FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, July 25, 2023
Underground Gym tees off with Major Success
Earlier this week, on Monday, July 24, 2023, an inspiring event took place at Chapples Golf Course as kids from the Underground Gym and Youth Centre were treated to an exciting junior golf clinic. The event, organized by Chris Gardner, had the primary goal of instilling a love for golf and promoting sportsmanship among the young participants. Chris is a PGA of Canada Class A Professional.
Throughout the day, golfers received introductory instruction on the driving range and practice putting green. They also had the pleasure of witnessing an impressive long drive display by one of Thunder Bay's top amateur players, Kevin Jackson. After the clinic, golfers were treated to a delightful lunch inside the clubhouse.
This exceptional event – the first of its kind – was the result of a collaboration between several dedicated organizations, including the Thunder Bay District Golf Association (TBDGA), First Tee Ontario, and Golf Thunder Bay, all of which share the vision of growing the game of golf among young enthusiasts.
A driving force behind the success of this initiative was Dawn Kukko, an Associate Advisor at BMO Nesbitt Burns. Her dedication to promoting golf in the community has been exemplary. The idea for the junior golf clinic originated from a "Hit the Green" contest during the 2022 Strathcona Invitational, where funds were raised for future junior golf programs. Dawn's connection with the TBDGA facilitated the realization of this event, and she expressed her thrill at the outcome of the clinic. Dawn hopes that more such clinics can be organized in the future.
Contributions from generous individuals who donated to Dawn's "Hit the Green" contest, along with the support from Merse Water Systems, a company known for its commitment to promoting sports and well-being in the region, also played a vital role in making the event possible.
The event's success would not have been possible without the dedication of other passionate volunteers and photographers, including Jordan Walford, Nic Pavletic, Phil Gardner, Dan Kukko, and Andy Karanasos, whose time and effort ensured smooth execution. Raili Zgrych and Gary Moskalyk did an outstanding job of capturing the unforgettable moments, preserving them for years to come.
About BMO Nesbitt Burns and Dawn Kukko
BMO Nesbitt Burns is a well-respected financial advisory firm dedicated to providing clients with comprehensive wealth management solutions. Through its strong commitment to community engagement, BMO Nesbitt Burns continues to make a positive impact on various local initiatives. To learn more about BMO Nesbitt Burns, visit their website at www.bmo.com/privatewealth/about-us/.
Dawn specializes in wealth management for individuals, families and institutions. She is committed to building long-lasting relationships with her clients, while working with them to achieve their wealth-planning goals. To learn more about Dawn, visit her profile at www.nesbittburns.bmo.com/bruce.labelle/meet-our-team.
About First Tee Ontario
First Tee Ontario is a youth development organization that utilizes the game of golf to instill life skills, character development, and a strong sense of integrity among young people. To learn more about First Tee Ontario, visit their website at https://firstteeontario.ca.
About Merse Water Systems
Merse Water Systems is a leading provider of water solutions in Thunder Bay and the surrounding area. Merse Water Systems is driven by a passion for making a difference in the communities they serve and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Learn more at www.merse.ca.
About Strathcona Invitational
The Strathcona Invitational is a major match play tournament played annually since 1930. It has become one of the most popular events along the north shore of Lake Superior, with players travelling from all around the region to compete each August. It is also known for its competitive spirit, history, and dedication to supporting local charities. To learn more about the event, www.strathconainvitational.ca.
About Chris Gardner
Chris Gardner is a Class A Professional currently based out of Emerald Greens Golf Course. Chris is dedicated to growing the game and teaching the District's next generation of golfers. In 2023, Chris will be hosting junior golf camps throughout Northwestern Ontario. In addition to his instruction at Emerald Greens Golf Course, he plans on visiting Nipigon, Sioux Lookout, Terrace Bay, and Marathon. To learn more about Chris, visit his Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chris.gardner.1276487.
About the TBDGA
The TBDGA is a non-profit organization dedicated to growing the game of golf in the Thunder Bay District. The TBDGA is supported by and works actively with Golf Ontario, Golf Manitoba, and Golf Canada to administer the game of golf within our jurisdiction. Currently, the TBDGA oversees and works with twelve member clubs.
Media Contact: Jeremy Kirk, Communications Director. Jeremy can be reached at jakirk14@shaw.ca.
