Photo Credit: Sean Davies
THUNDER BAY – SPORTS – The Thunder Bay District Golf Association (TBDGA) has once again received two exemptions for the Staal Foundation Open at this summer’s event slated for July 13-19, 2015 at Whitewater Golf Club.
At a media conference today at the Strathcona Golf Club, Scott Smith, Executive Director of the PGA TOUR Canada stop in Thunder Bay confirmed that the District Golf Association will once again have two sponsor exemptions available for two local golfers to participate in the tournament.
The District Golf Association also announced the qualifier schedule with the first event slated for Monday, June 7 at Whitewater Golf Club. One spot is available for all local golfers who are members of the TBDGA. The District Open and the second qualifier are scheduled for July 4 and 5 at Fort William Country Club and Whitewater. Monday July 13 at Strathcona Golf Course is the final qualifier as part of the Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel week.
Qualifiers will see successful individuals earn the opportunity to play among some of the top up-and-coming players from around the world. Walter Keating Jr., President and Tournament Director of the Thunder Bay District Golf Association, was at the announcement today and continued to emphasize the importance of growing the sport.
“Our mission statement to grow and promote the game in our district aligns exceptionally well with the PGA TOUR Canada event hosted once again at Whitewater this year, “ said Keating. “We also hope to continue to expand our offering of junior clinics as well as grow a junior golf league.
An event such as this provides a perfect model for those juniors who may wish to pursue the game of golf as a career.” Tom Forsythe, Manager of Golf Services for the City of Thunder Bay indicated he was extremely pleased and excited to host the Monday qualifier as part of the Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel. “This premier golf event has positioned Thunder Bay and golf in the northwest as a premier destination for recreational and competitive play. We are very happy that they have chosen one of Thunder Bay’s great golf courses as host.” Keating emphasizes that Monday’s qualifier at Strathcona is a perfect start to a highly competitive week of play showcasing world-class talent from around the world.
“Qualifiers are open to the entire region and we are actively looking to have participation beyond the City of Thunder Bay. We are hopeful that everyone who has an interest will have an equal opportunity to participate,” continued Keating.
Joe Quaresima, one of the Tournament Director Committee members also said “ This year we have focused on growing the extra activities at the event to help attract visitors from the region and across the border. Thanks to a grant we recently received from Celebrate Ontario, we have a host of new activities including a power golf and trick show, interactive hockey and golf activities, entertainment on the 18th green and much much more for the whole family to enjoy. I would like to thank both Minister Bill Mauro and Minister Michael Gravelle for their support.”
