It was an exciting, inspirational and challenging week at the Earl Grey Golf Club for the 515 marshals (38 of them were Golfaround members) as well as for the other 700 plus volunteers who gave their time and dedication to ensure the players could play their best game and the public could enjoy a wonderful experience.
It was a very exciting finish watching Lauren Coughlin win the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open on Sunday, claiming her first LPGA Tour title. The American golfer birdied two of her final four holes for a final round of 1-under, 71 to finish the four-day tournament at 13 under. Lauren was a late bloomer and almost quit pro golf not long after she started, however her comments should be an ethos for us all “I think my story in general just shows that I’m always trying, always willing to try to do things,” said Coughlin. “I am willing to stay in it. I don’t give up. I think I showed that perfectly today.”
Brooke Henderson did not win this year but in terms of effort it was mission accomplished, she shot a 4 under, 68, her low round of the week on Sunday and was low Canadian. The crowd was always with her, and she was certainly the main draw of the 73,000 spectators.
Golfaround had a 554-yard Par 5, hole #14 for the tournament, usually it is #18. The hole was a challenge to manage as it had 1 crossing, and three other holes in close proximity to the tee off area which made traffic control a bit of a trial. To add a bit more challenge the tee was moved on Saturday which affected the landing areas. In addition, managing the crossing was fun as communicating was hindered by trees and it was close to the entrance so very busy. The weather was typically Calgary and reminiscent of our past experience but this time all at the same time. The first couple of days were in the 30’s and then we froze in the teens and finished up with pleasant temperatures; take it off, put it on, what can I say. All in all, the Golfaround gals came through and did an amazing job as always, you done us proud. We were given lots of accolades and they were well deserved, we thank each and everyone of you.
We had some things happen to write home about, a couple of eagles, many birdies and also an errant ball that hit the prize car, that caused a bit of a delay!!
The Earl Grey did a fabulous job of organizing the event, we have done two before and felt our particular marshal committee did a bang up job. We really appreciated the support for the volunteers and I was especially grateful for the buggy rides at the end of the day.
Finally a bit of CPKC history, thanks in part to Shaunna Marshall’s sister. The railroads have roots in the 19th century and in April 2023 they got together to form the first truly North American rail network connecting Canada, the US and Mexico. There was an old passenger menu, you could get coffee for 25c. Steak dinner for $1. Diplomat pudding was included in one of the evening meal courses (the whole of which cost $1) a bit different from todays prices for sure.
Be sure to check out the Golfaround ‘s Facebook page for pictures.