The final junior championship of the season kicks off tomorrow morning in Medicine Hat. From August 24th to 26th the U17 Championship will take place at Connaught Golf Club with tee times running in a double crossover beginning at 8am and 1pm. Before the first tee time tomorrow, here is everything you need to know about the event, the course, and the players.
The Event
While this event has been a staple for many years, this is only the second year that will be competed as a separate event from the U15 & U13 Championship. The separation of these events allows more players to compete in their age group and for players to compete in another WAGR-ranked tournament—since the U17 Championship now takes place over three days. This event allows players to show off their talent as the next generation of Albertan golfers with yardages comparable to that of the U19 Championship.
With over 100 players set to tee off, it is clear the separation of this event has allowed for growth. This event is open to male and female players under the age of 17 as of August 1st, 2026. A Handicap Index of 25.0 or less is required for male players and 30.0 or less for female players.
The Course
Connaught Golf Club has been a premier facility in the province since its outset over 100 years ago. A fully serviced facility, Connaught has more than just a driving range and putting greens for practice. Their Vallely Practice Area contains various features such as a tee box, fairway, bunkers, and a putting surface. The course itself will challenge players with its tree-lined fairways and greens that require a strong short game.
This is Alberta Golf’s first time back to Connaught since the 1982 Men’s Amateur Championship. Connaught is familiar with hosting major events having hosted the 2022 PGA of Canada Senior Championship. Additionally, Connaught hosted the NAOAGA Annual Meeting and Championship this past June.
Take a closer look at the course and what players will face this week in the full preview written by Jim Clagget for the 2026 Alberta Golf Yearbook.
The Players
While the defending Girls Champion Saylar May has aged out, the defending Boys Champion Chase Strang will be competing once again. This tournament features the best young talent from across the province, so it will be an exciting event.
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Past Alberta Golf Champions
- Chase Strang – 2025 U17 Boys Champion, T2 2026 U19 Championship, T9 2026 Men’s Amateur Championship
- Oscar Gosgnach – 2024 & 2025 U13 Boys Champion
- Bennett Love – 2024 & 2025 U15 Boys Champion, T8 2026 U19 Championship
- Benson White – 2025 Alberta Open Low Amateur (Youngest Low Amateur in Alberta Open History), T8 2026 U19 Championship
- Sela Ogada – 2024 U15 Girls Champion, T12 2026 Women’s Amateur
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Other Notable Names
- Jeevin Dhaliwal – T2 2026 U19 Championship
- Jayden Popik – 1st 2026 PGA of Alberta Junior Masters, 2026 Alberta Ryder Cup Team Member
- Raylee Denton – 2026 North Pacific Team Member, T15 2026 Women’s Amateur, T4 2026 U19 Championship
- Lexi Blair – Top 50 at 2026 Canadian Junior Girls Championship
- Elle Banister – 1st 2026 PGA of Alberta Junior Masters, 2026 Alberta Ryder Cup Team Member
- Alessandra Sundquist – T8 2026 U19 Championship
For a full player list and tee times click the link below: