ElleGolf, a pioneering women’s golf program in Alberta, was founded in 1997 by Lori McDonald with a vision to create a welcoming, supportive, and enjoyable environment for women to learn and play the game. Recognizing that golf can often feel intimidating for newcomers, McDonald established ElleGolf to remove barriers to entry—drawing from her own early experiences in the sport.
Since its inception, ElleGolf has introduced more than 5,000 women across the province, primarily in Calgary and Edmonton, to the game of golf, fostering a strong sense of community while promoting confidence, skill development, and fun.
“ElleGolf has truly been one of the great honours of my life,” said McDonald. “What started in 1997 as a five-year plan grew into a 30-year journey filled with laughter, learning, connections, and so many wonderful relationships.”
As ElleGolf approaches its 30th anniversary, McDonald is embarking on the next chapter of its evolution. Alberta Golf has officially acquired the program, marking a significant step in its continued growth and long-term sustainability. As part of the transition, Alberta Golf will work with McDonald throughout the 2026 season to gain insight into ElleGolf’s programming and its impact within the Calgary golf community. Full operational responsibility will transfer to Alberta Golf in 2027, with a strong commitment to preserving the program’s legacy and core values. Phil Berube, Alberta Golf’s Chief Executive Officer recognized Lori’s hard work and passion over the last 30 years saying “Getting started in golf requires patience and someone to lend a hand and lead the way. Lori’s ability to connect with people and her passion for developing the women’s game over the past 30 years has resulted in so many new players taking up the sport in our province”.
The acquisition underscores Alberta Golf’s ongoing commitment to advancing women’s participation in the sport. Current ElleGolf members can expect continuity in programming and community experience, while plans for the future include expanding the program into new regions across the province. Alberta Golf also intends to leverage ElleGolf’s success to further support and strengthen other women’s golf initiatives throughout Alberta.
““Alberta Golf is excited to learn from her throughout the 2026 season and continue the legacy she has built for ElleGolf for years to come.”
Phil Berube, CEO
McDonald expressed confidence in the transition, emphasizing that this marks an evolution rather than a departure.
“I feel confident that Alberta Golf will honour what we’ve created while expanding these opportunities to other regions of the province,” she says before adding “it’s not goodbye. I’m looking forward to spending time with the women of ElleGolf out on the course”.
She also extended her gratitude to the many partners and supporters who contributed to ElleGolf’s success over the years, including the late Al Ewen, whose early support and involvement were instrumental in the program’s development.
ElleGolf’s 2026 season is already underway, having officially launched with its Spring Orientation on April 20 at Sirocco Golf Club. The first classes are scheduled for April 28 at D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club, with league play beginning April 30 at Crystal Ridge and Valley Ridge Golf Clubs. The season runs through September.
While registration opened in March, new participants are still welcome to join and experience the program.