May 1 is National Golf Day - sure, it would be preferable to have warmer weather, but it coincides with the rest of North America. And what better time to get people thinking about joining a golf club? Or getting out to play?

From Golf Canada: Did you know that -

- more than five million golfers play close to 60 million rounds annually at nearly 2,300 golf facilities from coast to coast—the most participated sport in this country?

- golf is a significant economic driver generating more than $14.3 billion in economic impact and employing more than 300,000 jobs, nearly 40% of which are summer students?

- direct revenues generated by golf courses and their facilities ($5.0 billion) rivals the revenues generated by all other participation sports and recreation facilities combined ($4.8 billion)?

- golf courses host more than 37,000 charity events that raise more than $533 million annually to support important causes?

- the health benefits of moderate-intensity physical activity, burning 850 to 1,500 calories as well as muscle endurance, blood circulation, flexibility, and mental health along with respiratory, metabolic, and cardiovascular improvements can’t be discounted?

- golf, as a safe and inclusive family sport, is good for our children, instilling etiquette and values such as integrity, honest, fair play, and the spirit of camaraderie?

While most of us were watching The Masters and cheering on Corey Conners from here, two of our members were actually there on Saturday. Gail and Terry Richards are pictured in front of the iconic clubhouse and as Gail said "I took a little piece of Dalewood to The Masters - my pink hat!"

Are you "Rules Ready"? 

If you would like to learn about all the rule changes and refresh your memory on others, come to the Rules Seminar presented by the GAO on Tuesday, April 23 at 7pm. Thanks to Brad for organizing it.

In the meantime, you can prepare by looking at the Golf Rules section on the tab above this post. There are explanations, diagrams, and videos. 

Don't forget the Open House Saturday, April 6 11am - 5pm. 

Save the date - May 4 - our Opening Meeting.