Here in Alberta, Thanksgiving weekend signals the end of the outdoor golf season for many players and courses. With courses closing, many players say farewell to the season, some going as far as saying goodbye to the sport for the winter. As we say goodbye to the outdoor golf season, here are some of the things we will miss the most.

Being Outside

Golf allows us to spend hours outside every day, and with the season coming to an end we will miss the quiet outdoors, spotting wildlife throughout the course, and spending time in the sun. Plus, the challenge of the elements can be fun, although after this summer, it might be nice to take golf indoors where we remain protected from unwanted weather.

Exploring New Courses

 Through golf we get to travel to new cities and courses that are bound to provide some challenges and excitement. A new course means obstacles we have never faced and the opportunity to expand our skill set as we try new things. We will miss the excitement that comes with going somewhere new.

Home Away from Home

As much fun as it is to explore, many will miss their home club where everything is familiar, but still challenging in its own way. Not only is the course familiar, but so are the people, and it is always sad to say goodbye at the end of the season. 

Physical Health Benefits

Golf contains many excellent health benefits, but especially physical health benefits. According to The R&A, walking 18 holes can get a person over the daily recommended step count of 10,000. As well, golf improves a person’s balance, strength, and endurance and can reduce the risk of over 40 chronic diseases. These physical health benefits will be missed during the off-season; however, the mental and social benefits persist in off-course golf.  

For those looking to keep golf in their life this winter, there are plenty of options. While rest is important, it does not have to last all winter as there are many off-course golf opportunities across the province to stay sharp, have fun, and socialize. 

Simulators and Indoor Ranges 

Simulators and indoor ranges are some of the best ways to stay on top of your game during the winter months. These options are most alike a traditional round and are therefore a great option for people looking to use the winter to practice and improve their game; however, if you are looking for some fun, many also have built-in games you can play with a group of friends. 

For those looking to make every round and practice session count, Golf Canada added simulator integration to the Golf Canada App late last year. This means you can track your round just as you would for a traditional round. Additionally, you can track practice sessions which will contribute to your metrics. To find a participating Golf Canada member simulator facility head to the Just Swing website by Golf Canada or click here.

Video Games

The least like reality, but a great winter golf activity, is video games. In July of this year Golf Canada partnered with The R&A to bring Canadian content to the Just Swing game in Roblox. They added a Canadian themed hole featuring ice, hockey boards, an ice resurfacing machine, and iconic landmarks as well as an exclusive Golf Canada user-generated content item for players to unlock. Other golf video games include Wii Sports Golf and PGA Tour 2K25 which can be played on a variety of consoles. Many video games can be played with multiple people, both in the same room and worldwide, so you can continue socializing through golf. 

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality is a newer way to interact with golf from home that goes a step beyond video games due to its immersive nature. Golf+ is a popular choice due to its realism, and with options for immersive putting or a full swing 18-hole round, it is a good way for players to physically engage with the sport from home. Additionally, they offer over 50+ iconic courses for players to play at. A combination of simulators and video games makes virtual reality a fun choice from home.

While saying goodbye to the outdoor golf season is a sad moment for golfers across the province, off-course options have grown immensely over the years, allowing golf to stick around during Alberta winters. So, as we say goodbye to green grass and days spent outside, we say hello to new ways to engage in the sport indoors and at home. 

With a putter in my hand on a miniature golf course, I feel like the biggest clown around, with apologies to that guy on No. 18 with the big red nose and the wide-open mouth to aim at!

You see, putting for me is a circus. Not only am I bad at reading greens, I’m bad at hitting my chosen line to the hole. Thus, I figured a tour of courses where only putting is needed would be a cure-all. And the shorter the hole, the better.

Call it what you want — Miniature Golf, Putt-Putt. Mini-Putt, or Mini-Golf. this game isn’t necessarily easy no matter how adept you are with the short stick. After all, a TV show, Holy Moley, has proven to be a hole-in-one on ABC TV! And with nearly 3.5 million Americans partaking each year in this game, and about 350,000 Canadians, it is popular.

So, I took it upon myself to take on a variety of these little courses around the province. Following is a list of those courses and how they stacked up in my mind. And remember, I am anything but a good putter, so maybe that clown on No. 18 is laughing at me, not with me!

West Edmonton Mall – Professor WEM’s Adventure Golf

Rating: Fun Factor: 8.5/10; Variety of holes: 7/10; Risk/Reward: 9.5/10; Memorable: 8/10; Cost/ROI: 7/10

SCORE: 40.0 out of 50

Originally called Pebble Beach Golf Links Mini Golf, this18-hole layout didn’t have the spectacular ocean views of its namesake track because a view of a mall food court just doesn’t cut the mustard! Then again, this layout also doesn’t have the staggering green fees!

Priced at $18 for an adult and $14 for youngsters, this is still a hefty price to pay for mini-putt. But, with hundreds, if not thousands of people passing by it each day and the amount of people undertaking this layout that toll seems to be acceptable. Rebranded in the mid-1990s it retains much, if not all, of its original concept and offers fun, challenge, and best of all, spectators from the passing shoppers! There are real water hazards but the bunkers are molded so don’t really act as a deterrent as if you hit your tee shot hard enough, you can rocket right through most of those.

One downside is the poorly designed 18th hole, an uphill whack where your ball disappears forever, or until you pay $18 again. On this hole you’re told your score is ‘2’ regardless of how many times the ball comes back to you. Another negative is the needless bling that came with the name change. But again, this is designed for family fun, not some old guy who can’t putt worth a plate full of tacos (there’s that food court influence again!)

Professor Wem’s Adventure Golf

Seba Beach Mini Golf & Ice Cream

Rating: Fun Factor: 7.5/10; Variety of holes: 8/10; Risk/Reward: 7/10; Memorable: 6/10; Cost/ROI: 5/10

SCORE: 33.5 out of 50

Okay. They had me at the ice cream part of their name. After all, there’s nothing better to soothe your bruised ego after 5-putting (twice!) a mini golf hole than a lick of tasty, ice cream.

This layout, located about 45 minutes west of Edmonton, is a sort of retro design that needs some care. It’s based on bump shots, which for kids may be tricky and can even pose the odd problem for older players. The big issue here was the fact the bump boards, which should send your ball toward the hole, often were so worn down that shots bounced erratically off, if not over them altogether and off the course. And for a price tag of $15, for adults, $10 for ages 8 to 17, and $7 for kids aged 5  to 8, it can get pricey for a family. 

 That seems a bit high for a course that could use some refinement on the carpeting and bumpers.

There is a big plus here though as it pays homage to the history of Alberta including nods to coal mining, the Winter Olympics, a jail, and the area it sits in.  One historical ‘hazard’ it could use though is a windmill, given the number of those in southern Alberta.

Seba Beach Mini Golf & Ice Cream

Lakeside Go-Karts & MiniGolf

Rating: Fun Factor: 9.5/10; Variety of holes: 9/10; Risk/Reward: 9.5/10; Memorable: 10/10; Cost/ROI: 9/10

SCORE: 47.0 out of 50

As the second oldest business in Sylvan Lake, this place is booming!  The 18-hole layout is under relatively new ownership and they’re going all out to make this a must play in the mini-golf world. So far, they’ve installed new carpet on the fairways letting your ball roll true and their plans go far beyond that with a planned nod to the history of the course’s home in Sylvan Lake.

This layout is what miniature golf should be all about. Sure, a light hand is needed on some of the holes but at the same time you come to those tests where a good ol’ whack with the short stick comes into play. Lakeside is a fun play from the get-go and is in immaculate condition, especially considering how busy this summer holiday retreat is.

This little course is challenging to say the least what with the uphill par-3 fourth hole that takes a dramatic 90-degree turn left down to the hole, or the challenge to get the ball through the opening at the bottom of the Lighthouse Hole. Like this sport wasn’t exacting enough already!

Lakeside is a true gem in this form of golf. The one area of improvement that could be made, and hopefully will be, is to redo the final hole. Yes, this was the only spot where a hole-in-one on 18 got you a free round, but I think that nasty clown’s face with the open mouth as the target would be a fitting end to what is a fun course!

For kids under six the game is free. From ages 5 to 12 it’s $8.95 and above that is $13.95. All day passes are also available.

Lakeside Go Karts & Mini Golf

WinSport Mini Golf

Rating: Fun Factor: 9/10; Variety of holes: 8.5/10; Risk/Reward: 9/10; Memorable:9/10; Cost/ROI: 8/10

SCORE: 45.5 out of 50

If mini-golf was to become an Olympic Games sport this locale in Calgary is the perfect home. After all, it sits on the 1988 Olympic Games site and truth be told, this layout is world-class, not only for its challenge but also for the scenic landscape it sits on.

A good idea here, if you have the time, is to take a quick walk from teeing area to the holes to get a feel for the slope found hiding on the fairways. What’s quite unique here is that given the angles on most holes, there are two cups at the end of each fairway!

The one thing about being located on the hills overlooking Calgary is each and every hole here is either uphill or downhill. With hazards strategically placed to cut off the straight-to-the-holes route one must calculate the best angle to take a run at things – and hope your aim, and geometric calculations are spot on!

There is a practice green prior to No. 1 which is a good idea to use as it informs you of the up and down and sideways slopes, you’re about to encounter.

There weren’t many downsides to this track but one thing that did come up was Mother Nature’s litter on the carpeted fairways. Odds and ends from the overhanging trees – which are nice – tend to clog things up a bit. A second issue here is the walk to the course is uphill and across what can be a busy road, so care must be taken especially if you are with kids who likely can’t wait to get playing.

But, the one thing that stuck in my mind was if mini-golf is to become an Olympic Games sport, I certainly won’t be in the running for a spot on Team Canada given my score at the end of the day!

Prices are set at Preschool (Ages 3–5): $8.75, Youth (Ages 6–17): $13.00; Adult (Ages 18–64): $15.00; Senior (Ages 65+): $13.00. 

Winsport Mini Golf

Rocky Mountain Mini Golf

Rating: Fun Factor: 9/10; Variety of holes: 9/10; Risk/Reward: 9.5/10; Memorable: 9/10; Cost/ROI: 9/10

SCORE: 45.5 out of 50

Located outside Airdrie at the Apple Creek Golf Course, this brand-new alpine inspired design is worth the driving time because, this is a well-designed 18-hole journey.

Off the hop you get a warm-up putting area. This lets you get a feel for how the ball rolls on the carpet and gives you a chance to get used to those 2-faced putters found at every course I played. 

Then, surprise, surprise! There are actual bunkers on the course! They are sand filled but they serve a more aesthetic value than a playing issue as you’re asked not to chip your ball out of them which of course would be hard to do with a putter!

This is one of those layouts that offers shortcuts to some of the holes – but you must look carefully before teeing off to see them. For instance, early in your round there is a dogleg left over a water hazard which requires a bump shot off the fairway border. But, there is also a pipe leading across the pond that takes your ball directly toward the cup. While this should make this test easier, that’s negated by the fact you have to hit that teeny-sized opening. Nonetheless, it is a challenge to be taken on!

The one major downside to this venue, and about the only one I could pick out, was the teeing areas. There is a rubber mat with three small holes in which to place your ball but for some reason that mat doesn’t sit flush with the fairway carpet. As such, your ball bounces when struck, taking speed, and direction (at least that’s my excuse!) off the shot. To offset this predicament, it’s wise to start from the carpet beside the mat to begin with

Overall, this layout is well done. It includes ponds, hazards in the middle of the fairways you must putt around, shortcuts to holes with secondary escape routes, and wildlife – although they are only replicas of geese and the welcoming coyote!  

This is a wonderful spot a short 15-minute drive outside of Airdrie but with the time it takes to get there, there is one flat admission fee here of $15 per player.

Rocky Mountain Mini Golf

My Overall Assessment

To tell you the truth, the fun factor of this assignment caught me totally by surprise. I knew that this brand of golf is becoming more popular, but never did I think I would become a convert!

This is a game of a lifetime, a fun challenge, and one that takes only an hour, or slightly more, to navigate your way around. For the most part the fees are reasonable and the entertainment value and the memories are priceless.

The only thing I really hoped for, but never found on any of these courses, was a windmill hole. To me, that’s the epitome of a miniature golf hole and one that in my opinion should be included on every layout. But then again that’s me, and since I already have enough trouble getting the ball to go where I want with a putter, that’s maybe a challenge I can gladly do without!

Overall, this golf game is a blast! l, I am now a mini-golf guy and look forward to playing more courses in my travels because really, this is a family-friendly part of golf that’s maybe been overlooked by too many for far too long.

For many people, golf is a game played on fairways and greens. For 7 Generations Golf Association, it is something much bigger: an opportunity to create access, build confidence, celebrate culture and bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities together.

Based in Alberta, 7 Generations Golf Association is working to open the world of golf to First Nations youth by providing affordable golf clinics, tournaments, quality equipment, expert instruction and culturally relevant mentorship. The organization was created by Andrew Fox and his son Mitchell, to create a path to get started in golf for First Nations youth and their parents.

“We were inspired to start 7 Generations Golf Association because we were aware of many of the barriers that First Nations youth and their families face when trying to access the game,” says the organization’s founder. “We saw an opportunity to create a pathway for First Nations kids to experience golf, develop their skills and become part of the golf community.”

At its heart, the organization has a simple goal: to create opportunities where they may not have existed before. That pathway is already making an impact. 

Over the past few years, 7 Generations Golf has introduced more than 500 First Nations children to the game Fox tell us. 

For some, it is their first experience holding a golf club. For others, it becomes the beginning of a longer journey in the sport. Regardless of where they start, participants are learning lessons that extend well beyond the golf course.

Golf demands patience, discipline, perseverance and the ability to handle both success and adversity. Those lessons can help young people develop confidence and self-esteem—qualities that can carry into their families, schools, communities and future careers.

Andrew and Mitchell also recognize that participation in sport is not always as simple as showing up at a golf course. 

“Within First Nation communities we face so many barriers like transportation, family support, quality equipment. So, using 7 Generations connections within the golf community, it is our mandate to provide affordable clinics, golf tournaments, and creating opportunities for First Nation youth to experience the game.”

The growth of golf within First Nations communities demonstrates the potential for these opportunities. The increasing participation of young Indigenous golfers in events such as the Junior First Nations Cup has provided a visible indication of the interest and enthusiasm for the sport.

But the impact of 7 Generations Golf extends beyond developing young golfers. The organization sees the sport as a vehicle for connection.

“The game of golf can play a very productive role in connecting Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities through golf tournaments” explains Fox. “Within this arena both Indigenous and non-Indigenous can share so many stories and make connections that no other sport can do”. 

Players share a round, stories and experiences. Conversations that might not otherwise happen can begin on the first tee and extend beyond the 18^th hole.

In that sense, golf becomes more than a competition. It becomes a meeting place.

By creating opportunities for Indigenous youth to learn the game, 7 Generations Golf is helping facilitate the development of relationships outside of the sport.

Looking ahead, Fox explains that the organization hopes to expand its professional staff so it can offer more clinics and tournaments in and around First Nations communities. 

“We are currently building meaningful relationships and partnerships with other associations so we can achieve our goal to become not only recognizable in Alberta but across Canada.” 

For the young people that participate, the ultimate goal is not to create the next generation of professional golfers necessarily, however the organization wouldn’t be upset if one of their participants followed in Andrew or Mitchell’s footsteps. 

Instead, Fox explains that their hope is for kids to come through their programs and leave with a better understanding of the possibilities for their future that can come from the game of golf. 

Golf can provide opportunities in competition, education, employment, mentorship and relationships. Perhaps just as importantly, it can give young people a place to belong and a reason to believe in what they can accomplish.

That is the vision behind 7 Generations Golf: creating a pathway for First Nations youth to discover the possibilities of the game while carrying the confidence and lessons they learn into every other part of their lives.

In the process, the organization is demonstrating that golf can be much more than a game. It can be a bridge—connecting generations, communities and cultures, one round at a time.

For more information on 7 Generations Golf Association, click here

You may have heard the phrase “teamwork makes the dream work.”

You need look no further for an example of that then Medicine Hat this past August, when the city hosted hundreds of Special Olympic athletes for the Special Olympics Summer Games

Golf was part of the extensive lineup of sports on display thanks in part to the cooperation of Golf Canada and the PGA of Canada with local chapters country wide. The host city was deeply involved along with the Medicine Hat Golf and Country Club. The result – a gratifying and thrilling experience for so many athletes who have the same drive to compete, just like any other athlete.

Special Olympics Canada Golf – Full Leaderboard

Golf became a part of the Special Olympics in 2008 within its general programming, making its debut in the 2014 games in Vancouver.

Glenn Cundari, two-time national head coach at the SOC Summer Games was in on the ground floor of this, getting involved with the technical aspect of coaching the athletes. Cundari says they have a sports specific training portion for Special Olympics.

“So, you become a golf coach in Special Olympics, and you talk about Special Olympics athletes and golf at the same time.”

In the last decade, more than three hundred coaches have been trained across the country which underlines how strong this program has become.

Cundari says the grassroots beginnings is responsible for the initial success, but he was quick to point out how big an impact the athletes have on people getting involved which has led to growth in the movement.

 “I dare you to go coach Special Olympics for a couple of hours. You will keep doing it,” he said. “It’s just like a lobster trap-it’s super easy to get in but hard to get out.”

 He says the golfers in the program are very coachable, willing to put in the time and effort, along with being very appreciative of their results, no matter what they may be.

 They are shining examples of resilience in his opinion. When it comes to working with an athlete who has down syndrome or autism, they live with people staring at them or making fun of them and resilience is part of their world everyday, he said.

“It’s innate for them to bring that to their sport and so we don’t have to teach or coach that so much.”

He says coaches do have to take a slightly different approach with Special Olympic athletes because they manage frustration, fear and disappointment differently. As a coach, you work with your athlete and treat each one as individuals with different needs, Special Olympics or generic golfers. Cundari says it makes no difference in his mind.

 “If someone shows up with arthritis in their hands you don’t try to give them a perfect grip. You work around, not what they can’t do but you work around what they can do.”

There are a wide range of categories for the golfers based on their skill level, some play nine holes, some 18. There are those who can play with a caddy, other can go it alone. The program adapts to the individual.  As for ability, Cundari says it’s no different from mainstream golfers. Players have high handicaps, low handicaps and everything in between. The top player in the world plays as a plus two handicap and one player this year aced a par three.

Saskatchewan Golfer hits Gold Medal Winning Hole in One – Courtesy of CBC

Cundari says coaches face unique challenges working with these men and women, especially if they have issues with grasping certain skills. Their brain doesn’t process information in the same way as most of us, so trying to teach a motor skill can be difficult and as a coach, you need to understand that completely.

“In some cases, they won’t ever get some things as their brain just really can’t do it.” 

 Cundari says at the end of the day, Special Olympic athletes are still athletes and enjoy the competition. Cundari adds that no matter what level you play a sport at, there are distractions but for these golfers, those distractions can be almost anything from loud noises to never having been on a plane before.

 “We treat them like an athlete and as coaches we sometimes tell them to suck it up. You have to act like an athlete. We are here to help you so how can we help?” he said. “I can tell you though that out of the thousands of athletes here now, there’s not one of them that plays the disability card.”

That is a win.

With Alberta’s weather beginning to take a turn — although next week is looking a little more like the El Niño we were promised — it’s safe to say that fall has arrived.

For golfers, those words can be bittersweet. The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but there is still plenty of golf to be played. While fall golf may require a few more layers than your midsummer round, it also brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colours and a unique atmosphere that makes this time of year one of the most enjoyable seasons to play.

So, before you head out for your next fall round, here’s everything you need to know — including the ever-popular “Leaf Rule.”

The Appeal

While many golfers prefer the heart of summer — long days, warm temperatures and nothing more than shorts and a shirt — there’s something special about golf in the fall.

It’s hard to put into words the feeling of a crisp 15-degree evening, arriving at the course after work in a sweater and pants, knowing the season is slowly slipping away. The air is cooler, the course is quieter, and suddenly, you’re not just playing golf — you’re chasing the sunset.

As the round unfolds, the sun dips lower and the shadows stretch longer across the fairways. Towering trees, once covered in summer green, are now painted in brilliant shades of yellow, orange and red, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for every approach shot. There’s a certain magic to walking down the fairway with the autumn air around you and the last light of the day ahead.

And for sports fans, fall golf might be the perfect weekend combination. Play 18 in the morning, enjoy the 19th hole in the clubhouse, then head home to the couch for an afternoon of NFL or college football.

Summer may be golf’s busiest season, but fall might just be its most beautiful.

The Preparations

Now with the curb appeal set, there are some different things that are good to know when you’re dealing with the fall.

Helpful Rules

Now for everyone’s favourite section: the Rules of Golf!

We spoke with two of Alberta’s top referees to put together a list of rules that can come in handy during the fall months.

Important: The following are all Model Local Rules. They are only in effect when adopted by the golf course or tournament committee, so always check the local rules before playing.

• Preferred Lies (E-3): Often referred to as “Lift, Clean and Place,” this Model Local Rule may be used when conditions are wet or otherwise warrant relief. When in effect, players may mark their ball, lift and clean it, and replace it within a specified distance of its original position.
• Cleaning Ball (E-2): Also known as “Lift, Clean and Replace,” this rule is designed to address mud or other debris accumulating on the ball. When in effect, players may lift and clean their ball, but must replace it on the exact spot from which it was lifted.
• Leaf Rule (F-14): Perhaps the most talked-about fall golf rule, the Leaf Rule is designed to address situations where leaves and other loose impediments make it difficult or impossible to find a ball. When this Model Local Rule is in effect, free relief under Rule 16.1 may be available for piles of loose impediments in the general area or in bunkers.

The final event of the 2026 Alberta Golf championship season wrapped up yesterday in the stunning Kananaskis Country, where three champions were crowned.

The day began with frigid temperatures, as the surrounding mountains provided a breathtaking backdrop to an otherwise near-freezing morning. As the sun began to emerge, players arrived for registration and the annual Interclub Championship officially got underway. More than 200 competitors from across the province gathered to represent their clubs, competing in four-person teams for provincial bragging rights.

The field featured many new faces alongside seasoned championship veterans. Players were welcomed with a beautiful breakfast courtesy of Kananaskis Country Golf Course before heading to the first tee. The Men’s Division competed in a crossover format on the Mount Lorette Course, while the Women’s Division played straight tee times on the Mount Kidd Course.

The Men’s Division featured a thrilling battle, with only five teams finishing over par in the best-ball format. The four-person teams were split into two-person sides, with each duo playing their own ball and recording the better score between the two players on each hole. The scores from each duo were then combined to determine the team’s total score.

As the early groups came in, Mickelson National Golf Club established the clubhouse lead at 10-under par. Country Hills Golf Club soon matched that score, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. When Inglewood Golf & Curling Club completed its round at the same score, the three teams were headed to a playoff.

With the playoff scheduled for 4:12 p.m., each team selected two players to compete in the same best-ball format. The three duos headed to the first hole on Mount Kidd, where it took just one hole to determine a champion. The duo of Billingsley and MacDonald secured the victory with a birdie, giving Inglewood Golf & Curling Club the Men’s Interclub Championship.

On the Women’s side, the leaderboard was less dramatic than in previous years. Willow Park Golf & Country Club established the early lead with a team score of 10-over par before Glencoe Golf & Country Club posted an impressive 1-over-par score to take control of the clubhouse lead.

As the remaining groups made their way in, attention turned to the defending champions. Country Hills Golf Club had captured the previous two Women’s Interclub titles, and it was clear they would not relinquish their crown without a fight. However, Glencoe’s score ultimately held up, securing the club its first Women’s Interclub Championship since 2022.

The Women’s Net Division is always capable of producing fireworks, and this year was no exception. Despite the efforts of defending champions Mickelson National Golf Club, a new champion was set to be crowned. The Highlands Golf Club posted an impressive net score of 15-under par, a mark that could not be matched, ultimately securing the Women’s Net Interclub Championship.

Final Leaderboards

With the conclusion of the 2026 Interclub Championship, the Alberta Golf championship season has officially come to a close.

Alberta Golf would like to extend its sincere thanks to all of the competitors who participated throughout the 2026 season, as well as the many volunteers who helped make each championship possible, including our crucial team of referees. We also thank all of the host clubs and their dedicated staffs for their hospitality, preparation and support throughout the season.

Enjoy the fall golf season, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 2027 championship season!

Notable Highlights

• This was Glencoe’s first female Interclub win since 2022 and their fourth provincial interclub victory since the events inception. 
• Inglewood G&CC returns to the winner circle for the first time since their victory in 2018. 
• This is the second playoff in the last three years to decide the Men’s Interclub Championship
• Grace Jordan of Earl Grey was the only junior to compete in the event this year, while Tom Skinner was the oldest competitor in the field.

The final event of the 2026 Alberta Golf Championship season officially gets underway tomorrow with the Alberta Interclub Championship! For many competitors, the Interclub is a highly anticipated event on the calendar, serving as the perfect conclusion to a long and competitive golf season. And what better place to bring the championship season to a close than Kananaskis Country Golf Course?

The Course

Kananaskis Country Golf Course has been the long-time host of the Alberta Interclub, dating back to the inaugural event shortly after the course opened. While the championship spent a brief stint at Canmore Golf & Curling Club, the 36-hole Kananaskis layout has proven to be an ideal setting for the Interclub.

The two-course facility allows for a unique blend of team strategy while also providing the opportunity for the Men’s and Women’s divisions to alternate courses each year. In 2026, the Men will take on Mt. Lorette, while the Women will compete on Mt. Kidd.

Players will once again be treated to a day of breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery, picture-perfect fairways, bentgrass greens, tranquil ponds, the occasional wildlife sighting and, of course, the opportunity to compete among the mountains. Click the links below to learn more about Kananaskis Country Golf Course and its rich history.

MT. Kidd Course Tour

MT Lorette Course Tour

Kananaskis Country Golf Course Origins – Alberta Golf Centennial Magazine

The Event

The Alberta Interclub Championship is the second team event of the Alberta Golf season, following the Alberta Best Ball Championship.

The Interclub is contested in a four-person best-ball format, with each team of four split into two-person sides. Each player plays their own ball throughout the hole, with the better score between the two partners counting as the side’s score. Once both sides have completed the hole, the two best-ball scores are combined to determine the team score.

Players can pick up their ball at any time as long as their partner completes the hole, creating opportunities for risk-and-reward decisions and strategic play throughout the round.

The Men’s division is contested as a gross competition, while the Women’s division features both gross and net components.

The Teams

The Interclub format embodies exactly what this championship is about: representing your club and competing for the ultimate provincial bragging rights. Teams are often selected based on performances at their respective club championships, although the process varies from club to club. With so many talented players in the field, this year’s championship is once again wide open.

In the Women’s division, the field will be looking to dethrone the two-time defending gross champions from Country Hills Golf Club. That will be no easy task, however, with Victoria Tse, Meaghan LeBlanc and Joan Wilson all returning to the Country Hills lineup this year.

There is no shortage of teams capable of challenging the defending champions, including Morgan Lederhouse and the Silver Springs squad, Georgia Barr and the Glencoe crew, Lynn Kuehn and Lacombe’s team, among many others. With so much depth across the field, the battle for the championship should be one to watch.

The Men’s division is rarely short on fireworks. Just three years ago, Willow Park needed a playoff to claim the championship, while last year The Winston finished among the final four groups with an impressive team score of 10-under.

The defending champions will be eager to add another trophy to their new clubhouse, but a long list of talented teams will stand in their way. Among the contenders are Adam Reed and the Silver Springs contingent, Greg Stephanson and his Willow Park teammates, Dustin Yeager and the Glencoe crew, Chris Murray and the Priddis Greens team, along with a plethora of other players and teams capable of making a run at the title.

With club pride on the line and one final championship up for grabs, the Alberta Interclub is set to provide a fitting finale to the 2026 Alberta Golf Championship season.

Click the link below to view the pairings and teams competing in this year’s event.

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A 12-hole golf course sounds strange at first, but they have been slowly growing in popularity over the past few years. At times, 9-holes is not enough, but 18 can feel like too much. The perfect middle-ground? 12-holes.

Here in Alberta, there are two official 12-hole golf courses: Pineridge Golf Resort located near Seba Beach and Sandy Point Golf Resort located on Gull Lake. Pineridge originally opened in 1972 as a 9-hole golf course, then added a 10^th hole in 2012, and finally expanded to 12-holes in 2018. Sandy Point recently opened in June keeping the recreational golfer in mind with their links-style course. 

Growing the Game

Golf can be an intimidating sport to get into, and two of the biggest barriers that exist are cost and time. For beginners, the jump from 9 holes to 18 may feel big, but 12-holes acts as a stepping stone. For kids whose attention spans may not be as long, 12-holes is a great alternative when introducing them to the game. And for seniors, 18 holes may be too much, and 9 may not be enough, so 12-holes becomes a happy medium.  

Paul Croteau, the Director of Golf at Pineridge Golf Resort, stressed that 12-holes makes the game more accessible. “12-holes is incredibly popular with seniors and beginner golfers, but also extremely popular for people because of the time restraint 18-holes has,” said Croteau.

For beginner golfers, kids, and seniors, spending five or six hours at the golf course on a Saturday may not sound appealing. At Pineridge Golf Resort a weekend round takes less than three and a half hours which is more appealing for anyone with a busy schedule. Additionally, the cost of golf can add up quickly with clubs, proper attire, green fees, and cart rentals. Pineridge keeps cost in mind with special green fee offers for juniors and seniors allowing for more affordable options.

What About Tournaments?

Traditionally, golf tournaments play a full 18-holes, but for corporate team building or family events 18-holes can be a big commitment. Croteau said Pineridge has been “getting way more tournaments” this summer because many fun tournaments do not want to be on the course all day. Pineridge hosts their Club Championship every summer which can help introduce people to a more serious tournament environment without an 18-hole commitment.

What About my Handicap Index?

For those wanting to make sure every round counts, Pineridge has been rated by course raters so that you can track your 9-hole score and have it contribute to your Handicap Index. 

Is 12-Holes Really Enough?

A common misconception about 12-hole golf courses is that 12-holes is not enough, and that you must play 9 or 18. In reality, Croteau says that many customers who are hesitant towards 12-holes come off the course feeling satisfied. And for those who want more, Pineridge offers an amazing deal for a second round—a green fee for a second round in a single day is only $12.

What About Experienced Golfers?

While the 12-hole layout is perfect for beginners, Pineridge still offers a challenge for experienced golfers. The course has a mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s adding up to a total par of 48. Trees on nearly every hole, bunkers, and water features all work to create a course that continues to challenge golfers of any level. 

Membership and League Opportunities

Pineridge offers a variety of membership options to fit various needs. In addition to memberships, Pineridge offers two leagues for players to participate in. Wednesday morning Ladies League and Thursday evening Men’s League. Participants can sign up to play in the league all summer or they can drop in as their schedule allows. 

Additionally, Pineridge offers Junior Golf Camps in July and August put on by Teaching Professional Katrina Kelly, or Coach K. These camps are a great introduction to golf where participants can learn the fundamentals and build their confidence. Coach K creates an environment supportive of players at all levels to ensure all participants gain something from camp.

Overall, Pineridge Golf Resort is the perfect place for any golfer, as it fits into busy schedules while preserving traditions of golf. Plus, you can stop by the restaurant, 9 Iron Grill & Patio, to fulfill any food or beverage needs before or after your round. If you have been hesitant to try 12-holes, take this as your sign to try it out.

The 2026 Men’s Super Senior Championship wrapped up today at Coloniale Golf Club in Beaumont. With a field full of talent, there was no shortage of excitement throughout the tournament.

Day one began with dark skies and rain, but the sky cleared before the first tee time began allowing play to start on time. It sprinkled on and off throughout the day, but it did not keep our players from putting up low numbers. Defending champion Norman Bradley stole the show on day one finishing at three-under. David Schultz who recently finished second after a thrilling two-hole playoff at the Men’s Senior was close behind at two-under. Another Alberta Golf notable name James Varnam finished day one in third at one-under. Gary Dunville, Ronald Mercier, and Ken Griffith all finished the day even putting them tied for fourth heading into the final round.

In the Diamond Division, defending champion Eric Brodie took the solo lead at +7. Gary Praught was close behind at +8, and John Sagi followed at +10.

While the rain stayed away on day two, there was a definite chill in the air signalling the beginning of fall. Despite the cold, players had smiles on their faces and were ready to conquer the final day. Despite Bradley’s lead coming into the day, a rocky front nine put him at -1. On the other hand, Schultz got into a grove early allowing him to take the lead at -4 following the front nine. Schultz remained consistent birdieing or paring the first six holes on the back allowing him to maintain the lead he captured throughout the front. After a fourth bogey on 10 for Bradley he finished the round with two birdies and 6 pars ending the tournament at -2. Despite bogies on 15 and 18, Schultz was able to maintain his lead and finish the tournament at -5, capturing the title of 2026 Super Senior Champion. After a heartbreaking two-hole playoff loss at the Men’s Senior earlier this summer it was clear Schultz wanted the win this week. When asked about this win Schultz said, “It’s great to come and see everybody again and that’s the best part of it, is coming to see everybody, having a good time with everybody, and then playing a little bit of competitive golf.” It is extremely obvious walking around the course before, during, and after their rounds that these players have such strong friendships.

In the Diamond Division Brodie struggled on the front nine dropping him to +18 going into the back. Praught also struggled on the front with six bogies putting him up to +14. Ron Berlando quietly climbed the leaderboard during the front putting him tied with Praught at +14. Berlando and Praught remained close throughout the back nine, but Berlando managed to capture the win by one stroke. When asked about his first Alberta Golf win Berlando said, “At this age I’m extremely happy to have gotten my first championship.”

Additionally, Brian Coston won the 70-74 division finishing the tournament at +8.

Notable Highlights

• Lee Holland had a hole-in-one on Hole #3 (146 yards) on day one.
• Gary Dunville had an albatross on Hole #13 on day one.
• This is David Schultz’s third Super Senior win.
• There were 14 eagles across the two-day tournament.

For the first time, Alberta Golf heads to Coloniale Golf Club for the 2026 Men’s Super Senior. This two-day event takes place on September 3rd and 4th in Beaumont. With a large field and many past Alberta Golf Champions, it is set to be an exciting tournament.

The Event

The Men’s Super Senior became its own event separate from the Men’s Senior four years ago due to high demand. There are no qualifiers for this tournament; however, players do require a Handicap Index of 30.0 or less. The level of competition is high despite no qualifiers as many players have competed in—and won—Alberta Golf events in past years. Players must be 65 or older as of the first day of the Canadian Men’s Senior, and 75 or older to be eligible for the Diamond Division.

Similar to the Men and Women’s Senior Championships held earlier this summer, this event is another opportunity to bring friends together before winter hits and golf takes a pause in Alberta. Many of these players have been competing with one another for many years, so this event is a good way to reconnect.

The Course

Coloniale Golf Club is a new host for Alberta Golf, but it is already clear that this course will pose challenges for the players. Located just south of Edmonton, Coloniale features an 18-hole links style course designed to be played by players of all skill levels. With beautiful lakes and bunkers throughout, it is easy to get caught up in the view, but these features contribute to the challenge of the course. In addition to the course, Coloniale features a practice facility and restaurant to fulfill your needs before and after your round. Coloniale has regularly received a “4 Star Rating” from Golf Digest’s Places to Play proving their high standards.

Read the full course preview written by Gord Montgomery for the 2026 Alberta Golf Yearbook by using the link below. 

Yearbook Preview

The Players

As previously mentioned, the players in this field are highly talented creating an intensely competitive field.

For a full player list and tee times click the link below:

Super Senior Tee Times