The 2023 PGA of BC Assistants’ & Seniors’ Championships, presented by Rolo Golf & Replay Golf Supplies, held its first round of competition today. The tournament, hosted at Chilliwack Golf Club, saw a record field for this event with over 120 golfers. Cory Renfrew (Modern Golf Vancouver) leads the Assistants’ field by one stroke after shooting six-under par. Greg Forbes (Black Mountain Golf Club) is the top player in the Seniors’ field, playing his way to a four-under finish and a two-stroke lead.
Renfrew came into the tournament fresh off an appearance in the PGA Championship of Canada at Bigwin Island, Ontario last week, where he finished at two-under par to place inside the top 20 in the national competition. Following the high of a solid week at Bigwin Island, Renfrew dug his heels in and came out swinging even better than in Ontario. Today, he made two eagles and three birdies to take the solo lead.
“I putted better than I have been recently, which is a nice confidence boost. I’ve been practicing my putting the last couple weeks now, and it feels good to see a few more go in,” said Renfrew.
Renfrew said that he won’t make any adjustments tomorrow, and will stay aggressive, especially with his wedges.
Luke Bogdan (Cheam Mountain Golf Course) is knocking on the door after shooting five-under and is hoping to overtake Renfrew tomorrow. Bogdan also competed in the PGA Championship of Canada at Bigwin Island, where he tied for 32nd.
In the Seniors’ field, Forbes jumped out to earn the first-round lead. With five birdies, he played an impressive and resilient round through the rainy conditions. Despite having never played the course before today, Forbes was able to find his rhythm and stake out the edge over his competitors.
“I took advantage of the par-fives, had a couple eagle looks early, then hit some key three- and four-foot putts for par down the stretch,” said Forbes. “Everything’s right in front of you, you take what it can give you. I’m going to do the same thing tomorrow, just play smart and somewhat aggressive.”
Brett Burgeson (Breaking Par Golf Academy) sits in the runner-up spot after Day 1, piling up birdies throughout his round. With a score of 70, Burgeson is within striking distance of Forbes and will look to gain on him tomorrow with a strong round.
“Lots of birdies today, but just couldn’t hold it together the whole time. The greens are running really well. It’s different getting used to them, they bounce a lot more especially on chip shots, and I need to adjust to that tomorrow,” said Burgeson.
Today saw several prize winners for closest to the pin on holes #3 and #14. In the Assistants’ field, Ben Griffen (#3) and Clay O’Dell (#14) stuck their tee shots the closest. On the Seniors’ side, Jeff Palmer (#3) and Scott Kolb (#14) were the Maui Jim KP winners.
Tournament play resumes tomorrow morning at 7 a.m. PST. Tune in tomorrow evening for a full tournament recap.
For the full leaderboard, please click here. For tomorrow’s draw, please click here.
