THUNDER BAY – SPORTS – Thunder Bay’s Robbie Untinen will be playing in this year’s Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel. Today, Staal Foundation Open representatives confirmed that he has received the final exemption, a day before official tournament play begins. The local player is trying to take his game to the next level and earn a permanent spot on the Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada. This is the 28 year old’s third time playing in the Staal Foundation Open.
“By participating in the Staal Foundation Open, it has helped me grow my game tremendously and I am confident that I will be bringing my best game into the tournament;” says Untinen.
Untinen who is a long-time member of Whitewater Golf Club has had several in-club achievements over the years and is currently playing his third year as a professional in Arizona and California on the mini tours. Untinen explains that he will use his home course knowledge to his advantage as best as he can. “I am so proud and honoured to be a local player in this world-class event being held right in my hometown.”
Untinen joins Thunder Bay’s Walter Keating Jr. and Evan DeGrazia who earned their exemptions at the Staal Foundation Open Qualifier and Keg District Open. Jeff Hunter and Evan Littlefield are two other local players who were awarded Sponsors exemptions. “Having five local golfers in this year’s event is outstanding for the Staal Foundation Open;” says Staal Foundation Open, Executive Director, Scott Smith. “We hope these players will inspire our local youth to get involved and work on taking their game to the next level. Come out to watch and cheer on Thunder Bay’s own.”
Official play for the Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel commences on Thursday, July 14th, with the first round starting at 7:00 a.m. 156 players are competing for a total of $175,000.
Video is from the 2015 Staal Foundation Open.
