Water Valley has established itself as a preferred host venue for Alberta’s प्रमुख golf organizations over the past five years, including the PGA of Alberta, the CGA, and Alberta Golf. During that time, the club has welcomed a range of championships, such as the Match Play in 2022 and the U19 Championship in 2025. In 2026, a new demographic will arrive at “Alberta’s Jewel of the West,” as the Men’s Mid-Master Championship takes centre stage from June 23–25.
The Course
Located just one hour outside of Calgary, the course offers striking mountain views, undulating fairways, and towering evergreens that create a sense of seclusion on every hole. While accuracy off the tee is essential, the true challenge lies on the greens. At first glance, many players may underestimate their complexity, but the exceptional work of the turf care team ensures pristine conditions that demand precise reads and a confident touch. Although the yardage may suggest scoring opportunities, the tree-lined corridors quickly dispel any notion of a “bomb and gouge” approach. Off-season renovations have further enhanced the course, adding length and reinforcing its reputation as a premier championship venue.
Water Valley GOlf Club Website
The Event
The course is not alone in undergoing change this winter. Alberta Golf’s Men’s Mid-Master Championship—one of the organization’s most popular events—has also evolved. The introduction of North and South qualifiers adds a new layer of competitiveness, while the three-day championship format, implemented in 2022, remains in place. Open to male competitors aged 40 and older as of the first day of the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur, the event offers more than just a title; the champion will earn a coveted berth into the national championship. Beyond the competition, the event is widely regarded for its camaraderie. As one of the first events on the championship calendar, it provides a long-awaited opportunity for players—both seasoned seniors and newly eligible competitors—to reconnect after the winter months.
The Field
With a deep and talented field expected, identifying a clear favourite is no simple task. In 2025, Tom McKinlay Jr. captured victory at his home course, Lacombe Golf & Country Club, during its centennial year. Given his pedigree, a repeat performance is certainly within reach, though the path to defending his title will be formidable.
A strong contingent of past champions returns, including Senan Foley, Shiro Mani, Grant Oh, and Kevin Temple—each well-versed in what it takes to win. The championship has also begun to attract international attention, with competitors from the United States making their presence felt. Among them is 2024 champion Chris Thayer, who finished runner-up in 2025 and will undoubtedly be a contender once again.
The Men’s Senior division will also present a significant challenge, with experienced competitors such as Brian Laubman, Floyd Kilgore, David Schultz, and Ken Griffith all capable of contending. Finally, the addition of qualifying events ensures an influx of emerging talent, guaranteeing that the eventual champion will need to overcome both familiar rivals and new challengers alike.