As part of its continual efforts at growing the game of golf, The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is proud to announce several exciting summer initiatives designed to promote and encourage participation in the game. Programs and activities scheduled over the course of the next several weeks include:
Top Instructors Return to Legends Golf Academy
NPC’s Legends on the Niagara Golf Course is thrilled to announce that Canadian Golf Hall of Fame inductee Cathy Sherk has returned to its Golf Academy. One of the original members of the Legends on the Niagara golf instruction team, Cathy has returned to add her experience and guidance to what is arguably one of the best practice facilities and game improvement centers found in North America.
PGA professional Geoff Law has also returned to Legends, joining Sherk and head teaching professional Norm Moote. A native of Northern Ireland and an accomplished player in his own right, Law arrived in Canada in 1996 and began his teaching career, first as an assistant to Cathy Sherk before joining Legends in 2002. For information about group lessons, junior camps, clinics and private instruction, please contact the Legends Golf Academy at (905) 295-9595, ext. 249.
Junior Camps at Legends on the Niagara
Niagara Parks is also proud to announce the return of its popular junior golf camps, which will operate through the months of July and August. These camps will cover such topics as full swing (including a video analysis), short game, sand shots and putting. Golf on the Chippawa Course and a final day pizza lunch, with a group photo and award presentation will also be included. Junior camps are conducted for children ages 4 to 9 and youth 10 to 16. For more information, please contact the Academy at (905) 295-9595, ext. 249, or visit http://www.niagaraparksgolf.com/academy/clinics-camps.html.
Free Golf for Juniors
This summer, NPC will once again offer junior golfers (16 and under) a free round of golf on its Chippawa Course at Legends on the Niagara, as well as a free bucket of golf balls at its 360 degree driving range, when accompanied by a paying adult. Encouraging children to play golf by making the game fun, accessible, affordable and welcoming are key to the health and future of the game.
Niagara Parks Amateur Golf Tournament at Whirlpool Public Golf Course
In honor of the 65th anniversary of the Whirlpool Golf Course, NPC will once again play host to the Whirlpool Amateur, one of this region’s oldest amateur tournaments, on Sunday, Aug. 7.
The Niagara Parks Amateur was first played in 1961, and over the years has consistently attracted many of the top amateurs in Ontario competing for the historic F.M. Cairns Trophy. Since the event began, no winner has ever shot better than 70, proving that the Stanley Thompson designed Whirlpool Course has stood the test of time as a true challenge to the best in golf.
The winner of the 2015 tournament, Mike Claxton, with a winning score of 71 (34 on the front, 37 on the back) will return to defend his title. To reserve a spot in the 2016 Niagara Parks Amateur, please call (905) 356-1140, ext. 2.
Oak Hall Par 3 Golf Course 50th Anniversary Special
From June 17 to 19, the Oak Hall Par 3 Golf Course will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special $5 all day green fee, giving golfers access to play the course, multiple times if they choose.
This course is a great spot for new golfers and those looking to improve their iron play and short games. The picturesque course covers a total of 1,050 yards, with no hazards or forced carries. It is an enjoyable walking course and ideal for the beginner golfer and those who have limited time, but still enjoy the challenge and enjoyment that the game provides. The course offers great value and has a convenient location that allows golfers to hear the roar of the thundering Niagara Falls only a short distance away.
Oak Hall Par 3 is located on the grounds of NPC’s administrative offices at 7400 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario. The course is open daily until Labor Day. Pull carts and club rentals are available. For more information, please call (905) 358-6418.
About Niagara Parks Golf
The Legends on the Niagara Golf Complex, Oak Hall Par 3 and Whirlpool Public Golf Course are owned and operated by The Niagara Parks Commission. NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that preserves a rich heritage, conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people worldwide. Founded in 1885, NPC is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.
For more information, please visit www.niagaraparksgolf.com.
