Latest News
December 31, 2025The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) has announced their golf story of the year, as well as various Player of the Year awards for the 2025 season.“It is an exciting time in our calendar where we share the results of our Association vote for our year end players and Canadian golf story of the year awards,” said Mike Johnny, President of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada. “While the competitive golf landscape in Canada continues to thrive, it is nice to see new names emerge, reflective of the competition within Canada to compete on the world stage. At home, participation in the game remains high and grassroots initiatives to expand engagement in golf are flourishing. A Canadian winning our national open is always exciting. Canada is always proud to showcase the best players coming to compete on the world stage.”Here are the Story of the Year and Players of the Year for the 2025 season. Brooke Henderson’s Win at CPKC Canadian Women’s Open Named GJAC Story of the YearBrooke Henderson’s victory at the CPKC Canadian Women’s Open at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in August to claim her second CPKC trophy was an overwhelming choice for GJAC Golf Story of the Year. The final round was close, and Brooke proved victorious with a thrilling one stroke victory over Minjee Lee. Corey Conners Named Male Professional of the Year Corey Conners enjoyed one of his best years on the PGA Tour. He finished T4 in the FedEx Cup. Despite no Tour victories, Corey finished 5th place or better in three events this season and showed strong, consistent play throughout the season. In the three majors he completed, he was within the top 20 in all of them.Conners ends the year ranked 30th in the Official World Golf Rankings. Brooke Henderson named Female Professional Player of the YearBrooke continues to lead Canadian women on the LPGA tour. A top 10 performance at the CPE Group Tour Championship and, of course, her victory at the CPKCWO reflected another strong season for her on Tour.Henderson ended the year ranked 24th in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. Hunter Thomson and Isaiah Ibit named Male Amateurs of the YearWe have co-winners for Men’s Amateur players of the year.Isaiah Ibit attends Kent State and enjoyed an excellent freshman collegiate season, earning MAC Freshman of the Year; made the cut at a PGA TOUR Americas event and finished runner-up in the Can-Am.Isaiah is ranked 359th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings. Hunter Thomson attended University of Michigan and won his NCAA Regional, finished 24th on PGA TOUR U, then turned professional while retaining his AMR card for 2026. Although only an amateur for part of the year, his achievements were recognized by many voters.Hunter turned pro ranked 68th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings. Aphrodite Deng named Female Amateur of the YearAphrodite Deng enjoyed a T-20 and low amateur finish at the CPKC Women’s Open and a US Girls Championship, along with other notable junior victories throughout the year. She won the Rolex Junior Player of the Year for her accomplishments.Aphrodite is ranked 14th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings. [...]
Read more...
July 2, 2025Recognizing Excellence in Canadian Golf Journalism for Work Completed in 2024
The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC), in proud partnership with TaylorMade Canada and Golf Town, is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2025 GJAC Media Awards, celebrating outstanding golf journalism created in 2024.
From thoughtful columns to immersive multimedia and compelling profiles, this year’s submissions showcased the remarkable talent and dedication of golf media professionals across Canada. The awards continue to honour the best in Canadian golf storytelling and insight, and highlight the vital role journalists play in growing and enriching the game.
2025 Prizes Sponsored by TaylorMade Canada & Golf Town
First Place: All-New Qi35 Driver
Second Place: Spider Tour / Spider ZT Putter OR Qi35 Fairway Wood
Third Place: Golf Town Gift Card
2025 GJAC Award Winners
COLUMN
Chris Stevenson – “Internationals Evolve at the Presidents Cup”, Flagstick
Jason Logan – “An Ode to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge”, SCOREGolf
David McPherson – “Waxing on Weather or Ode to Mother Nature”, CSA News
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DEI)
Curtis Gillespie – “Hallowed Ground, Under Repair”, SCOREGolf
Gina Phillips – “I Played North America’s Only Female Course”, PGA of Canada
Brad Zeimer – “Johannes Grames Grateful To Have Golf In His Life”, BC Golf
FEATURES
Robert Thompson – “Staying the Course”, Dream Golf
Curtis Gillespie – “Obsess Much?”, SCOREGolf
Tyler King – “Making Memories of a Lifetime at Cabot Cape Breton”, SCOREGolf
MULTI-MEDIA: AUDIO
Colin Weston – “Turning a Homemade Golf Game Into a Global Business Venture”, ModGolf
Tim O’Connor – “Swing Thoughts 258”, Swing Thoughts
Tim O’Connor – “Swing Thoughts 272”, Swing Thoughts
MULTI-MEDIA: VISUAL
The Preferred Lie – “Cape Breton Highland Links”, The Preferred Lie
Brian Bileski – “Gold Putter Vault”, Ping Social Media
Hugh Burrill / Golf Town – “CPKC Tour Truck”, Golf Town
PROFILES
Jason Logan – “The Caddie Whisperer”, SCOREGolf
Tim O’Connor – “Humble Howard”, Up & Down
Lorne Rubenstein – “George Knudson”, SCOREGolf
TRAVEL
Scot Morison – “The Call of the Caribbean”, SCOREGolf
Guy Nicholson – “St. Lucia, Dreamscape Golf”, Globe and Mail
Curtis Gillespie – “Hallowed Ground, Under Repair”, SCOREGolf [...]
Read more...
May 13, 2025The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: Stanley Thompson: His Life, Legacy and Design Principles took place May 13, 2025, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Virtual Summit included:
Karen Hewson, Stanley Thompson Society executive director
Dr. Jamie Harris, author of Stanley Thompson and Icons of Canada
Jeff Mingay, Canadian golf course architect
Moderator: Rick Young [...]
Read more...
January 14, 2025The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: The State of Golf Media took place January 14, 2025, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Virtual Summit included:
Gina Phillips: Actress (Last of Us), TV host, former host of SCOREGolf TV, women’s golf advocate
Mac Boucher: Canadian golf content creator
Alan Shipnuck: Award-winning golf writer, author
Moderator: Scott MacLeod [...]
Read more...
December 20, 2024The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) has announced its Golf Story of the Year, along with various Player of the Year awards for the 2024 season.
“GJAC is pleased to recognize Canadian professional and amateur golfers again this year with our year-end Player and Canadian Golf Story of the Year awards,” said Mike Johnny, president of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada. “The competitive golf landscape in Canada continues to thrive, with successes across multiple tours and levels of competition. At home, participation in the game remains high, and grassroots initiatives to expand engagement in golf are flourishing. From the Presidents Cup to the World Junior Girls Championship, to name just two, Canada is always proud to showcase the best players coming to compete on the world stage.”
Here are the Story of the Year and Players of the Year for the 2024 season:
Presidents Cup Return to Royal Montreal Named GJAC Story of the Year
The Presidents Cup returned to the Royal Montreal Golf Club, the site of Canada’s first time hosting the event in 2007. Under the leadership of International Team captain Mike Weir, two Canadians—Mackenzie Hughes and Taylor Pendrith—were selected to join Canadian qualifier Corey Conners.
The Americans won the biennial competition 17–10 for their 10th straight victory.
While hosting this event in Canada was significant, it was Weir’s leadership and the numerous storylines of Canadian player participation that created positive energy among Canadian golf fans.
Taylor Pendrith Named Male Professional of the Year
Pendrith’s most successful year on tour was capped with his first PGA Tour victory at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, along with seven top-10 finishes in 2024. Advancing to the Tour Championship, Pendrith finished tied for 14th in the season-long FedEx Cup standings.
Pendrith was named to his second Presidents Cup team, playing in all five sessions and tying for the International Team lead with two points.
He ended the year ranked 47th in the Official World Golf Ranking.
Brooke Henderson Named Female Professional Player of the Year
Canada’s most accomplished professional golfer was named Female Professional Player of the Year for 2024. With nine top-10 finishes on the LPGA Tour and her selection to Canada’s Olympic golf team, Henderson continued to lead as Canada’s top female golfer. She ended the season ranked 13th in the CME Race to the Globe standings on the LPGA Tour.
Henderson finished the year ranked 25th in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Ranking.
Ashton McCulloch Named Male Amateur of the Year
McCulloch, a sophomore at Michigan State University and a member of Team Canada, had a standout season. He did not finish lower than tied for seventh in all 2024 competitions, including a victory at The Johnnie-O at Sea Island. He also qualified for the U.S. Amateur and advanced to the round of 16, while finishing second at the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.
McCulloch competed in the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst, shooting 75-75.
Lauren Kim Named Female Amateur of the Year
Kim, a sophomore at the University of Texas, capped off a successful season with a collegiate victory at the Glencoe Invitational, earning an exemption to compete in the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open. She also finished tied for third at the Big 12 Women’s Golf Championship and fifth at the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship.
Kim, a member of Team Canada, is currently ranked 25th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. [...]
Read more...
August 13, 2024The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: 2024 Presidents Cup took place August 13, 2024, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Virtual Summit included:
Mike Weir – Presidents Cup International Team Captain
Ryan Hart – Executive Director – 2024 Presidents Cup
Scott Dickson – GM & Secretary – Royal Montreal Golf Club
Moderator: Jason Logan, Editor of SCOREGolf [...]
Read more...
June 19, 2024(Photo: Bernard Brault/ Golf Canada)
A panel of judges has examined over 100 stories, photos, videos and podcasts to identify the finest content created by members of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) in 2023. The judges identified the cream of the crop in eight categories: Column, Profile, Feature, Travel, DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion), Photography (Action), Photography (Landscape) and Multimedia. There were some notable highlights from this year’s award, including multiple stories focussing on the ways in which golf is impacting a wide variety of communities and on the meaning of the game and the relationships it produces. There were numerous multiple winners this year, including Bernard Brault, Jason Logan, Curtis Gillespie, Rick Young and the Preferred Lie. ScoreGolf, Golf Canada and The Preferred Lie were among the outlets winning in multiple categories. The full list of GJAC 2024 Media Awards winners is below: ColumnFirst Place: Jason Logan, “Watching Tiger Woods Play Golf Will Never Get Old,” ScoreGolf.com.Second place: Jason Logan, “The Little Things About Golf,” ScoreGolf Magazine.Third place: Rick Young, “The Heartbreak – and Unanswered Questions – Around a Golf Course’s Closure,” ScoreGolf.com. Diversity, Equity and InclusionFirst Place: ModGolf Podcast, “Amy Bockerstette, I Got This,” ModGolf.Second place: Curtis Gillespie, “In his dream job, Tahlon Sweenie is embracing his Indigenous heritage,” ScoreGolf Magazine.Third place: Brad Ziemer, “Stroke Survivor Brad Thomas Returns to the Game He Loves,” The Scorecard. FeaturesFirst Place: Rick Drennan, “The Enemy Within,” Pro Shop MagazineSecond place: Scot Morison, “Golf Friends are the Best Friends,” ScoreGolf Magazine.Third place: Jason Logan, “72 Feet to History,” ScoreGolf Magazine. ProfilesFirst Place: Rick Young, “Mad Scientist,” ScoreGolf Magazine.Second place: Adam Segal, “The Putting Guru,” ScoreGolf Magazine.Third place: Curtis Gillespie, “In his dream job, Tahlon Sweenie is embracing his Indigenous heritage,” ScoreGolf Magazine. Photo – LandscapeFirst Place: Bernard Brault, “On Top of Alcatraz,” Golf Canada. Second place: Bernard Brault, “Sunset in the Desert,” Golf Canada.Third place: Jeff Curlew, “Cabot bagpiper, Cabot Links,” PGA Canada. Photo – Action and PeopleFirst Place: Bernard Brault, Champagne Tackle, Golf Canada.Second place: Bernard Brault, Winning putt, Golf Canada.Third place: Bernard Brault, Hold on little boy, Golf Canada. TravelFirst Place: Curtis Gillespie, “Blown Away,” ScoreGolf Magazine .Second place: Wes Gilbertson, “A Special Trip,” ScoreGolf.com.Third place: Jeff Brooke, “San Diego,” Globe and Mail. MultimediaFirst Place: Preferred Lie, “Waterton, Season 4, Episode 2,” The Preferred Lie.Second place: Rob Leth, “7 iron for a Hockey Stick,” PGA Tour Americas.Third place: Preferred Lie, “Jasper Park Lodge,” The Preferred Lie. ** PrizesGJAC would like to thank TaylorMade and Golf Town for the ongoing support of this awards program. It is greatly appreciated by every GJAC member. First place winners in each category will receive a TaylorMade Qi10 driver. Second place winners will receive a TaylorMade Spider Tour putter. Third place winners will receive a $100 gift card from Golf Town. Thank you again to our great sponsors! JudgesGJAC wishes to offer its thanks to the judges for their effort and insight. This year’s judges were Harvey Freedenberg, Bob Condon, Meggan Gardner, Terry Lenyk, Mike Johnny, Norm MacDonald, Cathy Condon, Tim O’Connor, Lorne Rubenstein, Steve Keating, Bob Weeks, Murray Fraser, Scot Morison and Sandra Thompson. ** The annual GJAC golf day event will be held on June 25 and the winners will be briefly recognized at that event. The full list of winners will also be posted on the GJAC website at www.gjac.ca. [...]
Read more...
May 24, 2024The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: Economic Impact of Golf in Canada took place May 24, 2024, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Virtual Summit included:
Tom McGuire, Principal/Co-founder, 21FSP Advisory Inc.
Laurence Applebaum, Golf Canada
Jeff Calderwood, National Golf Course Owners Association
Moderator: Dan Pino, Golf Canada [...]
Read more...
December 20, 2023TORONTO – The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) has announced their golf story of the year, as well as various Player of the Year awards for the 2023 season.
“GJAC is pleased to recognize Canadian professional and amateur golfers again this year with our year end player and Canadian golf story of the year awards,” said Mike Johnny, President of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada. “Golf continues to thrive across Canada. Participation remains high and consistent with its success at the grassroots, the professional and amateur play of Canadians is also at an all-time high. Nick Taylor’s iconic victory at the RBC Canadian Open is symbolic of the successes enjoyed in the game of golf by Canadians across professional and amateur competition.”
Without further ado; here is the story of the year and Players of the Year for the 2023 season
Nick Taylor’s Historic Win Named GJAC Story of the Year
Nick Taylor’s victory at Oakdale Golf and Country Club in dramatic fashion in a playoff over Tommy Fleetwood was voted as the golf story of the year. Having a Canadian win our national open championship is special, but the matter in which it was achieved; sinking a 72-foot putt in a sudden-death playoff, capped a moment Canadian golf fans will never forget.
Nick Taylor Named Male Professional of the Year
A career-defining moment gave Canadian golf fans a feeling they have been waiting for since Mike Weir’s win at the 2003 Masters.
While the twenty-years in-between saw quite a few notable Canadian performances – no year had been more prominent than 2023.
Along with Taylor’s win at Oakdale Golf and Country Club, Mackenzie Hughes captured the Sanderson Farms Championship, Adam Svensson broke through for his first PGA TOUR title at The RSM Classic, and Corey Conners won the Valero Texas Open for the second time. Adam Hadwin also added three runner-up finishes this past season.
Of course, it was Taylor’s win that stood out and makes him our Player of the Year, as voted by GJAC members.
Brooke Henderson named Female Professional Player of the Year
Once again, the most decorated Canadian professional player collected more than enough votes among GJAC members to be named the Female Professional of the Year.
Brooke made Canadians proud (which she has done perennially in her career) with an early-season win and 10 top-20 finishes on the LPGA Tour, including a runner-up at the Evian Championship.
Ashton McCulloch named Male Amateur of the Year
With a win at the Canadian Amateur Championship and a runner-up finish at the Ontario Amateur Championship, McCulloch had a standout 2023 summer in Canada following a notable spring season south of the border at Michigan State University.
The five-stroke win at the Canadian Amateur Championship was the biggest victory of the Kingston, Ontario product’s career to date as he is now mid-way through his Junior season with the Spartans.
Savannah Grewal named Female Amateur of the Year
Savannah Grewal capped off a historic collegiate career at Clemson University with a victory at the Cougar Classic in Charleston – finishing her final season as a first-team All-ACC team member with a 71.77 stroke average, best in school history.
Following a tremendous 2023 amateur season, Grewal recently turned professional and is one of the newest members of the LPGA Tour, finishing T10 at the final stage of Q-School. [...]
Read more...
November 21, 2023The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: State of the Golf Industry took place Nov. 21, 2023, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Virual Summit included:
Kathryn Wood, Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association
Jana-Lyn Fairbairn, Club Management Association of Canada
Laurence Applebaum, Golf Canada
Kevin Thistle, PGA of Canada
Jeff Calderwood, National Golf Course Owners Association
Moderator: Rick Young, SCOREGolf [...]
Read more...
October 2, 2023The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC: Course Supporting Junior Golf took place Oct. 2, 2023, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this recording below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit included:
Nick Taylor, 2023 RBC Canadian Open Champion
Kevin Blue, Chief Sport Officer, Golf Canada
Carrie Julie, Owner/Operator, Sawmill Golf Club
Moderator: Dan Pino, Senior Director, Communications, Golf Canada
Supporting documents mentioned:
National Junior Facility Awards
Ways to Support Junior Golf Infographic [...]
Read more...
September 8, 2023(Toronto) – The Golf Journalists Association of Canada has announced Rick Young will become the 15th recipient of its Dick Grimm Award.
Grimm, who passed away in 2014, was a true giant of the game in Canada, and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.
The award which bears his name is GJAC’s highest honour and is given annually to someone who has made a significant lifetime contribution to Canadian Golf.
Young has had a remarkable 40-year career covering almost all aspects of the game in Canada.
He started writing for his hometown paper the Woodstock Sentinel-Review in 1983 and penned a weekly column for them for 28-years. He went on to write for numerous publications across Canada and the United States including Ontario Golf News, MyGolfSpy, The Toronto Star, Golf Business Canada, GreenMaster Magazine, Golf Canada Magazine, Pro Shop Magazine, MacLean’s, LINKS Magazine, Golf World, Golf Journal (USGA), GolfStyle, ClubLink Life, Fairways Magazine, The London Free Press, The National Post, and the Globe and Mail.
Young began writing for SCOREGolf in 1999 covering golf business and equipment and continues in that role both in print and with an online blog.
He has been a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame selection committee, the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame selection committee and currently sits on the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame selection committee.
Young was instrumental in the resurrection of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada and served as president from 2008-2011 and from 2020-2021.
He remains on the GJAC board as Immediate past president and vice-president of outreach and industry relations.
“This is a fitting honour for Rick given his immense contributions to golf in Canada along with his instrumental role in the development of our Association,” said GJAC Board President, Mike Johnny. “In my conversations with original members, Rick was a driving force behind the establishment of the GJAC. On behalf of all our members I would like to congratulate Rick and thank him for all he has done to build and support GJAC.”
Through his writing Young has been a big supporter of junior golf, municipal golf, and women’s golf as well young amateur and professional players. And he’s given a platform to many startup Canadian golf businesses.
Earlier this year the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame honoured Young with their Lorne Rubenstein Award for contributions to golf in Ontario.
The Dick Grimm Award will be presented to Young at the GJAC annual meeting and golf day Tuesday, Sept. 12 at Copetown Woods Golf Club in Hamilton.
PAST WINNERS:2010 – Dick Grimm2011 – Jim Barclay2012 – Sandra Post2013 – Bob Weeks2014 – Jocelyne Bourassa2015 – Lorne Rubenstein2016 – Marlene Stewart Streit2017 – John Gordon2018 – Lorie Kane2019 – Doug Carrick & Tom McBroom2020 – Kim Locke2021 – Garry McKay2022 – Jim ClarkAbout GJAC:
GJAC encourages, promotes and recognizes quality Golf Journalism in Canada by:
connecting journalists across the country to share ideas, interest and knowledge
encouraging members to celebrate equity, diversity and inclusiveness in golf in the stories they cover; and
encouraging and supporting equity, diversity and inclusiveness in the membership of the golf journalism industry; and
acknowledging excellence through annual awards [...]
Read more...
July 18, 2023TORONTO – After panel review, the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) is thrilled to announce the winners of its two journalism student scholarships for 2023.The organization would like to congratulate Emma Kelly, heading into her fourth year at Carleton University in Ottawa, and Matt DeMille, heading into his fourth year at Mount Royal University in Calgary, as this year’s recipients. “I am honoured to be selected as one of the GJAC scholarship recipients,” said Kelly. “Sports have been a part of my life since the beginning, and I am so fortunate to be able to write about topics that I love. This scholarship will go a long way in helping with education and equipment costs.”
“I’m incredibly honoured to be selected as a recipient for the GJAC Journalism Scholarship. Early on in my post-secondary career I took a chance on myself and followed a career path that I was most passionate towards instead of taking a route that was traditionally easier,” said DeMille. “Looking back now, I’m grateful that I put trust in my deeply-rooted passion for sports journalism and I’m incredibly excited for what’s to come.”The scholarships are awarded to students in the midst of their undergraduate collegiate or university journalism programs who have sports-industry aspirations and have demonstrated excellence in sports journalism. Funding for the awards is made possible thanks to the generous support of SCOREGolf and Dan and Laura Keogh.Multi-year GJAC Media Award winner and Canadian golf analyst Adam Stanley led an esteemed panel of GJAC members as the scholarship coordinator. Kelly and DeMille were unanimous selections.
“On behalf of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada, we are excited to announce Emma and Matt as this year’s journalism scholarship recipients. While we had many worthy applicants, the work of our two winners was extra impressive,” Stanley said. “We would like to thank all applicants for their efforts, and the generous sponsors who allow GJAC to continue to recognize the next generation of journalists. It’s special to see how motivated young writers and content creators are to continue to work in our field.” Established in 2006, part of GJAC’s mandate is to promote golf journalism in Canada and recognize excellence in Canadian golf journalism. The focus of these scholarships is to encourage excellence in sports writing by student journalists across the country.
Applications for next year’s GJAC scholarships will open in early 2024. [...]
Read more...
June 28, 2023Image via Chris Fry (Albatross Images)
A panel of judges has examined nearly 130 stories, photos, videos and podcasts to identify the finest content created by members of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) in 2022. There was an astonishing variety of content produced across many platforms in 2022 in the world of Canadian golf journalism. The judges faced a difficult task but managed to identify the cream of the crop in eight categories: Column, Profile, Feature, Travel, DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion), Photography (Action), Photography (Landscape) and Multimedia.
There were some notable highlights from this year’s award, including multiple stories focussing on the ways in which golf is thriving and changing and impacting a wide variety of communities (and vice versa), most notably in our inaugural recognition of work focussing on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Highlights of this year’s awards included multiple winners Jason Logan, Chris Fry, Adam Stanley, Lorne Rubenstein and Guy Nicholson. Score Magazine, with 11 awards, was the most recognized outlet, while The Preferred Lie and ModGolf also took home multiple awards.
First and second place winners receive prizes from TaylorMade valued at $750 and $450 respectively, and third place winners receive $100 prizes from Golf Town. We thank these fine sponsors for their wonderful support of this award program
The full list of GJAC Award winners is below:
Travel
First place: Guy Nicholson for his story “At Waterton Lakes, the golf is elemental” published in Score Magazine
Second place: Lorne Rubenstein for his story “A can’t miss corner of planet golf” published in Score Magazine
Third place: Jim Deeks for his story “Mr. Deeks Goes to Ireland” published in FairwaysGolf.ca
Profiles
First place: Curtis Gillespie for his story “Bateman’s Breakout Keyed by New Mentality” published in Score Magazine
Second place: Jason Logan for his story “Mackenzie Hughes: Tough Guy” published in Score Magazine
Third place: Tim Baines for his story “Blind Ambition” published in the Ottawa Sun
Photography – Action
First place: Chris Fry for the photo “The Pulpit Club Finds Success” published in the Toronto Star
Second place: The Preferred Lie for the photo “Fore Life” published in The Preferred Lie
Third place: Bernard Brault for the photo “The End for Lori” published by Golf Canada
Photography – Landscape
First place: Chris Fry for the photo “The 1927” published in Match Play Golf.
Second place: Chris Fry for the photo “The home hole at St George’s” published in Score Magazine
Third place: Brian Decker for the photo “18 at Dawn” published in Score Magazine
Multimedia
First Place: Jason Logan, Kody McWilliams, and Casey McWilliams for their production 2022 RBC PGA Scramble Night Golf Challenge” which appeared on ScoreGolf.com
Second Place: The Preferred Lie for their Canadian Classics production “Cherry Hill Club, Walter Travis Weekend” which appeared on the Preferred Lie
Third Place: The Preferred Lie for their Canadian Classics production “St. George’s Golf and Country Club” which appeared on the Preferred Lie.
Features
First place: Jason Logan for his story “Caddying at Cabot” published in Score Magazine
Second place: Adam Stanley for his story “You’re not alone” published by the PGA of Canada
Third place: Adam Stanley for his story “Mike Weir relives 2007 Presidents Cup match against Tiger Woods” published by PGATOUR.com
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
First place: Colin Weston and ModGolf for their podcast “Steve Tooshkenig and Creating a Sustainable Golf Future” which appeared on ModGolf
Second place: Gina Phillips for her story “Smashing all challenges” which was published in Score Magazine
Third place: Colin Weston and ModGolf for their podcast “Eileen Jurczak and Entrepreneurial Lessons Learned” which appeared on ModGolf
Columns
First place: Guy Nicholson for his column “Will golf make good on its pandemic mulligan?” published in the Globe and Mail.
Second place: Jason Logan for his column “Tiger Woods is playing the Masters. You thought he wouldn’t” published in Score Magazine
Third place: Lorne Rubenstein for his column “Feeling grounded at Royal Dornoch” published in Score Magazine
GJAC wishes to offer its thanks to the judges for their effort and insight.
This year’s judges were Jeff Brooke, Harvey Freedenberg, Meggan Gardner, Tim O’Connor, Terry Lenyk, Robert Thompson, Mike Johnny, Norm MacDonald, Chris Gallow, Murray Fraser, Scot Morison and Sandra Thompson. [...]
Read more...
May 15, 2023The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC discussing the golf ball and distance rollback took place May 15, 2023, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit included:
John Spitzer, Managing Director of Equipment Standards, USGA
Dr. Mark Grattan, Director – Equipment Standards, R&A,
Dr. Sasho MacKenzie, Professor of Sports Biomechanics, St. Francis Xavier University
Jeff Mingay, Canadian golf course architect. [...]
Read more...
May 1, 2023(Golf Canada) – GJAC joins the Canadian golf community in extending our deepest respect and condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of golf writer and industry contributor Ian Hutchinson of Newmarket, Ont. on the news of his sudden passing.
Hutch had a meaningful impact over four decades chronicling the game of golf for a variety of outlets and trade publications during his respected career as a reporter and columnist.
In 2020, his contributions to Canadian golf were celebrated as a proud recipient of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. He was also honoured by the Golf Ontario Hall of Fame in 2017 as a recipient of the Lorne Rubenstein Media Award. In 2008, Hutch reinvented himself in the digital space when he founded Golf News Now, a Canadian website and daily newsletter devoted to covering the golf industry. With GNN, he had become a trusted voice in the Canadian golf industry with daily insights and reporting on all facets of the game.
Hutch’s career began in 1978, covering a multitude of sports including golf for community newspapers including the Newmarket Era, Mississauga Times, and Mississauga News before moving on to become an associate editor at MVP, Canada’s national sports magazine at the time.
He also covered the NHL, CFL, NFL and MLB, before transitioning into full-time golf as an editor with ScoreGolf Magazine. Hutch would go to become managing editor of World of Women’s Golf Magazine before beginning a 14-year run as golf columnist for the Toronto Sun and other Sun Media newspapers.
Over a distinguished media career, Hutch contributed to various Canadian and US golf publications as an editor or writer including Pro Shop Magazine, Ontario Golf Magazine, Golf Scene Magazine, and Golf Canada Magazine in addition to writing for Golf Channel’s website.
He was also a long-time supporter of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, both as a frequent nominator as well a recent contributing member to the CGHF Selection Committee.
Hutch will be remembered and celebrated a tremendous contributor, storyteller, and supporter of Canadian golf. [...]
Read more...
March 10, 2023The GJAC is now accepting submissions for its 2023 GJAC Media Awards for work published in 2022.
The Awards are open to current GJAC members and submissions must be received by March 31, 2023. Judging will conclude April 30, 2023 and award winners will be announced in May.
GJAC is introducing a new category for 2023 to celebrate coverage of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI).
For full details on the GJAC Media Awards, click here. [...]
Read more...
March 7, 2023The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC on Women in Coaching took place March 6, 2023, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below.
The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit included:
Lindsay Knowlton, PGA of Canada teaching professional, founder & President of Iron Lady Golf
Suzy Whaley, PGA of America teaching professional, first female President of the PGA of America
Salimah Mussani, PGA of Canada teaching professional, Team Canada Head Women’s Golf CoachThis session was moderated by PGA of Canada member and GJAC Board Member Scott MacLeod. [...]
Read more...
February 13, 2023On behalf of the Golf Journalist Association of Canada, we honour the recognition awarded to Robert Stanley Weir with his induction into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Canada’s true pioneer in golf writing, we owe a tremendous amount to Mr. Weir for his commitment to golf writing in the early 20th century. Perhaps it was another Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member who said it best, when Lorne Rubenstein wrote in his support letter for Mr. Weir’s nomination, “Canadian golf writers stand on Weir’s shoulders and at his side, learning from him and enjoying his work.” [...]
Read more...
January 30, 2023I am honored to assume the role of GJAC President for the next two years. Special thanks to Past President, Rick Young, who has supported the ongoing growth and stability of our Association. Along with a committed group of volunteer Board members, we have not only accomplished much but have plans for further activity to support the important work you do in golf journalism.
The most important development in 2022 was our commitment to strengthening Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in our Association by implementing this as a specific component of our Mission. The real work begins, but this foundational recognition is critical for us to further grow as an Association. Special thanks to David MacPherson, Grant Fraser and a hard-working group of members who guided this important development.
The foundation of our Association is to encourage, promote and recognize golf journalism excellence in Canada. Our Annual Writing Awards and Golf Day celebrates this, and we were fortunate to gather at Oakdale Golf and Country Club, home to the 2023 RBC Canadian Open. The day was flawless, more than can be said about my golf game. Special thanks to Board Member, Curtis Gillespie, who oversees the Awards portfolio for the Association. Along with numerous volunteers, the adjudication and awards process were smooth. Congratulations to all winners and nominees, there were a large number of submissions which is ideal to see given the ever-changing industry which we are part of.
With a new year comes optimism for the year ahead. The Association continues to grow as we engage new members and industry partners. Special thanks to our industry partners who continue to support our efforts in areas of member engagement, awards and recognition, and philanthropic efforts. All three pillars of our efforts are as strong as they have ever been. Past President, Rick Young will step into a new Board role of Outreach and Industry Engagement, allowing us to maintain and build on these important relationships. Our RBC Virtual Summit Series will enter its third year and keep an eye on your inbox for upcoming events.
All this work, and all we plan to do in 2023, would not be possible with the commitment and expertise of our Board, all of whom are returning for another term – Grant Fraser, Robert Thompson, David MacPherson, Scott MacLeod, Terry Lenyk, Curtis Gillespie, Brendan Stasiewich, Rick Young, Jeremy Kehler, and Garry McKay. Together, we will build on the success of past years and offer value for our members and help to fulfil the objectives set for our Association.
My commitment is to serve and support the members, making your membership and engagement within GJAC meaningful, supporting your efforts in golf journalism in Canada. I hope you will feel comfortable to reach out to me anytime with ideas and feedback on the activities of our Association.
Wishing you all a healthy and happy 2023
Mike JohnnyGJAC President [...]
Read more...
November 21, 2022The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC on the State of the Industry took place November 21, 2022, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below. The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit include:
Panelists:
Garrett Ball, COO, Golf CanadaScott Pritchard, President, PGA TOUR CanadaKathryn Wood, COO, Canadian Golf Superintendents Association Moderated by GJAC President Rick Young
Click below to watch… [...]
Read more...
September 20, 2022The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC on The Changing Media Landscape took place Sept. 20, 2022, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below. The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit include:
Panelists:
Matt Ginella, Firepit Collective Ryan French (AKA Monday Q Info), Firepit CollectiveSteve McAllister, Sports Media Canada Scott MacLeod, Flagstick (Moderator)
Click below to watch… [...]
Read more...
September 9, 2022TORONTO – The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) announced on Friday that Jim Clark is the recipient of the 2022 Dick Grimm Award, the association’s highest honour.
A committee of past GJAC Presidents selected Clark, who has volunteered for the RBC Canadian Open every single year but one since 1984.
Named in honour of Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Richard “Dick” Grimm, whose legendary service to the Canadian Open and the Canadian golf industry is unparalleled in Canadian golf history, the Dick Grimm Award is presented annually to those who have made a significant lifetime contribution to Canadian golf.
Clark’s leadership was put on display 11 times as the Canadian Open Tournament Chair, in addition to being the CP Women’s Open Tournament Chair on two occasions.
Clark has been recognized for his work in the golf industry by virtue of the Golf Canada Distinguished Service Award, which he received in 2016, as well as being named an Honourary Life Governor earlier this year. Clark was named to the Town of Aurora Sports Hall of Fame in 2019 in the ‘builder’ category.
“Over the course of his career, Jim’s work has contributed immensely to the Canadian golf community. We’re proud to present him with this award in the name of Dick Grimm, whose tireless efforts to promote the game of golf in Canada had so much in common with what Jim has achieved with his work with Golf Canada.”Rick Young, GJAC President
Grimm, who passed away in 2014, was a true giant of the game in Canada, and in the world of golf. He was an energetic supporter of GJAC, and the association’s highest annual award is named after him.About the Golf Journalists Association of Canada:Established in 2006, the purpose of the Golf Journalists Assocaition of Canada (GJAC) is to encourage and promote golf journalism in Canada, recognize excellence in Canadian golf and golf journalism through annual awards, bring together golf journalists from across the country to share ideas and common interests, and develop better media relations between the Association’s membership and various golf associations, sponsors and golf companies across Canada.
About the Dick Grimm AwardThe Dick Grimm Award honours Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Richard “Dick” Grimm whose legendary service to the Canadian Open and the Canadian golf industry is unparalleled in Canadian golf history. It alternates each year being awarded to members of the Canadian golf media and someone from the Canadian golf industry who has made a significant lifetime contribution to Canadian golf. Dick Grimm passed away in May 2014.
PAST WINNERS2021- Garry McKay2020 – Kim Locke2019 – Doug Carrick & Tom McBroom2018 – Lorie Kane2017 – John Gordon2016 – Marlene Stewart Streit2015 – Lorne Rubenstein2014 – Jocelyne Bourassa2013 – Bob Weeks2012 – Sandra Post2011 – Jim Barclay2010 – Dick Grimm
Dick Grimm’s Canadian Golf Hall of Fame BiographyBorn: April 29, 1923Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.Inducted: 1993Category: Builder
Dick Grimm was affectionately known as “Mr. Canadian Open” during his involvement with our national professional championship that lasted from 1965 to 1993. Masterfully coordinating the skills of salesman, promoter, official and fan, Grimm put his heart and soul into making the Canadian Open the great event it is today. [...]
Read more...
July 27, 2022TORONTO – The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) have awarded this year’s Journalism Scholarships to Matt Johnson and Nashra Syed, both students at Toronto Metropolitan University.
Johnson, a native of Saskatoon, took journalism online during the pandemic while working in the news department at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix.
“I’m super thankful to be chosen as a winner,” said Johnson, who is awarded $2000 from SCOREGolf. “For as long as I can remember, sports have been my passion. I want my career to be in sports and this bursary will go a long way in helping make that dream come true.”
Syed, from Mississauga, Ont., is also in the journalism program at Toronto Metropolitan University.
“Winning this scholarship means that the future of sports journalism is expanding beyond what we currently know, and I think that’s exciting,” said Syed, who is also being awarded $2000, from Dan and Laura Keogh.
Established in 2006, part of GJAC’s mandate is to promote golf journalism in Canada and recognize excellence in Canadian golf journalism. The focus of this scholarship is to encourage excellence in sports writing by student journalists across the country.“Both Nashra and Matt have excellent writing skills and a strong desire to pursue sports journalism and become storytellers,” said GJAC Scholarship Coordinator and SCOREGolf Editor Jason Logan. “They have the kind of passion our industry needs.” [...]
Read more...
June 14, 2022A panel of judges has examined close to 120 stories, photos, videos and podcasts to identify the finest content created by members of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) in 2021. There was an astonishing variety of content produced across many platforms in 2021 in the world of Canadian golf journalism. The judges faced a difficult task but managed to identify the cream of the crop in seven categories: Column, Profile, Feature, Travel, Photography (Action), Photography (Landscape) and Multimedia.
There were some notable highlights from this year’s award, including multiple stories focussing on the ways in which golf is growing and impacting a wide variety of communities (and vice versa), stories such as Adam Stanley’s first place column on the growing influence of women in the game, Curtis Gillespie’s story on golf and First Nations communities and Rick Drennan’s story on all-abilities golfer Kevin Pritchard. Other highlights included Bernard Brault’s sweep of the Photo Action category. Adam Stanley and Lorne Rubenstein were the biggest winners in the writing categories, winning three awards each.
First and second place winners will receive prizes from TaylorMade valued at $700 and $350 respectively, and third place winners will receive $100 prizes from Golf Town. We thank these fine sponsors for their wonderful support of this award program.
The full list of GJAC Award winners is below:
Column
First Place: Adam Stanley – “Power Drive: How Women are Growing golf,” Toronto StarSecond Place: Lorne Rubenstein – “My Home of Golf,” Score GolfThird Place: Lorne Rubenstein – “Are We Defining Sporting Success Correctly?” Score Golf
Travel
First Place: Cabot Cliffs and Links – Anita Draycott Second Place: Algonquin Diary Pt 1- Lorne Rubenstein Third Place: Hitting the High Life – Anita Draycott
Photo – Action
First Place: Bernard Brault – “Players Practicing at Elm Ridge” Second Place: Bernard Brault – “Hitting out of the bunker at the Island Course.”Third Place: Bernard Brault – “Canadian Juniors Final Round”
(All three photos were published by Golf Canada)
Photo – Landscape
First Place: Alex Forbes – “Morning Light” The Preferred Lie Second Place: Brendan Stasiewich – “Oh What a Feeling,” PGA of CanadaThird Place: Bernard Brault – “Autumn golf at the Chateau Bromont Club,” Golf Canada
Profile
First Place: Rick Drennan – “My Most Memorable 9,” Pro Shop MagazineSecond Place: Adam Stanley – “Corey Conners,” Toronto StarThird Place: Adam Stanley – “Albin Choi,” Toronto Star
Multimedia
First Place: The Preferred Lie – “The Comeback”Second Place: Explore Canada – “Charting the Course: Niagara”Third Place: Explore Canada – “Charting the Course: Saskatoon”
Features
First Place: Curtis Gillespie – “A Nation of Golfers,” Score GolfSecond Place: Jason Logan – “All in the Family,” Score GolfThird Place: David McPherson – “Turf Management at Altitude,” Golf Course Management
The GJAC Media Awards are often presented at the annual GJAC golf day event, which has usually been held in southern Ontario during the early summer. However, the pandemic affected planning for this event, which will now go ahead later this fall. Given that time frame, the awards this year were presented via a social media release in early June and will also be posted on the GJAC website at www.gjac.ca.
GJAC wishes to offer its thanks to the judges for their effort and insight.
This year’s judges were Jeff Brooke, Harvey Freedenberg, Craig Gardner, Tim O’Connor, Terry Lenyk, Robert Thompson, Scott MacLeod, Mike Johnny, Norm MacDonald, Pierre Michaud, Scot Morison and Sandra Thompson.
GJAC’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee introduces new Media category for 2022 Awards
As our association continues to look at new ways to become more inclusive in all areas of our operations, GJAC is excited to announce the introduction of a new category in the Media awards for 2022. You will recall that earlier this year, we updated our Objectives to better reflect diversity and included this new objective: “encourage and support members to celebrate equity, diversity and inclusiveness in golf in the stories they cover.” This new award will recognize and honor work from 2022 that features and focuses on any aspect of equity, diversity and/or inclusion. Eligibility for this new award is for any work (writing or multi-media) that raises awareness about the challenges and opportunities related to DEI with a focus on women, people of colour, the Indigenous Community, LGBTQ+ community, and/or individuals with disabilities. More details about eligibility to come closer to the 2023 awards season, but we are letting members know now so you start considering covering these types of stories. [...]
Read more...
May 5, 2022The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC on Climate Change and Golf took place May 5, 2022, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below. The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit include:
Panelists:
Dr. Matt Pringle, USGADr. Eric Lyons, Guelph Turfgrass InstituteKeith Lyall, Superintendent, Sun Peaks (BC)Dr. Sara Stricker, Guelph Turfgrass Institute, Moderator
Click below to watch… [...]
Read more...
May 4, 2022Happy Spring to everyone, except Mother Nature who remains derelict in her duties for us golfers. It was not exactly the April the golf industry had in order to kick off the 2022 golf year. Hopefully the month of May will cue a turnaround. GJAC continues to forge ahead with a number of initiatives. Our opening GJAC Virtual Summit presented by RBC on Gender Equality in the Golf Industry was well received by everyone. LPGA Commissioner Mollie-Marcoux Samaan, Golf Writers Association of America President, Beth Ann Nichols and RBC’s EVP & CMO Mary DePaoli engaged in a lively 60 minute discussion with GJAC member and our moderator, Leah Snethun covering a number of topics. Those who missed it can catch up on the gjac.ca website or on YouTube where they can be viewed anytime.Our next GJAC Virtual Summit presented by RBC will delve into the effects of climate change on the golf industry. Please make a note to join us Thursday May 5, 2022 with a special start time of 11 AM. Ideas for future events or other ideas for the PD portfolio are always welcome. Please contact board member Mike Johnny at mikejohnny@hotmail.com with any suggestions.
GJAC will be involved with a new Canadian Golf Hall of Fame initiative called the Community Spirit Award. Curator Meggan Gardner is leading this effort which will have folks from the golf industry who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for entry into the Hall of Fame to be recognized for their contribution to the game. Our job as an organization and membership will be to help facilitate judging of the individuals nominated. More to come on this but this is a welcome addition for golf across the country. Finally, I’d like to recognize Shaw Communications for their recent donation of $5,000 to GJAC which the board plans to use to further our philanthropic endeavours this season. Humble appreciation to Chethan Lakshman of Shaw who over the years has been a big proponent and advocate for GJAC. If you have questions, comments or feedback please reach out anytime.Rick YoungGJAC President [...]
Read more...
March 7, 2022The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) Virtual Summit presented by RBC on Gender Equity in the Golf Industry took place March 7, 2022, as part of an ongoing GJAC series intended to help membership stay connected, as well as to generate discussion and opportunities around important issues in the game.GJAC Virtual Summits presented by RBC are approximately one hour in length and are recorded for public viewing. You can watch this one below. The format consists of a moderated question and answer period, followed by a brief opportunity for questions from attendees.
Panelists for this Summit include:
Panelists:
Mollie Marcoux Samaan (LPGA Tour)Mary DePaoli (RBC)Beth Ann Nichols (GWAA and Golfweek) Leah Bethgate-Snethun (Alberta Golf Tour founder)- Moderator
Click below to watch… [...]
Read more...
February 1, 2022Rebecca Lee Bentham has been named the 2021 GJAC Women’s Player Bursary recipient, sponsored by Mackenzie Investments, and Jared du Toit has been named the 2021 GJAC Men’s Player Bursary recipient, sponsored by Golf Town. Lee Bentham, 29, and du Toit, 26, were each given the $3,000 award after a vote of the membership of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.“I am very happy and grateful to receive the bursary from GJAC and Mackenzie Investments for the 2022 season,” said Lee Bentham. “Overall, 2021 was a challenging year so it means a lot to go into this season with the extra help and support.”
“Thank you GJAC and Golf Town for the very unexpected and very meaningful bursary,” said du Toit. “Both Golf Town and GJAC have become synonymous with Canadian golf. Myself, as well as many other Canadian golfers, are very thankful for all they have done for the growth of the game in Canada.”
Jared du Toit
Lee Bentham, from Richmond Hill, Ontario, turned professional in 2011 after winning both the Canadian Junior Girls Championship and the Canadian Amateur Championship in 2010, and made a return to professional golf in 2019 following a brief hiatus, and quickly won the DCM PGA Women’s Championship of Canada, shooting a final-round 63.
“Partnering with the Golf Journalists Association of Canada on this bursary is something we’re very proud of,” said Court Elliott, Vice President Corporate & Community Engagement, Mackenzie Investments. “Congratulations to Rebecca. As a company we hope this award helps her achieve greater heights in her professional career and supports her dreams of playing on the LPGA Tour.”
Meanwhile, du Toit, born in Kimberley, BC, won on the PGA TOUR Canada this past summer, claiming the ATB Financial Classic in Calgary, Alberta, where he was raised and learned to love the game. Most recently, du Toit Monday qualified for the Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA TOUR in late January.
“Canada’s ranks on professional golf tours worldwide continue to grow each year,” said Chad McKinnon, President of Golf Town. “As a company we’re proud to support the game’s future and want to congratulate Jared on being named recipient of the 2021 GJAC Male Bursary. We look forward to watching his continued journey in professional golf.” [...]
Read more...
December 22, 2021TORONTO – The Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) is proud to announce the golf story of the year, as well as the various Player of the Year awards for the 2021 season.
“GJAC is pleased to recognize Canadian professional and amateur golfers again this year with our year end player and Canadian golf story of the year awards,” said Rick Young, President of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada. “While the game posted record participation numbers it also faced another season of unique challenges due to the pandemic. That included a second straight year of cancellations to the RBC Canadian Open and CP Women’s Open, rising operational costs and supply chain issues.”
Without further ado; here is the story of the year and Players of the Year for the 2021 season
2021 Golf Story of the YearCovid-19 affects golf both positively and negatively. Both the men’s and women’s Canadian Opens cancelled for the second year in a row but golf courses report record number of rounds played.
Male Professional of the Year – Corey Conners
• Currently ranked #37 in the world. • Finished T8 at The Masters. • Collected 13 top-20 PGA TOUR finishes • Qualified for the TOUR Championship based on Fedex Cup standing
Female Professional of the Year – Brooke Henderson
• Won her 10th career LPGA Tour event at the Hugel-Air Premia LA Open• Was the runner-up at the ShopRite LPGA Classic • Finished the season with 12 top-20 finishes.
Male Amateur of the Year – Noah Steele
• Turned Pro in November• 2nd at the Azalea Invitational• Won the Osprey Valley Open as an amateur and came 2nd at the Brudenell River Classic (both Mackenzie Tour Events)• WAGR before turned pro: 188, WAGR at start of 2021: 129Female Amateur of the Year – Monet Chun
• Currently Sophomore at Michigan• 5 top-15 finishes in her NCAA debut season, including T2 at the Columbus Regional• Named Big Ten Freshman of the year• Finished T2 at the Porter Cup and 2nd at the Ontario Women’s Amateur, which included a course record of 64 in the final round• Current WAGR: 187, WAGR at Start of 2021: 736 [...]
Read more...
