The timing could not be better for the Royal Oaks Golf Club.
Royal Oaks has been selected to host the 2020 RBC Dominion Securities New Brunswick Men’s Amateur Championship in the midst of the club’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
Blehr MacKinley, the PGA of Canada Atlantic head professional at Royal Oaks, said the tournament fits the club’s plan to raise its profile as it marks its landmark anniversary.
“We are renewing our efforts to tell people that we are here for public players and competitive tournaments,” MacKinley said. “We have a lot to showcase with the outstanding course, beautiful clubhouse and dining and the hospitality of our membership.”
“This tournament comes in our 20th year,” he continued. “It comes as we remind people that this is not a private club and we want as many people as possible to be aware of everything we have to offer.”
Originally schedule for the Mactaquac Golf Course, the venue change for the 2020 RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship was brought about pro-actively following conversations with Mactaquac and its management team.
Golf New Brunswick Executive Director Tyson Flinn said that despite the association’s disappointment in moving the event from the Mactaquac Golf Course, Golf NB is pleased that Royal Oaks was able to step up to host the 54-hole championship, scheduled for July 10-12, 2019.
“The Mactaquac Golf Course is, and will continue to be, one of the province’s premier championship venues,” Flinn said. However, the club and its management group from Kingwood Golf reached out to Golf NB in the fall following a review of the course’s green complexes and indicated that weather damage over the past few years could limit their ability to ensure the quality of putting surface needed to host the event in 2020.
“I cannot say enough about the professionalism, proactive nature and respect demonstrated by the Mactaquac Golf Course and its management towards the New Brunswick Men’s Amateur Championship,” added Flinn, noting that the association hopes to return the even to Mactaquac in the near future.
“Despite having to move the (championship), we were extremely fortunate to secure another top-notch venue in the Royal Oaks Golf Club.”
MacKinley is hoping for a kind winter, but also said superintendent Kevin Wentzell will have the 6,600-yard ready for championship play.
“All of our members and our staff are proud of this property, so we’ll be ready to host a memorable tournament, especially a tournament with such a great history as the New Brunswick Men’s Amateur.”
“We are sure this is going to be great for everyone involved as we mark our 20th anniversary in style. The course is going to be in great shape.”
Director of club operations Esmond Clouthier said Royal Oaks is “excited to host the best players” from New Brunswick.
“Our course is going to give these top players and very good test,” Clouthier said. “We are going to show that we can host a major tournament like this, and we’ll be looking to host more in the future.
“We’re also going to show the players a tough, but fair golf course,” he added. “I think we’ll see increased activity as word of mouth will help us. We’ll see a lot of these top players come back to play the course long after the tournament is over.”
Simon Richard, who finished 12th at last year’s RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship in Edmundston and was the highest-placing player from Royal Oaks, said “it’s an honour to host such a prestigious tournament at his home course.”
“It’s going to be a great test for the players,” said Richard, whose personal best score in 67 on the par-72 layout.
“You have to make your putts,” Richard said. “You can spray the ball a little, but you won’t be able to score well unless you make your putts. We should see some low scores with such an impressive field, but no one will go low unless they putt well.”
Richard, a 23-year-old economic development agent with Opportunities New Brunswick in Moncton, said Royal Oaks will be “the perfect place to host the Amateur.”
“On and off the course,” he said, “the players are going to be complimenting Royal Oaks. They are going to be impressed.”
“With Royal Oaks set to celebrate their 20th anniversary, we could not think of a better way for them to mark such an occasion than by hosting one of Atlantic Canada’s premiere Amateur Championships,” Flinn said.
Golf Honours Champions & Volunteers at Annual Awards Banquet
by Dwayne Tingley
David Morison admits he was pleasantly surprised when he moved to Bathurst from Winnipeg more than 15 years ago.
Morison, who started playing golf when he was just eight years-old and still hits the fairways four days a week at age 73, checked out Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club shortly after arriving in Bathurst.
“What was this place doing here is what I asked myself,” Morison recalled. “What is a gem of a golf course doing here?”
“To have an amazing golf course like this on the Bay of Chaleur and in the northeastern part of New Brunswick is just amazing to me. What a beautiful place and it’s full of the world’s friendliest people.”
Morison, a Toronto native who made the move from Winnipeg so his wife could be near her family, hasn’t looked back since arrived in Bathurst.
The chartered accountant was recognized at the 2019 Argus Audiology Golf NB Annual Awards Banquet & Silent Auction on Saturday, October 26 in Fredericton as the organization’s Provincial Volunteer of the Year.
Morison deflected praise, saying it takes many volunteers to make tournaments and golf clubs successful.
“It’s like a ball team – it’s usually not a problem to find 10 kids who want to play baseball, but hard to find a coach for them,” he said. “Our volunteers are like that coach. We need those volunteers and I am just one of them.”
Morison, a former executive-director of Golf Manitoba, has volunteered on Gowan Brae’s finance committee while working tirelessly on setting up and maintaining the course’s markings for tournament and every-day play.
Since 2015, Morison has been chairman of Golf New Brunswick’s rules committee and has volunteered in that capacity at most of the province’s most prestigious tournaments.
“I just feel strongly about giving back,” said Morison, who also serves as volunteer treasurer at First United Church. “I have enjoyed my time in golf, and I enjoy giving back so others can enjoy the game as much as I have for so long.”
This year’s version of the Argus Audiology Golf NB Awards Banquet attracted a large crowd at the Crowne Plaza – Lord Beaverbrook Hotel in downtown Fredericton. Players of the year were honoured as well as the top tournament winners and provincial teams.
Leanne Richardson, of the Country Meadows Golf Club in Moncton, won the Royale NB Ladies Player of the Year award for the 19th time. She was also the Argus Audiology NB Ladies Amateur, Mid-Amateur and Senior Champion.
“I try to play as many of the tournaments as I can, considering my other commitments,” said Richardson, who is also general manager at Country Meadows.
“I try to be consistent with a lot of top five finishes and a pretty good all-around game. Staying competitive at this point in my playing career is important to me. It’s been a lot of fun and it’s always fun to play with so many great friends.”
Country Meadows club-mate Stuart Musgrave claimed his 1st TaylorMade NB Men’s Player of the Year award. The 47-year-old former PGA of Canada Professional said the men’s field in New Brunswick is stacked with exceptional players.
“It’s getting better all of the time and at my age, I don’t know how many of these opportunities I’m going to get, so this is very special,” said Musgrave, who was also a member of New Brunswick’s mid-amateur team.
Tom Cameron of the Gage Golf and Curling Club picked up the MCT Insurance Senior Men’s Player of the Year award.
The career military man finished in the top five at several New Brunswick tournaments this summer then finished tied for 12th at the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship. He said competing for Canada at an international military tournament in Germany against top opponents from 16 countries provided a confidence boost that he rode through the summer of 2019.
“I think it carried over,” said Cameron, who works in range control in the operation services branch at CFB Gagetown. “I seem to play better in a tournament setting. It’s different and I enjoy the focus that you need to maintain in a tournament. I love the competition.”
Dieppe’s Julie Gauvin, who plays out of the Fox Creek Golf Club, was named the MJT-Golf NB Junior Girls Player of the Year for the second year in a row.
She said extra work with Golf NB Junior Boys Coach, and owner of the Louis Melanson Golf Academy, Louis Melanson paid off with more consistent play throughout the summer.
“I had more distance this year and my short game has improved a lot,” said the Grade 12 student from Mathieu-Martin High School. “I also worked more with a sports psychologist who improved my mental approach. I just like the way my whole game as improved.”
Daniel Kirby of JH Sports, who plays out of the Covered Bridge Golf and Country Club, also captured his second straight MJT-Golf NB Junior Boys Player of the Year award. Three years ago, the Grade 12 student from Woodstock High School was runner -up.
“Practicing has never been an issue for me,” Kirby said. “Going to the course and working for 10 hours has never been a problem.
“My game has changed though, and I have been more consistent, so I use my practice time more productively,” he said. “I’m a much better player than I was a couple of years ago because I have improved my approach to the game.”
The evening also served to announce Golf NB’s annual scholarship recipients. Benjamin MacDonald of Gowan Brae was awarded the New Brunswick Golf Association’s 50th anniversary scholarship, while four John Patrick Sears Scholarships were presented to Calvin Ross of JH Sports & Kingswood Golf, Stuart Earle of the Westfield Golf & Country Club, MacKenzie Scott of JH Sports & Kingswood Golf and Sara Holt of the Gage.
Old Mill Pond’s Judy Astle Elected as 45th President of Golf NB
by Dwayne Tingley
Judy Astle changes the subject quickly, rather than talking about her own athletic accomplishments. However, her smile widens, and her voice perks up when discussing the success of others.
“There’s something special when you see a junior make a shot that they have been practicing or making a long putt,” said the 69-year-old resident of Astle, near Boiestown, on the Miramichi River in the heart of New Brunswick.
Astle made her selfless comments on Saturday, Oct. 26, shortly after being named the new president of Golf New Brunswick. She previously served a two-year term as vice-president of the nearly 6,800-member organization.
Astle will focus much of her presidency on attracting new players to the game and making sure junior golfers are given opportunities to attend clinics. She also hopes Golf New Brunswick will encourage its member-clubs to offer more flexible programs so new players can take up the sport.
“Times have changed and we have to change to the busy schedules people have these days,” said Astle, a retired teacher and guidance counselor who still works full-time as a paramedic with Ambulance New Brunswick.
“If we can look at different types of memberships and green fees, golf will be available to more and more people,” she added. “Not everyone has the time needed to go play 18 holes of golf, but maybe they can play three or six or nine. That’s just one idea and I think that’s a good way to start bringing new people to our clubs.”
Astle was an accomplished softball pitcher and first baseman in Fredericton before she picked up golf clubs at the Old Mill Pond Golf Club in Doaktown in 1974.
While teaching school, she quickly turned her athletic attention to coaching. She took over at the helm of school basketball, volleyball, softball and badminton teams.
“I always enjoyed working with young people and helping them reach their potential,” Astle noted.
With that in mind, she entered the golf mentorship world. She headed the girls’ division of the former New Brunswick Ladies Golf Association and was the director of player development and programs for the Canadian Ladies Golf Association.
Astle also organized countless clinics for young golfers around New Brunswick.
“I have always believed that sports have physical benefits for the children and it also helps them build good character,” she said. “I also believe they have to play a variety of sports and not just focus on one at a young age. We have to create well-rounded people and athletes.”
Astle, who also served as an assistant women’s basketball coach at the University of New Brunswick for three years, received the Order of New Brunswick for her work with young athletes.
“It was a big honour and very humbling,” said the mother of four, grandmother of nine and great grandmother of one. “I don’t know what to say except it was very humbling.”
While junior development holds a special place in Astle’s heart, she will also be making a concerted effort to assist in the growth of golf in her home province. Golf New Brunswick serves 47 member-clubs, but Astle is eager to see that number grow.
“Communication is a big thing with me,” she said. “Once people are aware of the benefits of belonging to Golf New Brunswick, they will want to join the organization and together we can accomplish some bigger things in the future.
“When we work together, we can make Golf New Brunswick better for all of our players – the young players and those who have been playing golf for their whole lives.”
Others on the Golf New Brunswick executive are: Mike Hughes (past president), Jason Porter (vice-president and junior/player development committee chair), Allison Chisholm (course rating and handicap chair), Gary Melanson (tournament committee chair), Brenda Parrott (membership relations chair), Margo Dickinson (finance committee chair), Matt Garnett (partnerships chair), Charlie Martin (board of directors representative) and Joe Sullivan (board of directors representative).
NB Golfers set target of $40,000 for 2019 ServiceMaster NB Golf Fore the Cure
by Dwayne Tingley
It was a poignant conversation Marilyn Pollock will never forget.
She was approached by a broken-hearted woman from Hampton, whose daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer.
The woman wanted to thank Pollock for her efforts at the 2018 ServiceMaster New Brunswick Golf Fore the Cure, an annual tournament that raises money for breast cancer research.
As chairwoman for the tournament, Pollock made it clear that “it’s everyone’s fight and cause” not just her’s.
“It really hit me how much this disease affects every family somehow and that’s why I feel so passionately about this golf tournament,” Pollock said.
Once again, this year, Pollock will chair the 10-member organizing committee at the scenic and hospitable Petiticodiac Valley Golf and Country Club. Twenty-four teams from all over New Brunswick will tee up for a shotgun start on the afternoon of August 21st and by days end they are expected to raise more than $40,000 for breast cancer research in the province.
“It’s a unique tournament because of all of the emotions involved,” said Pollock, who is also past-president of the Petitcodiac Valley Golf & Country Club.
“There’s really a source of pride when you see the ladies come out support the event,” she continued, “It’s also special when you see people who show up and they are cancer survivors. They share their stories, and everyone gets quite emotional. It’s a wonderful day and our team at Petitcodiac is proud to host such an important event.”
This year marks the 19th anniversary of the ServiceMaster New Brunswick Golf Fore the Cure in New Brunswick. The event tournament has raised more than $600,000 for breast cancer research and all the money has gone to programs in New Brunswick.
This year’s winning team will advance to the Canadian Golf Fore the Cure tournament on September 23rd at the Credit Valley Golf and Country Club in Mississauga, Ont.
Through their support of the NB Golf Fore the Cure event, ServiceMaster Restore will cover the winning team’s entry in to the national event, while also providing a subsidy to help limit the travel expenses of the winning team.
All teams that raise a minimum of $2,500 will also be entered in a draw to attend the national tournament as well, with all the expenses for the second team being covered by Golf Canada.
Pollock, a youthful and enthusiastic 68, said the Petitcodiac Valley Golf & Country Club has added some spark to the tournament by offering extras like a tournament banquet, closest to the pin competition sponsored by Golf Town, closest to the line sponsored by adidas, memorial and honorary signage sponsored by Goggin Signs and a fun pink Nitro lost ball competition which offers valuable prices, including green fees from several clubs.
Players from all over New Brunswick have sold tickets on a “stoning cancer” initiative. First prize is a pink diamond ring plus four green fees and two power carts from Petitcodiac Valley. Second prize is a diamond necklace and four green fees and two power carts and third prize is a Reiki necklace and earrings plus two green fees and a power cart.
“It’s a great cause with great ladies participating so it’s going to be a day that no one is going to forget,” Pollock said.
This marks the 11th year ServiceMaster has served as title sponsor for the Golf Fore the Cure in New Brunswick.
Spokesman John Brown said the company is proud to be associated with such a positive golf event.
“The fit for our company is simply this – to give back to this worthwhile cause that affects our families that we serve as those affected by this cancer curse,” said Brown, who is vice-president of ServiceMaster Restore and ServiceMaster Clean of Fredericton.
The company represents all the ServiceMaster Restore franchises, which are owned by Troy Adams in Moncton, Chris Long in Saint John, Nick Mann in Campbellton/Miramichi as well as John, his son Chris Brown and Bob Sweeney in Fredericton.
“The ladies involved as players and organizers work tirelessly towards putting on a first-class event,” Brown said. “All funds support New Brunswick residents all funds stay in the province.
“We,” he added, “have pledged to work with the Golf Fore the Cure as long as they will have us. We feel it would be an injustice if we did not contribute given the effort put forward by them.”
Golf NB Announces Team NB for 2019 Atlantic Golf Championships
by Dwayne Tingley
It has been 20 years since Stuart Musgrave earned his playing card for the professional Canadian Golf Tour.
These days, Musgrave is a senior account manager with the Business Development Bank of Canada and golf is still a focal point of his life and he’s enjoying every minute of it.
He and his wife Erin will be part of Team New Brunswick at the Atlantic Amateur Golf Championships scheduled for Sept. 14-15 at the Humber Valley Golf Course in Corner Brook, N.L.
Stu Musgrave – Country Meadows Golf Club (pictured at 2017 Atlantic Golf Championships)
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play golf in a lot of different places right across the country and I consider this a wonderful opportunity,” said Musgrave, who plays out of the Country Meadows Golf Club, near Moncton.
“Not all of our players get to travel a lot so it’s fun to see them succeed,” he continued. “It’s all part of being a team. It may be an individual sport, but it’s a lot of fun to be part of a team like this. We all cheer for each other and we support each other so we have a great time with it.”
New Brunswick is the two-time defending champion of the Atlantic tournament. Musgrave won the men’s mid-masters (40 and older) title last year at the Glen Arbour Golf Course in Upper Hammonds Plains, N.S.
“We’re going with another solid team with very good players in every division,” said Musgrave, a North Sydney, N.S. native. “The best part is that we make a strong and united team.
“There are going to be a lot of good golfers there, so we will have our work cut out for us. Winning is great, but we’re also going there to have fun. It’s a great time when everyone gets together for tournaments like this. We take it seriously, but having fun comes first.”
Paula Napke-Flanagan, a member of New Brunswick’s senior women’s team, calls the Atlantic Golf Championships a “special time.”
“When you play all summer, you see the same players week after week and they are great people, but it’s nice to see golfers from the other provinces,” said Napke-Flanagan, who plays out of the Miramichi Golf and Country Club.
“It’s a fun tournament because of all the new faces and we have a good time when we get together,” said Flanagan, who has operated Paula’s Hair Studio, just steps from the 16th fairway of her home club for 34 years.
“It’s a big expense for us to go over there so you know it’s about a lot more than the golf. It’s enjoying the company of all these great people from all over the Atlantic Provinces.”
Flanagan said the Humber Valley course is difficult because it features elevated tees and greens and the winds are always tricky.
“You might be using your short irons then the next day it could be a five-wood so you have to be ready to face the conditions that change all the time,” she said.
Paula Napke-Flanagan – Miramichi Golf & Country Club (pictured at 2017 Atlantic Golf Championships)
New Brunswick’s team was selected based on last year’s player of the year standings.
The men’s team is comprised of Alex Palmer (The Riverside Country Club), Peter Wedge (Riverside) and Steven Brooks (Country Meadows) in the amateur division; Musgrave (Country Meadows), Greg Jones (Country Meadows) and Jamie Melanson (Fox Creek Golf Club); Garry Jenkins (Fredericton Golf Club), Mike Hosford (Royal Oaks Golf Club) and Fernand Robichaud (Golf Pokemouche) in the senior division (55 and older) and Sonny Phillips (Fredericton) in super senior (65 and older).
The women’s team is comprised of Molly MacDermaid (Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club), Carly Hubbard (Miramichi) and Karen Flett (Miramichi) in the amateur division; Erin Musgrave (Country Meadows), Doreen Vienneau (Pine Needles Golf and Country Club) and Sandy Comeau (Country Meadows) in mid-master; Napke-Flanagan (Miramichi), Andrea Boucher (Moncton Golf and Country) and Mary Walton-Rossignol (Fredericton) in senior and Sharon Case (Miramichi) in super-senior.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge,” said Stuart Musgrave, who won the Atlantic mid-masters title last year. “It will be a challenge for all of us on Team New Brunswick.”
For more information on the Atlantic Golf Championships – Click here
For more information on the Golf Newfoundland Labrador – Click Here
For more information on the Prince Edward Island Golf Association– Click Here
For more information on the Nova Scotia Golf Association – Click Here
For more information on the Golf New Brunswick– Click Here
Long-time Aroostook Valley Country Club general manager Stephen Leitch believes greenskeeper Perry Swazey will be the unsung hero of the upcoming 2019 Argus Audiology New Brunswick Men’s Senior and Mid-Master Championships.
A protracted and difficult winter could have taken its toll on the course in Four Falls, but Leitch said that’s not the case and playing conditions will be outstanding for the championships, scheduled for July 22-24.
“The crew here has done an incredible job this spring and the course is in great shape, just like we expect every year,” said Leitch, who is also Aroostook Valley’s Head Professional and has worked at the club for 26 years.
“Perry and I work well together,” he continued. “He knows what I expect and how I feel the golf course should look and he makes it all happen.”
The 6,300-yard layout is an old-style course which opened 90 years ago and will offer the field “quite a test,” Leitch said.
“The greens are quite fast and undulating so players will enjoy the challenge,” he said. “It’s a fair course, but it is not easy to score well. You have to be ready to play a steady round.”
“Off the course, we are planning to host a friendly tournament. We have several volunteers involved in the planning. We are known for our hospitality and it will be on full display during the tournament.”
The top three finishers will qualify to represent Team NB at the Canadian Senior Men’s Championships to be held September 10-13 at the Cedar Brae Golf Club in Scarborough, Ontario.
In addition to the Senior Men’s Team positions, the NB Mid-Master Champion will also punch their ticket as the final member of New Brunswick’s Men’s Mid-Amateur Team who will compete at the to the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship from August 20 to 23 at the Summit Golf Club in Toronto, Ontario. The other two members of NB’s Men’s Mid-Amateur Team will be selected as part of the 2019 RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship
Aroostook Valley hosts several corporate tournaments every year as well as the popular St. John Valley Open on the Labour Day weekend.
“We like to show off our course for major events and we’ll be ready for the seniors this year,” Leitch said. “It’s another opportunity to show off the course we are so proud of.”
This year’s tournament also marks the first time it will be sponsored by Argus Audiology.
Bill Eaton, along with business partner and wife Norma and sister Dr. Heidi Eaton, purchased Argus Audiology from his parents in 2013. The company has been proudly serving New Brunswick for more than 40 years and currently owns four clinics in the province.
“Helen Keller once said that being blind separates us from things, but being deaf separates us from people,” Eaton said.
“It’s our goal at Argus Audiology to bring people back together through conversations, activities and pastimes,” he noted. “We can think of no better way to bring people together in New Brunswick than through the great game of golf and enjoying our beautiful province in scenic settings.”
Argus Audiology is also the title sponsor of the Argus Audiology NB Ladies Provincials which was earlier this month (July 7-9) at Golf Pokemouche on the Acadian Peninsula, the Golf NB Annual Awards Banquet and Silent Auction on October 19 in Fredericton and the 2019 Golf NB Competitive Golf Season.
For more information or to register for the 2019 Argus Audiology NB Men’s Senior & Mid-Master Championships please CLICK HERE.
For more information on the Aroostook Valley County Club please CLICK HERE.
Golf New Brunswick (Golf NB), a not for profit organization founded in 1934, is the official governing body for amateur golf in New Brunswick. In January of 2006, the New Brunswick Golf Association (NBGA) officially merged with the New Brunswick Ladies Golf Association (NBLGA), resulting in one united governing body for amateur golf in the province. Programs offered by Golf NB to its 8,000 members include: 12 provincial events, rules of golf education, course rating and handicap services, junior golf development programs and member club marketing initiatives. Argus Audiology is a family owned and operated hearing service center. We employ bilingual audiologists, hearing aid practitioners and technicians at our New Brunswick centers. Argus Audiology has been proudly serving Southern New Brunswick since 1978 and now has 4 convenient locations working in a collaborative culture.
A Deep List of Champions Headlines the 89th Playing of the RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship
By Dwayne Tingley
Junior players are being recruited by the Fraser Edmundston Golf Club to help stage the 89th playing of the RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship.
“We want to show what a great golf club we have in Edmundston and how the members are working together to making sure others know how proud we are,” club president Henri Allain said with enthusiasm.
“One of the ways we are bringing the club back to a high level is to include the juniors and we want to show them what we can do as one of the best courses in New Brunswick,” Allain added.
Fraser Edmundston was selected to host the Amateur in mid-June after the original host, the Westfield Golf and Country Club, had to withdraw its bid because of significant winter damage. Allain said it was the ideal opportunity for Fraser Edmundston to step forward.
“It’s an exciting time for our club because we are working hard to promote golf in our area,” he said. “We’ve had a big increase in the size of our membership and we continue to promote it.
“The course is a gem and it’s in great shape and we have a long list of volunteers are helping out so this is a great win-win for us and for Golf New Brunswick.”
Fresh off his 2019 MCT Insurance Nova Scotia Amateur Championship, Fredericton’s Calvin Ross headlines a quality field that includes five past RBC Dominion Securities Champions. The Kingswood Golf, JH Sports and Texas State Bobcat product will be looking to hold 2010 & 2017 NB Men’s Amateur Champion, Darren Roach of The Riverside Country Club, as well as the Fredericton Golf Club’s Mike Landry who has finished inside the top 3 of the past four RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championships, which includes a victory in 2016 to go with his first Men’s Amateur title in 2002. Greg Jones (1999) of the Country Meadows Golf Club, Kevin Farmer (1998) of the Herring Cove Provincial Park Golf Course and Ed Reevey (1993) of Riverside round out the list of past champions.
The top three finishers will qualify for the Canadian men’s amateur championship Aug. 5-8 at the Glen Arbour Golf Club in Hammonds Plains, N.S. The top three mid-amateurs will advance to the Canadian championship tournament Aug. 20-23 at the Summit Country Club in Toronto.
“Our club survived the winter in very good shape and it’s going to be in top, championship shape for the Amateur,” Allain said. “Another plus is that the Amateur can be played in the mornings and our members will still be able to play in the afternoon.”
He expects two or three Edmundston players to be in the 60-player field. The 6,650-yard, par 73 track is an old-style course that will offer New Brunswick’s top players a significant challenge.
“You have to stay in the fairway and be prepared for difficult shots all the way from tee to green because there are so many side hills,” Allain said.
“Holes 9, 10 and 11 are all par fives and they are birdie holes, but nothing will come easy,” he continued. “The players will love it. They will also love the friendliness of our people and the natural beauty of our city. I’m sure the players who come here will be coming back for many years in the future.”
The 93-year-old course has also hosted the Canadian men’s amateur championship twice – in 1956 and 2002.
This year’s NB Men’s Amateur Championship also marks the 13th anniversary of sponsorship by RBC Dominion Securities.
Spokesman Tom Gribbons, of Saint John, said collaborating with Golf New Brunswick to stage the Amateur matches up well with the company’s work with the golf community. RBC also sponsors the Canadian Open and the Heritage Classic on the PGA Tour.
“Many of our clients are golfers and these events are worthy community endeavors that we enjoy being part of,” said Gribbons, vice-president and branch manager of the Saint John office.
For more information on the 2019 RBC Dominion Securities NB Men’s Amateur Championship, including results and tee times, please CLICK HERE.
For more information on the Fraser Edmundston Golf Club please visit: CLICK HERE.
For more information on RBC Dominion Securities please visit: www.rbcds.com.
The title sponsor of the 2018 NB Men’s Amateur Championship is once again RBC Dominion Securities. RBC Dominion Securities was introduced as the title sponsor for the NB Amateur Championship in 2007. RBC Dominion Securities has been Canada’s premier provider of Investment Advice since 1901. With offices in Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John and Sussex, RBC Dominion Securities offers New Brunswick investors and businesses superior access to the most comprehensive wealth management services in the province.
Golf New Brunswick (Golf NB), a not for profit organization founded in 1934, is the official governing body for amateur golf in New Brunswick. In January of 2006, the New Brunswick Golf Association (NBGA) officially merged with the New Brunswick Ladies Golf Association (NBLGA), resulting in one united governing body for amateur golf in the province. Programs offered by Golf NB to its 8,000 members include: 12 provincial events, rules of golf education, course rating and handicap services, junior golf development programs and member club marketing initiatives.
Organizers of the 2019 Argus Audiology New Brunswick Ladies Provincial Championship have planned a tournament that combines top-notch golf and social activities that will be remembered for many years.
Denis Mallet, general manager of the host Golf Pokemouche on the Acadian Peninsula, is eager to show off the 6,000-yard layout and the hospitality of the club’s members when they host 83 of the provinces to female golfers from July 7th through 9th.
“We’ve taken care of every detail and we know the players are going to be happy when they get here,” Mallet said.
“The course is in beautiful shape and the people are ready to show how friendly and welcoming we are in this part of New Brunswick,” he added. “We are famous for our hospitality. It’s going to be a lot of fun and we’re looking forward to seeing the best players come to Pokemouche.”
The course, built on the scenic Pokemouche River, is partially wooded and features narrow fairways, but the biggest challenge is on the greens because of the elevation on several holes, the manager said.
Away from the course, the players will be treated to a lobster feast during the tournament banquet after the first day of play. A pig barbecue will be the highlight after the second round of the 54-hole championship.
Players will also be able to take advantage of a shuttle service between the golf club in Landry Office and their accommodations in nearby Tracadie.
“We want everyone to remember the good golf and the good times they had here,” Mallet said. “It’s a good opportunity to show what we have and why we are proud.
“If they enjoy it, they will come back someday. We know they will say good things about our golf course and our people.”
The top three amateur and top three senior finishers will qualify for national championship tournaments. The Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship is scheduled for July 23-26 at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club in Alberta and the Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur & Senior Championship is set for August 18-20 at the Osoyoos Golf Club in British Columbia.
This year’s Ladies Provincials also marks the first time it has been sponsored by Argus Audiology.
Bill Eaton, along with business partner and wife Norma and sister Dr. Heidi Eaton, purchased Argus Audiology from his parents in 2013. The company has been proudly serving New Brunswick for more than 40 years and currently owns four clinics in the province.
“It’s a natural partnership to be work with Golf New Brunswick,” said Eaton, adding the company has a five-year agreement with the association.
“New Brunswick is such a picturesque province and there can be no better way to appreciate it than through the game of golf,” he said. “We are proud to help show off this wonderful province. “
Argus Audiology is also the lead sponsor of the Argus Audiology NB Men’s Senior & Mid-Master Championships which will be held July 22-24 at the Aroostook Valley Country Club in Four Falls, the Golf NB Annual Awards Banquet and Silent Auction on October 19 in Fredericton and the 2019 Golf NB Competitive Golf Season.
For more information or to register for the 2019 Argus Audiology NB Ladies Provincial Championships please CLICK HERE.
For more information on Golf Pokemouche pleaseCLICK HERE.
Golf New Brunswick (Golf NB), a not for profit organization founded in 1934, is the official governing body for amateur golf in New Brunswick. In January of 2006, the New Brunswick Golf Association (NBGA) officially merged with the New Brunswick Ladies Golf Association (NBLGA), resulting in one united governing body for amateur golf in the province. Programs offered by Golf NB to its 8,000 members include: 12 provincial events, rules of golf education, course rating and handicap services, junior golf development programs and member club marketing initiatives. Argus Audiology is a family owned and operated hearing service centre. We employ bilingual audiologists, hearing aid practitioners and technicians at our New Brunswick centres. Argus Audiology has been proudly serving Southern New Brunswick since 1978 and now has 4 convenient locations working in a collaborative culture.
Holt & Hogan Set For East Coast Junior Championship
by Dwayne Tingley
Sarah Holt – Gage Golf & Curling Club
Sarah Holt, who turns 19 in August, has a mature golf game.
The two-time New Brunswick juvenile girls champion is approaching the upcoming East Coast Junior Championships with new mental and physical vigor.
“I feel as though the physical and mental aspects of my game have changed significantly over the years of competitive golf,” said the Waterville native who plays out of the Gage Golf and Curling Club.
“Physically,” she added, “I feel much more involved in the game in a sense that my swing has become more technical and tailored to my body as well as taking care of it with physiotherapy and massage therapy.”
The University of New Brunswick science student took a break from training to fully recover from a back injury she suffered two years ago.
“The mental aspect of my game has changed, where I think much less, and I am not as anxious or worried about decisions I make on the course. I have become more trusting in myself as a golfer.”
Holt, who represented New Brunswick at the Canadian Junior Girls Championships from 2016-18 and the 2017 Canada Summer Games, will bring her new mature approach to the East Coast Junior Championships June 25-26 at the Covered Bridge Golf and Country Club in Hartland.
“I know I will not be as strong this season as the others, but I am happy that I am able to swing a club and participate in my last year as a junior.”
Golf New Brunswick technical director Bari Gourley said the East Coast Junior Championship is an important event on the calendar for young players.
“It is a great development tournament in that it brings great players from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec all together,” Gourley said.
“It will be the largest field (144 players) that any of these juniors will play up to that date,” she continued. “The juniors are out of school by then and have more freedom to practice and play.”
Nathan Hogan, last year’s New Brunswick Junior and Juvenile Boys Champion, is eager to compete at the East Coast Junior.
Nathan Hogan – 2018 NB Junior Boys Champion
The 17-year-old who plays out of the Miramichi Golf and Country Club has made the 90-minute trip to Moncton every Sunday during the winter to train with Team NB Junior Boys Coach, Louis Melanson, at his indoor Louis Melanson Golf Academy.
“It feels good to hit a lot of balls even in the winter time and I hit some at home, in the garage, too,” said Hogan, who just finished Grade 11 at Miramichi Valley High School.
“I’ve been doing it for a few years and it’s helped my game,” he added. “I get good instruction at the academy and I get to work on my game all year long. I really enjoy it and I learn a lot when I go to every week.”
Hogan said Covered Bridge, which measures 6,609 yards and is known to challenge the short game of the players, is a sound course for the juniors.
“This is the second year in a row we’ve been there, and I’ve played it fairly well so I will go in with some confidence,” said Hogan, adding that he sees room for improvement in all aspects of his game.
Covered Bridge will also host the Canadian Junior Boys’ Championship later this summer.
“A lot of the boys, especially the out of province players, are coming to have extra rounds at the course, hoping they are fortunate enough to be a team member for their provincial squad or receive an exemption from their province,” Gourley said.
Golf New Brunswick uses the East Coast juniors as a qualifier for the Golf Canada Future Links, driven by Acura, scheduled for July 16-18 at a site in New Brunswick to be determined.
Holt is also anticipating a good showing in Hartland.
“With a strong game plan and a straight shot, this course will do your game a favour,” she said.
“Not to mention the beautiful view of farmlands from the 18th green is guaranteed to make any bad round just a bit better.”
For more information on the 2019 East Coat Junior Championships, including first round pairings & tee times, please CLICK HERE.
For more information on the Covered Bridge Golf & Country Club please CLICK HERE.
Lavigne Has “Unforgettable Day” at Augusta National
by Dwayne Tingley
Carter Lavigne may never face this kind of pressure again and he handled it with grace beyond his years.
The nine-year-old from Moncton competed at the national Drive, Chip and Putt finals on Sunday at Augusta National Golf Club – meaning he played the same 18th green and share a clubhouse with the best players in the world.
“It was all kind of surreal,” said Carter’s father, Darsey. “He was in the same practice area as guys like Sergio Garcia, Fred Couples and Vijay Singh. The whole thing was amazing and so well organized, down the finest details. Just incredible.”
Carter admits the experience was unforgettable, but he was never overwhelmed.
“I had a lot of fun,” the Grade 4 student said. “I got to see a lot of very good players and I got to play at an amazing place. I was happy with the way everything went, but I could have played better.”
Carter, who plays out of the Moncton Golf and Country Club, qualified for the national event by winning or placing second at events last year in Maine, Massachusetts and New York.
More than 17,000 youngsters attempted to qualify and only the top 80 advanced to compete at Augusta. Carter qualified in the 7 to 9 year-old category, which featured nine other players.
Carter and Darsey arrived in Georgia four days before the competition to play some practice rounds.
On Sunday, Carter, his dad, his mother Melissa, two-year-old sister Lainey and five-month-old sister Everly were ceremoniously driven down fabled Magnolia Lane to the practice range, where the young New Brunswicker was working on his swing beside several pros.
Fifteen minutes later, the competition was on and it was being shown on the Golf Channel.
Carter topped his first drive before connecting for a solid 140-yard effort on his second and final rip.
Later, his chipping and putting worked out the same way. His first attempts were not up to his usual level, but he rebounded with a better showing in his second attempts.
“There was a lot pressure, with a lot of attention and big crowds everywhere,” Darsey said. “I don’t think he’ll every face that kind of situation again, no matter what he does in golf in the future.
“I know he realizes he could have done better, but I was proud of the way he handled it. He congratulated the other players and he was happy when they did well. It wasn’t his best day, but I was very proud of what he accomplished.”
Carter called it a learning experience, noting he never thought he could play in such a stressful situation, but he was pleased to find out differently.
“I’d like to try it again,” he said. “I’m going to try and qualify again so I can come back next year.”
Carter wound up finishing 10th, but Darsey reminded him of the difficult road he followed just to qualify.
Carter said he received lots of calls and messages of encouragement from golfers back home.
“We will never forget how much support we had in Moncton and all-over New Brunswick,” Darsey said. “We just want to tell everyone how much we appreciate their support. It made the whole experience even more special.”
