Another season has wrapped up — honestly, where does the time go. It feels like we were just heading out to the kick‑off social at Valley Ridge, and suddenly we’ve reached the final week of regular play. Many of us will keep swinging as long as the weather cooperates, enjoying leafy fairways and the company of both new and familiar friends.

This year wasn’t without its challenges. We started with chilly days and more rain than usual. Our Mystery Bus Trip had to be cancelled when the course restricted power carts — and we all know decorating those carts is half the fun. The planning was done, though, so we’re aiming to recreate the trip in 2027. As one of the gals joked, “Look out — now we have a whole year to plan.”

We also had to postpone our international travel plans for 2027. Scotland, the home of golf, was calling our name, but the weak Canadian dollar and strong sterling and U.S. dollar made the trip too costly. Instead, we’re looking at staying within Canada — perhaps Saskatchewan, home to more than 200 golf courses, including top‑ranked public and resort options with great value and beautiful variety.

The Play & Stay at St Eugene was a success, we enjoyed great weather, a little smoke, an awesome group and good golf. We played Shadow Mountain this year and we were pleasantly surprised. Shadow Mountain is a most intriguing golf property. The routing takes the golfer on an adventure across this diverse landscape of rolling forested sand dunes and mountainous terrain. No expense was spared in preserving the natural character of this wonderful site, letting the land dictate the design and allowing the  creation of some of the most memorable golf holes you will ever have the privilege of playing. Our hospitality room was a bee hive of activity, Shaunna cross legged on the floor mixing cocktails and Cynthia milling around with a delicious liquor. A few of us stayed Sunday night and after supper went to the casino where we won a hundred dollars, I think Joann was lucky too, or she was the last time we saw her.

Despite the weather, it’s been a wonderful season. We’ve met new people, made new friends, and welcomed enthusiastic newbies who always bring fresh energy. They consistently tell us how much they enjoy Golfaround — the supportive atmosphere, the camaraderie after each round, and the fun that keeps us coming back. For many of us, the scorecard matters far less than the joy of watching our numbers slowly drop, the thrill of improvement, and the dream of breaking 100. That dream keeps us giving the game everything we’ve got while enjoying the outdoors and the incredible women around us.

Behind all the practice, the good shots and the not‑so‑good ones, the wins and the misses, there’s always that golfer who fell in love with the game and never looked back — still trying to hit the ball long and true.

Be sure to check the newsfeed during the off‑season. There will be winter activities you may want to join. We won’t say goodbye — just farewell for now. Thank you all for your support, your spirit, and your help. Golfaround is what it is because of this special group of ladies we are so lucky to share the fairway with.

The year was 1996 when 12 ladies decided they wanted to get out and learn the game of golf. Skip to 2026 and there are just under 500 members and Golfaround™ and its membership is stronger than ever! We couldn’t be more proud of these past 30 years, 30 years of encouraging women to take up the game, 30 years of strong partnerships with golf community, thousands of golf lessons at over 50 golf course in Alberta and 30 years of solid relationship with people  who believe in the value of growing the sport of golf to what it is today, well loved by many.

Our mandate has been to grow the game of golf and we have put thousands of women through our lessons which are supported with league play at over 50 golf courses in Alberta. Our Beginner program has introduced the game to more than 3,000 new golfers and the Evening and Day league and programs have helped and supported more than 10,000 seasoned golfers.

We’re planning a special “Par Tee” celebration October 17 to mark Golfaround’s 30th anniversary, so mark your calendars. Those who joined us for our 20th anniversary party may remember how much fun we had, so we’re bringing back the Mardi Gras theme—get ready for a fun-filled night!

We’re also looking for sponsors and prize donations. If you have any ideas, please let us know.

The saying “drive for show putt for dough” is a common saying in the golf world. This saying reinforces the importance of putting, especially for those of us that don’t have a long drive. The following was prepared by Shelly Charlton back in 2000 and in our newsletter TEE TIMES.

The Putting Stroke

• the grip changes to a reverse grip and is more in the palms than in the fingers
• set up with your eyes directly over the ball and yur weight should be evenly distributed on both feet
• ball position is slightly to the target side of center
• the stroke is a pendulum motion as the club, hands and shoulders work as a unit. Th upper and lower body are still during the stroke but not rigid
• the stroke is smooth and continuous back and then through the ball. we are tring to maiintain the club face position through the entire motion

Distance Control

• is learned through trail and error. Practice is a must
• The length and pace of the stroke determine distance. The shorter putts require a short stroke with a slower pace and longer putts require a longer stroke and faster pace

Green Reading

• greens vary from contours that are flat to very wavy. The waves are called undulations or slopes
• a slope on the green has the most effect on the direction of the ball as the roll starts to slow down with less speed the ball is less able to resist the pull of gravity
• it helps to stand about 10 feet behind the ball and bend down to effectivley see the slope, if there are no slopes align the putter blade with the middle  of the hole for a straight putt
• if there is a slope determine the high and low points and where your ball is relative to those points
• visulize the ball rolling up or down and curving into the hole
• alignyour blade to that spot and as the ball rolls to the spot and slows down it will curve towards the hole

Remember practice is a must

Slow play is becoming a bigger problem in golf at every level. To keep the round moving and make it more enjoyable, build a few simple habits. Most recreational golfers are not playing for the Green Jacket, so a long putt for double bogey does not need minutes of analysis. Take a brief look, trust your read, and hit the putt.

Use the course information available to you. Most courses offer clear yardages through fairway markers, sprinkler heads, or the scorecard. Spending extra time with a rangefinder on the tee often creates unnecessary delay. If the card shows 150 yards to the center of the green and your device reads 153, those three yards rarely change the shot.

Above all, play ready golf. After every shot, begin preparing for the next one immediately. Once you hit your tee shot, walk toward your ball while thinking through the next play. By the time you arrive, you should only need to pick a club and swing. In a group, use the time while others are hitting to plan your own shot.

Simply put, ready golf replaces the traditional order based on who is farthest from the hole. Whoever is ready can play first.

Ready golf is designed to maintain pace of play safely. Before you hit, make sure your partners and any nearby groups are out of range.

Ready golf is different from simply being prepared to play. Being ready means arriving at your ball with your glove on, your shot evaluated, and a club selected while others are hitting. Thinking ahead helps you play promptly when it is your turn.

Ready golf applies everywhere on the course—on the tee, in the fairway, and on the green.

On the Tee

On the tee, if a long hitter must wait for the group ahead to clear but a shorter hitter can safely play, the shorter hitter should go first. This keeps the group moving and can make the next shots more efficient.

In the Fairway

In the fairway, walkers should go straight to their balls and hit when ready, as long as it is safe. While waiting, check the wind, choose a club, and get set for the shot.

When using carts, the driver should drop off a partner with the needed clubs, then continue to their own ball and prepare instead of waiting by the cart.

Few things slow a round more than searching for a lost ball. If one player is looking, the others should hit first before helping. The player closest to the hole should join the search first, since that player will hit last. Often, the ball is found before the rest of the group finishes playing, which reduces the delay.

On the Green

Ready golf also applies on and around the green. If one player is on the green and another is in a bunker, the player on the green can putt while the other gets ready. Letting the simpler shot go first helps keep play moving.

Putting should not slow the group down. A good rule is to take no more than about 20 seconds once it is your turn. Read the green and line up your putt while others are putting so you are ready to go.

On short putts within a couple of feet, avoid marking unnecessarily when possible. Tap in and clear the way so others can finish the hole.

Be mindful of where you leave your clubs around the green. Put them behind the green or on the side nearest the next tee so you do not have to walk back across the green to retrieve them.

Ready golf applies to every part of the game. When practiced safely, it keeps the round moving and makes the experience better for everyone.

On April 29th Tiffany Gordon officially became the 51st President of the PGA of Canada and a celebration was held at Carnmoney Golf Club.  This accomplishment is so very much deserved as she has always been very passionate about the game and has worked hard to be all that she can be both personally and professionally.  After 35 years in the industry she has broken the glass ceiling. There is a very small percentage of women golf professionals in the industry and to be the first women to rise to this position will go down in history.

Tiff’s extensive career has included a long tenure at Cottonwood Golf & Country Club and Carnmoney Golf Club. She has been involved in many aspects of the golf industry, over her career, being involved with the PGA of Alberta both as a volunteer and board member. She has also been involved with numerous charities always passionate about giving back. Growing the game and supporting the industry has always been her mandate which is very apparent from her commitment to junior programs and women and golf. She has always been in our court, Golfaround that is, offering guidance, teaching and friendship.  She is a mentor, a coach and can be a jack of all trades. Many times over the years we have seen her helping in the kitchen when they were short staffed, or tending the bar, a women of many talents always willing to help.

We were very honored to be invited to this celebration, and it was very rewarding for us to enjoy and renew the many relationships we have developed over the past 30 years. Many faces from the past were there and the picture here depicts the three female golf professionals who were our first coaches.

There were speakers who shared their accolades and the thirteen-year-old, who Tiff has been coaching since she was three,  shared what Tiff has done for her. Her talk introduced a video from those who could not attend the function and one of her comments struck a chord “G O L F golf is a game of lasting friendships” thanks Sedona we do believe that.

Tiff is a great ambassador for the game of golf; we are so proud of her and know that she will do a fantastic job!

Enjoy the journey Tiff and CONGRTULATIONS from all of us at Golfaround.

We tried a different approach to getting and sharing this amazing trip and we are so very glad we did. As Jill so beautifully explained “ We are all just travellers on this planet taking a journey through our short lives.  The similarities are big and the differences are small.” She is so right however everyone shared some very inspirational thoughts and experiences, it was wonderful to envision. Thailand is a collage of animated scenes that comprise of bustling modern cities crowded with motorbikes and tuk-tuks, Buddhist temples tended by orange-robed monks, hill tribes selling handicrafts, lush landscapes dotted with traditional farming villages, ancient ruins and stunning coastlines peppered with gorgeous beaches and blue lagoons.

Thailand 2026 was according to those who experienced the trip another successful enterprise. It had been 23 years from our first trip and the country has experienced some changes. Prices have increased however the country remains relatively affordable compared to Western countries, and the essence of Thai culture and hospitality remains unchanged.  Our group arrived in Bangkok at different times and there was always a Golfasian representative and transportation ready to take them to the Aira Hotel. The hotel was centrally located in the heart of the action, close to shopping, BTS station and many restaurants and bars. Barb said one of the things that amazed her was” being in the middle of a city of 11 million people and being able to find restaurants, shops, massages within walking distance.”  The roof top pool and bar was beautiful offering incredible views, 2 for one specials and place to gather.

Bangkok offered energy and entertainment at every corner. We enjoyed our welcome dinner on a rice barge that cruised on the Chao Praya River. It was impressive and showcased many local Thai dishes giving us a real cultural experience and our surroundings were spectacular. The cruise along the river and seeing Bangkok lit up at night was stunning.

Touring Bangkok was an amazing experience and The Grand Palace complex amazed Dwila and she said that around every corner the views were more stunning.  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 flower market visit is always a favourite, and this one did not disappoint. We were all given a lotus bud and were guided through unfolding the lotus petals one at a time unveiling our spiritual awakening and inner brilliance. Some of us later left them as an offering at one of the Buddha Shrines.  The heat and humidity was challenging but managed by fluids and modes of transportation, wow the air felt good!!  The City of Angels—Bangkok—offered energy and excitement at every corner.

From Bangkok we traveled to the tranquil coastal city of Hua Hin trading skyscrapers for sea breezes and a more relaxed lifestyle. On route we visited the River Kwai and experienced the Death Railway, this was quite emotional for Millie and I am sure others, a glimpse into the dark history of the Death Railway is depicted in the museums as well and is both humbling and memorable. It was a long day and the heat remained a challenge. Thank goodness for those ice packs Golfasian gave us and kudos to those who thought to bring mini fans on this journey.

The Hyatt Regency a luxury beachfront facility was our destination in Hua Hin. I think the pool slide was a big hit and it was Alison who started all the “dares”. Some had great form and some not so much, it was a ton of fun.   This locale was home to the cooking school many took part in and was a favorite of Judy’s and many others. Ya Ya, our host was so funny and the dishes we prepared were fabulous.

The golf courses were scenic, rewarding and relaxing, however some of those renting golf clubs found getting used to them somewhat challenging, right Norma? I think we all enjoyed our caddie experience it was nice being queen or king for the day and a surprise to have our own cart and caddie. Engaging with them really added to the experience, we used some Thai golf terms that were a hit and brought some laughter.  Dong Dong (straight), Yip Yip (gimme). Local food and drink favourites were shared by the caddies. We enjoyed a coconut drink that had the properties of an electrolyte drink and mini bananas and excellent cucumber from their gardens.

The tour to Sam Roi Yod National Park was an experience that a number of people chose as one of the most amazing. The area covered 98 square kilometers of limestone mountains, mangrove, swamps and beaches. A thing of outstanding beauty was Lotus Lake where small boats took us meandering amid the beautiful flowers and it is also home to various kinds of local and migrating birds. Joy remarked on the hike to the Phraya Nakhon Cave with its iconic royal pavilion “It was enormous and beautiful with the light shining down. I was in awe. To think they dismantled and moved the pavilion there in 1890 in such a way that the light hits it was impressive.  I have never seen anything like that”.

Two different markets were explored in Hua Hin, the railway market where vendors retract their awnings when the train passes through” it was so close” Kristy shared. We later glided through tranquil communities on long tailed boats and captured the essence of daily living before arriving at a traditional floating market where we savored local snacks.

After enjoying a peaceful retreat in Hua Hin we flew to Chiang Mai, the second-largest city in Thailand. It is enclosed by rainforests on all sides and wedged between the northern highlands of the nation. Our hotel here, the Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort, a beautiful hotel with authentic old world Thai charm. Here we enjoyed golf, the local culture, mountain views, ancient temples and outdoor markets. The highlight for many was the excursion to the Elephant sanctuaries. Karen remarked “The Eco Valley elephant sanctuary was amazing because it was heartening to see people who care about elephants and want to do everything they can to save them.  It was wonderful to hear about the elephants in Thailand and their troubles, and the country’s commitment to ensuring their survival.   Standing by Tata, a huge 42-year-old mama elephant, and her allowing to us to feed and bath her, and seeing the gentle nature in her eyes, touched our souls.  Those moments will stay with us forever.” The group really loved bathing with the elephants and feeding them. An unexpected shower in the river thanks to the elephant’s trunk was an added experience. The visit to the Long-neck Karen village also added true insight to local customs and the children were so precious.

Thailand offers a plethora of epicurean experiences. From the vibrant markets of Bangkok to beaches and floating markets of Hua Hin and the hotels and street food in Chaing Mai, Thailand’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. The modes of transportation on our trip far exceeded the norm of trains, planes and automobiles. How about tuk-tuks of all shapes and sizes, truck flat beds (Songthaew) with sets along each side, motorcycle taxis , vans and coaches. Then we had BTS skyway and MRT Metro. Judy said “One of my biggest surprises were the number of scooters in Bangkok and the most amusing time was when Cheryl and I got into our Tuk Tuk amongst the chaos.” Probably the funniest thing was watching many of us getting in and out of the different types of transportation, especially the longtailed boats. Entering and existing longtail boats is notoriously ungraceful, often involving wading through water, climbing shaky ladders, that swinging legs over the side while the boat rocks. Thank god for our helpers.

Norma noted the Thai people were very calm, serene and friendly. It was also mentioned that even with the chaotic traffic in Bangkok there was no road rage or harsh word/actions they respected each other, so different from here. The Golfasian guides went above and beyond, arranging laundry runs, extra transport to markets and sharing stories about their lives and culture. We can’t thank them enough Troy, Woody, Joe, Vicheet and Sirirat was amazing to work with helping us plan this adventure. There were so many amazing experiences that it is impossible to share them all. As Joanne said “every day was wonderful.  Just when you had a great day, the next day was equally awesome.   Everything we experienced was memorable. “Thank you everyone for sharing your memories we are so happy that the trip exceeded your expectations and you had a fabulous time.

In the past we have had numerous inquiries about handicapping and this is something that Golfaround does not do at this point in time. I can recommend the Public Players Club as it is for golfers who are unaffiliated with a golf club and is available to people that would like a handicap. A handicap is required if you choose to enter AGA tournaments and events held at other golf clubs. For more information check out the Golf Canada website
The Play Golf Alberta Public Player’s Club is a “virtual” member golf club of Alberta Golf/Golf . It is just like any other club except it is not attached to a physical golf course and members typically play golf at public play facilities. The fee to join the vClub is $64.95 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Public Player vClub members can record acceptable scores, view their scoring records and maintain an official Golf Canada Handicap Factor from any computer that has internet access anywhere in the world. Members can also view the scoring records of any other vClub member, as well as the records of other Alberta Golf and Golf Canada members who are using the Golf Canada Score Centre as part of the peer review process.
In addition to recording and viewing scores on the Network, members have a secure communication program, game track abilities, information on clubs across North America and an event calendar that includes leagues and tournaments.
Benefits of a Play Golf Alberta Player’s Club membership:
• Alberta Golf membership
• Golf Canada membership
• an official Handicap Factor, recognized worldwide
• ability to enter Alberta Golf and Golf Canada events
• ability to play in club events requiring a Handicap Factor
• online community with built in Event Calendar
• online member profile and game tracking ability
• search capabilities for courses and events throughout Canada
• Equipment and travel protection
• Discounts

We recently hosted a social event, Sips, Tips, and Socialize at 365 Golf, which attracted so much interest that we ended up holding two sessions. This event had two main goals: to offer an enjoyable evening and to introduce a different approach to golf lessons. We were also curious about how our clients would react to indoor lessons using technology.

Everyone learns differently, and while some individuals prefer certain teaching methods, we provide both indoor and outdoor lessons that incorporate visual cues and verbal feedback. Although these traditional methods are valuable, technology can elevate coaching even further. For example, if a player consistently slices the ball, technology allows the coach to pinpoint exactly where the swing goes wrong and make immediate adjustments. One member shared in their evaluation that a slight grip adjustment corrected issues with her swing path. Other participants enjoyed seeing their posture and rotation visualized, often being surprised by the difference between what they saw and what they thought they did. The group found the detailed feedback on swing path, face angle at impact, and ball spin particularly helpful. Driving balls into the simulator, which felt like being on an actual course, was especially engaging and aided our learning and improvement.

The team at 365 Golf did an excellent job, and everyone enjoyed the sips, snacks, and camaraderie—both evenings were very successful and enjoyed by all.

For years, Golfaround has been committed to making golf accessible and enjoyable for players of all skill levels. By offering both indoor and outdoor lessons, Golfaround has created opportunities for golfers to learn in settings that suit their individual needs. Whether it’s the warmth and comfort of an indoor facility or the fresh air of the driving range, the program’s flexibility means that lessons aren’t limited by season or weather.

In Calgary, indoor golf has become increasingly popular and accessible. The city now boasts a growing number of simulator lounges and entertainment ranges, making it easier than ever for people to engage with golf year-round. These spaces aren’t just for seasoned golfers—beginners and casual players are discovering a friendly, welcoming environment to try the sport for the first time.

Golf simulators have revolutionized the way people interact with the game. Using advanced technology to track swing metrics, ball speed, and trajectory, simulators provide instant feedback and allow golfers to play virtual rounds on famous courses from around the world. This means players can practise regardless of weather, time of day, or level of experience, making golf more approachable for everyone.

Advantages of Indoor Golf Lessons:

Flexibility: Indoor lessons can be scheduled at any time, no matter the season or weather, making them ideal for busy people.
Focus on Technique: Without the distraction of ball flight or outdoor elements, golfers can concentrate on improving their swing and fundamentals.
Personalized Coaching: Indoor facilities often provide a controlled environment where instructors can give targeted feedback using the latest technology.
Comfortable Learning: New players especially benefit from a relaxed, supportive setting, free from the pressures of a busy outdoor course.

Advantages of Outdoor Golf Lessons:

Real-World Experience: Outdoor lessons mirror actual playing conditions, helping golfers adapt their skills to the game’s natural challenges.
Visual Feedback: Watching the ball fly through the air can be rewarding and help players connect technique with results.
Enjoyment of Nature: For many, the appeal of golf lies in spending time outdoors, enjoying the sights and sounds of the course.
Ultimately, the best lesson format depends on personal preference. Some learners thrive on seeing immediate results and prefer the outdoors, while others benefit from the focus and flexibility of indoor sessions.

The rise of simulator lounges and entertainment ranges is changing the face of golf. These venues attract individuals who may not have considered themselves golfers, offering a social and interactive experience. Off-course golf is now as much about fun and community as it is about skill development, opening the sport to a wider, more diverse audience.

Indoor golf is more than just a way to pass the winter months—it’s a year-round opportunity to stay active, improve skills, and connect with others. As technology and new facilities continue to shape the game, golf is becoming more accessible and engaging for everyone, from beginners to seasoned players.