May 25, 2023
RICHMOND, BC (PGA of BC) - The 2023 PGA of BC Tournament of Champions presented by PING Canada is set to take place Monday, May 29 at the gorgeous Gallagher's Canyon Golf Club in Kelowna.
The sun-soaked valley course will serve as host to 40 teams made up of a Club Professional and a current club champion or other designated amateur from their facility, competing in an 18-hole Best Ball format. Gallagher's Canyon will be welcoming the ToC for the second time and first since 2004. We are expecting perfect weather to kick off our championship season, with a forecast of blue skies and warm, favourable conditions.
Point Grey Golf & Country Club's Dave Zibrik and Jeff Dagg are seeking their third straight ToC title. The duo won their first championship at Mayfair Lakes Golf & Country Club in 2021 and followed it up with a victory at Nanaimo Golf Club last year, posting impressive scores of 65(-6) and 68(-4). Despite the pair’s lack of experience at Gallagher's Canyon, they said they're feeling confident and relaxed.
“I think last year was our first look at Nanaimo so maybe it’s a good thing to go in without any real expectations,” said Zibrik.
Dagg, Point Grey’s club champion, said the two are looking forward to representing their club and membership. However, he added that they’re not feeling a ton of pressure.
“There’s no change in mentality, I’m happy to be going to the event again as it has been fun the last two years and I’m looking forward to the relaxed competition.”
Dagg said that Zibrik can pile up the birdies, while Zibrik expressed confidence in Dagg’s steady, consistent play.
“Jeff plays a very solid, simple game. The ball is always in play off the tee and he’s a great wedge player. Having a partner who is never out of the hole is a big advantage for the team,” said Zibrik.
While the Point Grey duo may be the favourites, there are several clubs whose teams have excelled in recent years while coming up just short of the victory. With revenge on their minds, keep an eye on the pairs from Chilliwack Golf Club, Fairview Mountain Golf Club and Victoria Golf Club as they attempt to dethrone the defending champions.
Lee Alarie, Head Professional at Gallagher’s Canyon, said the rolling terrain and undulating greens can present a punishing challenge, but sets up perfectly for a Best Ball event with plenty of options.
“We are honored to be the facility to start off a season full of spectacular golf courses. The turf care team has done an amazing job of preparing the course for the season. Looking forward to hosting everyone!”
The Tournament of Champions is generously presented by PING Canada. The PGA of BC is grateful for PING Canada’s continued support.
Teams tee off in a shotgun start at 8 a.m. PT. For more information, please contact Membership & Events Manager Doug Titterington at doug@pgabc.org. To learn more, please visit the tournament page located on our website.
