Dairy Queen IWK Golf Tournament

I would like to thank all participants who played in the 6^th Annual DQ Match Play Championship event. It has always been held the Victoria Day weekend because of the need for five rounds of golf. It turned out to be the best weather weekend in the history of this “marathon of golf” weekend. Aside from the high winds, the sunshine was continuous for all three days and course conditions for this time of year were spectacular. There were 40 players that attempted to qualify on Saturday morning for 32 spots and seedings were based on this stroke play round.

We have always been able to do “Something Different” each year and try to make it an event that most members can compete, by having an A and B pool of players. This year, however, with less than 20 players signed up on Tuesday night, recruiting took place and we were able to get a field of 40 golfers. Maybe the time has come to take a second look at what we are doing and why?

This members’ only tournament is the only non-handicap event offered at the Truro Golf Club. It was originally started as a head to head match play because of the amount of sand being left on the course by a few members. We cannot control someone else’s’ handicap, it simply comes down to honor and integrity.

Generally, the event is held so early in the year that most guys have only played a few times. This year, however, course conditions justified the opening day about three weeks early. We were hopeful for our largest field ever but unfortunately we had one of our smallest.

I think a few people have lost perspective as to what we are trying to accomplish. We always wanted to be as inclusive as possible (A and B divisions) but with the low turn out this year we really had little to go on and justify a second division. The idea was simple, members playing match play golf together in competition to raise money for the IWK Children’s Hospital. The fact remains that less players are interested in this “Survivor” series of golf.

I know that almost half of this year’s field has played in all six tournaments. It is like a cold Keith’s- those who like it, like it a lot. Unfortunately we have been unable to grow the tournament. It has been a lot of fun for me but logistics of the tournament are always being questioned. I learned a long time ago that you will never be able to satisfy everyone. I believe it is fitting that in the year we had the best weather and the past two champions went to the last hole in the championship match to determine a winner, it is time we put this puppy to bed. Everything has a life span and perhaps the DQ Something Different has run its course.

For those that did not play due to not agreeing with the philosophy of this tournament, I feel badly that the focus could not have been on the end result, raising money for a most worthy cause, not just the game itself. This tournament has raised over $8, 000.00 in its six year history. Just maybe this money helped purchase a small piece of equipment that saved a child’s life. Most of us can relate to children and their health and welfare.

I would like to congratulate Paul Coulson on his second DQ Match Play Championship. He defeated three time winner Trevor Jordan on the 18^th hole- 1 up. Somehow the cream always rises to the top. Paul and Trevor are both great players and true champions but most importantly, sincere gentlemen. I would also like to congratulate Donald Johnston on his first ever hole in one in the Saturday morning round.

 Finally, I would like to thank the entire staff at the Truro Golf Club, from the pro shop, kitchen and bar, and especially those who maintain our course to its championship caliber. Also thanks to Blair Faulkner for his efforts since day one. Thanks again for all your support.

 Yours Truly

 John Starratt