The Wrap-Up: Thomson’s return to Calgary and Kucy’s farewell end with 90th Alberta Open titles
The 90th Alberta Open Championship wrapped up yesterday, and what a special week it was. From challenging weather and leaderboard movement to a playoff finish for the Men’s Championship, there was no shortage of excitement throughout the week. Let’s take a look at everything that happened.
Round 1
Round one started cold and gloomy, but that didn’t stop the morning wave from heating up on the course.
On the Women’s side, Jayla Kucy jumped out to an early lead with a 74 (+2), while familiar names such as Sydney Bisgrove, Tessa Ion, and Camilla Ruesga-Rojas remained only a few shots back.
On the Men’s side, Brendan MacDougall’s return to Alberta Golf events was highlighted by a stunning 65 (-7). Dillon Batsel, Brett Jones, and Hunter Thomson followed closely behind, all remaining within a few shots of the lead.
In the afternoon, the skies opened up and play was delayed due to lightning. Players were eventually able to return to the course, but despite everyone’s best efforts, two groups were required to return the following morning to complete their final two holes.
Round 2
The rain from the previous day continued for most of Day Two. The two groups that had not completed their opening rounds returned in the morning to finish before preparing to head back out onto the course.
Due to the rain and pooling water around the course, play was suspended for another hour. Play eventually resumed and was completed, and the day even turned into a beautiful evening, with the sun shining on the afternoon groups.
Kucy remained focused and continued to display impressive golf, firing a 71 (-1) to extend her lead to five shots.
The Men’s leaderboard received plenty of attention as MacDougall fired a 69 to reach 10-under par. Thomson posted the low round of the day with a 66 to join MacDougall at the top, while Batsel continued his steady play with another 67 to complete the three-way tie for the lead.
Final Day
The final day followed a similar story to the opening round, starting off cold before rain moved in during the afternoon.
In the Women’s Division, Kucy faltered slightly with a 75, her highest score of the week, but was able to right the ship and fend off a charging Bisgrove, who fired a 71 to finish second. She remarked that is was a great way to end her Alberta season as she heads back to school on Monday. “I felt like I was playing well all week throughout my bag, but my lag putting really helped including making some bombs” she added when discussing her play this week.

In the Professional Division, Shaye Leidenius and Sarah Armstrong battled throughout the week, but Leidenius was able to fend her off thanks to her impressive opening rounds of 76 and 74. Leidenius went home with the $3,000 first-place professional cheque.

The Men’s Division had no shortage of fireworks, and the back nine had everyone watching the leaderboard as several players remained in contention.
At the turn, it looked like it was going to be a two-person race, with MacDougall and Batsel pulling slightly away from Thomson. Everything changed on No. 15, when Thomson went on a run of three consecutive birdies to tie MacDougall for the lead.
On the 18th, MacDougall and Thomson both hit impressive third shots, leaving themselves with almost identical putts. MacDougall drilled his for birdie, leaving it up to Thomson to match him.
“I didn’t think I made it,” Thomson remarked with a chuckle after the round.
But he did.
After the cards were signed, a playoff was needed to determine the Alberta Open Champion.
The playoff hole, No. 18 on Raven, was a little wet but ready to go. The two players hit identical drives and second shots, but their third shots were a little different. Thomson came out of the bunker a little long, while MacDougall was hitting from the fairway and left himself with a 10-footer.
It seemed like the advantage was with MacDougall until a great up-and-down from Thomson and a narrowly missed putt from MacDougall meant it was back to the tee.
Once again, the players played the hole almost identically. Their approach shots impressed all the dedicated fans gathered around the green, but Thomson had the edge, leaving himself with a very short putt.
MacDougall hit his eight-footer and, once again, narrowly missed. This left Thomson with a tap-in to become the Alberta Open Champion.

After the round, Thomson mentioned how nice it was to be home following a busy stretch with the PGA TOUR Americas. He also reflected on the significance of the victory, saying, “how cool is it that my name is on something that Moe Norman also won.”
The Low Amateur competition on the Men’s side was a two-horse race throughout the entire week between the defending Men’s Amateur Champion and the previous Men’s Amateur Champion. The two had also just come off a battle at the top of the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship. Tobias Buffam was able to best Brett Jones with a birdie on his final hole.

With Tobias claiming the first Morse Cup Team spot and Brett claiming the second, Jesse Galvon will round out the 2027 Morse Cup Team.
The full leaderboard for all divisions can be found below.
Full Leaderboard – 90th Alberta Open
A Tremendous Host
With all the delays and inclement weather throughout the week, Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club was a tremendous host. The club showcased its amazing attention to detail, assisting with moving players and getting them onto the course when required.
They also did an incredible job supporting Alberta Golf’s newest addition to The Open, the exclusive Players’ Lounge. The lounge provided players with breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout all three days of the championship.
The support from Priddis Greens throughout the week cannot be understated, including the tremendous efforts of the many volunteers who were present throughout the championship.
Notable Highlights
- The 90th Alberta Open Men’s Championship was won with a birdie on the second playoff hole.
- This marks the first time, to Alberta Golf’s knowledge, that an amateur has technically claimed all three Morse Cup Team spots through winning the Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship, winning Low Amateur at the Alberta Open, and being the best Alberta finisher at the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.
- Jayla Kucy’s win is her first Alberta Golf victory since 2020, when she won the U15 Girls’ Championship. She has had several close calls over the past few years, including two top 10 finishes in the Women’s Amateur, one of which saw her get an interprovincial team spot in 2025.
- This is the second time that the Alberta Open Women’s Division has been won by an amateur player.
The Details: The 90th Alberta Open Is Set To Tee Off At Priddis Greens G&CC
One of Alberta Golf’s oldest and most prestigious championships is set to tee off for the 90th time this week, and the venue selected for this milestone edition is no stranger to the bright lights that come with an event of this calibre.
Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club will host the Alberta Open Championship from August 11–13, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most exciting editions of the championship yet.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the 90th Alberta Open.
The Course
While relatively young compared to some of Alberta’s most historic golf clubs, Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club has quickly established itself as one of the province’s premier golf destinations.
Set against a stunning natural backdrop with the Rocky Mountains on the horizon, the facility offers an exceptional blend of beauty and performance. From its impressive practice range and performance centre to a clubhouse overlooking the surrounding landscape, every aspect of Priddis Greens reflects a commitment to high-level golf.
With 36 holes available to members, the facility has become a destination worthy of hosting some of the biggest events in Canadian golf. That reputation was further cemented through three successful editions of the CPKC Women’s Open, giving Priddis Greens valuable experience on the national stage and preparing the club for another major week of competition.
For the Alberta Open, players will compete exclusively on the Raven Course. While only one of the club’s two courses will be in play, as John Wilson explains in his interview, the Raven will provide more than enough challenge for the field.
Click the link below to read the full interview with John as part of the 2026 Alberta Golf Yearbook, where he discusses the appeal of the Alberta Open, the challenges players will face at Priddis Greens, and what makes the club such a special place to host this championship.
2026 YEarbook Preview – The Alberta Open
The Event
The Alberta Open brings together some of the province’s best players, giving professional and amateur competitors — men and women — the opportunity to compete for a provincial championship on the same stage.
On the men’s side, a field of 102 players will compete through the first two rounds before the field is cut to the top 60 and ties for the final round, where the 2026 Alberta Open Men’s Champion will be crowned.
The Women’s division will feature no cut, with the entire field competing across all three rounds.
By the end of championship week, multiple titles will be awarded across both divisions, including Low Amateur, Low Professional, and the Alberta Open Men’s and Women’s Championships.
The Alberta Open has experienced its share of highs and lows throughout its long and storied history, but as the championship approaches its 90th edition, it enters this milestone year with considerable momentum.
In 2025, Alberta Golf introduced a Women’s division, creating another opportunity for female golfers to compete at the highest level in the province. The response has been encouraging. In just its second year, the division has grown enough to fill its field, offering a promising indication of what the future could hold.

As Alberta Golf looks ahead, there are plenty of opportunities to continue elevating the championship. Potential sponsorship opportunities, continued growth of the Women’s division and both championship purses, a renewed focus on the event’s rich history, official merchandise, and an enhanced player experience are all part of the conversation as the Alberta Open continues to build toward its next chapter.
The 90th edition is more than another tournament — it’s an opportunity to celebrate the history of the championship while laying the foundation for where it can go next.
The Players
There will be no shortage of local talent on either side of the field, with a number of Alberta’s top players set to compete for a championship at one of the province’s premier golf facilities.
With plenty of star power, experience and emerging talent in the field, the race for the Alberta Open title should be one to watch from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Here’s a look at some of the notable names in the field:
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Past Alberta Golf Champions & Team MembersFemales
- Sydney Bisgrove – Inaugural Alberta Open Women’s Champion
- Skyesong Alexis – 2018 Women’s Interprovincial Team Member
- Sarah Armstrong – 2023 U19 Girls’ Champion
- Elle Banister – 2026 Alberta Montana Ryder Cup Team Member
- Mackenna Ferguson – 2026 Alberta Montana Ryder Cup Team Member
- Emily Cornwall – 2026 Women’s Interprovincial Team Member
- Celina Lam – 2-time Women’s Senior Champion
- Lisa Hall – 2024 Women’s Senior Interprovincial Team Member
- Tessa Ion – 2026 Women’s Amateur Champion
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Other Notable NamesFemales
- Jennifer Ha – 2025 PGA of Alberta Women’s Champion
- Nicola Jeffries – PGA of Alberta Professional
- Jennifer MacKinnon – PGA of Alberta Professional
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Past Alberta Golf Champions & Team MembersMales
- Tobias Buffam – 2026 Men’s Amateur Champion
- Brett Jones – 2024 & 2025 Men’s Amateur Champion
- Jesse Galvon – 2-time Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Andrew Harrison – Defending Alberta Open Champion
- Wes Heffernan – 7-time Alberta Open Champion
- Jordan Gustman – 2026 Willingdon Cup Team Member
- Kiefer Jones – Defending All Abilities Champion
- Braden O’Grady – 2021 Men’s Amateur Champion
- Scott Stiles – 2-time Men’s Amateur Champion
- Max Sekulic – 2024 Alberta Open Champion
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Other Notable NamesMale
- Hunter Thomson – PGA TOUR Americas Professional
- Brendan MacDougall – PGA TOUR Americas Professional
- Dillon Batsel – Runner Up at 2026 PGA of Canada Championship
- Ryan Hodgins
- Jakob Chicoyne – Recently turned professional
- Chris Horton – PGA of Alberta Professional
- Sam Kirknesss – PGA of Alberta Professional
- Mitchell Fox – Decorated PGA of Alberta Professional
Click the buttons below to see the pairings and tee times for Rounds 1 & 2.
The Wrap-Up: Oh Crowned Champion After Comeback Win at the the 2026 Men’s Senior Championship
The 2026 Men’s Senior Championship took place at Trestle Creek Golf Resort this past week and there was no shortage of excitement.
Day one provided excellent weather with light winds and the sun shining all day; however, the course itself provided challenges to competitors. Trestle Creek’s undulating greens combined with troublesome pin placements added a level of difficulty for competitors on day one. Three competitors shot par or better during the first round: Shane McKee (72), Senan Foley (72), Len Komar (71). The scores were close following day one with six players shooting 73 and seven players shooting 74.
Tuesday evening brought heavy rain leading the competitors to face wet course conditions during day two. Despite these conditions, it appeared that competitors had a better handle on the course, with 11 competitors shooting par or better. The spotlight was on David Schultz following his round on day two as he fired a 67, 10 strokes less than his 77 on day one. This hot round moved Schultz up 29 spots on the leaderboard putting him T3 going into the final round. Foley remained consistent shooting a 71 on day two keeping him in second, and Brian Laubman shot a 68 moving him up nine spots to take the solo lead heading into the final day.
Day three brought weather that felt closer to fall than the beginning of August, but competitors dressed in layers and brought their A-game for the final round. Laubman struggled on the front, with two bogies, a double-bogey, and only one birdie putting him at +1 heading into the back nine. Foley faced the same struggles putting him at +2 going into the back. Schultz remained focused on the front with only one bogey and 4 birdies to put him at -3 after nine. Ken Griffith remained even through nine helping him maintain at +1. Schultz had back-to-back bogies on 10 and 11 putting him at -1. With the gap shortening, Grant Oh was one player who began climbing the leaderboard. Oh started the day T10 at +3 and went into the back at +4, but birdies on 11, 14, 16, and 17 allowed him to finish the tournament even. Another bogey for Schultz on 16 led him to finish the tournament even. With Oh and Schultz tied, a playoff ensued.
After a brief rest and warm-up for Schultz and Oh, the playoff began on hole 18, a par-4. Both had strong drives and approach shots putting them on the green in two. Schultz and Oh both faced long putts for birdie, but ultimately the pair remained tied after paring the hole. The group headed back to the 18th tee box to repeat the hole. Once again, both were on the green in two meaning it all came down to their putting. Schultz went first, missing his putt for birdie leaving the door open for Oh to capture the win. Oh sank his birdie putt allowing him to successfully complete the comeback and capture the title of 2026 Men’s Senior Champion.
Following Oh’s successful putt another player said, “I wanted there to be a winner, but I didn’t want there to be a loser,” which perfectly explains the community these players have created at this tournament. When speaking to Oh following his win he said, “Golf is such a special sport to me, and I love the seniors the most because the guys that we play with and against are such a special group.”

At the beginning of September Grant Oh, David Schultz and Ken Griffith will head to Niakwa Country Club in Winnipeg to represent Team Alberta at the 2026 Canadian Men’s Senior Championship.

The full leaderboard can be found at the link below, including all scoring data from the week.
Notable Highlights
- This is Grant Oh’s third Alberta Golf win, and his first since 2020.
- This was the first playoff for a Champion in the 2026 Alberta Golf Championship season. It took two holes for a Champion to be crowned.
The Preview: Trestle Creek Hosts the 2026 Men’s Senior Championship
The Men’s Senior Championship heads to Trestle Creek Golf Resort from August 4th to 6th for a week of competition. Trestle Creek is a familiar host for Alberta Golf, and gained national attention as the host of the 2025 Canadian NextGen Championship. Before tee times kick off at 8am on Tuesday August 4th, learn more about the event, the course, and the players.
The Event
In 1946 Fred Wells became the first champion of the Alberta Men’s Senior Championship. This event is open to men over the age of 55 as of the first day of the Canadian Men’s Senior. While this event has become increasingly competitive over the past few years, its friendly environment remains. Competitors are also divided into flights based on their Handicap Index to ensure similar skill levels compete against one another. Three qualifiers were played in the spring for non-exempt players to compete in to earn their spots.
A full field of 120 golfers will compete in 36 holes of stroke play before the field is reduced to 60 golfers and ties for a final round. The top 17 golfers will receive quota spots at the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship in Winnipeg at Niakwa Country Club in September. Additionally, the top three players will represent Team Alberta at the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship.
The Course
Trestle Creek Golf Resort is a familiar host to Alberta Golf, most recently hosting the 2024 Men’s Mid-Master Championship. Built by Brad Dupuis of Dupuis International Design, the course features 27 holes as well as a 9-hole par 3 track. This course has proven a challenge to players of all ages with its hills, water hazards, and undulating greens. In addition to the course, they boast stunning practice facilities with their driving range, chipping area, putting green, and sand traps for golfers to improve their game.
To read a full preview written by Todd Saelhof for the 2026 Yearbook, click the link below:
Alberta golf yearbook: men’s Senior Preview
The Players
Despite competitors looking forward to connecting with friends again, this tournament is still highly competitive. The combination of new and returning players is bound to create excitement during this event.
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Past Alberta Golf Champions
- Kevin Temple – 2025 Men’s Senior Champion; 2015 Men’s Mid-Master Champion; 2007, 2010 & 2015 Mid-Amateur Champion
- David Schultz – 2015 & 2024 Men’s Senior Champion; 2023 & 2024 Men’s Super Senior Champion (Alberta Golf Hall of Fame)
- James Varnam – 2023 Men’s Senior Champion
- Norman Bradley – 2025 Men’s Super Senior Champion
- Howard Broun – 2023 & 2024 Men’s Diamond Division Champion; 2016 Men’s Super Senior Champion; 2005 Men’s Senior Champion; 1997 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Kelly Risling – 2022 Men’s Senior & Super Senior Champion
- Senan Foley – 2021 & 2022 Men’s Senior Champion; 2024 Interprovincial Team Member
- Floyd Kilgore – 2021 Men’s Super Senior Champion; 2013 & 2015 Men’s Senior Champion; 2003 Mid-Amateur Champion
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Other Notable Names
- Brian Laubman – 2023-2025 Men’s Senior Interprovincial Team Member; 2005 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Ken Griffith – 2023 Men’s Senior Interprovincial Team Member; 2019 Men’s Senior Champion
- Dan Soley – Top 10 finishes in 2023-2026 Men’s Mid-Master
For tee times and a full player list click the link below:
The Wrap-Up: Turbide Captures the Double Crown at the 2026 Women’s Senior Championship
The 2026 Women’s Senior Championship wrapped up yesterday at The Ranch Golf & Country Club. It was a week filled with friendship, competition, and sunny weather.
Round one proved tough for competitors due to the elevation change throughout the course as well as the wet conditions considering the rain from previous days. The competitors battled, but Sandra Turbide took the lead at +5 following day one. Celina Lam was not far behind with +7, and Connie Evans, Daniela Pacheco, and Lynn Kuehn followed at +9. Turbide’s lead was in both the Senior and Super Senior divisions, with Kuehn being the closest behind in the Super Senior.
In the Diamond division, Jo-Anne Schiller and Jean Nitchke both shot 94 to put them at T1 going into day two.
Heading into day two, the course had dried up compared to day one and competitors had a better grasp on the course which was apparent in their scores. Turbide remained focused, finishing day two with a 75, putting her at +9. Lam followed at +12 and Evans at +14. These scores set up for a close and competitive final round. Turbide also maintained her lead in the Super Senior division.
Day two was another close one in the Diamond division with Schiller shooting 92 while Nitchke shot 93, giving Schiller a one-stroke lead heading into day three.
Day three turned the heat up both temperature and score wise. Turbide and Lam both pared the first hole, but Lam hit a rough spot with three bogies in a row to follow. Despite this, Lam managed to par the remaining five holes on the front nine. Turbide finished the front with two bogies, heading into the back with a 4-stroke lead. During the back nine, Turbide hit her own rough patch with three bogies and one double bogey in five holes. Lam pared four and bogied on 15 leaving the pair tied heading into 16. In the end it all came down to what happened on the 18th green. Turbide made an impressive putt for birdie that allowed her to capture the win without even realizing she had won. When asked about being tied with Lam after 15 Turbide said, “I thought I was a shot behind,” and she did not realize she had won until one of her friends told her she did so.

On the Diamond division side, Nitchke turned up the heat and shot 89, while Schiller remained consistent with 94. Nitchke captured the win with her sister, who caddied for her all week, by her side. When asked about how it was having her sister caddy for her Nitchke said, “It’s awesome. It’s very comforting to have someone you know with you, and it’s our bonding time, so it’s great.”

The interprovincial team will comprise of Andrea Kosa, Daniela Pacheco, and Gisselle Willimus. These three competitors will head to Pine Hills Golf Club in Rocky Mountain House to represent Team Alberta this September.

The full leaderboard can be found at the link below, including all scoring data from the week.
Notable Highlights
- This double crown was Sandra Turbide’s first Alberta Golf win.
- The final spot of the interprovincial team spot went to a playoff where Gisselle Willimus was able to secure her spot as the third member of the team.
- Hall of famer Cathy McMillan came out on the final day to watch her daughters Erin and Allison compete.
The Details: The 2026 Women’s Senior heads to The Ranch Golf & Country Club
This week, the Women’s Senior Championship heads to The Ranch Golf & Country Club for three days of exciting competition. Not only are these women ready to compete, but they are also ready for the camaraderie the event brings due to the high number of returning competitors. The event goes from July 29-31 at The Ranch Golf & Country Club with straight tee times starting at 7:30am. Take a closer look at the event before they tee off tomorrow morning.
The Event
The Women’s Senior Championship began back in 1964 with Harriett Watson becoming the inaugural champion. This event is open to women over the age of 50 as of the first day of the Canadian Women’s Senior. Additionally, this event has a Super Senior Division for competitors aged 60+ and a Diamond Division for players 70+. Competitors are also divided into flights based on their Handicap Index ensuring they compete against competitors of similar skill levels. There are no qualifiers for this event, so when registration opens on April 1 females over 50 with a Handicap Index of 30.0 or less are eligible to register.
There are 74 competitors this week who will play a total of 54 holes all vying for the trophy as well as three interprovincial team spots to represent Alberta in September at the Canadian Women’s Senior Championship.
The Course
The Ranch Golf & Country Club is a top facility in Alberta being rated as the course offering the best value in Edmonton and the 2nd best value in the province by Score Golf Magazine in 2021. According to their website, The Ranch’s three pillars of success are their “premier conditions, top notch service and unmatched value.” While they have hosted multiple Canadian Tour events, they most recently hosted the 2024 Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship. The Ranch is a full-length, par-71 course that provides challenges and delights to golfers of any level.
To read the full preview from the 2026 Alberta Golf Yearbook, written by Todd Saelhof, click the link below:
Alberta golf yearbook: Women’s Senior Preview
The Players
This tournament brings back talented competitors every year, and this year is no different with the field featuring the defending champion, past champions, and emerging talent in the field.
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Past Alberta Golf Champions
- Daniela Pacheco – 2025 Women’s Senior Champion
- Celina Lam – 2023 & 2024 Women’s Senior Champion
- Kim Carrington – 2015, 2017, 2019-2021 Women’s Senior Champion; 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 Women’s Mid-Master Champion
- Lynn Kuehn – 2023 Women’s Super Senior Champion; 2025 Women’s Senior Interprovincial Team
- Andrea Kosa – 2017, 2020, 2022-2024 Women’s Mid-Master Champion
- Heather Lee – 2021 Women’s Mid-Master Champion
- Barbara Flaman – 2018 & 2019 Women’s Mid-Master Champion
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Other Notable Names
- Connie Evans – Top 10 finishes in 2024 & 2025 Women’s Senior Championships; 2025 & 2026 Edmonton Golf Association Women’s Senior Champion
- Gisselle Willimus – 2025 Women’s Senior Interprovincial Team Member
- Lisa Hall – 2024 Women’s Senior Interprovincial Team Member
For tee times and a full player list click the link below:
What’s New This Summer on Alberta’s Golf Scene?
Golfers love new stuff.
New clubs. New balls. New places to play, or new additions at the course you call home.
So what’s new this season on Alberta’s golf scene? We’re glad you asked!
New nine: Lac La Biche Golf Club
In early August, Lac La Biche Golf Club will debut a completely overhauled front nine, and regulars can hardly wait to test out the new tee-boxes and see flags in the new greens. The Alberta-based design duo of Bryan Ohnysty and Paul Crough put an emphasis on playability with their renovation work, adding width and introducing new angles. At the same time, they also enhanced the sightlines to really show off the natural setting. The new eye candy is especially noticeable as you size up your approach shot on the Par-4 fourth hole. Remember that old advice about keeping your head down when you swing? With the lake providing a beautiful backdrop, we wish you luck!

New 12: Sandy Point Resort Golf Club
If you love to check out new courses, you should be planning a road-trip this summer to Sandy Point Resort Golf Club, which is located on the west side of Gull Lake just outside Bentley. This new-kid-on-the block opened in June for its inaugural season. What sets Sandy Point apart? For starters, it is a 12-hole layout, only the second of its kind in Alberta, and plays to a par of 47. Six-hole rounds are also an option. You will enjoy the views of the lake, but try to keep your ball from going for a swim of its own in one of several on-course water hazards. Hole 12 is a 175-yard knee-knocker across a pond, an opportunity for a walk-off birdie.

New clubhouse: The Winston Golf Club
It should be a challenge to steer a great round across the finish line, and a dynamite closing stretch is part of what makes The Winston Golf Club one of Calgary’s best tests. It shouldn’t, however, be tricky to navigate around the clubhouse, which is why a replacement was long overdue at this semi-private facility. The soon-to-be-opened new clubhouse at The Winston is a 21,000-square-foot stunner. The first floor of this two-storey walkout is all about golf, including a spacious pro shop, bright locker-rooms and year-round simulator bays. The upper level features dining, lounge and hospitality space. The view from the patio will be awesome, a perfect perch for recapping the stellar shots that sealed a low round.
There is also a new clubhouse sprouting at Speargrass Golf Course in Carseland. It’s now fully framed and likely to be finished in the fall.

New name: The Coyote Golf Club
If you were tracking the leaderboards during the 2026 Alberta U19 Championships, you might have found yourself thinking, ‘Is this a new course? I don’t recognize the name.’ The Coyote is actually a familiar venue, just with fresh branding. This 18-hole setup in Sundre was formerly known as Coyote Creek Golf & RV Resort. The logo is awesome, so you might be tempted to buy a hat, shirt or ball marker. Outside the pro shop, you will discover why this is such a popular stop for both tournament competitors and green-fee guests — a peaceful setting in the pines, delicate approach shots that will get your pulse racing, and an expansive practice facility.
New and improved: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area
There is nothing better than carding a birdie on one of the toughest holes on a golf course. And since you always pay a little extra attention when lining up those putts, you may find yourself admiring one of the new greens at River Bend Golf & Recreation Area in Red Deer, where they replaced four of the dance-floors while installing a new irrigation system. It’s now back to business as usual at one of Central Alberta’s most popular tracks after they operated as a modified nine-holer in 2025. One of the rebuilt putting surfaces is a beauty at No. 2, rated on the scorecard as the hardest assignment at River Bend. Can you be among the first to sink a birdie putt on this new green?
New, but inspired by old: Edmonton Country Club
The members at Edmonton Country Club are still learning the nuances of what sometimes feels like a totally new course. After gradual reopenings in 2024 and 2025, this marks the first full season since a major renovation project that included all 18 greens and 63 bunkers. Those sand-traps are a bit of a throwback, because consulting architect Ian Andrew set out to mirror the style of the legendary Stanley Thompson, who left his mark at Edmonton Country Club in the 1940s. Thompson, we’re sure, would appreciate the flash facing and intricate shaping of these remodelled bunkers. Unless he was too busy admiring the enhanced views of the downtown skyline and river valley.

New century: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Last summer had double significance for Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge — this historic course celebrated its 100th birthday while also marking its grand reopening after a devastating wildfire in 2024. If you have a tee-time at this mountain masterpiece during Year 101, you will see how busy they’ve been. Recovery efforts since the fire have included the removal of more than 10,000 burned and damaged trees, the planting of hundreds of mature trees, the restoration of several green-sites to Thompson’s original design, the installation of a new irrigation system, the replacement of wildlife fencing and on-course furnishings, and the reintroduction of the short-game practice area. And that’s not even the full list.
While we’re talking triple digits, congratulations are also in order to Canmore Golf & Curling Club. Staff and members at this popular mountain hangout celebrated their centennial in the spring.
This is a small sample of new features in Alberta, so get out there and check out everything courses have to offer.
The Wrap-Up: Large captures the win at the 40th edition of the Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship
The 40th edition of the Men’s Mid-Amateur concluded yesterday after returning to Wolf Creek Golf Resort where it all began back in 1986. It was a week full of excitement, with three hole-in-ones, low scores, and lot’s of movement following round two. Despite the smoke, there was nearly a full field of players ready to compete.
Round one began with a bang as Clay Brunette managed an ace on his first hole of the day. Additionally, eight players put up rounds at even or below par. Ryan DenBraber took the solo lead after firing a 67 with Alex Large, Jesse Galvon, and Jordan Clemens following close behind at 68. Larry Kennedy also left his mark on the tournament with a hole-in-one near the end of day one.
Round two opened with sunny skies that remained consistent throughout the day. Two players remained just as consistent: DenBraber and Large. DenBraber fired a 68 while Large shot a 67 to finish the day sharing the lead.
As the final day began with DenBraber and Large tied at -5, it was anyone’s guess who would come out on top. After the front nine, DenBraber dropped to -3 whereas Large jumped to -7, despite a double bogey on hole 9. Large made a nice recovery birdieing both 10 and 11 allowing him to continue widening the gap between him and Denbraber. Denbraber could not make the same recovery and finished the tournament T3 with Chase Broderson at +2. Galvon shot a 69 to finish in second at +1. Large’s back nine contained three birdies, five pars and a bogey to finish with 66 for the day and -9 for the tournament. Round three also included a hole-in-one coming from Allan Pruss on hole 10.
When asked about his putting seemingly being his biggest strength during the final day Large said, “I came down last night, and I worked on the putting green for…I think I was the last person here last night, and it kinda put the time in there, it helped with the putting and I putted really well today.” This is Large’s second Alberta Golf Mid-Amateur win, with his first coming in 2020. Additionally, Large was the only player to finish under par for all three rounds of the tournament.

Alex Large, Jesse Galvon, and Ryan DenBraber will represent Team Alberta at the 2026 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at the end of August at the Brantford Golf & Country Club in Brantford, Ontario. All three players put up a strong performance this week keeping it consistent on the course.

The full leaderboard can be found at the link below, including all scoring data from the week.
Notable Highlights
- This was the 40th Alberta Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship and it was hosted at Wolf Creek Golf Resort, the same course it started at in 1986.
- There were three hole-in-ones this week: Clay Brunette (hole 10, 197 yards), Larry Kennedy (hole 3, 199 yards), and Allan Pruss (hole 10, 197 yards).
- Next week, Alberta Golf heads to The Ranch Golf & Country Club in Acheson for the Women’s Senior beginning on July 29th.
The Details: Men’s Mid-Amateur returns to Wolf Creek for the 40th edition
It’s a milestone year for both Alberta Golf and the Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship as the event celebrates its 40th edition. Fittingly, the championship returns to where it all began, with Wolf Creek Golf Resort hosting the event from July 21-23, just as it did four decades ago. Take a closer look at the championship, the course, and the field before the opening tee shots get underway tomorrow at 8 a.m.
The Event
The Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship was first contested in 1986, with Ken Tamke becoming the inaugural champion. Originally created for players aged 40 and older, the championship has since evolved into an event for golfers aged 25 and above. The field consists of exempt players alongside those who earned their place through one of three qualifying events held earlier this spring.

A total of 120 competitors have secured their spot at The Wolf and will begin with 36 holes of stroke play before the field is reduced to the low 60 players and ties. Those advancing will battle not only for the provincial championship, but also for 16 qualifying spots into the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship. In addition, the top three Albertans will earn the opportunity to represent the province in the interprovincial team competition during the opening two rounds of the national championship.
The Course
To earn a national championship berth, secure an interprovincial team position, or hoist the provincial trophy, players will need to conquer The Wolf. A familiar venue for Alberta Golf, Golf Canada, and numerous championship events, Wolf Creek’s renowned Old Course presents a demanding test with its blend of links-style features, tree-lined fairways, and the ever-present Central Alberta wind. It has proven time and again to be one of the province’s premier championship venues, and this week will be no exception.
Read the full preview from the 2026 Alberta Golf Yearbook, written by Jim Claggett, by clicking the link below.
Alberta golf yearbook: Men’s Mid-Amateur Preview
The Players
With plenty of talent including the back to back defending champion, this year already looks like anyone’s tournament. Take a look at some of the notable names in the field below:
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Past Alberta Golf Champions
- Neil Thomas – 2024 & 2025 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Jesse Galvon – 2022 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Ken Griffith – 2019 Men’s Senior Champion
- Alex Large – 2020 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Tom McKinlay Jr – 2025 Men’s Mid-Master Champion
- Grant Oh – 2020 Men’s Mid-Master and Senior Champion
- David Schultz – 2012 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion & Alberta Golf Hall of Fame Member
- Kevin Temple – 2025 Men’s Senior Champion & 2010 Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- Mike Valk – 2020 Men’s Amateur Champion
- James Varnam – 2023 Men’s Senior & Super Senior Champion
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Other Notable Names
- Ryan Werre – 2x Men’s Mid-Amateur Interprovincial Team Member
- Matthew Kern – 2026 Men’s Mid-Master Runner Up
- Jordan Gustman – 2026 Willingdon Cup Team Member
- Ryan DenBraber – 3x Men’s Mid-Amateur Interprovincial Team Member
- Alex Cartwright – 2025 Men’s Mid-Amateur Team Member
For tee times and the full player list, click the link below:
90th Alberta Open Host Club Spotlight: Priddis Greens G&CC
The Alberta Open is drawing closer each day, and the 90th edition is shaping up to be one of the most memorable in the championship’s history. Over nine decades, the Alberta Open has experienced an eventful evolution—from serving as one of the province’s flagship championships in its early years, to periods of cancellation, to a stop on the Canadian Tour, and now to its current role as a true provincial open welcoming professionals, amateurs, men, and women alike. There is no more fitting venue to celebrate this milestone than Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club, which will host the championship August 11–13.

Designed by Alberta Golf Hall of Fame member Bill Newis, Priddis Greens is a modern facility with a distinguished history of championship golf. The club has hosted the Canadian Women’s Open—now the CPKC Women’s Open—on three occasions, first in 1999 and most recently in 2016 when fan favourite Brooke Henderson claimed the title. Hosting events of this calibre has become second nature at Priddis Greens, with many tournament traditions now part of its daily operations, from starters on the first tee and daily pin sheets to painted cups and other championship details. While competitors will only face the Raven Course, its challenging 18-hole layout will provide a fitting test for every player in the field.
The Alberta Open has become a true provincial championship with the addition of a Women’s Division in 2025, and the field continues to grow. This year’s championship has expanded from 20 competitors in its inaugural year to a full field of 40 players. The amateur contingent features many of Alberta’s brightest stars, including Saylar May (2025 U17 and U19 Champion), Tessa Ion (113th Alberta Women’s Amateur Champion), and Sydney Bisgrove, the inaugural Alberta Open Women’s Champion. Alexis Skyesong also returns to Alberta Golf championship competition for the first time since representing the province on the Women’s Interprovincial Team in 2018. On the professional side, Nicola Greaves, Jennifer Ha, Dorothy Schultz, and Sarah Armstrong headline a talented field competing for the title.
The Men’s Division is equally deep, featuring past champions and some of the province’s top talent. Wes Heffernan returns as a perennial favourite as he continues his pursuit of Stan Leonard’s record of nine Alberta Open victories. Defending champion Benson White, who also holds the distinction of being the youngest Low Amateur in Alberta Open history, will look to retain his title. Leading the amateur field is Tobias Buffam, fresh off his victory at the 114th Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship. The professional field also welcomes several Alberta players back home following their time on PGA TOUR Americas, including Hunter Thomson, Brendan MacDougall, and Max Sekulic. Another notable addition is Kiefer Jones, the world’s No. 1 blind golfer, who is set to make his Alberta Open debut.
With a championship-calibre venue and one of the strongest fields in recent memory, the stage is set for a memorable 90th Alberta Open. Players and spectators can also look forward to several new additions around the championship that will further enhance the event experience. One final qualifier remains, currently scheduled for July 20. Once that concludes, the field will be finalized, and anticipation will continue building toward the opening round on August 11.