With virtually all amateur sports on hold, with the exception of the pro sports the world has to take a long and deep look at how sport will return to play.

There is no question that sport will have a “different look” when they return, but how drastic will the changes be affecting players and spectators alike.

Locally, many have been hitting the golf courses for the past while easily maintaining their social distance with each other all controlled by each venue, all of which should be commended.

As with other associations or clubs maintaining a steady flow of funding has taken a drastic reduction from amateur to pro, all trying drastically to  survive this Pandemic.

It should be known that golf is the one sport that experienced an impressive growth managing to be one of the safest recreational activities for many to enjoy, while utilizing physical as well as the mental benefits Golf provides.

The fund was set up to support golf courses, help employees and golfers stay safe and a means to thank front-line workers through encouraging many to take up the game by aiding to welcome upcoming junior golfers.

The relief fund will focus on two areas and was developed after much consultation with various stakeholders, all for the following reasons. 

• 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 sensitization, hygiene, and protective material expenses.
• 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.

Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum mentioned “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.” 

He continued “We are sensitive to the ongoing pandemic and among the crushing impact, golf has been a bright spot and this season has been extremely difficult 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 can apply for the Relief Fund beginning August 12th on a first come, first served basis with a subsidies of up to a maximum of $1,000 per club.

The RELIEF FUND was officially launched to the public July 28, across Golf Canada’s digital network as well as their Golf Canada member clubs. All according to Ascend Fundraising Solutions’ marketing platforms, and the Provincial Golf Associations.

Martin Barnard, CEO of the Golf Canada Foundation mentioned “We have taken the challenge of the pandemic to pivot our donation efforts as a rallying point for the Canadian golf community.”

He continued “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. 

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.

To no surprise Adam Hadwin, Team Canada alumni and PGA TOUR winner strongly supports the RELIEF FUND, in a way of giving back once the RBC Canadian Open had been cancelled.

Ryan Palmer, three-time PGA Tour winner and RBC Ambassador has also made a donation to the RELIEF FUND through a fundraising challenge.

Donations to the RELIEF FUND will be accepted throughout the golf season and we are hearing that additional contributions are to be announced over the course of the campaign.

We wish them much success with this Relief Fund undertaking!!