Mother Nature unfortunately didn’t get the memo, as too much rain for several days before the Elk Ridge Open meant that for the second year in a row, the first official Elk Ridge open was cancelled.
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PGA Tour Canada cancels Elk Ridge Open due to recent heavy rain
Last year, due to pandemic restrictions, there were only three rounds, and this year it was canceled due to too much rain and unplayable conditions deemed by PGA Tour Canada.
Still, that wasn’t the end of things for the more than 100 players who made their way to the golf course just outside Prince Albert National Park.
The Elk Ridge Resort owners group raised $40,000 for a one-day tournament, called Sunday Shoot Out, to put money in the pockets of players, who have already spent a lot to be there.
“Being innovative and adaptive is pretty cool, coming from our owner,” said Ryan Danberg, managing partner of Elk Ridge. “I try not to be emotional, but it was a great day. Pretty cool there, to see.
These players have had other tournaments longer and the message is usually, it’s unfortunate, but good luck on the next leg of the tour.
But not in Saskatchewan. And the players were very grateful, including those from Saskatchewan, who were also proud.
“That’s kind of who we are in Saskatchewan,” added Kade Johnson of Yorkton, who played in the Sunday Shootout.
“Everyone is pretty hospitable to each other and everyone wants to come here and show off the province and give everyone a good time. What they could do. Not just with the Sunday Shootout, but with the whole week.
“Unbelievable we’ve had a lot of fans here,” said PGA Tour Canada player Henry Lee.
“Watch, observe and volunteer. I can’t be more grateful for ownership of this opportunity to have fun, but at the same time play for something.
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A player from Austin, Texas was especially grateful after shooting a 62 and walking away with a check for $7,200.
“It’s going to help me a lot,” said PGA Tour Canada player Cooper Dossey. “Spending is difficult. And just to be able to cover this week and next week, that means a lot for sure.
It is not yet known when the first edition of the tournament will be played in the third year, in 2023.
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