,778-yard track in Edmonton.

Kirkness, Heffernan and Whitecotton dropped Plouffe and Vandermey after matching pars on the first extra hole, a 381-yard par-4. The PGA of Alberta heavyweights exchanged shots to the green on the par-5 538-yard test where Kirkness solidified the title with a birdie.

A close battle also unfolded in the seniors’ division (golf professionals 50 and older) where Carr (Lakeside Golf Club) and Andre DiBartolo (Edmonton Garrison Memorial Golf and Country Club) carded identical scores of 76.

Carr wasted little time putting his name in the history books as the 2024 winner, topping DiBartolo on the first extra hole – the 364-yard, par-4 10th hole.

Just over 100 players teed it up through the rainy conditions in the morning shotgun start.

Final Results - Main Field

Final Results - Seniors Division

For more information on the PGA of Alberta calendar of events, please visit https://www.pgaofalberta.com/tournaments/registration/