Kawartha Invitational returns Saturday to Monday
Defending champion Robert Mackay returning for 73rd annual KGCC tournament
Kawartha Golf and Country Club is in prime condition for this weekend’s Kawartha Invitational thanks to a great recent mix of sun and rain, organizers said as details of the 73rd annual event were announced Tuesday.
“Jen Pendth has our golf course in the best condition ever and that will test our players of all abilities and fairly,” secondyear tournament chairman Tyler McDannold said.
The past champion pointed out that the greens are playing as fast as they have all year – slopes there will make finishing that much more difficult.
“That will really challenge the players coming this weekend,” he said, explaining how that will influence each golfer, starting with their drive. “Being in the right position off your tee shot will determine how aggressive you can be.”
Some 170 golfers from across the province will compete in the tournament in seven different flights from Saturday to Monday.
Flights one to three, playing from the championship tees, will compete for the overall championship, while flights four to six will compete for championships within each flight. The seventh flight is a net competition.
Practice rounds will take place throughout the day on Friday, when the club will also close earlier than usual to prepare for the event.
“We look forward to a fantastic weekend and encourage everyone, members and the public, to join us this weekend to watch some amazing golf,” McDannold said, pointing out that the field includes a group of young upand-comers and wily veterans.
Defending champion Robert Mackay will return along with past winners Marc Savard, Steve Fredericks and Derrick Small Jr.
Other players to watch seeking their first title include Andy Crampton, Tyler White and Jared Hoyle, McDannold said. Club member and 2016 Canadian Junior Boys champion Sam
Meek will be out of town competing in another tournament.
Tee times start each day at 7 a.m. with the last group teeing off at 2 p.m. Flights four to seven play in the a.m. while flights one to three play in the p.m.
On Monday, the leaders of each flight will play in the afternoon with tee times scheduled from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Those looking to watch the leaders are encouraged to arrive at about 4 p.m. to catch competition on the back nine.
Course head professional Mark Ahrens thanked members for giving up their time and the course this weekend and other courses for offering reciprocals. More than 35 volunteers will make the tournament a reality.
“That makes my job easier.
Our staff does a tremendous job,” Ahrens said.
The event is sponsored by Molson, Kelsey’s, Montana’s, Shimano and Maximum Financial.
NOTES: Updates on the 73rd Kawartha Invitational will also be posted by @kawartha_golf on Twitter all weekend.… Entry to watch is free.… For more information on the event or course, call 705-743-3737 or visit www.kawarthagolf.ca .