- Golf Divas tee it up in BC
- Fairmont Hot Springs is Heating Up
- Hit the Thompson Okanagan Golf Trail
- Getaway North Island
- Kids Play Free at Golf BC
Golf Divas tee it up in BC: It’s no secret that women are taking up the game in record numbers, and at the renowned Golf Academy at Westwood Plateau in Coquitlam, there’s ample opportunity to gather the gal pals for a lesson on the links during their popular Diva Program. The four-week lesson series, instructed by sought-after C.P.G.A. Professional Denise Whitworth, has two components: The Foundation and The Fundamentals. In addition, you’ll learn how to improve your diva distance and your short game diva prowess. Aimed at helping women improve their skills, not to mention negotiate challenging moves, the Diva Program is one of many lesson packages available at Westwood Plateau. Featuring world-class facilities and a talented crew of C.P.G.A. Professionals, including John Aasen, the Director of Instruction and one of Canada’s top teachers, the Golf Academy at Westwood Plateau is the perfect place for any diva – or dude – to learn. www.westwoodplateaugolf.com
Fairmont Hot Springs is Heating Up: With its soothing natural hot springs, three diverse course options, and pristine Columbia Valley setting, it’s no wonder golfers of all ages and abilities have been flocking to Fairmont Hot Springs for years. The three resort courses at Fairmont – Mountainside, Riverside, and Creekside – have always been fun, player-friendly layouts with relaxed atmospheres. Now under new ownership (Ken Fowler Enterprises), the resort has recently announced a comprehensive one billion dollar renovation. Besides major overhauling of the courses (details to be announced), the resort will feature new hot pools, hotels, restaurants, waterslides, a village, and much more. Our advice? Reserve your spot in the hot tub now. www.fairmonthotsprings.com
Hit the Thompson Okanagan Golf Trail: Blessed with a Mediterranean-like climate, fruit orchards, vineyards, pristine beaches, and, yes, a host of world-class golf courses, BC’s Thompson Okanagan is one destination sure to provide the perfect summer sojourn. Those fortunate enough to call the area home can play a different course every day for a month and still make it back to the pad in plenty of time to slap the steaks on the barby. But, thankfully, you don’t have to be a resident to take a ride on the newly forged Thompson Okanagan Golf Trail. The trail, a marketing initiative by 14 of the region’s finest facilities, includes new gems Tobiano and Talking Rock as well as long-standing favourites such as Gallagher’s Canyon, Salmon Arm, and Osoyoos. Desert golf, mountain golf, parkland golf, lakeside golf, it’s all there. To book your trail ride, visit www.togolfbc.com.
Getaway North Island: In many ways, the courses at Storey Creek and Crown Isle – two of the finest on Vancouver Island – couldn’t be more different. Storey Creek, a classic test cut through a secluded forest, feels miles from civilization; on many days, wildlife sightings have been known to outnumber golfers spotted on the greens. On the other hand, Crown Isle, while equally scenic, is situated in the heart of Courtenay and boasts a bustling and contemporary resort-style atmosphere. It also features a 48,000 square foot clubhouse and Resort Centre with, among other things, a classic car museum inside. Two vastly different experiences? You bet. And, thanks to the good folks at Golf Vancouver Island, you can savour both with their Getaway North Island package. Luxurious course-side accommodation at Crown Isle, two rounds of golf, preferred tee times, and a number of adventure add-ons will ensure this getaway is grand. www.golfvancouverisland.ca
Kids Play Free at Golf BC: Unquestionably, for the game of golf to grow and thrive in the decades to come, our young people need to be encouraged to play – and we’re not just talking video games. The GolfBC group, owners of nine of the top golf courses in the province including Whistler’s Nicklaus North and Vancouver Island’s Olympic View, are doing their part to encourage kids to hit the links with an ongoing commitment to make the game more accessible for our youth. In a nutshell: each of the nine courses will offer selective tee times throughout the year, seven days a week, when junior golfers (under 16) play for free when accompanied by a paying adult. So, little Johnny or Sally, put the joystick down, turn off television, and make your way to the golf course. Oh, and take Mom and Dad with you. www.golfbc.com
