Will Hazell-Penaluna Captures First Career Victory at Play Golf Alberta Assistants’ Championship
07 July, 2026
PARKLAND COUNTY, Alta.—Will Hazell-Penaluna of the Strathmore Golf Club claimed the first tournament victory of his career after firing rounds of 71-68 to finish at 5-under par 139 and win the Play Golf Alberta Assistants’ Championship at Cougar Creek Golf Resort.
Starting the final round three shots off the lead in a tie for fifth after an opening-round 71, Hazell-Penaluna steadily climbed the leaderboard before delivering the defining moment of the tournament. A lengthy eagle putt on the par-5 16th hole gave him his first lead of the championship, and he held on over the closing holes to secure the title.
"This is the first time I’ve won anything!" exclaimed Hazell-Penaluna. "I made a big putt on 16 for eagle, and I thought I might have a chance (at winning) then."
Hazell-Penaluna credited his recent success to a renewed focus on his mental approach.
"What I’ve been working on is the mental process,” said Hazell-Penaluna. “Instead of guessing, I have the same routine now on every shot. My swing hasn’t changed; it’s been all about the process. That has really helped me."
Mitchell Fox, of Speargrass Golf Course, finished one stroke back in second place after posting two steady rounds of 70-70 for a 4-under total of 140.
First-round leader Dillon Batsel, of Desert Blume Golf Club, entered the back nine with a one-shot advantage but a pair of costly double bogeys – one on each nine Tuesday – opened the door for the chasing pack. Batsel closed with a 73 to finish third at 3-under 141 after opening with a tournament-best 68.
A total of 76 professionals competed in the 2026 Play Golf Alberta Assistants’ Championship at Cougar Creek Golf Resort.
