PGA stars to challenge defending champ Scott Piercy at Canadian Open
15 Canadians participating next week, including Graham DeLaet
Reigning RBC Canadian Open champion Scott Piercy will be back to defend his title when play kicks off Monday at Glen Abbey Golf Club.
Piercy will be challenged by a field of PGA Tour stars that includes Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell, Brandt Snedeker, Luke Donald, Ernie Els, Bubba Watson and two-time Canadian Open champion Jim Furyk.
In all, 156 players will compete for the $5.6 million US purse when Canada's National Open Championship returns to the Oakville course.
"The golf course is in tremendous shape and ready to challenge the world's best golfers for a record 26th time," said tournament directory Bill Paul. "There is no doubt that Canadian golf fans will be treated to a terrific showcase next week at Glen Abbey Golf Club."
In total, 15 Canadians will participate in the event including Graham DeLaet of Weyburn, Sask., David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., Brad Fritsch of Manotick, Ont., Stephen Ames of Calgary and Mike Weir of Bright's Grove, Ont.
Other Canadians set to compete include 21-year-old Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont. and 19-year-old Adam Svensson of Surrey, B.C.
A Canadian winner has not been crowned at the RBC Canadian Open since Pat Fletcher won it in 1954.
Three additional exemptions into the field will be confirmed on Sunday evening following the Player Cup PGA TOUR Canada event in Winnipeg. The final four exemptions will be handed out at the final qualifier on July 22 at Heron Point Golf Links near Hamilton.