The putting greens have been meticulously groomed and the
fairways have been honed for the 59th annual Idylwylde
Invitational Golf Tournament.
The prestigious event, which is the longest running match
play golf event in Canada, takes place at the Idylwylde Golf
and Country Club from July 21 to 23. The final rounds will be
contested on Sunday with the winner being crowned later on in
the day.
The 2006 version will have no shortage of premiere players
taking a run for the top spot.
Last year's champion, Ryan Hagger from Blind River, is back
to defend his crown.
Five-time champion Vince Palladino will also be in the hunt
as will be three-time winner Bruce Helbig.
Two-time runner-up Cameron Hreljac will be looking to
finally stake his claim on the coveted crown.
There's also no less than a dozen NCAA players coming into
the tournament with their eyes fixed on the prize.
Some of the local favourites will be Sid Segsworth (runner-up from last year), NHL hockey player Brian Savage, Jordan Lund and Pat Laferriere.
There are players from across North America heading into the
Nickel City for the tournament, including six from California.
Mississauga's John McCann will also be competing. He's been
competing at the tournament for 44 years.
Spectators are welcome at all three days of competition and admission is free.
