Atlantic Golf Championships tee off on P.E.I. for first time

Islanders will get to watch some of  the best amateur golfers in the region when the Atlantic Golf Championships come to Fox Meadow in Stratford in August. It's the first time the regional tournament will be played in Prince Edward Island. 

"We think it's the most prestigious tournament in Atlantic Canada for amateur golfers," says Ron MacNeill, executive director of Prince Edward Island Golf Association.

"It's a first class event with national ranking. Players that do well at this tournament go on to national championships — that's part of their prize package." 

The top 20 players from the four provinces will compete Aug. 18-21 for individual and team titles in a number of divisions, including men, women, seniors and mid-amateurs. 

The three rounds Friday, Saturday and Sunday will be open to the public to watch. 

P.E.I. Golf Association excited to showcase Island courses

MacNeill said he's excited  to showcase P.E.I. and the province's golf courses. 

"It's a great opportunity for some of these folks who perhaps have not experienced our golf product to get over and have a great week of golf," he said.

The tournament was created by the four Atlantic provinces three years ago. This year is P.E.I.'s turn to host. The tournament was held in Newfoundland last year and Cape Breton in 2014. New Brunswick will host in 2017.

Fox Meadow was one of half-a-dozen Island courses that submitted a proposal to host the tournament, according to MacNeill. The successful bidder was chosen by the tournament committee. All P.E.I. courses were invited to submit a proposal. 

The 80 players will be here for most of the week, according to MacNeill, so he believes the tournament should have some economic benefit for Charlottetown and the region as well. 

"It's prime time in August. I believe it's Old Home Week, so we're going to show these guests a great week and in turn they're going to show us some great golf," said MacNeill.