As a seven-year-old spectator attending her first LPGA Tour event, Red Deer’s Eileen Park imagined herself on the other side of the ropes.

A decade later, her dream is about to come true.

Now 17, Park will compete alongside some of the biggest stars in golf at the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open, set for August 20th-23rd at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton. 

The amateur standout earned a tournament exemption with a victory earlier this summer in the PGA Women’s Championship of Canada. 

She will be one of three players in the field with a connection to Alberta. Tillie Claggett and Aphrodite Deng are the others.

“I’m looking forward to competing in my first LPGA Tour event. It’s an incredible opportunity for me,” said Park, a junior member at Red Deer Golf & Country Club and part of Golf Canada’s NextGen team. “I actually went to the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open in Calgary. And after 10 years, to get to play in it, it feels truly amazing.

“Ten years ago, when I went to go watch, I actually told my parents that I wanted to play in this event when I was older. So my mom mentioned to me, before the final round (of the PGA Women’s Championship of Canada), that it would be amazing if you get into the event 10 years after actually saying that. The story kind of matches up crazy.”

If you’ve been following the provincial golf scene, it hardly feels crazy to see Park’s name on an LPGA Tour tee sheet.

This rising star won back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 at the Alberta Girls U19 Championship — at 13 and 14 years old. She also captured the national junior crown in 2023 and continued to make history by winning the Alberta Women’s Amateur Championship in 2024.

Park posted a two-stroke victory last month at the PGA Women’s Championship of Canada, held at Brooke Henderson’s childhood home course in Smiths Falls, Ont.

With that win, she scored an invite to the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open. Henderson headlines this star-studded field as defending champ, while Nelly Korda arrives as the top-ranked player in the world and Lydia Ko has fond memories from her triumph when Royal Mayfair last hosted this prestigious event in 2013. 

“There are so many players that I respect out on the LPGA Tour,” Park said. “It will be exciting to compete with them. I will just say everyone that I will get to meet is going to be a superstar to me.”

Claggett hopes to be joining those superstars on a full-time basis as soon as next season.  

She lived in Calgary until just before her 15th birthday, grooving her swing — and growing her love for the game — at Glencoe Golf & Country Club and Pinebrook Golf & Country Club before her family moved to Texas as she was entering high school.

After a stellar college career at Vanderbilt, the 22-year-old Claggett turned professional in the spring. She has already collected three pro trophies, including a pair of wins on the Annika Women’s All Pro Tour, and earned this exemption via the She Plays Golf Championship Series, presented by Audi.

This will be her third career start on the LPGA Tour.

“But it will be my first one as a pro, which obviously comes with higher expectations,” said Claggett, who is on Golf Canada’s national team. “The LPGA is where I want to be, and that has always been the case, but it’s a little more in the immediate future now — hopefully next year for me. I just want to go compete and see if I can make the cut and finish well against the people that I’m hoping to be playing against every day really soon.” 

Ask about her new job, and Claggett oozes positivity.

She’s finding joy in the practice sessions and is proud of how she has handled the pressure of needing to make cuts.

She recalled a conversation from a recent pro-am in Wisconsin that really put things in perspective. 

“I was playing with four women and another pro, and one of the women asked myself and the other pro, ‘So, is your job just to play golf and work out?’” Claggett relayed. “We kind of looked at each other and said, ‘Yeah, I guess so.’ And she said, ‘That’s what I do too, but I don’t get any money from it!’ It’s little things like that that remind me how grateful I should be.

“It’s really the coolest thing that I get to go out and do what I love and try to make money doing it every day.”

It does, indeed, sound pretty good.

Although this will be her first trip back to Alberta since moving away, Claggett expects to see some familiar faces in the crowd at Royal Mayfair. 

Less than two hours from home, Park will have plenty of supporters in the gallery.

But it’s not just about putting on a show for family and friends. Both realize this is also an opportunity to inspire future birdie-machines, young kids who might whisper to their parents ‘Hey, that girl is from Red Deer!’ or ‘Look, that girl is from Calgary!’ 

“I don’t know that there was anybody from Alberta playing in the Canadian Women’s Open when I was growing up. Most of the Canadian golf scene was dominated by Ontario, B.C. and a little bit Quebec,” Claggett said. “But when I was 10, 11 or 12, I was really looking up to the girls on Team Alberta and the girls going off to college and the girls who played at my course. 

“I think there’s something to seeing people who came from where you come from going out there and doing it and living out your dreams. If I can be that inspiration for somebody, that would mean a lot to me.”

Park, that starry-eyed spectator back in 2016, is proof those dreams can be the start of something special.

“I hope I can be somewhat of their idol, like 10 years ago the pros were to me,” she said. “I just hope they will fall into the game of golfing and have the same goal as I did, and hopefully some of them will be there 10 years later with me.”

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.

Hockey sticks. Curling brooms. Toques. Maple syrup. Snow shoes. Just a few examples of made-in-Canada items you might expect to find on a store shelf near you. Golf gear made in the Great White North? Not so much.  

However, things on this front are starting to change. From coast to coast – and even right here in Alberta – talented people just like you are sensing an opportunity to jump into an under-served market area. In fact, there are more Canadian golf products out there than you might think. 

“We’ve tripled our membership in the last year, or so,” says Dustin Rivers, CEO of the Canadian Golf Brands Alliance. The alliance, which is a non-profit organization that was founded approximately five years ago by brothers Jeff and Todd Bishop of the Dormie Golf Workshop, seeks to bring awareness to the many (mostly under-the-radar) golf brands in the country. 

“We now have over 60 companies in the alliance,” says Rivers, who is based in Ottawa, Ontario. “Besides the awareness piece, which is significant, we try to do everything we can to help assist our Canadian companies in the marketplace. There are many markets around the world that are open to working with Canadian brands. And, certainly, selling Canadian golf products to Canadians only makes sense. In fact, more and more golfers are trying to be loyal to Canadian products. The ‘Buy Canadian’ trend has momentum. However, there are still many people out there that don’t really ‘walk the talk’ when it comes to that. The work is far from over when it comes to promoting Canadian brands in the golf industry.”  

Not surprisingly, the alliance represents a broad swath of companies that sell numerous types of products to golfers. Tees, headcovers, hats, shirts, hoodies, golf carts, gloves, pull carts, and beverages are just a sampling. And, although many of the companies do acquire their raw materials from outside the country, make no mistake, these are Canadian brands that are owned and operated by Canadians.

Although Alberta is not exactly a hotbed for homegrown golf companies, there are a number that have thrown their hat in the ring. Three prime examples are:

During my research I discovered approximately a dozen Alberta companies that are manufacturing a product or products that are targeted to golfers. However, some of the companies are not golf specific.

As you might expect, all three of the aforementioned companies sensed an opportunity to deliver a unique product in an under-serviced area. For example, at family-run JQ Golf, it’s all about junior golf. 

JQ Golf Clothing Co.

“Our kids just couldn’t find golf clothing that appealed to them,” says Jaqueline Strang, who owns the small, home-based company with her husband, Jeff. “To top it off, as a family with three kids, we just couldn’t justify spending $100 on golf shirts for our kids. And we knew other parents of junior golfers felt the same.” 

So, together with their three kids, the Strangs started their company in their home in Airdrie. The premise was simple: fun and affordable golf apparel for junior golfers. “Our kids are a big part of the design process,” says Jaqueline. “They design clothes they want to wear. It’s been pretty rewarding to do this as a family.” JQ Golf also produces affordable golf apparel for men and women, many with the same kid-friendly patterns and colours. Their clothing is available in over 20 pro shops in Alberta with more on the way. They also sell plenty of clothing through their website.

JQ Golf Clothing Co.

FTR Golf Cars

In terms of selling a unique Canadian product that fills a void in the market, FTR Golf Canada – founded by golf professionals, Sean Mills and Garrett Fraser – certainly fits the bill. The company, which is based in Wainwright, Alberta, manufactures luxury golf carts that feature plenty of innovation that just isn’t available on the market.    

Their carts feature Solar Drive technology, premium leather seating, LED headlights, brake lights, side mirrors, turn signals, automotive dash with bluetooth speakers, independent front suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheels, and plenty of other unique, state-of-the-art features. 

FTR Golf Cars

Cover & Hyde

Speaking of premium leather, Cover & Hyde, which is based in Canmore, is a proudly-Albertan company that makes genuine leather golf goods. While they specialize in beautiful hand-crafted leather headcovers, they also make birdie-juice cases, rangefinder cases, hats, pouches, and shirts. They also do plenty of custom orders, such as logoed bag tags, with their premium leather products. 

“Our leather is all sourced right here in Alberta,” says Jeremy Gordon, who founded the company in 2020 with close friends, Kevin Jenken and Jonas Gordon. “Our focus is to make high-quality products that last. We also strive to make products that are simple in design and representative of our Alberta roots. We have a passion for our western heritage and we feel that each piece we design reflects the strength, character, and timeless style of our homeland.” To shop Cover & Hyde products visit their website.

Cover & Hyde

Unquestionably, golfers in Alberta should rightfully have plenty of pride in the strength, quality, and history of the game in our province. Supporting Alberta-made golf products can only help the cause.   
 

Swing Thoughts is Alberta Golf’s editorial series, where writers explore topical issues and trends within the game. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Alberta Golf. The purpose of this series is to examine different perspectives and encourage thoughtful discussion around issues impacting golf today.

Golf is experiencing a surge in popularity unlike anything seen since the 1990s. As participation continues to grow, the game has attracted a younger audience that is bringing new perspectives and habits to the course.

According to the National Golf Foundation, young adults aged 18 to 34 represent one of the largest demographic segments in golf, accounting for approximately 6.3 million players. While they may not play as frequently as some older generations, their influence on the culture of the game is undeniable.

With this younger demographic has come a shift in how many golfers choose to enjoy their rounds. For some, the emphasis has moved from pure performance to overall experience. Water at the turn may be replaced by a beverage of choice, cigars have given way to nicotine pouches, and the quiet serenity traditionally associated with golf is increasingly accompanied by music played through portable speakers.

Golf is a game that can be enjoyed in many different ways, and it is exciting to see new players embracing the sport and making it their own. As someone who falls within this younger generation, I can appreciate the appeal. There is something undeniably enjoyable about hitting a drive while the Eagles’ Life in the Fast Lane plays in the background or rolling in a putt with Cam Whitcomb’s Pretty Little providing the soundtrack.

The Case for Music

For many golfers, music feels like a natural addition to the experience. Comparisons can be made to camping, spending time at the beach, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon outdoors. Music often enhances those moments, and for some, golf is no exception.

Considering that a round of golf can last four hours or more, music can also help create a relaxed atmosphere, particularly among players who may not know each other well. It can serve as an icebreaker, spark conversation, and contribute to an enjoyable social environment.

There are also potential performance benefits. Music has long been used by athletes as part of their preparation and focus routines. Certain types of music can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Research supports this concept, including studies published by the National Institutes of Health that found listening to music prior to a stressful event can contribute to faster recovery within the body’s nervous systems.

The Case Against Music

While music offers benefits for some golfers, there are equally valid arguments against it.

Golf has long been rooted in etiquette, concentration, and respect for fellow competitors. Noise can be distracting, particularly during critical moments. Imagine standing over a birdie putt to win a friendly match when music from a nearby fairway suddenly becomes impossible to ignore. Most golfers would find that frustrating.

Music preferences can also vary significantly from person to person. What one golfer finds enjoyable, another may find distracting or unpleasant. In those situations, music can detract from the experience rather than enhance it.

Before deciding whether to bring a speaker to the course, consider a few important factors:

• Setting: Are you playing at a facility with clear policies against music on the course? If so, it is probably best to leave the speaker at home.
• Type of Round: A casual round with friends may be the perfect opportunity for music, provided everyone in the group agrees. Competitive rounds, matches, and tournaments are a different story. Depending on the event, playing music could even result in a penalty.

Finding the Right Balance

The debate surrounding music on the golf course is far from new and has become one of the game’s enduring discussions. Numerous articles and opinions have been published on both sides of the issue.

Music has also made its way into professional golf. The PGA Tour and LPGA Tour have embraced walk-up songs at events such as the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, while LIV Golf has incorporated live music and concert-style entertainment into many of its tournaments. Closer to home, facilities such as Mickelson National have adopted a more modern atmosphere, often featuring a DJ and music around the clubhouse.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to the players involved. Whether your group prefers complete silence or a carefully curated playlist, the most important factor is mutual respect. Golf has always been a game built on integrity, consideration, and sportsmanship. Regardless of where you stand in the music debate, those values should remain at the heart of every round.

We’re a bit biased, of course, but we think this is the best time of year.

The fairways and greens are now open. The birdie putts are starting to fall. Competitive golfers are preparing and game-planning for their big events, daydreaming of winning a provincial or national title in 2026. Or, better yet, winning both.

If you’ve entered a big event, or at least signed up for a qualifier, you have a lot to look forward to.

We’ve scanned the schedule for what we’re calling our Trophy 18— a selection of signature, standout and make-or-break holes from the various venues for the provincial and national showdowns to be played in Alberta this summer. 

From beauties to beasts, and some that fit both, here goes … 

PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Hole 8 at Sundre Golf Club

Host of 2026 Alberta Best Ball Championship (May 18)

This might be the skinniest fairway in all of Alberta. Standing on the tee, it certainly feels that way. As long as you can find the short stuff, even with a hybrid or iron, this is a golden opportunity for birdie. If you’re in the trees, it’s added pressure on your best ball partner. 

Hole 16 at Water Valley Golf & Country Club

Host of 2026 Alberta Men’s Mid-Master Championship (June 23-25)

This Par-3 is easy on the eyes but also capable of ruining a good round. Players will be tempted to club up to avoid dropping one into the drink, but too much oomph will leave a delicate chip — or sand shot — from deep of the green. You’ll need to trust your distance control.   

Hole 8 on Big River Nine at Fort McMurray Golf Club

Host of Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship (July 7-9)

The resilient Fort McMurray Golf Club will be a treat for tournament competitors. This Par-5 is one of several beauties beside the Athabasca River, but don’t let the scenery distract you from the task at hand — weighing whether you can muscle your second shot over a creek or if you’d be wise to lay up.

Hole 15 at The Hamptons Golf Club

Host of Alberta Women’s Amateur Championship (July 7-9)

You typically expect the shortest Par-3 on the scorecard to provide a sigh of relief, but that’s not necessarily the case here. Although it’s barely over 100 yards, it’s all carry across the water to a shallow green that offers some devilish pin positions. The sigh of relief comes if you walk away with a two putt par.

Hole 10 at The Coyote Golf Club

Host of 2026 Alberta U19 Championship (July 14-16)

Distance can be both your best friend and biggest enemy on this picturesque Par-5. With a big bop off the tee, and these talented teens are certainly capable of going deep, there’s a good chance of getting home in two. Thing is, that means firing your second shot across a long pond. Better to play it safe?  

THE Coyote Golf Club Hole 10 Flyover

Hole 4 on Old Course at Wolf Creek Golf Resort

Host of 2026 Alberta Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship (July 21-23)

A narrow chute that is nicknamed Hawk’s Alley, this is one of Alberta’s most intimidating tee-shots. For Wolf Creek’s tightest fairway, select the straightest and most trustworthy club in your bag — and don’t you dare think about driver! If you empty a sleeve of balls into the creek or shrubbery, you’ll spoil your trophy chances. 

Hole 5 at The Ranch Golf & Country Club 

Host of 2026 Alberta Women’s Senior Championship (July 29-31)

Regulars at The Ranch call it ‘The Pit’ or ‘Pit of Doom.’ Just short of the fifth green, there’s a deep grass gully that you’d really rather avoid. If your ball settles at the bottom, you’ll be about 75 feet below the dance-floor. Even if you’re a wizard with a wedge, it will be a difficult recovery.

The Ranch G&CC – Hole 5 Course Tour

Hole 16 at Trestle Creek Golf Resort

Host of 2026 Alberta Men’s Senior Championship (August 4-6)

This island-green assignment is one of those that you start to think about — and start to worry about — several holes in advance. Whether you’re sitting atop the leaderboard or trying to pull off an epic comeback, this signature shortie has turning-point potential. From an elevated launchpad, the wind always seems to be a factor.

Hole 10 on Raven Course at Priddis Greens

Host of the Alberta Open Championship (August 11-13)

Alberta Open competitors are pumped to play the Raven at Priddis Greens. Among the many highlight holes is No. 10, a fun Par-4 that tumbles downward into the valley and offers both a superb view and strong chance for birdie. Be sure to examine your putt from all angles because this green is sneaky subtle.

Hole 18 at Alberta Springs Golf Resort

Host of 2026 Alberta U15 & U13 Championship (August 17-18)

The youngsters always post some astonishing scores at the Alberta U15 & U13 Championship, and so often the trophy chase comes right down to the wire. This Par-5 is reachable in two, but the work isn’t done yet. On a multi-tiered green, and with spectators gathered around, can you close it out with the flat-stick? 

Hole 7 at Broadmoor Public Golf Course

Host of 2026 Alberta All Abilities Championship (August 20-22)

This is a knee-knocker, especially if your misses tend to wander left. There’s a water hazard that runs all the way up the left of this fairway, then wraps around the back of the green. The good news is it’s relatively early in your round, allowing some time to recover from a big number.

Hole 1 at Connaught Golf Club

Host of 2026 Alberta U17 Championship (August 24-26) 

At a tree-lined layout like Connaught, that first swing is arguably the most important of the day. With timber on either side of the fairway, this opening drive demands a high degree of accuracy. If you’re able to execute and find the short stuff, you’ll feel like you’ve set the tone for a stripe show.

Hole 17 at Coloniale Golf Club

2026 Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship (September 3-4) 

If you have been struggling out of the bunkers, and you’re bound to be in a few on this links-style course, you might be shaking in your soft spikes as you size up this approach. The putting surface at No. 17 is surrounded by sand, five traps in total. If you’d rather not rake, there’s really no good miss. 

Holes 4/15 at Kananaskis Country Golf Course

Host of 2026 Alberta Interclub Championship (September 8)

The Alberta Interclub Championship utilizes both courses in K-Country, so how about a two-for-one? Whether you’re playing the signature fourth hole on the Mount Kidd layout or aiming across the river on No. 15 on Mount Lorette, you need to keep your tee-ball dry before you can think about draining the birdie putt.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Hole 16 at Mickelson National Golf Club

Co-host of Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship (July 27-30)

We all know how Phil Mickelson feels about “hitting bombs,” and that is certainly the strategy on No. 16, where you blast away at the green and hope to be putting for eagle. Could we see an albatross during the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship? On this dandy of a drivable Par-4, it’s a definite possibility. 

Hole 9 on Heritage Nine at Heritage Pointe Golf Club

Co-host of Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship (July 27-28)

There should be some drama on this hole during the second round of the Canadian Men’s Amateur, especially among players figuring they need a birdie or eagle to make the cut. It’s possible to shave a stroke or even two on this Par-5, but it will require a heroic second shot into an island green.  

Heritage Pointe – About The Course

Hole 18 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club

Host of CPKC Women’s Open (August 19-23)

When Royal Mayfair last hosted the LPGA Tour stars in 2013, Lydia Ko capped a dominant performance with one more birdie on the closing hole. While Ko was cruising to victory, No. 18 has all the necessary ingredients for a dramatic finish — especially if the Sunday pin is tucked left, forcing a nervy approach across a pond.

Hole 14 at Pine Hills Golf Club

Host of 2026 Canadian Women’s Senior Championship (September 16-18)

Many Alberta-based golfers consider this course to be one of our hidden gems, a secret that will be shared as this national championship is contested in Rocky Mountain House. Hole 14 is Pine Hills at its finest — peaceful, framed by tall trees and with interesting angles that reward precise placement or crafty shot-shaping.  

Pine Hills GC Hole 14 – Flyover

If you’re going to golf in Alberta in March & early April, chances are you’re teeing it up inside on a SIM, unless you live in the south where you get an occasional recess from snow and cold thanks to a chinook.

I am lucky in that I live on a golf course, but when I looked out my front window last month, there was nothing but a snow-covered tee box and fairway, with more of the white stuff coming down. So, to put a smile on my face, I booked a flight to Canada’s year-round golf destination, Vancouver Island, and in particular the northern end of the island’s famed golf trail.

A flight to Comox set in motion a Spring Break getaway, starting with the wonderful Crown Isle Golf Resort and a landscape that is great for the entire family.

Crown Isle Golf & Resort Website

Crown Isle Golf Resort

The scenic track at Crown Isle is something special, sitting as it does under the Beaufort Mountain range. As a resort course it offers wide landing areas off the tee and large greens making eye-pleasing sights for swing-starved Albertans. Those factors though don’t make this layout a walk in the park. In fact, it’s so good the Q-School for the PGA TOUR Canada has been held here.

What is here for the golf course — and has been for years — is a truly good play. Measuring out at just over 7,000 yards from the tips and winding down to 5,200 yards, there’s a spot to start for everyone. And with those big fairways and huge greens beckoning, low scores can seem oh-so-close. But when you take in the massive bunkering complexes around the layout, several water hazards, and greens that are truly fast, one must take care from start to finish.

“With all the little subtleties, that makes it a great course for every level of player,” Jason Andrew, the Director pf Resort Operations at Crown Isle stated. “With no forced carries if you’re just getting started, don’t hit the ball very far, it’s not like you’ve got to hit it over water hazards or 100 yards of rough to get to the fairway. The other interesting thing, and what Graham Cooke did a phenomenal job at, is if you go back on tee boxes the golf course completely changes. When you get to the back gold tee, all the bunkering comes into play,”

Sleeping Over

Since the Crown Isle Golf Resort is only 15 minutes from the Comox airport, what better place is there to set up shop for a few days? The accommodations here are good to the extreme with the choice of either one of their wonderful villas located at the back of the No. 1 tee box or in one of the newly renovated cabins that line the first fairway. And the lodge, which is a remarkable piece of architecture on its own, has great places to enjoy either a large meal or a light lunch.

“We have the largest hotel in the Comox Valley,” Andrew pointed out. “We’ve now added another amenity, called The Cottages. We’ve added 26 cottages bringing us up to 112 rooms on site, It simplifies things here. You can go play golf, have a nap, go play golf again!”

The resort sits close to area restaurants and shopping, including Costco which sits on the Crown Isle property. In addition, the Thrifty Shopping Centre is nearby, so if you do want to get off property, although one wonders why that is necessary, there are great eating and shopping venues close at hand,

Moving North

North of Crown Isle are a pair of tracks you’ll want to set foot on. Storey Creek is a quiet play to the extreme, while Campbell River’s update has brought it up to par with all the courses on the Vancouver Island Golf Trail.

There are all types of adverbs to describe a round of golf at Storey Creek GC but perhaps this is the best way to sum things up – I’d go back tomorrow if I could. No, let me rephrase that – I’d go back this afternoon if I could.

Storey Creek is like a golf course from a story book – scenery right out of a writer’s imagination; wildlife visible at almost every turn; holes that are separated from each other making you feel like you’re on your own private track, and variety to test every club in your bag.

This beauty was carved out of the bush back in 1989 and every hole you’re on is your own hole out there. You’ll see more deer than you do golfers. The No. 1 priority here is position golf. If you play to the right spots on fairways and then hit the ball to the right spots on the greens, you’ll score well. But even if you don’t, this tour is well worth your time.

“Hidden gem” is probably an overused term in the golf world these days. While the Campbell River Golf & Country Club certainly isn’t hidden it is a gem. Redesigned about five years ago it also tests every club in your bag, yet it is a joy to play and behold.

At “only” 6,141 yards from the back deck, dropping down to 4,400, this isn’t a course where you need the big stick working. Yet, at sea level, shots don’t go as far as you think (or hope) so you need to keep your wits about you, along with a strong putting stroke to score well.

Proof of that plays out over all 18 holes, which includes seven shorties, measuring anywhere from 135 yards up to 170 off the blue tees. To bring the overall par up to 70, the front nine hosts two par-5 tests while there is a trio of those on the back.

Overall, Vancouver Island, and in particular the northern end is the perfect spot for a break from winter weather in Alberta and a great way to get your golf swing in shape of the upcoming season when the snow finally leaves for good.

This article outlines a variety of activities offered by some golf courses during the winter months. For your safety and to help protect course conditions, please confirm directly with any facility you plan to visit. Some courses are open exclusively to members, while others may not permit the activities listed below. Always check in advance before attending.

While parts of Alberta are experiencing what feels like an early return to spring, winter conditions will remain for at least another month. This naturally raises the question: what takes place at a golf course during the winter season?

Many member-based golf clubs do not simply close their doors at the end of the season and reopen once the snow melts. Although courses often shut down over the holidays, clubs frequently maintain a variety of indoor and outdoor offerings throughout the winter. Below is a look at some of the most common winter activities available at golf courses as we await the official arrival of spring.

Restaurants and Events

Throughout the winter, many clubs continue operating their restaurants with modified hours and seasonal menus. Members—and in some cases the public—may still enjoy dine-in service, takeout options, or casual gatherings, similar to the summer experience. Availability varies by facility, so it is important to confirm hours and access directly with your club.

In addition, some clubs host a range of private and club events during the winter months, including orientations, weddings, and other special functions.

Simulators

In recent years, demand for indoor golf facilities has increased significantly. Simulators, indoor driving ranges, and similar facilities have grown in popularity, offering golfers the opportunity to practice and play year-round. Many private golf clubs have provided simulator access to members for years, allowing them to continue lessons, practice sessions, or casual rounds with friends throughout the off-season.

Some clubs have expanded their infrastructure to meet this growing demand. For example, Cottonwood Golf & Country Club has added new facilities to better accommodate indoor golf programming.

Find An Indoor Facility

Winter Golf

Winter golf remains a lesser-known but viable option when weather conditions permit. In southern Alberta communities such as Calgary, Lethbridge, and Medicine Hat, select courses may open for limited periods during mild weather.

These rounds are typically modified to preserve course conditions ahead of the regular season. Players can expect temporary greens, reduced green fees, limited food and beverage services, no warm-up facilities, mandatory use of mats provided by the course, and no power carts. In Calgary, for example, two courses recently opened for a one-week window during favourable conditions.

CTV NEWS Article: Calgarians Embrace the warm weather

City of Calgary Winter Golfing Information

Cross Country Skiing or Walking Paths

It is not uncommon to see activity on golf courses during the winter, particularly in residential communities where homes border fairways. Many clubs permit members to access the property for walking or cross-country skiing. Policies vary by facility, and it is essential to confirm permitted use before accessing the course.

In the Edmonton area, the Broadmoor Golf Course serves as a strong example of a course that accommodates winter recreation. Similarly, City of Edmonton facilities such as Riverside Golf Course and Victoria Golf Course, as well as select City of Calgary courses, are used for cross-country skiing during the winter months.

Anyone interested in utilizing a golf course for winter recreation should contact the facility in advance and follow all posted guidelines to help protect course conditions.

The Broadmoor Cross Country Skiing

City of Edmonton Cross Country Skiing

City of Calgary Cross Country Skiing

Skating and Curling

While more specialized, some golf courses create outdoor ice surfaces to allow members to skate, play shinny, or even curl. A number of clubs also operate indoor curling rinks that may be open to the public, providing golfers with an opportunity to stay active during the winter season.

When accessing outdoor ice surfaces in particular, it is especially important to confirm conditions and safety guidelines directly with the course before participating.

City of Edmonton SKATING

INglewood Golf & Curling Club

To mark Black History Month, we highlight several Black, Alberta-based organizations that are using golf as a platform to strengthen communities, foster inclusion, and create meaningful impact.

Golf has historically faced perceptions of exclusivity; however, the sport has evolved significantly in recent years and continues to grow as a more accessible and welcoming game. Across Alberta, organizations are demonstrating how golf can serve as a powerful vehicle for connection, philanthropy, and cultural celebration. The following examples showcase groups that are making a tangible difference through the game.

Information and images for this story were sourced exclusively from official websites and social media accounts, as we were unable to make contact with the associations at the time of writing.

Zambezi Golf

Zambezi Golf is a Calgary-based social group comprised of local businesses and individuals of African heritage. The organization is driven by a mission to bridge generational and cultural gaps among business leaders in Alberta.
Its name is inspired by the Zambezi River—the fourth-longest river in Africa—which connects Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. As a point of convergence for these four countries, the river symbolizes unity and collaboration, reflecting the group’s goal of bringing together cultures, networks, and professional relationships.
What began as a single event has grown into a series of initiatives, including two international events scheduled for 2026. Its flagship event, the annual Zambezi Golf Tournament, remains focused on fundraising in support of African History Studies. Proceeds are directed specifically to African Studies within the Department of History at the University of Calgary, supporting Ph.D.-level research on African history topics.

ZAMBEZI GOLF WEBSITE

African Canadian Golfers Club

The African Canadian Golfers Club (ACGC), based in Airdrie, is an association that leverages golf events to give back to the community and support those in need. The club’s vision is to cultivate a diverse community of like-minded golfers. Its mission is to use golf as a vehicle to bridge gaps, build understanding among communities, and create opportunities to give back to society.

ACGC hosts a variety of tournaments and programming throughout the season, including a one-day Battle of Alberta tournament, Single Match Play competition, Spousal Golf Training, a Ryder Cup-style tournament, and a season-long FedEx-format competition.
Its marquee event, the ACGC Open Championship, is a charity tournament that has been running for 13 years. Proceeds from the event support the Calgary Community Kitchen Program (CCKP). Since partnering with CCKP, the organization has raised more than $85,000. The Calgary Community Kitchen Program focuses on supporting marginalized Calgarians through a self-empowerment model designed to address food insecurity and related challenges.

ACGC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP REGISTRATION PAGE

Nigerian Canadian Association of Calgary

The Nigerian Canadian Association of Calgary (NCAC) is a non-profit organization founded in 1993 with the goal of uniting, empowering, and uplifting Nigerians living in Calgary and surrounding communities.
The association offers a wide range of programs and initiatives, including cultural celebrations, youth mentorship, networking opportunities, and community service drives. Among its signature events is its annual charity golf tournament.

The tournament brings together members, sponsors, and partner organizations in support of charitable causes aligned with the association’s mission. Most recently, proceeds were directed to the African Cancer Support Group, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis.

NCAC Homepage

Collectively, these organizations demonstrate how golf can extend far beyond the fairways. Through community-building, fundraising, and cultural connection, they are helping shape a more inclusive and impactful future for the game in Alberta.

As our foursome approaches the 17th tee our jaws collectively drop as the amazing scene unfolds. To our left and right massive columns of chiselled rock fold into the sea and waves explode on the shore below. Beyond the rocks, the dazzling Sea of Cortez shimmers and melts away to the creamy horizon. And one hundred and fifty yards from our perch a thin wedge of green hangs on top of a 200-foot cliff. For ten minutes, it seems, we saunter around the tee taking selfies and group shots like there’s no tomorrow.  

Mexico is home to a phenomenal collection of golf courses. And the Baja California Peninsula – that thin, ragged run of land that extends from Tijuana in the north to Los Cabos on the southern tip – easily boasts the best collection of courses in the country. And many of the best ones have been built in the past ten years or so. To top it off, some of the prettiest – and deadliest! – golf holes I’ve ever seen are on the Baja.    

            While the southern tip (the Los Cabos area) alone has over a dozen fantastic desert-meets-sea courses, there are other places to play that, seemingly, fall somewhat under the radar.  Yes, these unheralded outposts may not have the quantity of courses that are found in Los Cabos, but the quality is certainly on a similar level. Case in point: Danzante Bay. 

            With its charming and historic cobblestone downtown, Loreto is a fascinating little tourist-friendly outpost. (Westjet has seasonal direct flights to Loreto from Calgary.) And, situated approximately twenty minutes south of this seaport, the TPC Danzante Bay golf course is, for good reason, a fast-rising star on the Mexican golf scene. The course was designed by talented architect, Rees Jones, and the routing is outstanding. The course wanders along arroyos and blasts through sun-roasted valleys lined with striking rock formations. And, although the seaside moments (there are two) are highlights, it’s exciting from start to finish.

            “The golf course was done in stages and it took us close to five years to establish the final routing at Danzante Bay,” said Rees Jones during a recent phone conversation. (The course opened on all 18 holes in 2017.) “All of the par-3s are strong. But yes, it’s the 17th that rightfully gets the most attention.” Similar to many of the great short par-3s in the world – the 12th at Augusta National, the 7th at Pebble Beach, and the 4th at Banff Springs, for example – the target on the 17th is small and the consequences for a miss are severe. But the setting and the views are absolutely amazing.  

And it’s this striking natural beauty, these high-stakes moments, that make the golf on the Baja California Peninsula stand-out. The warm-and-salty sea, the rocky cacti-peppered slopes, the beautiful beaches; these certainly are trademarks of this region.  

            Roughly four hundred kilometres south of Loreto is where you’ll find the capital and largest city of Baja California Sur, La Paz, which is another under-the-radar destination that golfers should know about. Highlights here include a beautiful downtown core tucked along the baby-blue La Paz Bay, a 5-km long waterfront walkway, wonderful beaches, and plenty of restaurants, cafes, and taquerias that specialize in fresh, locally-caught seafood. 

            The Gary Player-designed El Cortés Golf Club at the CostaBaja Resort & Spa is the first course you’ll want to book. The course starts high on a windswept bluff overlooking the sea and then plunges to the ocean for the bulk of the round. El Cortés scores high marks for its amazing vistas, numerous perched tees, and beautiful shaping and bunkering. 

            The seaside drama is certainly also the name of the game down the road in Los Cabos. And the new kid on the block, the Solmar Golf Links, could be the poster child for by-the-sea swings. This Greg Norman-designed layout has a number of incredible holes that are completely encased in bone-white sand dunes that run along the shore. Complete with an island green hole, a driveable par-4, and firm-and-fast turf conditions, this is a course that you definitely don’t want to miss.  

Unquestionably, the tourist strip between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas is home to the most notable string of golf courses in all of Mexico. In total, there are about a dozen courses that won’t disappoint. (But brace yourself: you’ll pay for your golf experience! Golf isn’t cheap in Los Cabos. Think $250USD-ish per round in winter.) 

Similar to Solmar, the Dunes Course at nearby Diamante is an awesome adventure through towering sand dunes. The course, which was designed by Davis Love III and his brother, Mark Love, opened in 2010. It’s an amazing links golf experience that is consistently recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top 100 Courses in the World. The “wow” factor here – thanks to the eye-popping dunescapes – is one of the highest I’ve ever encountered. And if I had to choose just one course to play on the Baja, this would be it.  

The Diamante development (like Solmar Golf Links, it’s located on the Pacific side of Los Cabos) also includes the Tiger Woods-designed El Cardonal Course – an inland desert track that has plenty of strategic options – as well as the 12-hole Oasis Short Course, which was also designed by Woods. And interestingly, a third Tiger course, the ultra-exclusive Legends, is currently in construction. 

The catch? Diamante is a private resort and residential development. Basically, the only way to get access to the golf courses is to receive an invite from a member, buy yourself a big shack on the beach (that will cost you) or book a short-term stay at a property in the development.

Diamante Dunes Rental Properties

Although there are a handful of ultra-exclusive golf-and-beach hideouts in Los Cabos – Chileno Bay, Querencia, El Dorado, and Twin Dolphin are prime examples – there are plenty of accessible courses as well. 

Quivira, for example, is yet another seaside campaign with a couple of breathtaking cliff-side stretches. The course, which also features the most scenic seaside practice area in Mexico, was designed by Jack Nicklaus. (And another Nicklaus design in the sprawling community of Quivira has just broken ground.) With cliff-top comfort stations, do-or-die par-3s along the wave-smashed shore, and plenty of elevation change, this is seaside golf on steroids. It’s a highly memorable and unique golf experience. 

On my last visit to Los Cabos (in early December, 2023), I stayed at the Pueblo Bonito Pacifico, an all-inclusive resort in the fast-growing Quivira development. It’s a stunning adults-only resort with a gorgeous private beach and wonderful pools, the award-winning Armonia spa, an excellent quintet of restaurants, free shuttle service to the golf course and their sister properties, and much more. It’s a fabulous tucked-away oasis and it makes for an exceptional homebase for your golf adventures in Los Cabos.    

Of course, if you’re a fan of Nicklaus-designed courses you’ve got even more golf in these parts that will test your talento. Puerto Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo, and Palmilla are all noteworthy Nicklaus creations that serve up sweet by-the-sea golf complete with fresh-taco comfort stations (a Los Cabos trademark) and upscale ambiance.  

True, this “upscale” aspect will take a heavy toll on your peso pile. But your hard-earned money will get you something on the Baja. Tacos, beer, and birdies, for example. And, of course, life-long memories of playing some of the most spectacular golf holes in the world. Buena fortuna, amigos!  

As a parent, there’s nothing more rewarding than watching your child succeed. For Jennifer Tse, that joy runs especially deep as her 13-year-old daughter, Rachel Adamis, has become an exceptional young golfer — winning 11 stops on the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour in 2025. But there’s far more to Rachel’s story than her talent on the course.

“Rachel started golfing when she was 3 years old, she was in her first Junior Golf camp at the Derrick Club.  The first time she hit her golf ball with a putter and the ball moved 15 feet, she was so excited.  Rachel started jumping up and down and cheering.  She was hooked from that moment on.  Since then, she would always ask to do more golf camps and classes.“

Since those early days, golf has meant more to Rachel than just competition. “Golf has provided Rachel the opportunity to make new friends,” Jennifer explains. “She can talk about golf all the time, and her golf friends are just as excited to join in.” Beyond the friendships, Rachel loves the peaceful views and the sense of calm she finds on every new course she visits.

What began as a fun family activity has grown into something transformative. Golf has taught Rachel valuable life lessons, and just like life, there are both good and bad moments, the key is to keep moving forward.

“Rachel has high functioning Autism.  She has difficulties interacting with people and making friends.  Golf has helped Rachel navigate life challenges through her disability by providing her opportunities to meet like-minded people so she can work on her communication and socialization skills.“

When Rachel first played on the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour in 2024, she was shy and rarely spoke to the other girls. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s not only a top competitor but also a social spark — regularly coming home with new friends and planning get-togethers outside of golf.

“Rachel’s autism provides her the strength of Hyperfocus.  During golf tournaments, Rachel can focus so hard and tune out all other stimuli allowing her to golf better than her handicap.  This Hyperfocus also gives Rachel Nerves of Steel.  She is even more confident when she plays tournaments and thrives under pressure.“

For Jennifer, the greatest reward isn’t just Rachel’s victories — it’s watching her daughter blossom socially and emotionally through golf.

“Rachel met her best friend Nha Truong at the Edmonton Golf Association Junior Golf Tournament in July 2025.  Watching the girls holding hands and skipping down the fairway during the golf tournament just melted my heart.“

Rachel’s excellence on the course continued this past September at the Alberta All Abilities Championship, an event created in 2023 to give golfers with disabilities a chance to compete and connect. Rachel shot her two best rounds of the year — including breaking 80 for the first time — and finished second in the Net Division.

But golf’s impact reaches even deeper for Rachel and her family. In 2021, Rachel’s father passed away from cancer, a devastating loss for the family. In addition to the confidence it has built for Rachel, it became a tool to help the family bond through additional challenges.

“Rachel was heartbroken when her dad died of cancer in 2021.  Her dad used to drive her in a power cart at the Derrick club and watch her golf.  Their favorite hole was the water hole. Late in the evening when the course was quiet, the two of them would try to hit as many balls as possible over the water. After the passing of her father, Rachel wanted to golf more, and golfing kept us busy and focused. It helped us both mourn our loss and allowed us bonding time to strengthen our relationship.“

Rachel’s twin brother Maxim lives with severe autism and following their father’s death had to move into a group home due to safety concerns. Yet golf has continued to bring the family together. 

“Golf has been so therapeutic for Rachel and our family.  Golfing outside and being in nature has helped ground us and eased our grieving. The Derrick Club has been so accommodating to our family.  Maxim, with his Autism service dog Jefferson, will walk with us on the golf course at The Derrick Club when Rachel is playing practice rounds.  Golfing is one of the few activities the twins can share and be safe together.”

Rachel’s dedication to the game is evident. She now practices every day with her best friend, Nha. “Rachel went from a 40 Handicap Index in June 2024 to an 11.9 in September 2025,” Jennifer proudly shares. “Her confidence has grown so much — she’s no longer shy and often does a little ‘happy dance’ after hitting a great shot.”

The staff and members at The Derrick Golf & Winter Club have been an incredible support system. “The course has become a second home,” Jennifer says. “Everyone goes out of their way to interact with Rachel. Many of the female members invite her to play, and she was even asked to play in the club’s Solheim Cup — where she contributed 11 of a possible 12 points for her team.”

One of Rachel’s biggest mentors has been Adam Werbicki, who has coached her since she first started golfing. He’s become a father figure and an instrumental part of Rachel’s development, both on and off the course.

It takes a village to raise a child, and Rachel’s village is full of champions. Her former teacher, Mrs. Tara Jones, at George P. Nicholson Elementary School, supported her passion by setting up a chipping net at recess and even attending her tournaments.

Now at Vimy Ridge School, Rachel is thriving in their Elite Program, which allows her to train with Coach Werbicki up to five times a week. This year, she’ll join the school’s Junior High Golf Program.

As a single mom, Jennifer admits that balancing work and Rachel’s golf schedule is challenging, but she’s grateful for the help of Rachel’s grandfather, Kevin Morris, who often drives Rachel to practices and tournaments.

While Rachel and Jennifer have been forced to navigate some difficult challenges in life, the two of them are grateful for all that golf has provided this star junior. The friends, the self-confidence, the growth, and a haven. Most importantly, golf has provided them a bond forged through hardship and given Jennifer a lifetime of happy moments, capped off with the knowledge that golf has helped Rachel with the life skills to be an independent and confident young woman.