Golf Canada App – a free tool for Canadian golfers to enhance their course experience and go digital with their game! The Golf Canada App is connecting Canada’s golf community with an engaging digital platform for golfers from coast to coast. It is an app for golfers to track their scores, manage their on-course experience and identify areas to improve their game. The app is a powerful tool with a completely new look and feel that goes well beyond the handicap reporting and score posting system that was the central focus of the previous member-only Golf Canada App. It’s a totally new experience that connects golfers to their friends as well as 1,400+ golf courses across Canada.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

How to navigate the new Golf Canada App experience: 

• Home Screen NEW – features personalized content and updates from you and your golfing friends
• Golfer Profile – features number of rounds played, personal golfing statistics, recent scores, Golf Canada membership information and more
• Find a Course – search the Golf Canada course database to plan your next game or a golf holiday, as well as follow your favourite courses
• Start a Round – select the course, choose a tee based on your skill level and add friends to a digital course scorecard
• Track Your Stats – everything from driving accuracy, greens in regulation and putting strokes to bunker shots and up & downs

Click here for a full user guide[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_images_carousel images=”98984,98983,98982,98981″ img_size=”medium” onclick=”link_no” speed=”3000″ autoplay=”yes” hide_pagination_control=”yes” hide_prev_next_buttons=”yes” wrap=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Golf Canada member features

Golf Canada members will enjoy a suite of additional features in the app as part of a three-stage rollout throughout the summer including golf games like Wolf or Skins, real-time course GPS and Shot Tracer technology.

     

• Click here to download and install the app from the App Store
• Click here to download and install the app from Google Play

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The new Golf Canada app sets the stage for a greatly enhanced digital experience

Canada’s largest golf community is about to become more connected with the launch of the new Golf Canada app. The user-friendly app launched August 5 is now available to all golfers nationwide to record and track their scores, trace where they have played and provide detailed game statistics as a game improvement tool. The app is free to download and can be used by golfers at any level of skill. “The app is designed to connect individual golfers and their friends with the more than the 1,400-member golf courses we have in Canada,” says Vanessa Morbi, Senior Director of Marketing at Golf Canada. “Among the many exciting features, golfers will be able to follow their favourite golf courses to stay connected and up to date. The app will also provide additional value to our member clubs as a platform to engage with golfers.” All golfers will be able to enter their scores on the app as they play hole-by-hole or at the end of a round. They can track a variety of stats including driving accuracy, greens in regulation, putting strokes, sand saves and up & downs. Golfers will also be able to add friends, follow their favourite courses and track their scores throughout the round. As the app rolls out this summer, additional features will be added to enhance the user experience for Golf Canada members. “We are proud to launch the new Golf Canada app with an enhanced user experience that anyone who plays golf in Canada can enjoy,” says Adam Helmer, Golf Canada’s Senior Director of Golf Services. “It has been developed with a fresh look and feel to allow app users to better understand their individual game and connect with other golfers and their favourite clubs across the country.” With heath and safety being top of mind during COVID-19, the digital scorecard on your Smartphone replaces the need for a traditional scorecard and pencil. It may be a way of the future as many clubs across Canada have limited printed scorecard usage this year to reduce physical touchpoints at golf courses during the pandemic. While enhancing the current benefits of being a Golf Canada member is a key component of the app, it has also been designed with the non-member, public player in mind to increase their engagement with the sport. Golf Canada members will be able to enjoy a unique package of additional features that will be part of a three-stage rollout throughout the summer including, golf games like Wolf or Skins, as well as real-time Course GPS and Shot Tracer technology. “What I think sets the new Golf Canada app apart from anything else in the marketplace is our ability to combine scoring, stats, Course GPS, Shot Tracer, and golf games, in one app. You won’t find that anywhere else in the world, so it truly is leading edge digital technology,” added Morbi. Canada’s go-to golf app has been in development since the fall of 2019. It is a key component of Golf Canada’s digital marketing strategy designed to draw more people to the sport, improve the in-game experience and increase membership. It has also been developed in consultation with the provincial golf associations across Canada to ensure a grassroots connection. The Golf Canada app has been designed in partnership with Mirego, a Quebec City-based company that is an expert in the app development space. It replaces the original Golf Canada app, a member-only app that featured handicapping and scoring as its primary function. Member profiles and previous scoring is being transferred to the new app, so there will be no loss of information for long-time members. “Apps are commonplace today—all of us have our favourite apps and the majority of golfers bring a Smartphone to the golf course,” Morbi says. “We’re hoping golfers will fall in love with all of the great features of the new app and have a lot of fun with it. It will give us an opportunity to connect with more golfers and create a deeper connection to the sport they love.” The app is available for download for both IOS and Android operating systems from both the App Store and Google Play at no cost. An annual Golf Canada membership sells for $49.95. The benefits of being a Golf Canada member include handicapping, incident protection, personalized equipment labels, discounts on tickets for the RBC Canadian Open and CP Women’s Open savings from partners like Avis, Hilton and RBC, and some of the soon to be released features on the new app.

Golf Canada member features

Golf Canada members will enjoy a suite of additional features in the app as part of a three-stage rollout throughout the summer including golf games like Wolf or Skins, real-time course GPS and Shot Tracer technology.

     

• Click here to download and install the app from the App Store
• Click here to download and install the app from Google Play

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Golf Digest said 37 percent of respondents between 18-34 bring a portable speaker to the course. Others might prefer to keep their music to themselves and go the earphone route to avoid disrupting others.

what are some of your favourite songs to listen to while golfing?

— Golf Canada (@GolfCanada) July 2, 2020

“Golf is one of those sports where it takes up a good amount of time, so I have no issue with listening to music, even while playing, but I don’t think it should be 100 percent of the time,” says Golf Canada Men’s National Team Head Coach Derek Ingram. He says for the athletes he works with, he’s training them to practice and play “under the gun” and they tend not to play tunes during the final round on the PGA Tour, he jokes. But while there may still be discomfort with cranking it up on the course, listening to music while practicing may have some benefits.

“I think it actually accesses part of the brain that allows us to be more creative and more athletic as well,” Ingram says. “There’s no issue with a portion of the practice listening to music and enjoying music, but I would say the right percentage depending on the individual.”

It’s nearly unavoidable to go a week on the PGA or LPGA Tour without having music be part of the tournament in some capacity. The PGA and LPGA Tour have both introduced music into their tournament schedules over the last couple of seasons. Both tours have introduced team events (with Corey Conners and Mackenzie Hughes teeing it up in New Orleans while Brooke Henderson and Alena Sharp got together in Michigan) and the Canadian duos arrived at the first tee to “walk-up music” not unlike what you see at a baseball game before a hitter steps into the box. Music has become a key part of many successful PGA Tour events where DJs (not Dustin Johnson, in this case) will play sets or keep music going between groups if appropriate, and concerts have become a staple event during tournament week. At least year’s RBC Canadian Open the RBCxMusic Concert Series brought Canadian rockers The Glorious Sons and country mega-duo Florida-Georgia Line to Hamilton Golf and Country Club, which helped sell out both days of the event. [caption id="attachment_95064" align="alignnone" width="1024"]

RBCxMusic Concert Series at the 2019 RBC Canadian Open featuring Florida Georgia Line and the Glorious Sons[/caption] And a couple of years ago while Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Smylie Kaufman, and Rickie Fowler went on their infamous buddies trip to the Caribbean all of their rounds of golf were filled with music (and were without shirts). If you’ve got a Bluetooth speaker in your cart or dangling from your trolley, just be mindful of those around you. While many come to the golf course for fun or frivolity, there’s a good portion of courses and golfers who prefer to have Mother Nature play her own music – so understand your golf environment and keep the volume to just what you and your group can hear. But this summer while celebrating all of Canada’s fabulous layouts, why not experiment with listening to some of country’s finest musical acts? Bands like The Tragically Hip, The Arkells, and Rush are perfect for the cottage, they’re great for the course, too – and who knows, you might even improve your game thanks to music.

Some Tune Tips

1. Always ask other players if you can play music and what they might want to hear
2. Understand your environment – not every course and golfer feel the same about music during a round
3. Make sure the music is at a manageable volume
4. Consider earphones to enjoy tunes without disrupting others
5. Have fun with it – music makes almost every situation (a BBQ, the beach, a backyard party) better. The golf course should be no different.

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Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation have joined together to launch the COVID-19 GOLF RELIEF FUND, to support golf courses in helping employees and golfers stay safe while also thanking front-line workers through encouraging additional play and welcoming juniors to further experience the game.

During the pandemic, golf has experienced a booming resurgence, emerging as one of the safest recreational activities for Canadians to enjoy and highlighting the physical and mental benefits that the sport provides.

Developed in consultation with key stakeholders, the RELIEF FUND will focus on two primary areas:

1) SAFETY: To help maintain the momentum of golf, the RELIEF FUND will subsidize non-medical PPE (personal protective equipment) for golf course employees, as well as sanitization, hygiene, and protective material expenses.

2) FUN: To thank front-line workers and help juniors increase social interactions and outdoor activity during the pandemic, the RELIEF FUND will subsidize rounds for both groups to enjoy playing golf.

“We find ourselves in a very surprising but special moment for golf and we wanted to show appreciation to the courses providing a safe golf experience and to all Canadians who are coming out and playing. We also wanted to thank our incredible front-line workers who are leading us through unprecedented adversity,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “We are sensitive to the ongoing pandemic and amongst the crushing impact, golf has been a bright spot. This has also been a difficult year for so many kids who have had their summers disrupted and we wanted to support our member clubs in providing youth a healthy outlet through golf.”

Golf Canada member clubs who apply for the RELIEF FUND will be eligible for subsidies up to a maximum of $1,000 per club, with applications opening on August 12 on a first-come, first-served basis.

The RELIEF FUND will launch to the public July 28, across Golf Canada’s digital network, throughout Golf Canada member clubs, Ascend Fundraising Solutions’ marketing platforms, and the Provincial Golf Associations.

In addition to welcoming donations to support the RELIEF FUND, golfers and golf fans across the country will be able to support by participating in a four-week digital sweepstakes campaign featuring significant prizing across Canada and the U.S. in 2021.

“We have taken the challenge of the pandemic to pivot our donation efforts as a rallying point for the Canadian golf community,” said Martin Barnard, CEO of the Golf Canada Foundation. “Golf has always been a driver for significant charitable giving and the cancellation of so many fundraising events through the pandemic has been difficult. Partners and donors have embraced the idea of a golf specific relief fund that supports front-line workers and juniors, and also helps to keep industry employees safe throughout the season.”

The Grand prize includes a VIP hospitality experience at the 2021 RBC Canadian Open at St. Georges Golf and Country Club. The early-bird prize package to be drawn on August 12 features a spectacular stay-and-play experience at Cabot Links and Cliffs. Tickets for the sweepstakes can be purchased at www.golfcanadasweeps.com and will be available for sale until August 27.

Currently at close to $350,000 before launching to the public, the RELIEF FUND is proudly and graciously supported by the R&A, PGA TOUR, USGA, PGA of Canada, Bear Mountain Resort, Cabot Cape Breton, and TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley.

Team Canada alumni and PGA TOUR winner Adam Hadwin has personally supported the RELIEF FUND, as part of his effort to give back once the RBC Canadian Open had been cancelled.

RBC Ambassador and three-time PGA TOUR winner Ryan Palmer also has donated to the RELIEF FUND through a fundraising challenge specifically created to help the charities of tournaments that were cancelled due to the pandemic.

Donations to the RELIEF FUND will be accepted throughout the golf season and more contributions will be announced over the course of the campaign as partners and donors join in supporting the cause.

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For Immediate Release:

For Immediate Release: A pristine venue for a field full of New Brunswick’s top players aged 55 years and older, Miramichi plays host to the 2020 NB Senior Men’s Championships. 99 of the provinces most elite players converged at the T.F. Robinson design to test their skills on one of the provinces’ most challenging championship courses. Tuesday saw the conclusion of round two as players were treated to more calming temperatures with lower humidity levels in Miramichi. Leading the field on Tuesday morning were the overnight leaders- Bob Brown of West Hills Golf Course, Sonny Phillips of the Fredericton Golf Club, and Darren Ritchie of the Hampton Golf Club.

1. Go online There are lots of sites that offer helpful tips for beginners on every topic from the basic rules and etiquette to the fundamentals of the swing.

2. Go to a course

Even before you head to the tee for the very first time, do a little online research about the courses in your area. You will want to find a public or “semi-private” course (one that has members but also welcomes the public golfer). Drop into the golf shop, introduce yourself as a new golfer and have a look around. Ask if they have a program to introduce new golfers to the game. If they do, sign up!

3. Go to a pro

Just about every course has a PGA of Canada professional. They’re helpful and knowledgeable. Even a half-hour lesson with a pro will get you started on the right path. Many courses offer lesson packages and some include playing a few holes as well. Taking a lesson is the best investment you can make if you want to enjoy the game and improve your skills.

4. Go get some clubs

Although most courses have clubs you can rent, you may want to have your own set. Chain stores such as Costco, Giant Tiger, Walmart and Canadian Tire have inexpensive sets that include irons, woods, putter and a carry bag. They also sell inexpensive balls and tees. As long as you follow the course’s dress code (often published on their web site), you don’t even need golf shoes at this point. Running shoes will suffice.

5. Go to the driving range

If you’re taking lessons at a course, you no doubt have taken advantage of the practice facility, also called the driving range. If not, head for a local public driving range with a friend and hit some balls. Many facilities also have a practice putting green. As you will find out, putting is a very important part of the game!

6. Go to the first tee

You’ve hooked up with some friends or new acquaintances from your introductory program. You’ve asked the folks in the golf shop from which tees you should play as a beginner (generally, the most forward set of tees is appropriate).

7. Go hit the ball

Assuming you’ve followed these first few tips, you should be hitting the ball in the right general direction. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not as proficient as your more experienced companions. Just relax, swing, and don’t forget to breathe! From a safety perspective, make sure you are aware of where your friends are and when they are hitting. From a “pace of play” viewpoint, always be ready to hit your next shot when it’s your turn. Most importantly, don’t get frustrated if you’re not proficient immediately. You will improve the more you play and practise. Remember, the object of the game is to have fun.

8. Go to the clubhouse

Much of the appeal of golf is the social aspect following a round. Reliving the game, good shots and not-so-good, with friends and family is an integral part of the game.

9. Go back

Golf has been called “the game for a lifetime.” You can play this game at whatever level you wish, from recreational to competitive, for years and years. It’s healthy, fun and a great way to meet new friends.

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So there you go. Nine tips, just like the nine holes you will likely play the first few times you’re at the course. But there is so much more! Although you can learn the fundamentals of the swing, course etiquette and rules online, GolfCanada.ca is the best resource for anyone who enjoys the game at any level. As you play more golf, you’ll want an official handicap factor and the other benefits that come with a Golf Canada Gold Level membership. But you have to start somewhere. So, like so many of your fellow Canadians are doing these days, start now!  ]]>

For Immediate Release: The Miramichi Golf & Country Club plays host for the final championship of the 2020 Golf NB Championship season as a field of 99 of New Brunswick’s top players, 55 years of age and older, tee it up at one of the provinces most unique and challenging venues. A hot and humid Monday greeted players as they gathered from across the province to compete for the 2020 NB Senior and NB Super-Senior crowns at one of New Brunswick’s most historic venues.

For Immediate Release: The Miramichi Golf & Country Club is the host site for the final major championship of the 2020 Golf NB Championship season as a field of 99 of New Brunswick’s top players, 55 years of age and older, tee it up at one of the provinces most unique and challenging venues. Established in 1925, the Miramichi Golf & Country Club has proved to be one of New Brunswick’s many premier championship venues and most recently hosted the 2018 NB Ladies Provincial Championships. The Par-71 6,100-yard T.F Robinson design features tight fairways that will require immense accuracy off the tee. The 54-Hole Competition will provide the ultimate test for players as they look to prove their worth in the race for New Brunswick’s 2020 Senior Men’s Champion. A field comprising of 99 of New Brunswick’s most elite and competitive golfers will provide no shortage of competition as the Senior field travels to Miramichi with many familiar faces and past champions. Sonny Phillips of the Fredericton Golf Club returns to this year’s championship event as the Fredericton native looks to repeat his Super-Senior victory on a layout that he is more than familiar with. Absent from the field is 2019 Senior Champion, Ralph Michaud. Michaud’s impressive performance of 6-Under Par edged out the field as he secured his first NB Senior Men’s Championship at his home club of Aroostook Valley. Adding to the impressive player roster for the event is Hampton’s Mike Breen and Darren Ritchie, 2019 NB Mid-Master Champion, Dan Coulombe, and Bob Brown of West Hills Golf Course, Herrick Hansen of Aroostook Valley and many more championship contenders. The first round of the 2020 NB Men’s Senior Championship will get underway at 7:30 AM on Monday, July 20th at the Miramichi Golf & Country Club. Bob Brown of West Hills Golf Course, Sonny Phillips of the Fredericton Golf Club & Mike Breen of the Hampton Golf Club lead the field off on Monday Morning. NB SENIOR MEN’S FIRST ROUND PAIRINGS

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