My Experience at the Canadian Golf College Championships

This past week I had the unique opportunity to immerse myself in the world of competitive golf at the 2024 Canadian University/College Championship, presented by BDO. Held at the picturesque Idylwylde Golf & Country Club, this event was a whirlwind of intense competition, camaraderie, and, of course, unpredictable weather.

Idylwylde Golf & Country Club

Idylwylde Golf & Country Club is a gem nestled in the heart of Sudbury, offering a perfect blend of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery. This location is a gorgeous wedding location and seeing the course transformed into a competitive arena was an exciting shift. The meticulously maintained greens and fairways, paired with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, provided a stunning backdrop for the tournament.

Monday, June 3rd

Our adventure began on Monday, June 3rd. The morning began with a covering of fog, delaying tee offs by ninety minutes. Once the fog burned off we were under way! Players arrived with their gear, ready to tackle the course. The atmosphere was a mix of focused determination and light-hearted banter, typical of college sports.

As a photographer, capturing the spirit of the event meant being everywhere at once. From the intense expressions of players as they lined up their shots to the quiet moments of contemplation and strategy discussions, every click of my camera aimed to tell the story of the day. The camaraderie among the teams was evident, especially among the UBC Thunderbirds, who were the team to watch. The Ladies UBC and UBCO teams were fully decked out in team colors with body paint and hair ribbons. There’s truly nothing quite like college athletics!

Thursday, June 5th

Thursday was a day of highs and lows, quite literally. The morning resumed with the players who had yet to complete their rounds from the previous day. The early hours were serene, with the course bathed in the soft light of dawn. However, by mid-morning, the weather had turned again, bringing heavy rain that lasted well into the afternoon.

Photographing in the rain presents its own set of challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities. The raindrops on the green, the players’ determination shining through the downpour, and the vibrant colors of the golf course under a grey sky all contributed to a rich tapestry of images. Despite the weather, the spirit of the competition remained undampened, with players pushing through the adverse conditions.

Check out some of my work with Hockey Teams!

Highlights of the Tournament

UBC Thunderbirds’ Dominance

The UBC Thunderbirds Men’s team was a force to be reckoned with, leading the tournament with a collective 3-over 291, putting them at 19-under overall. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, and their teamwork and sportsmanship were evident throughout the event. John Paul Kahlert and Aidan Schumer, tied at 8-under, were standout players, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure under pressure.

Women’s Division: UBC Thunderbirds Shine Again

In the women’s division, the UBC Thunderbirds continued their dominance, with Una Chou leading the individual standings. Her consistent performance and poised demeanor, even in the face of Thursday’s challenging weather, were truly inspiring. With her team 31 shots ahead, it was clear that the UBC Thunderbirds were the ones to beat.

Check out some of my work with Soccer Teams!

Reflections on the Championship

Photographing the 2024 Canadian University/College Championship was an exhilarating experience. The combination of skill, strategy, and sheer determination displayed by the players was awe-inspiring. Each moment captured on camera told a story of perseverance, teamwork, and the pure love of the game.

For me, the most memorable aspect of the tournament was the resilience shown by the athletes. Despite the interruptions caused by the weather, including the suspension of play on Wednesday and the heavy rains on Thursday, the players remained focused and driven. Their passion for golf and their commitment to their teams were evident in every swing, every putt, and every cheer of encouragement.

A Personal Note

As a Sudbury-based wedding photographer, my work usually revolves around the joy and celebration of love. This week, however, I had the privilege of capturing a different kind of passion and dedication. The Canadian Golf College Championships at Idylwylde Golf & Country Club provided a unique opportunity to witness the incredible talents of young athletes and the beauty of our local golf course in a competitive setting.

I cannot fail to mention the food here! The food was amazing with a plethora of options to choose from, and the staff was incredibly friendly and really made the experience. I look forward to future events at Idylwylde and continue to cherish the moments I capture, whether on a golf course or at a wedding. Here’s to many more adventures behind the lens!

For those who attended the tournament or followed it, I hope my photos convey the excitement and spirit of the event. And for those planning their special day at Idylwylde, know that this venue holds not only beauty but also the spirit of competition and resilience, making it a perfect backdrop for any occasion. Let’s discuss how I can capture your next sporting event!