The world’s top golfers return to Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville this July 24 – 30 for the 2017 RBC Canadian Open. As Canada’s only PGA Tour event, the week-long competition features some of the biggest names in the sport and is expected to draw more than 100,000 spectators to the Jack Nicklaus designed course.
And while there is sure to be plenty of excitement on the course, Golf Canada is building on their tradition of ensuring the Open also offers a variety of off-course activities for fans of all ages.
“Family and junior engagement is very important to the RBC Canadian Open and we’re proud to be considered among the PGA Tour’s most fan friendly events,” says Brent McLaughlin, Tournament Director, RBC Canadian Open. “We pride ourselves on making sure the entire family can enjoy themselves onsite. It’s about bringing everyone together to celebrate community and Canadian golf.”
Offering free Junior Passes for youth aged 17 and under is part of that commitment to developing the next generation of golf enthusiasts.
In addition to watching the biggest event on the Canadian golf calendar, Junior Ticket holders have the opportunity to seek autographs from their favourite players, learn about the history of golf at the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, and enjoy special activities at the RBC Canadian Open Spectator Village.
The 2017 RBC Canadian Open marks the 29th time Glen Abbey will host the world’s best golfers. Players expected to participate include Team RBC members Jim Furyk, Brandt Snedeker, Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell and Ernie Els. PGA Tour winners Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor and Mackenzie Hughes will represent Canada alongside Graham DeLaet and David Hearn.
With a course design that incorporates natural amphitheatres around the greens, Glen Abbey is considered one of the most spectator-friendly venues in golf. “It’s a unique experience to get that close to some of the top golfers in the world,” says McLaughlin. “You can hear them talk. You can hear them communicate with their caddies. It’s a lot of fun.”
This year’s introduction of Courtyard Cabanas further enhances the corporate hospitality offering for group ticket purchasers. Located between number 16 and 17 fairways and adjacent to a new Courtyard Games area, these all-inclusive private cabanas will provide attendees a comfortable home base with seating, refreshments, and televisions.
“People will be able to watch the coverage from the comfort of their own cabana or get out on the course to watch the live action,” explains McLaughlin. “It’s a great option for businesses or groups of friends who want to get together to watch the tournament.”
Spectators are invited to show their support for the Canadians in the field by wearing their brightest reds and whitest white for Friday’s Red & White Day.
Leading up to the week-long tournament is the RBC Canadian Open 5K Golf Run, held July 22. The timed race is open to walkers and runners and takes participants through a five kilometre route that begins at the first tee and finishes alongside Glen Abbey’s iconic 18th green.
Last year’s run attracted close to 500 participants. “We are hoping to build on that this year,” says McLaughlin. “It’s a unique way for people to enjoy the atmosphere of Glen Abbey.”
This year’s RBC Canadian Open will also feature the introduction of an electronic 50/50 draw in support of the Golf Canada Foundation, which promotes the advancement of golf in Canada by supporting and engaging players of all ages and abilities.
“The RBC Canadian Open has a real festival atmosphere,” McLaughlin says. “You don’t need to be a golf fan to come out and love it.”
For more information on the RBC Canadian Open and to purchase tickets and download free Junior Pass tickets visit www.rbccanadianopen.com
