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.Â
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.Â
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.