First Indigenous Golf Championship To Be Held In Osoyoos

British Columbia Golf, in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Osoyoos Indian Band-owned Canyon Desert Golf Course, has announced the launch of the inaugural Indigenous Championship British Columbia.

“It is so important on the journey of reconciliation that there be opportunities like this, for a distinct tournament to celebrate excellence in sport by Indigenous golfers and to create pathways for greater involvement, representation and participation of First Nation, Métis and Inuit people equally on all fields of play.”, Lieutenant-governor of British Columbia Janet Austin said in a prepared statement.

B.C. golfers, who identify as First Nation, Métis, or Inuit, will have the opportunity to register for the championship starting March 1. The event will see 128 adults and youth compete and play together.

BC Golf says the championship will celebrate and inspire current and emerging Indigenous golfers in the spirit of sport.

The championship has long been a dream of former chair of BC Golf, Patrick Kelly, saying it provides an exciting opportunity for Indigenous golfers to walk together in the joy of sport, camaraderie, and spirited competition.

The championship will begin with an official practice round on May 28 and end on May 30, 2023, after 36 holes played over two days. Hopeful participants have until April 28 to register.

The Youth division will serve as final qualifying for golfers under 19 who are vying to represent B.C. at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games in Halifax in July.

Last year, Golf Ontario hosted its inaugural Indigenous golf championship and will host its second later this summer.

The Ontario and British Columbia events will each qualify golfers to compete in a national event in fall 2023 at Bear Mountain Resort in Langford.