Pace of play was an non-issue Saturday at Glen Abbey Golf Club as the inaugural RBC Canadian Open 5K kicked off tournament week of the 2016 RBC Canadian Open.

The five kilometre run/walk—organized by Landmark Sport Group Inc.—welcomed more than 500 enthusiasts of all ages who raced along a 5km route across the grounds of the renowned Oakville layout. Participants received the full race experience with running bibs and timed results for every competitor. 

“What a great kick-off event to help celebrate the 107th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship,” said Tournament Director Brent McLaughlin who joined the race as a participant Saturday. “I think it was a great showcase to bring running and fitness enthusiasts out to the golf course in advance of next week’s championship and we couldn’t be happier with the success of this year’s inaugural event.”

The RBC Canadian Open 5K routing began near the first tee of the championship course and trailed across the front nine with a final race leg that included the 17th hole and grand finish alongside the iconic 18th green at Glen Abbey Golf Club.

An awards ceremony took place immediately following the conclusion of the race in the Molson Canadian 67 Beer Garden located within the ZTE Spectator Village at Glen Abbey as participants enjoyed live third-round coverage of the British Open Championship. 

Click here to see a photo gallery from the inaugural RBC Canadian Open 5K.

Click here for results.

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada and RBC are pleased to announce the final field of competitors vying for the US$5.9 million purse at the 2016 RBC Canadian Open, July 18-24 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.

Defending champion and World No. 1 Jason Day will be challenged by a stellar field of PGA Tour stars including World No. 2 Dustin Johnson, World No. 15 Matt Kuchar, World No. 20 and two-time RBC Canadian Open champion Jim Furyk, World No. 26 and 2013 RBC Canadian Open Champion Brandt Snedeker, three-time PGA Tour winners Ryan Palmer and Graeme McDowell, as well as World Golf Hall of Fame member Ernie Els.

Other notable additions to the field for the 107th playing of Canada’s National Open Championship include 34-time PGA TOUR winner Vijay Singh, 12-time winner Justin Leonard, eight-time winner K.J. Choi, six-time winner Hunter Mahan, World No. 30 Kevin Kisner, World No. 40 Danny Lee, World No. 42 Charley Hoffman, World No. 46 William McGirt, World No. 47 Jimmy Walker, six-time winner Rory Sabbatini and three-time winner Angel Cabrera.

A number of international rising stars have also accepted tournament invitations, including American sensation Bryson DeChambeau, former World No. 1 amateur John Rahm of Spain, World No. 41 K.T. Kim of Korea and World No. 43 Matthew Fitzpatrick of England.

Led by World Nos. 1 and 2 Jason Day and Dustin Johnson, the field for the RBC Canadian Open will include 13 of the Top-50 players on the World Golf Ranking and nine of the Top-30 players on the 2016 Fed-Ex Cup Ranking.

“The field is nearly set and we’re ready to tee-up the 107th playing of Canada’s National Open Championship starting next week at Glen Abbey Golf Club,” said Tournament Director Brent McLaughlin. “We’ve got a tremendous mix of international stars and Canadian talents ready to compete and a family-friendly festival experience ready to welcome spectators of all ages to the 2016 RBC Canadian Open.”

In total, 156 players will compete for the US$5.9 million purse next week in Oakville when Canada’s National Open Championship returns to Glen Abbey for a record 28th time.

Past Champions…

Defending champion Jason Day will be joined by six other former champions, including Team RBC members Brandt Snedeker – who won in 2013 at Glen Abbey Golf Club – and Jim Furyk who claimed back-to-back championships in 2006 and 2007. Other confirmed past champions include Sean O’Hair (2011), Carl Pettersson (2010), Chez Reavie (2008) and Vijay Singh (2004).

Olympians in the Field…

With golf making its return to the Olympic Games in 2016, seven freshly named Olympians will compete in the RBC Canadian Open, including Matt Kuchar (USA), Danny Lee (NZL), Emiliano Grillo (ARG), Alex Cejka (GER) and Camilo Villegas (COL) along with Canadian Olympic Team members David Hearn and Graham DeLaet.

PGA Tour In-Year Winners…

A total of 16 in-year PGA Tour winners will compete at Glen Abbey, including Greg Chalmers, Jon Curran, Jason Day, Tony Finau, Emiliano Grillo, Jim Herman, Charley Hoffman, Billy Hurley III, Dustin Johnson, Kevin Kisner, Peter Malnati, Graeme McDowell, William McGirt, Brandt Snedeker, Brian Stuard and Vaughn Taylor.

12 Canadians to compete for National Men’s Open Title…

David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., who held the 54-hole lead in 2015 before finishing third will lead the 12-member Canadian contingent that also includes Graham DeLaet of Weyburn, Sask., Abbotsford, B.C., natives Adam Hadwin and Nick Taylor, along with Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Mike Weir of Bright’s Grove, Ont., who will be making his 25th start in Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship.

Other Canadians confirmed include Brad Fritsch of Manotick, Ont., who sits fifth on the Web.com Tour money list, as well as Team Canada National Amateur Squad members Hugo Bernard of Mont St-Hilaire, Que., Calgary’s Jared du Toit and Burlington, Ont., native Blair Hamilton.

Former Team Canada member Garrett Rank of Elmira, Ont., has earned his second consecutive RBC Canadian Open exemption by winning back-to-back Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championships. PGA of Canada professional Dave Levesque of Montréal earned his way into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open by claiming the No. 1 position on the PGA of Canada Player Rankings presented by RBC, while Branson Ferrier of Barrie, Ont., won the 144-player Ontario Regional Qualifier to earn an exemption.

The Canadians in the field have their sights set on becoming the first Canadian to capture the national title since Pat Fletcher claimed victory in 1954.

Final Tournament Exemptions to be Named…

The top three players on the Mackenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada Order of Merit following this weekend’s Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel in Thunder Bay, Ont., will earn exemptions into the field for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open.

The final four exemptions into the field for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open will be handed out at the Monday Final Qualifier on July 18 to be played at Diamondback Golf Club in Richmond Hill, Ont.

Celebrating Canada’s Olympic Golf Team on Tuesday, July 19…

The 2016 Olympic golf team comprised of David Hearn and Graham DeLaet along with Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont., and Alena Sharp of Hamilton will be officially welcomed by the Canadian Olympic Committee to Team Canada during a FREE public celebration at Glen Abbey on Tuesday, July 19 at 11 a.m. ET. The men’s team will compete from August 11-14, while the women’s team will take to the Campo Olimpico de Golf course in Rio de Janeiro from August 17-20.

In addition, Friday, July 22 will once again be Red and White Day at the RBC Canadian Open. Players and spectators are encouraged to wear Canada’s national colours in support of our Canadian hopefuls in the field challenging for Canada’s National Open Championship.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE AND PLAYER PERFORMANCE BOOK:

In advance of next week’s championship, media can also download the 2016 RBC Canadian Open Media Guide for complete stats, records and historical information. Media can also download the 2016 RBC Canadian Open Player Performance Book which details individual player statistics from 1904-2015.

TELEVISION COVERAGE:

Thursday July 21

TSN4 & TSN5 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

TSN1 & TSN3 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Golf Channel 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Friday July 22 – Red & White Day

TSN4 & TSN5 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

TSN1 & TSN3 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Golf Channel 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Saturday July 23

Golf Channel 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

CBS & Global 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Sunday July 24

Golf Channel 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

CBS & Global 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

TICKETS:

Grounds tickets for all days of the 2016 RBC Canadian Open, as well as a limited number of premium ticket packages are still available. A full list of ticket packages and pricing is available online at www.rbccanadianopen.com. Golf Canada and RBC are also pleased to offer FREE admission to juniors 17-and-under – click here to download a FREE Junior Pass.

The full list of competitors competing in the 2016 RBC Canadian Open can be found here.

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada has introduced a number of events to build excitement around this year’s 107th playing of the RBC Canadian Open.

On Saturday July 16, Glen Abbey Golf Club will welcome runners and fitness enthusiasts of all ages for the inaugural RBC Canadian Open 5K Run. Participants will have the chance to race through the historic Oakville, Ont., course – beginning at the first hole before crossing the finish line near the iconic 18th green. Participants will get the full running experience complete with race bibs and timed results.

That same day, Glen Abbey will play host to the CN Future Links Junior Skills Challenge National Event, a golf competition similar to the popular Drive, Chip and Putt. The event will bring together 25 junior golfers from across the country in a test of essential golfing skills: driving, chipping, iron play and putting.

This year’s RBC Canadian Open is also one of the final events before golf makes its long-awaited return to the Olympic Games following a 112-year absence. For the first time since Canadian George S. Lyon won gold in 1904, teams from around the world will compete on international sport’s grandest stage. The 2016 Canadian Olympic Golf Team will be officially welcomed by the Canadian Olympic Committee to Team Canada during a FREE public celebration at Glen Abbey on Tuesday, July 19 at 11 a.m. ET.

The RBC Canadian Open will once again celebrate Canada’s Championship with Red and White Day on Friday, July 22. Players, families and fans are invited to wear their brightest reds and cleanest whites to support Canadian golf.

WestJet’s Closest to the Pin Toss returns to offer spectators the chance to win a flight for four. Fans can purchase mini-balls from WestJet volunteers at RBC Water Stations and then take part in the ball toss on the 18^th green at the end of each tournament day. Proceeds will go towards supporting Ronald McDonald Houses across Canada.

Located just off the 10^th fairway, the Golf Canada Golf Zone offers FREE fun activities for the whole family. Pose for a picture with the RBC Canadian Open trophy or the 1904 Olympic Trophy. Enjoy a bag of popcorn while signing-up for a free Golf Canada membership. Take advantage of phone charging stations and cool down in the air-conditioned environment – all for FREE. While there, experience the storied history of Canadian golf with a tour through the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum.

The RBC Canadian Open is more than just 72 holes of world-class golf – it is one of Canada’s most historic sporting events with activities for golf and sport enthusiasts both inside and outside the ropes. Check out the ZTE Spectator Village for engaging activities from a number of the event’s supporting partners, including CN Future Links junior golf activities, charging stations, giveaways, Tweet Caddies, beer gardens, food trucks and more.

As part of the RBC Canadian Open’s commitment to family fun, admission for kids 17-and-under is FREE all week.

A full listing of events and activities at the 2016 RBC Canadian Open can be found here.

For information on tickets, click here.

Information on parking and directions can be found here.

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada and RBC are proud to announce that Web.com Tour player Brad Fritsch of Manotick, Ont., along with a trio of National Amateur Squad members are among the Canadians receiving tournament exemptions to compete in the 2016 RBC Canadian Open taking place at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont., from July 18-24.

Fritsch, who will make his ninth appearance in Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship, is having a strong year on the Web.com Tour with a victory at the Servientrega Championship Presented by Efecty and a runner-up finish at the El Bosque Mexico Championship presented by INNOVA that positions the 38-year-old fifth on the Tour’s money list.

Tournament exemptions have also been given to Team Canada National Amateur Squad members Hugo Bernard of Mont St-Hilaire, Que., Calgary’s Jared du Toit and Burlington, Ont., native Blair Hamilton.

As well, this will be the second consecutive year in which Garrett Rank of Elmira, Ont., has earned his place in the RBC Canadian Open by claiming victory in the previous year’s Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship.

PGA of Canada professional Dave Levesque of Montréal earned his way into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open by claiming the No. 1 position on the PGA of Canada Player Rankings presented by RBC. Branson Ferrier of Barrie, Ont., shot 4-under 68 at King’s Forest Golf Course to top the 144-player field to earn an exemption through the RBC Canadian Open Ontario Regional Qualifier.

Fritsch, Bernard, du Toit, Hamilton, Rank, Levesque and Ferrier will be among 12 Canadians who will challenge for the 107th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship.

Leading the Canadian contingent at Glen Abbey will be Brantford, Ont., native David Hearn, whose 2016 season includes six Top-20 finishes, including a T9 result at The RSM Classic in Sea Island, Ga. Hearn, who held the 54-hole lead before finishing third in the 2015 RBC Canadian Open, is the No. 127-ranked player on the World Golf Ranking.

Joining Hearn will be fellow Canadian PGA Tour players Graham DeLaet of Weyburn, Sask., Abbotsford, B.C., natives Adam Hadwin and Nick Taylor and Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Mike Weir of Brights Grove, Ont., who will be playing in Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship for a 25th time.

“We are excited to have these 12 deserving Canadians compete in the 107th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship,” said RBC Canadian Open Tournament Director Brent McLaughlin. “The passion that these talented players have shown in representing Canada is a true inspiration to the country’s young golfers and we are proud to welcome them to the field for the RBC Canadian Open.”

The 12 Canadian players will look to become the first Canadian to capture the national title since Pat Fletcher accomplished the feat in 1954.

The Canadians confirmed for Glen Abbey will join a field of PGA Tour and international stars that includes defending champion and World No. 1 Jason Day, U.S. Open champion and World No. 2 Dustin Johnson, World No. 15 Matt Kuchar, 2006-2007 RBC Canadian Open champion and World No. 20 Jim Furyk, 2013 RBC Canadian Open champion and World No. 23 Brandt Snedeker, World No. 71 Ryan Palmer, World No. 74 Graeme McDowell, 2016 Masters low amateur Bryson DeChambeau, former World No.1 amateur Jon Rahm and World Golf Hall of Fame member Ernie Els.

Celebrating Canada’s Olympic Golf Team on Tuesday July 19…

The 2016 edition of the RBC Canadian Open is one of the final events before golf returns to the Olympic Games following a 112-year absence. For the first time since Canadian George S. Lyon captured gold in 1904, teams from around the globe will compete on international sport’s grandest stage.

The 2016 Canadian Olympic golf team will be officially welcomed by the Canadian Olympic Committee to Team Canada during a FREE public celebration at Glen Abbey on Tuesday, July 19 at 11 a.m. ET. The men’s team will compete from August 11-14, while the women’s team will take to the Campo Olimpico de Golf course in Rio de Janeiro from August 17-20.

In addition, Friday, July 22 will once again be Red and White Day at the RBC Canadian Open. Players and spectators are encouraged to wear Canada’s national colours in support of our Canadian hopefuls in the field challenging for Canada’s National Open Championship.

Confirmed Canadians in the 2016 RBC Canadian Open:

David Hearn

• Currently the No. 1-ranked Canadian on the World Golf Ranking (No. 127)
• Currently ranked No. 74 in the FedEx Cup standings
• Competing in his 14th RBC Canadian Open (finished 3rd in 2015)

Graham DeLaet

• Currently the No. 2-ranked Canadian on the World Golf Ranking (No. 146)
• Currently ranked No. 105 in the FedEx Cup standings
• Competing in his 8th RBC Canadian Open

Adam Hadwin

• Currently the No. 3-ranked Canadian on the World Golf Ranking (No. 182)
• Currently ranked No. 89 in the FedEx Cup standings
• Competing in his 7th RBC Canadian Open (finished T4 in 2011; T7 in 2015)

Nick Taylor

• Currently ranked No. 286 in the world and No. 106 in the FedEx Cup standings
• Competing in his 7th RBC Canadian Open

Mike Weir

• 8-time PGA TOUR winner
• 2003 Masters champion
• Inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 2009
• Competing in his 25th RBC Canadian Open

Brad Fritsch

• Currently ranked 5th on the 2016 Web.com money list
• Won 2016 Servientrega Championship on Web.com Tour
• Competing in his 9th RBC Canadian Open

Jared du Toit

• Golf Canada National Amateur Squad member
• Currently the No. 1-ranked Canadian on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (No. 56)
• Competing in his 1st RBC Canadian Open

Blair Hamilton

• Golf Canada National Amateur Squad member
• Currently the No. 2-ranked Canadian on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (No. 106)
• Competing in his 2nd RBC Canadian Open (tied for low amateur at 2015 RBC Canadian Open)

Hugo Bernard

• Golf Canada National Amateur Squad member
• Currently ranked No. 255 on the World Amateur Golf Ranking
• Won NCAA Division II Championship
• Competing in his 1st RBC Canadian Open

Garrett Rank

• Former Golf Canada National Amateur Squad member
• 2014 & 2015 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur champion
• Competing in his 2nd RBC Canadian Open

Dave Levesque

• Currently ranked No. 1 on the PGA of Canada Player Rankings presented by RBC
• Competing in his 3rd RBC Canadian Open

Branson Ferrier

• Winner of RBC Canadian Open Ontario Regional Qualifier
• Competing in his 1st RBC Canadian Open

The final field for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open will be released on Friday, July 15 after 5 p.m. ET.

Information regarding tickets, free 17-and-under junior passes, volunteer opportunities and corporate hospitality for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open can be found at www.rbccanadianopen.com.

OAKVILLE, Ont. – ZTE and Golf Canada announced today a one-year partnership that will see ZTE become the Official Smartphone of the RBC Canadian Open. This year’s RBC Canadian Open is set to take place at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, from July 18-24, 2016.

As the Official Smartphone of the RBC Canadian Open, ZTE will have exclusive naming rights to the Spectator Village, which will be known as the ZTE Spectator Village. ZTE is also the official sponsor of the ZTE Tweet Caddies, a group that will be keeping fans updated on the tournament, games and giveaways through social media channels.

“We’re thrilled to sponsor the RBC Canadian Open and showcase our devices at this world-class event. This partnership marks the second PGA TOUR event we’ve sponsored and a major step forward in our North American sports marketing strategy,” said Lixin Cheng, chairman and CEO of ZTE North America. “ZTE is committed to ensuring consumers get cutting edge technology at an affordable price and we’re looking forward to letting RBC Canadian Open spectators get up close and personal with our newest flagship device, the Axon 7.”

ZTE will offer charging stations for patrons, as well as showcase the popular Axon smartphone series, Grand X View tablet and SPro 2 Smart Projector. There will also be exciting games and giveaways throughout the Championship, with prizes including free rounds of golf, stays at a resort, swag bags and chances to win the Axon 7 smartphone all located in the ZTE Spectator Village.

“We are pleased to welcome ZTE as a partner of our National Championship,” said Golf Canada Chief Commercial Officer Gavin Roth. “Innovative technology is having a positive impact on fan engagement at major sporting events and we know ZTE will deliver an exciting spectator experience at this year’s RBC Canadian Open.”

ABOUT ZTE Canada

ZTE Canada Inc. (www.ztedevices.ca), headquartered in Toronto, Canada, is a subsidiary of ZTE Corporation, a global provider of mobile devices, telecommunication systems and enterprise solutions. Operating since March 2005, ZTE Canada is dedicated to making cost-efficient, quality communication technology accessible to all. In North America, ZTE is the fourth-largest supplier of smartphones and handset vendors and is the second largest vendor in the pre-paid market. ZTE is one of the top rated high tech enterprises in the world, developing and producing 2G, 3G and 4G handsets and mobile devices in over 150 countries. Founded in 1985, ZTE Corporation is listed on the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges and is China’s largest listed telecom equipment company.

Visit ZTE Canada at ztedevices.ca, on Facebook and on Twitter.

ABOUT THE 2016 RBC CANADIAN OPEN

Part of the FedExCup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.9 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 18-24, 2016 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. Conducted by Golf Canada for more than a century, the RBC Canadian Open provides an opportunity for Canada’s top talents to compete against the world’s best golfers while also leaving a significant impact in the event’s host community. The RBC Canadian Open is proud to support Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada as the event’s official charity partner. Established in 1904, Canada’s national open golf championship is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Shaw, BMW Group Canada, Molson Canadian 67, ZTE, WestJet, TaylorMade adidas Golf, Boston Pizza, Ballantine’s, Santa Carolina Wines, Toronto Star, Coca-Cola, CHIN Radio TV International, Metrolinx and the Government of Canada. For tickets or tournament information, please visit www.rbccanadianopen.com or call 1-800-571-6736.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Organization and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 310,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

HAMILTON – The third and final RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifying event saw a field of 144 players combat heat and humidity at King’s Forest Golf Course in hopes of gaining entry into Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship. Branson Ferrier finished 4-under 68 to claim medallist honours and earn an exemption into the 107th playing of the RBC Canadian Open to be contested at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont., from July 18-24.

Ferrier, who began the day on the 10th hole, opened with a 1-under 35 across the back nine. The Barrie, Ont., product finished his round with four birdies across his final six holes to secure the victory amidst rising temperatures and gathering winds.

“It was quite difficult out there,” said the 22-year-old. “I was off at 8:30 a.m., so I definitely give a lot of credit to being on the right end of the draw with the weather we had this afternoon. Even this morning towards the end of my round, the winds were picking up and it was very hot and sticky. There were a lot of crosswinds, so it was very difficult to judge.

“I had it going right out of the gate. I was making birdies and I knew that they were out there, so I just had to clean up a few things around the greens. I knew that there were two par-5s coming in my last six; my goal was just to get those two and play steady coming in.”

The former Alabama State University Hornet had trouble finding the right words when looking ahead to playing at the 2016 RBC Canadian Open. “I’ve only been playing professional golf for a few weeks. This is my fourth event as a professional, so this comes as a bit of a shock to me. I had been playing well at school and my game just kind of carried over. I’ve been to the Open at Glen Abbey a few times, and I’m beyond excited to be on the other side of the ropes this time.”

Matthew Scobie of Ajax, Ont., was the only other player to card a round under-par. The 21-year-old collected four birdies en route to a 1-under 71 showing. Peter Campbell of Windermere, Fla., Donnie Trosper from Canton, Mich., as well as, Ontarians Brian Hadley (Sarnia) and Will Mitchell (Bowmanville) finished with shares of third-place at even-par.

A total of 25 competitors, excluding the low medallist, shot 4-over 76 or better to advance to the Final Qualifier in which a minimum of four players will gain entry into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open.

The two-stage qualifying procedure for Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship is comprised of a trio of regional qualifying events held in British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario, followed by the final qualifying competition at Heron Point Golf Links in Ancaster, Ont., on July 18.

The previous two qualifying events at Victoria’s Bear Mountain Resort and Club de golf La Vallée du Richelieu in Sainte-Julie, Que., awarded 14 players with spots into the Final Qualifier.

Additional information and full results from the RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifier in Ontario can be found here.

Players of Note Confirmed to Date

Team RBC players including world no. 1 Jason Day, Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell, Ernie Els, Brandt Snedeker, Ryan Palmer and Jim Furyk as well as Canadians David Hearn, Graham DeLaet, Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor and Mike Weir. Other notables include world no. 6 Dustin Johnson, rising star Bryson DeChambeau and world no. 1 amateur John Rahm.

RBC Canadian Open 5K Run – Saturday July 16

Landmark Sport Group in conjunction with Golf Canada is excited to present a brand new event to build interest leading into the RBC Canadian Open. On Saturday, July 16, 2016 the inaugural RBC Canadian Open 5K Running Event will provide participants the opportunity to experience Glen Abbey like never before as they run or walk along the spectator and cart pathways on a beautiful summer morning. The route begins near the 1st tee of the Championship Course and ultimately finishes alongside the iconic and picturesque 18th green. This event is tailored to both the traditional and non-traditional running audience, and will provide all participants with the full runner’s experience of a timed event as they receive a bib, shirt and finisher’s medal. Registration is $60 with participants receiving a FREE Anyday ticket to enjoy the championship. www.golfrun.ca

CN Future Links Skills Challenge – Saturday July 16

The RBC Canadian Open won’t be the only national golf competition taking place at Glen Abbey Golf Club. CN, Golf Canada and the PGA of Canada will again play host to twenty-four competitors from across Canada at Glen Abbey on Saturday, July 16 for the 8th annual CN Future Links Junior Skills Challenge National Event. Competitors who qualify from regional sites in their community will compete in a four-part skills challenge (putting, chipping, driving and iron play) with one overall winner per age-group (9-11; 12-14; and 15-18) and gender. A total of 24 competitors who achieve the highest skills challenge scores from events across Canada during the 2016 golf season will travel to Glen Abbey with the hope of becoming a CN Future Links Junior Skills Challenge national champion.

Olympic Celebration & Opening Ceremony – Tuesday July 19

In 2016, golf makes its celebrated return the Olympic Games for the first time since Canadian George S. Lyon won gold for Canada at the 1904 Olympics. With the RBC Canadian Open as the first PGA Tour stop following the July 11 Olympic field deadline date, Golf Canada and RBC in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee will hold a team unveil celebration at Glen Abbey Golf Club on Tuesday, July 19 to officially introduce Canada’s Olympic golf team that will compete in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in August. The Olympic celebration – which will feature free attendance – will also serve as an opening ceremony to officially kick off the RBC Canadian Open.

Kids 17-and-under Get in Free

Golf Canada and RBC are committed to offering a fan friendly, family event with the RBC Canadian Open. In an effort to introduce more juniors to the sport, kids aged 17-and-under get FREE admission to the RBC Canadian Open for the entire week.

Stars of the PGA Tour Return to Glen Abbey Golf Club

The 107th playing of Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship will return to the Jack Nicklaus Signature design for a record 28th time in 2016. The Abbey has previously played host in 1977-79, 1981-96, 1998-2000, 2004, 2008-09, 2013 and 2015.

Celebrating 40 Years

The renowned Glen Abbey Golf Club will celebrate a milestone in 2016 as the Jack Nicklaus signature design celebrates its 40th anniversary. Originally owned and operated by the Royal Canadian Golf Association (now Golf Canada), the club was sold to ClubLink in 1999. The site is also home to Golf Canada’s head office and PGA Tour Canada’s office as well as the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum.

Oh Canada

As Canada’s National Open Golf Championship, the RBC Canadian Open features the top talents in Canadian golf competing against the stars of the PGA Tour. Each year, the event will feature anywhere from 15-20 Canadian competitors in the field led by PGA Tour stars David Hearn, Graham DeLaet, Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor and Mike Weir. The Canuck contingent will look to become the first Canadian since Pat Fletcher in 1954 to claim Canada’s National Men’s Open Championship.

Red & White Day – Friday, July 22

The RBC Canadian Open is Canada’s National Championship and to celebrate ‘Our Open’, Friday, July 22 of tournament week will once again be ‘Red & White Day’. Spectators, sponsors, players and attendees are encouraged to wear Canada’s national colours in support of our Canadian athletes in the field.

Community Impact

The RBC Canadian Open is one of Canada’s premier sporting events drawing in excess of 100,000 spectators and more than 1,400 volunteers. The event also generates $15-20M in economic activity within the host community and province. 

ABOUT THE 2016 RBC CANADIAN OPEN

Part of the FedExCup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.9 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 18-24, 2016 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. Conducted by Golf Canada for more than a century, the RBC Canadian Open provides an opportunity for Canada’s top talents to compete against the world’s best golfers while also leaving a significant impact in the event’s host community. The RBC Canadian Open is proud to support Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada as the event’s official charity partner. Established in 1904, Canada’s national open golf championship is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Shaw, BMW Group Canada, Molson Canadian 67, WestJet, TaylorMade adidas Golf, Boston Pizza, Ballantine’s, Santa Carolina Wines, Toronto Star, Coca-Cola, ZTE, CHIN Radio TV International, Metrolinx and the Government of Canada. For tickets or tournament information, please visit www.rbccanadianopen.com or call 1-800-571-6736.

RBC GOLF

RBC proudly supports golf around the world through high profile relationships with the PGA TOUR and Golf Canada. RBC is the Official Banking and Financial Services partner of touring professionals Jason Day, Graham DeLaet, Ernie Els, Jim Furyk, Adam Hadwin, David Hearn, Brooke Henderson, Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell, Ryan Palmer, Morgan Pressel, Brandt Snedeker, Nick Taylor and Mike Weir. As the title sponsor of both the RBC Heritage and the RBC Canadian Open, RBC also supports emerging Canadian golfers through Golf Canada’s grassroots developmental programming, the Canadian Amateur Golf Championships and the high performance national team. RBC is one of North America’s leading diversified financial services companies and among the largest banks in the world, as measured by market capitalization. For more information, visit www.rbc.com/golf.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 310,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

For more information:

Dan Pino

Director, Corporate Communications

Golf Canada

(t) 1-800-263-0009 x 406

(c) 416-434-5525

(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

SAINTE-JULIE, Que. – A field of 29

fought against 60km/h winds at Club de Golf La Vallée du Richelieu, with

Gianfranco Guida, Jean-Philip Cornellier, Tim Alarie, and Marc-Étienne

Bussières earning exemptions into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open Final Qualifier on

July 18.

Guida of Maple, Ont., stayed bogey-free through 15 holes with a birdie on 13

and an eagle on 14 to claim a share of the top spot.

“It was playing really tough because of the wind, but the greens were very

pure,” he said. “Playing golf in Australia really taught me how to play into

the wind. You just have to hit a lot of knockdowns and you have to know what

clubs to hit.”

The 27-year-old is hoping that the final qualifier will lead to a spot in the

RBC Canadian Open field. “My career is at the tipping point of whether I’m

going to continue doing it. I’m glad in the sense that hopefully if I get

through it will be big validation, and I can continue playing and find it

easier to find funding.”

Co-leader Jean-Philip Cornellier of St-Césaire, Que., tallied four birdies on

the day, two of which came back-to-back on holes 14 and 15. Tim Alarie of

St-Jérôme, Que., and Sherbrooke, Que., native Marc-Étienne Bussières also

finished with matching 72s.

At T5, former Team Canada Development Squad member Étienne Papineau

(St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.), Chad Merzbacher (Eden Prairie, Minn.), and

Pierre-Alexandre Bédard (Chibougamau, Que.) will join Guida, Cornellier,

Alarie, and Bussières at the Final Qualifier at Heron Point Golf Links in

Ancaster, Ont., on July 18.

In total, there are three regional qualifying events, each consisting of 18

holes of stroke play. Provided that there are 100 or more players in the field,

the low qualifier receives an exemption directly into the 2016 RBC Canadian

Open. Otherwise, the top 15 per cent of finishers at each qualifier become

eligible to compete at the final qualifying event.

A minimum of four players from the 18-hole stroke play final qualifier will

gain entry into the RBC Canadian Open field.

There is one RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifier left to be played:

• June 20 – King’s Forest Golf Club, Hamilton, Ont.

Additional information regarding the RBC

Canadian Open Regional Qualifier in Quebec can be found here.

RBC CANADIAN OPEN

REGIONAL QUALIFIER – QUEBEC RESULTS

• 1. Marc-Étienne Bussières, Sherbrooke QC, *36-36-72 E
• 1. Gianfranco Guida, Maple, ON, *38-34-72 E
• 1. Tim Alarie, St-jérôme, QC, *35-37-72 E
• 1. Jean-Philip Cornellier, St-Césaire, QC, *37-35-72 E
• 5. Étienne Papineau (a), St-Jean-sur-Richelieu,

  *37-36-73 +1

• 5. Chad Merzbacher (a), Eden Prairie, MN, *36-37-73 +1
• 5. Pierre-Alexandre Bédard (a), Chibougamau, QC,

  *37-36-73 +1

• 8. Iannick Lamarre, St-Lambert, QC, *36-38-74 +2
• 9. Marc Bourgeois, Dieppe, NB, *39-36-75 +3
• 10. James Colin Davis (a), Montreal, QC, *38-38-76 +4
• 10. Dylan Dethier, Williamstown, MA, *36-40-76 +4
• 12. Griffin Jones (a), Manotick, ON, *37-41-78 +6
• 12. Vincent Blanchette (a), St-jean-sur-richelieu, QC,

  *38-40-78 +6

• 12. Beon Yeong Lee, Montreal, QC, *36-42-78 +6
• 12. Mathieu Perron, St. Hubert, QC, *36-42-78 +6
• 16. Raphael Nolet (a), Terrebonne, QC, *39-40-79 +7
• 16. Lucas Duperre Vanden Hecke, Montréal, QC, *40-39-79

  +7

• 16. James Rim (a), Ajax, ON, *37-42-79 +7
• 19. Raphael Even-Hen (a), Montreal, Quebec, *38-42-80

  +8

• 19. Sun Kim (a), L’ILE PERROT, *39-41-80 +8
• 19. Louis-Francois Charpentier (a), Montreal, QC,

  *41-39-80 +8

• 19. Komkrit Koinapan, Ajax, ON, *39-41-80 +8
• 19. Massimo Roch (a), Montreal, QC, *39-41-80 +8
• 24. Baylee Wise (a), King City, ON, *40-41-81 +9
• 25. Benoit Boudreau, Longueuil, QC, *40-42-82 +10
• 26. Myles McDonald (a), Hogansburg, NY, *40-43-83 +11
• 27. Jordan Pittman, Clarenville, NL, *41-43-84 +12
• 28. Mark Craik (a), Rothesay, NB, *46-43-89 +17
• 29. Steven Diabo, Beauharnois, QC, *49-49-98 +26

ABOUT THE 2016 RBC

CANADIAN OPEN

Part of the FedExCup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.9 million (US)

at the RBC Canadian Open, July 18-24, 2016 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville,

Ont. Conducted by Golf Canada for more than a century, the RBC Canadian Open

provides an opportunity for Canada’s top talents to compete against the world’s

best golfers while also leaving a significant impact in the event’s host

community. The RBC Canadian Open is proud to support Ronald McDonald House

Charities Canada as the event’s official charity partner. Established in 1904,

Canada’s national open golf championship is the third-oldest national open golf

championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC

Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Shaw, BMW Group Canada, Molson

Canadian 67, WestJet, TaylorMade adidas Golf, Boston Pizza, Ballantine’s,

Toronto Star, Coca-Cola, Santa Carolina Wines, CHIN Radio TV INTERNATIONAL, and

Metrolinx. For tickets or tournament information, please visit www.rbccanadianopen.com or call 1-800-571-6736.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE

GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in

Canada representing close to 310,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs

across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf

Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport

while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the

growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game,

our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts

from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to

support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

For more information:

Dan Pino

Director, Corporate Communications

Golf Canada

(t) 1-800-263-0009 x 406

(c) 416-434-5525

(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

VICTORIA – Bear Mountain Resort played host to the first of three RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifiers, as local and international talent competed for the chance to move on to the RBC Canadian Open Final Qualifier at Heron Point Golf Links in Ancaster, Ont., on July 18. Riley Wheeldon of Comox, B.C., shot 64 to establish a new course record and register a one-stroke victory.

“I had two lackadaisical bogeys in the middle of the round, but other than that I played very well,” said the 25-year-old. “I do know four or five of the guys from today whom I’ve been playing with around B.C., so with so few spots available, there wasn’t much margin for error.”

Wheeldon recorded eight birdies, including five on the back nine to secure the win. “It was fairly calm out and the course was in great condition. It’s just nice to know I’m one round away in a couple months from being in our biggest tournament of the year.”

Seann Harlingten of West Vancouver, B.C., and Dillon Rust of Edmond, Okla., finished T2 after matching 65s; Rust went bogey-free and collected five birdies. Ian (Jae Hoon) Kim of Surrey, B.C., was the lone amateur to make the cut with a 4-under 66 showing.

The trio of Ben Taylor (Baton Rouge, La.), Ryan Burgess (Dallas, Texas), and Brad Clapp (Chilliwack, B.C.) finished with shares of fifth at 2-under and will join Wheeldon, Harlingten, Rust, and Kim at Final Qualifying.

In total, there are three regional qualifying events, each consisting of 18 holes of stroke play. Provided that there are 100 or more players in the field, the low qualifier receives an exemption directly into the 2015 RBC Canadian Open. Otherwise, the top 15 per cent of finishers at each qualifier become eligible to compete at the final qualifying event.

A minimum of four players from the 18-hole stroke play final qualifier will gain entry into the RBC Canadian Open field.

There are two more RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifiers to be played:

• June 6 – Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu, Sainte-Julie, Que.

• June 20 – King’s Forest Golf Club, Hamilton, Ont.

Additional information regarding the RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifier in British Columbia, can be found here.

RBC CANADIAN OPEN REGIONAL QUALIFIER – BRITISH COLUMBIA RESULTS

• 1. Riley Wheeldon, Comox, BC, *33-31-64 -6

• 2. Seann Harlingten, West Vancouver, BC, *32-33-65 -5

• 2. Dillon Rust, Edmond, OK, *33-32-65 -5

• 4. Ian (Jae Hoon) Kim (a), Surrey, BC, *35-31-66 -4

• 5. Ben Taylor, Baton Rouge, LA, *36-32-68 -2

• 5. Ryan Burgess, Dallas, TX, *34-34-68 -2

• 5. Brad Clapp, Chilliwack BC, *34-34-68 -2

DID NOT ADVANCE

• 8. Andrew Ledger, Toronto, ON, *34-35-69 -1

• 8. Thomas Hay, Langley, BC, *33-36-69 -1

• 10. Sebastian Szirmak, Toronto, ON, *36-34-70 E

• 11. Thomas Murtagh, Jacksonville, FL, *35-36-71 +1

• 11. Danny Sahl, Edmonton, AB, *36-35-71 +1

• 13. Christopher Heesung Ro, North Vancouver, BC, *35-37-72 +2

• 14. Roberto Lupini, Vancouver, BC, *35-38-73 +3

• 14. Kamyar Yamini (a), Vancouver, BC, *38-35-73 +3

• 16. Henry Lee (a), Coquitlam, BC, *37-37-74 +4

• 17. Victor Choi (a), Courtenay, BC, *36-40-76 +6

• 18. Tyler Marchand, Penetanguishene, ON, *41-38-79 +9

• 18. Andy Kim (a), Langley, BC, *36-43-79 +9

• 20. Jesse Moussa, Courtenay, BC, *42-38-80 +10

• 21. Sean Ko, West Vancouver, BC, *42-40-82 +12

• 21. James Ball (a), Victoria, BC, *44-38-82 +12

• 23. Willis Lee (a), Langley, BC, *37-47-84 +14

• 23. Seung Yeon Lee (a), Langley, BC, *40-44-84 +14

• 25. Derek Kovacs, Edmonton, AB, *38-47-85 +15

• 26. Dean Botha (a), Airdrie, AB, *45-43-88 +18

ABOUT THE 2016 RBC CANADIAN OPEN

Part of the FedExCup, stars of the PGA TOUR will compete for $5.9 million (US) at the RBC Canadian Open, July 18-24, 2016 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont. Conducted by Golf Canada for more than a century, the RBC Canadian Open provides an opportunity for Canada’s top talents to compete against the world’s best golfers while also leaving a significant impact in the event’s host community. The RBC Canadian Open is proud to support Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada as the event’s official charity partner. Established in 1904, Canada’s national open golf championship is the third-oldest national open golf championship worldwide next to the British Open and the U.S. Open. The RBC Canadian Open is proudly sponsored by RBC, Shaw, BMW Group Canada, Molson Canadian 67, WestJet, TaylorMade adidas Golf, Boston Pizza, Ballantine’s, Santa Carolina Wines and Metrolinx. For tickets or tournament information, please visit www.rbccanadianopen.com or call 1-800-571-6736.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 310,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

For more information:

Dan Pino

Director, Corporate Communications

Golf Canada

(t) 1-800-263-0009 x 406

(c) 416-434-5525

(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Golf Canada, in partnership with title sponsor RBC, is pleased to announce the qualifying format for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open, scheduled for July 18-24 at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ont.

A two-stage qualifying procedure for Canada’s National Open Championship will feature three regional qualifying competitions in British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec, followed by a final qualifying event on Monday, July 18.

The first regional qualifier will take place May 30 at Bear Mountain Resort in Victoria, B.C. The second regional qualifying event will be hosted by Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu (Rouville Course) in Sainte-Julie, Qué., on June 6. The third regional qualifier will take place June 20 at King’s Forest Golf Club in Hamilton. The final qualifier will take place Monday, July 18 at Heron Point Golf Links in Ancaster, Ont.

Each of the three regional qualifiers will feature 18 holes of stroke play with the low qualifier at each site receiving an exemption directly into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open field (provided the starting field is a minimum of 100 competitors at each site). The top 15 per cent of finishers, beyond the low qualifier, at each regional qualifying competition are eligible to compete at final qualifying.

Participation in final qualifying is limited to those competitors receiving requisite exemptions, or individuals who have advanced through regional qualifying. The event will feature 18 holes of stroke play, with a minimum of four (4) spots available for direct entry into the 2016 RBC Canadian Open field.

New for 2016, Golf Canada has expanded the exemption criteria into final qualifying to include the following:

• Top 10 players on the Mackenzie Tour-PGA TOUR Canada Order of Merit (following the Staal Foundation Open presented by Tbaytel)
• Top five players on the PGA of Canada Order of Merit (following the PGA Championship of Canada)
• Top player on the Great Lakes Golf Tour Order of Merit (following the GLT Paris Championship)

The qualifying competition is open to members in good standing of the PGA of Canada or other PGA affiliates, amateur golfers (with a current Handicap Factor not exceeding 2.0) who are members of Golf Canada or in good standing with their respective associations, and other golf professionals.

In all, a total of 24 exemptions, including the seven (7) awarded through regional and final qualifiers are available for the 2016 RBC Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Club.

For more information about complete qualifying criteria and to register, click here.