Posts Written by Dianne Hutton

As our 2025 golf season draws to a close, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude for the outstanding support we have received, which has consistently inspired our commitment to excellence.  As Alfred North Whitehead said “No one who achieves success does so without the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” I am not sure about the “wise and confident” but I am sure about the “help of others”.

We wish to express our appreciation to Tiffany Gordon, Brent Grosart, Bob MacDonald, and Gordon Brayton, all of whom are exceptional golf professionals. Their commitment to our development continually exceeds expectations, and we remain deeply thankful.

Our gratitude further extends to the golf courses that host our events. Special acknowledgment goes to Redwood Meadows, Springbank Links, D’Arcy Ranch, HeatherGlen, Valley Ridge and Wingfield for their ongoing support of Golfaround and for providing accessible rates. We also thank Oxbow for offering an excellent course and senior rate, regardless of age—a testament to their generosity. The scenic quality of their facility, rich in natural beauty, is much appreciated. Collicutt Siding similarly provides an enjoyable course at an affordable price. We are also grateful to the City of Calgary golf team, particularly Stacie, whose support for women’s golf forms the foundation of our Beginner Program.

A heartfelt thank you is due to our members who volunteer their time and efforts. Your assistance with flight coordination is invaluable, especially when challenges arise with late or absent participants. We also appreciate all our loyal members; your enthusiasm and continued engagement are central to Golfaround’s success.

Finally, we are honored by the enduring mentorship of Tiffany Gordon. Since our inception, she has been an inspirational leader, and we are immensely proud of her forthcoming role as the first female Commissioner of the CPGA in 2026.

Dreaming of your next great escape? Let us whisk you away to Thailand, the jewel of Southeast Asia, where every journey is a tapestry of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

In February 2003, we set out on a voyage to Thailand and were instantly captivated. From the shimmering golden temples and bustling markets filled with exotic aromas, to the serene canals that weave through Bangkok, every moment was a feast for the senses. The City of Angels—Bangkok—offers energy and excitement at every corner. And after soaking up its vibrant pulse, we journeyed south to the tranquil shores of Cha Am and Hua Hin. These relaxed coastal communities offered endless stretches of powdery sand, world-class golf courses, and the kind of relaxation that lingers in your memory long after you’ve returned home.

But Thailand is more than just a destination—it’s a launching pad for countless other adventures. Some of our companions ventured north to the ancient, walled city of Chiang Mai, a place where tradition lives on in every stone and every smile. Others continued their explorations to the dazzling lights of Hong Kong, the culinary wonders of Osaka and Singapore, or the island paradises of Koh Samui and Phuket. We loved it so much we think it is time to do Thailand again. Twenty years ago it was rustic, raw and full of surprises. There are bound to be changes in 23 years , more malls instead of markets, more resorts and more  tourists and more expensive but I am sure the overall experience will remain the same, the markets still fun, the beaches still amazing and the locals still smiling.

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is a dream for globetrotters searching for adventure, sun-soaked beaches, and awe-inspiring getaways. Here, vibrant cities pulse with life, while serene mountains and lush jungles beckon you to explore. Whether you’re feasting on spicy street food, trekking through emerald rainforests, or relaxing on a sun-drenched island, Thailand delivers an experience for every type of traveler.

Step into a world where ancient temples, opulent palaces, and UNESCO heritage parks invite you to discover centuries of tradition. Thai culture is as rich as it is welcoming, with local hospitality that has become legendary among seasoned travellers. The genuine warmth and openness of the Thai people ensure that every visitor feels at home from the moment they arrive.

If sunbathing tops your dream vacation list, Thailand’s coastline is your paradise. Picture yourself lounging on pristine beaches, the turquoise water sparkling in every direction.

Ever dreamed of meeting elephants up close? Thailand’s elephant sanctuaries are a must, offering a respectful and enlightening way to connect with these majestic creatures and understand their place in local culture.

Golf in paradise? Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s premier golf destinations, boasting over 300 courses and new ones opening every year. The country’s top five golf hotspots—Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Phuket—offer unique courses nestled in stunning landscapes with facilities for every level of enthusiast. We will experience golf in Hua Hin and Chaing Mai. Between rounds, indulge in a spa treatment, explore floating bungalows, or browse the vibrant night markets along the beach.

Thailand is a destination that captures the soul—rich in heritage, dazzling in beauty, and overflowing with warmth. Whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or a perfect blend of both, Thailand promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to embark on your unforgettable Thai journey? Stay tuned for more information.

This years Play & Stay was at the St Eugene Resort and Casino. This is a beautiful destination, very scenic, great amenities and a great golf course. The resort is situated in a secluded valley on the banks of the St. Mary’s river, All our rooms  offered spectacular views of the Hoo Doo’s, the Championship Golf Course and either the Purcell or Rocky Mountains, including the breathtaking Fisher Peak. Our get-a-way started at the firepit, unfortunately there was a fire ban and our planned warm welcome was a bit cooler. However there was a buzz of excitement as our members interacted and enjoyed the moment. The groups first round of golf was at the resort’s championship course, and it was in excellent shape, the weather was awesome, it did get a bit warm towards the end of our round but the breeze helped. We enjoyed a great pace of play, thank you ladies. We also played poker on both nines, so much fun. Following the round Golfaround took over the patio at the 19th hole and the winners were announced. Glenda Brown had the best hand on the front 9 with 5 fives and won $46.00, some golf balls and a special bag tag.  The winner of the back 9 was Karen Flamand who  had 4 fives and won another pot with the same loot , she donated her pot to the Calgary Humane Society.

On Sunday we played Bootleg Gap, a very scenic golf course located in Kimberly. The course combines spacious driving holes with tighter riverside holes where accuracy is at a premium. The “signature” golf hole is their 193-yard (107 for us) par-three 12th, which requires a tee shot to a well-protected, large, undulated green situated 50 feet below, absolutely stunning. The 12th begins a thrilling three-hole stretch that rims the beautiful St. Mary River and truly highlights the beauty of the Kootenay Rockies golf region. Set against the stunning backdrop of the St. Mary’s River valley, the course features wide, open fairways that meander through the unspoiled forests and along the crystal-clear waters of the river. We experienced a harmonious blend of challenge and playability, with meticulously maintained greens and strategically placed bunkers enhancing the experience. Some of the group went early and tried out some of the other great courses in the area. Our group played at Cranbrook and had a fun round there. Some of you long term members will remember Paul Whittingham who was at Heritage Pointe more than a decade ago. He has been the Head Pro at the Cranbrook Golf Club for more than a decade. This golf course was great and if you are in the area pop in and say hi to Paul and play the “hidden gem of the Kootenays” you will be glad you did. We dabbled a bit in the casino, enjoyed beverages and food in the restaurants and appreciated the hospitality suite complements of Brenda who was a gem to work with. All the staff we encountered were very helpful and could not do enough for us, we will return.

This year, our esteemed Mystery Bus trip was indeed filled with surprises. We initiated our planning ahead of time by obtaining information and booking Drumheller before Christmas. We priced our package and received an overwhelming response. However, communicating with the authorities in Drumheller proved challenging, and when we finally did manage to reach them, we were frustrated to find that the pricing had changed. This raised concerns about how things would be managed, prompting us to go back to the drawing board to find a replacement location.

Firstly, we consulted George at Alberta Coach, who inquired, “What happened to Drumheller?” It is important to note that a motor coach driver’s hours of service are strictly regulated by Federal and Provincial laws, which limit the number of hours a driver can operate in a day. Our alternative golf course required a longer drive, necessitating a new pick-up location closer to the south since Alberta Coach is based in Okotoks, and the driver’s hours start upon picking up the coach. Additionally, we had to arrange for a shotgun start to reduce our playing time. This arrangement was negotiated but incurred an additional charge per person. In our 25-plus years, we have never encountered so many unexpected developments. To further complicate matters, on the night before our event, we discovered that the course had been closed for two days due to heavy rain, leaving us uncertain about what to expect.

We boarded the bus at Southcentre, with everyone speculating about our destination. As we headed south, guesses included Picture Butte, Paradise Canyon, Henderson Lake, and others. Upon passing through Lethbridge, most participants were stumped, except for Deb Culhane, who correctly guessed Magrath and won the pot—congratulations, Deb.

Upon our arrival at the Magrath Golf Club, we found everything prepared for us, and the conditions were excellent. There was a flurry of activity as we decorated our carts according to the theme: Wine & Roses. The decorations were impressive, and the club took photographs to commemorate their 100-year anniversary, having been in operation since 1925. The course was in great shape and it really is a hidden gem, with beautiful scenery, challenging play and good vibes. We finished our day with a very tasty roast beef dinner followed by prizes and fun. We enjoyed the day and I do believe the participants did as well.

One of our members requested information on the official rules of golf and how they come into play with our Golfaround league. When there is nothing on the line but fun recreational golf should be an enjoyable experience, trying to remember and deciphers the official rules can get in the way of a good time. The Rules of Golf are extremely detailed and difficult to interpret; in fact there are courses offered to teach and clarify.

As golfers we should be aware of the rules as they should be used for competitive play, but for a game among friends or a non- competitive league like Golfaround relaxed rules make the game easier, faster and more fun. These are simply common-sense practices. We will identify a condensed version of the official rules and follow this with the relaxed version.

One Stroke Penalty Plus Distance

The penalty for hitting a ball out of bounds is one stroke, and the player must return to the spot from where the previous stroke was played. For instance, if a golfer’s tee shot goes out of bounds, they will play their next shot from the tee box, counting it as their third stroke.

Water Hazards

·         If the ball goes into a water hazard, the player can:

o   Drop the ball near the spot where the last shot was played.

o   Drop the ball behind the hazard, keeping the line between the hole and where the ball crossed the hazard. The player can drop as far back as desired.

o   For lateral hazards, drop within two club-lengths of the entry point or on the opposite side of the hazard, both options with a one-stroke penalty.

If unsure whether the ball is in the hazard, treat it as lost or out of bounds under the stroke-and-distance rule.

The player can clean the ball if found in the hazard or replace it with another ball.

·         If a shot lands in another hazard after hitting from a water hazard:

o   Drop the ball near the previous spot, taking a one-stroke penalty.

Alternatively, follow Rule 26-1 steps with a penalty or return to the tee or the original hitting spot with a penalty.

The Golfaround way:

PENALTIES: All penalties should be one stroke, including out of bounds, water and lateral hazards, a lost ball and an unplayable lie. Drop a ball near where the original was lost and play on. This will also save on time and arguments over the interpretations of the golf’s most complex rules. When scoring though it will be as above, one in, one out counting three.

The kick off social at Valley Ridge Golf Club was a sight to behold, 140 women all excited to see the start of another fabulous season playing a game they love.  This is the first time we have held our kick-off at Valley Ridge. It is a great location and the staff were so helpful and great to work with.  Breanne was very organized and offered some great suggestions and Keisha was a such an asset when it came to the electronics and made our life easy. There is something powerful about a group of women coming together, not to play golf but to lift each other up, laugh out loud and build connections that will last far beyond the 18th hole. Looking back over the past 29 years we have seen so many beautiful friendships develop within the confines of Golfaround. I will not mention any names as I may miss some, but you know who you are. For Kristy and I, we too have made some amazing friendships and we are so very grateful for that. We love to see old friends at the social and it is great to also meet the new members and potential new friends.

Tiffany Gordon was unable to be there in person as she had to be in Huston for  LPGA meetings but we beamed her in and she again inspired us with her words of wisdom. During her commentary a well known professional golfer who plays on the US LPGA tour popped in to say goodbye to Tiff and give us all a wave, what a treat. Yani Tseng is a Taiwanese Pro golfer and the youngest player, male or female to ever win five major championships and place #1 in Women’s World Golf Rankings for 109 consecutive weeks. She is only 4 points away from qualifying for the World Golf Hall of Fame, wow.

In the world of recreational golf, it’s not just about the swing or the scorecard—it’s about showing up for yourself and each other. It’s about high-fives after a good shot, encouragement after a miss, and the kind of camaraderie that turns strangers into teammates and teammates into friends.

Golfaround™ is built for women, by women, and we are trying to change the game. Our members are welcoming, inclusive, and most of all, fun. No judgment, no pressure—just sunshine, a little friendly competition, and a lot of support. We blend in at the golf courses we play at as we dress appropriately, have great etiquette and keep the pace. I remember many years ago at Rivers Edge when Joanne was still alive, there was a foursome of men who were following us and they were complaining to her about following a bunch of women. Joanne informed them “don’t worry guys they will be way ahead of you, you probably  won’t even see them.”

This is more than a game. It’s a movement. It’s women saying, “We belong here. We’ve got each other’s backs. And we’re going to have a blast doing it.”

Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or have a few rounds under your belt, remember: confidence grows when women support women.

So get ready to grab your clubs, and let’s tee off into something extraordinary—together.

Occasionally, when you meet someone for the first time, you sense that they are someone extraordinary, whom you wish to get to know better. Donna was that kind of person; her radiant smile, positive and cheerful attitude, and zest for life made her stand out even in our initial encounter. Donna joined Golfaround in 2022 along with her friends Erin and Shelley, who were equally amiable and supportive. Donna was very eager to learn and enhance her golf skills, and she achieved notable progress. We played together at Redwood Meadows, where her ability to recall lesson material was remarkable, likely attributable to her teaching background.

Donna passed away on April 14 at the age of 63, following a brave seven-month battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. She will be reunited with her husband, her soul mate, who passed away in 2017. Her two daughters are profoundly affected by her loss but will undoubtedly continue her legacy of optimism and kindness. We will deeply miss Donna, and as her family has expressed, “she would remind all of us to take each day to improve the lives of others.” A beautiful sentiment that resonates is:

We will think of you when butterflies

Take rest upon a flower

Reminding me how beautiful

And fragile is life’s hour

As the spring season approaches, we are looking forward to returning to the golf course after winter. The schedule will soon be available, and you will be informed when it is posted on the website. With the end of the winter months and longer days, there is anticipation for the start of the golf season. Some individuals have already completed their lessons, while others are halfway through. Preparing for the season can be challenging if fundamentals such as the golf swing, grip, alignment, and posture are neglected. Those who have been practicing at the dome on Thursday evenings may find these fundamentals easier to recall.

Practicing regularly is an effective way to prepare for the golf season, whether you’re a beginner or experienced golfer. If winter practice was not possible, practicing your swing at home can be beneficial. Additionally, dedicating time to practice putting, chipping, and other short game skills can help ease the transition back to the course.

Mental preparation is equally important for a successful start to the golf season. Developing a game plan and visualizing each shot can help maintain focus and reduce nerves during the first round of the year. Visualize successful shots, trust in your abilities, and remember past successes to build mental resilience. Instead of fearing potential setbacks, adhere to routines and maintain a clear mind.

Keep your golf clubs in top shape by cleaning and tuning them before play. Check grips, shafts, heads, and other components for good condition.

Remember basic golf etiquette, like keeping pace and being respectful of the course. Follow rules and regulations to enhance your experience.

Pace yourself during your first round. Set realistic goals, focus on fun, and stay hydrated with regular breaks. Appreciate the opportunity to play, enjoy great shots, and be kind to yourself and others when struggling.

Preparing for the season can be easy with proper ground work. Practice your swing and follow these tips for a great start to the golf season!

Thursday nights at the Dome have continued to be successful. Many members returned, and some new members joined in as well. It was so good to get to know them. Practice sessions lasted for about 45 minutes, accompanied and followed by social interactions. In addition to practicing, we also enjoyed beverages and food. Tom, Cory, Taylor and the team provided a variety of tasty food, which was plentiful. Michelle and Ashley did a great job attending  to the tables, setting them with place mats and water. Support from our members is appreciated, and the staff at Eaglequest and Fox Hollow have been very obliging. Attendance ranged from 15 to 35 people; on a particularly cold evening, only 6 brave souls participated. The specials will be available in April, but Golfaround will not be able to organize. They also offer Lunch and Breakfast specials which are also very good.