Whitby Chamber of Commerce celebrates 30th annual Golf Tournament

This year marked the 30th anniversary of the Whitby Chamber of Commerce’s (WCC) annual Golf Tournament. On June 6, more than 100 golfers hit the greens at Royal Ashburn Golf Club, despite the dreary weather, for a fun round of golf and a wide range of on-course activities brought to you by local businesses.

Golfers began the day by engaging in discussion with each other over a barbeque lunch in the clubhouse, generously sponsored by North American Steel, before making their way onto the course.

Before taking off in their golf carts, kindly sponsored by Whitby Hydro Energy Services Corporation, guests participated in a warm up led by Pursuit Training and the Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise’s very own Riblet the pig. The WCC team was thrilled to have Whitby Mayor, Don Mitchell, tee off at this milestone event.

“It’s wonderful to see so many members of the community out, rain or shine, to support the Whitby Chamber of Commerce,” said Mayor Mitchell. “The Chamber plays a vital role in supporting the growth of the Whitby business community and it is events like this that allow them to do so year after year.”

Further to the many opportunities to win on the course, including prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive, the WCC also gave away 30 great prizes to celebrate 30 great years, donated by many Whitby businesses.

After completing all 18 holes, teams and guests enjoyed a three-course dinner sponsored by Flanagan Foodservice. The night was once again emceed by Terry Johnston from CKDO Durham’s Classic Hits radio station, who did an outstanding job at entertaining the crowd and doling out prizes. Also joining the golfers at dinner was special guest MPP Lorne Coe.

“The Whitby Chamber of Commerce golf tournament is one of the premier networking events of the year,” said Coe. “The friendly and casual atmosphere coupled with the new acquaintances struck during the event are of great value to business professionals in attendance. Organization is a key to success with a tournament of this size and the Chamber organizing committee led by Trevor Bardens, working with the staff at Royal Ashburn, should be commended for yet another outstanding day.”

This year’s tournament also marked Trevor Bardens’ 30th anniversary on the planning committee. Along with Bardens’ numerous contributions to the Whitby community, he has helped make this tournament possible each year. The WCC and planning committee honoured Bardens with an engraved golf ball paper weight to commemorate his continued dedication and service.

“I look back over my thirty years of involvement on the golf committee and must say that everyone I came in contact with during that time, whether committee members or chamber staff, have been fantastic in their efforts to provide the best golf experience possible for our players,” said Bardens. “As chairman, I congratulate members of the committee and the fantastic staff of the Chamber in making this event a success.”