Royal Colwood was proud to host our Fircrest Golf Club friends in the 52nd edition of this event.

Guests on this episode:
01:53 – 06:40 – “2025 Horse Race Winners”
Brian Beal - Member, Fircrest GC
Derek Parkinson - Member, Royal Colwood GC

06:41 – 10:13
 Daniel Shepherd - Head Professional, Fircrest GC 

10:14 – 17:20
 Tyler Green – Men’s Captain, Royal Colwood GC
 Ryan Chamberland - Member, Royal Colwood GC

17:21 – 24:21
 Stan Lowe - Member, Royal Colwood GC
 Brian Beal - Member, Fircrest GC
 Sean Meehan - Member, Fircrest GC

24:22 – 30:32
 Bud Livingstone - Member, Royal Colwood GC
 Gene Dielschneider - Member, Royal Colwood GC

30:33
 Closing Remarks 

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Royal Colwood General Manager Terry Yacyshen has completed his first year in the position of GM and he generously took some time to come visit the podcast studio and talk about Royal Colwood and his golfing background.  Terry’s first professional round was with Steve Stricker in the old Payless Open.

Terry also shares some of his experiences while working at other golf facilities around British Columbia and further abroad.  How many holes-in-one do you think Terry has made and is it possible he missed out on the $10,000?

Keep up the good work Terry.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Dr. Bryant event at Royal Colwood is the first Men's Division competition of every year.  It features play in Chapman or Pinehurst stroke play, two players play as partners, each playing from the teeing ground and each playing the partner’s ball for the second shot. After the second shot, partners select the ball with which they wish to score and play that ball alternately to complete the hole.

Dr. Bryant was Club President at Royal Colwood GC in 1942 and the trophy we play for was first awarded in 1937.

List of Guests:

1:33 – 3:43                Gordy Scutt

3:44 – 8:22                Joe Frenette and Sean Pierce

8:23 – 14:10              Blake Roney & Taylor Afseth 

14:11 – 19:06            Jeremy Cook & Tristan Story

19:07 – 22:06            Andre Valade & Don Parker

22:07 – 26:59            Jeff Bishop & Stu Eager

This year’s final two teams were:

Ryan Stinson & Mark Stinson vs. Jonathan Mactinger & Michael Houston with the team of Ryan and Mark Stinson claiming the 2025 title.  Congratulations!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In this episode of the AV Macan Podcast, we talk to two of the dedicated Beekeepers who work at Royal Colwood GC.  This group of volunteers is better known as the “Bee Team” and they mind the beehives on the property.

Amy Archambault and Kody Mitchell will help us understand how much effort is required by the volunteers and how much they know about the process of ensuring the Royal Colwood Bees are healthy and productive.  Our team of volunteers has a Bee Mentor, his name is Don Lambert, Vice-President of the Capital Region Beekeepers Association.  

Enjoy learning about the life cycle of our Bees!

https://capitalregionbeekeepers.ca/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

To start 2025, I sat down with two long-time Royal Colwood members (Adam Trevor – 25 yrs and John McMillan – 48 yrs to chat about the coming year.  We found that even though we wanted to talk about 2025, we still talked about the past!

John remembers watching the 1976 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship held at Royal Colwood and the battle between Jim Nelford and Rafael Alarcón.  That was the 2nd straight Canadian Amateur win for Nelford, Alarcón later won the 1979 event in Brantford Ont.

Royal Colwood also hosted the 2013 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship where Eli Cole defeated both Corey Connors and Taylor Pendrith by 1 stroke.

2025 will see lots of good golf at Royal Colwood and foster strong camaraderie amongst the members.

Happy New Year!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In this episode of the podcast, you’ll meet Ewan Baldwin of Royal Colwood, he’s 14 years old and the 2024 BC Golf Association Zone 5 Junior Golfer of the Year.  He’s also a 3-time Junior Club Champion and undoubtedly a golfer you’ll be seeing in the future.

It’s nice to hear from young adults enjoying the game of golf and more importantly seeing the results of Royal Colwood’s Junior Golf Program.  Ewan plans to be on the school golf team at Royal Bay High School starting in September 2025.  This past Summer, Ewan was a volunteer Caddy in the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship and on the bag of Past Champion Lauren Zaretsky.  Ewan’s favourite PGA Tour player is Shane Lowry, of Ireland.

We spent a bit of time talking about Ewan’s summer of golf activity, some games were competition rounds and other games were during family vacation.  He tells us about some of his sub 70 rounds through the summer.  Ewan wants to play in the Golf Canada Junior Championship in 2025 if he can qualify and maybe even compete in the Men’s open division at Royal Colwood.

Big thanks to Matthew Baldwin for making this interview happen.

https://www.instagram.com/laurenzgolf/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Special thanks to the Members and Staff at Fircrest Golf Club for hosting the 2024 Interclub event with Royal Colwood.  This was the 51st edition of the Fircrest/Royal Colwood Interclub and we look forward to continuing the tradition.
 
Guests on this episode:
00:55 – 06:30
Steve Bowles - General Manager, Fircrest GC

06:31 – 09:37
Jim Chu - Member, Fircrest GC

09:38 – 14:27
Daniel Shepherd - Head Professional, Fircrest GC

14:28 – 23:51
Stan Lowe - Member, Royal Colwood GC
Brian Beal - Member, Fircrest GC
Sean Meehan - Member, Fircrest GC

23:52 – 32:39
John McMillan - Member, Fircrest GC
Adam Trevor - Member, Fircrest GC

32:40 – 37:16
Stan Lowe - Member, Royal Colwood GC
John Story - Member, Royal Colwood GC
Bill Coles - Member, Royal Colwood GC
 

https://fircrestgolf.com/web/pages/home

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

On this episode, we hear from Tom Martell (coordinator) about the "Train Wreck" event at Royal Colwood.  The Train Wreck is a 2 man team event, where the team collects points and tries to avoid having a train wreck (which means both players score net bogey or worse).

                   Net Bogey = 0 points

                   Net Par = 1 point

                   Net Birdie = 2 points

                   Net Eagle = 5 points

                   Net Double Eagle = 8 points

At Royal Colwood, there are 2 Train Wreck events each year, 1 in the Summer and 1 in the Fall.
Tom talks about some of the history of the train wreck and more details about playing in this fun tournament!

Congrats to the 2024 Winners:
Summer - Kent Campbell & Tristan Story
Fall - Ted Rush & Kirk Handrahan

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Short trip to Portland, Oregon for a friendly match with a few members of Columbia Edgewater, special thanks to Ky Fullerton, Evan Wilson and Erik Bjorvik for setting this up and being gracious hosts.

With the help of John Story and Bill Coles we recollected for a few minutes about our couple of days at Columbia Edgewater.  This trip supports another strong recommendation for Royal Colwood members to head to Portland to enjoy good food at "Salty’s on the Columbia River" before or after a great round of golf at Columbia Edgewater.

https://www.saltys.com/portland/

https://www.columbiaedgewater.com/golf/macan-course

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Great conversation with 50-year members Mike Adamek and Tom LeQuesne.  These two Royal Colwood members reminisce about the early years of their golf membership and later share some of their experiences of golfing other AV Macan golf courses over the past 40 years.  

With Tom and Mike being around for some time they both bring up some wonderful memories at Royal Colwood and how things have evolved over the years.  

Mike wants to play with Rory McIlroy, Guy Lafleur and Tom LeQuesne in his dream foursome, while Tom has always wanted to golf with Roger Staubach.  These guys are dedicated sports fans and hugely devoted to their respective Cowboys (Tom) and Habs (Mike).  The Adamek’s and LeQuesne’s are long established Westshore families and have a great history of significant sport and community contributions.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Lucifer Golfing Society was created in 1921 by a small group of like-minded men who enjoyed golfing, fine dining and camaraderie.   In September 2024, the modern "Lucifers" travelled to Canada and part of their itinerary included a trip to Royal Colwood to play in a friendly match and to enjoy great food prepared by Chef Sam Benedetto and his staff.  Have a listen and learn a bit more about the Lucifer Golf Society.
 
 List of Guests:

01:20 – 09:23

Justyn Comer – Lucifer Member – Royal St. Georges & Luffness New

Dr. David Mitchell – Lucifer Member – Royal St. Georges

09:24 – 18:14

Mark Dumas – Lucifer Captain (current) – Hankley Common & Berkshire

Bryan Hamblin – Lucifer Captain (elect) – Rye G.C.

18:15 – 31:17

Ted Clarke – Commonwealth Lucifer Winner 2005 – Weston Golf & Country Club, Royal Montreal & Royal Cinque Ports G.C.

Gerry Kelly – Commonwealth Lucifer Winner 2006 – Royal Colwood

31:18 – 41:02

John Ainsworth – Lucifer Event Liaison – Royal Colwood

Bruce Brown – Lucifer Competitor – Royal Colwood

Big thanks to Dick Austin, John Ainsworth and all the Royal Colwood Staff for making this event such a success.

 
https://lucifergolfingsociety.com/

https://strikersgolfingsociety.com/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Congratulations to Dale Jackson for being inducted to Royal Colwood's Wall of Honour, builder category.

Dale joins me for a conversation about some of his golf experiences and more importantly his accomplishments in the world of golf that has ultimately qualified him for the Wall of Honour.

1.  Rules Official (R&A, USGA, Golf Canada PGA, LPGA) 2001 – present

2.  Club Captain, Royal Colwood Golf Club 2003 – 2004 

3.  Chair, Golf Canada Rules Committee 2013 – 2016 

4.  Member, R&A Rules Committee 2013 – 2016 

5.  Member, Joint Rules Committee 2013 – 2019 

6.  Official of the Year, Sport BC 2014

7.  Rules Official, Olympic Games (Rio) 2016

8.  Vice President, Golf Canada 2019 – 2013

https://www.golfcanada.ca/

WALL OF HONOUR MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of the “Wall of Honour” is to recognize those members, past and current, who have brought credit to Royal Colwood and to themselves through their actions, either by distinguishing themselves as an outstanding golfer, not only at the Club level, but beyond; i.e. Provincial, National or International or by making significant and lasting contributions as a builder of the game through their volunteer or professional service to the benefit of Royal Colwood and Provincial or National or International golf associations. 

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Jordan was elected to the Board of Directors in early 2024 as the Club Captain.   His position gives him a seat on the Executive Committee and is bound to keep him busy.  Jordan really enjoyed campaigning for the position and speaking directly to the members.  Jordan talks about the importance of keeping priorities straight in his position of Captain and tries to keep his personal preferences separate.  

Jordan grew up in Cranbrook, BC and played some golf as a junior but really took it up seriously about 25 years ago.  He played several other sports as a kid but was more competitive in soccer right up into college.   We chatted about the great successes of the Royal Colwood Junior Golf Program.

Jordan talks in detail about his current job where they capture wildlife for scientific research.  Very interesting!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Royal Colwood Golf Club proudly hosted the 110th Canadian Women's Amateur Championship, 30 July - 02 August 2024, presented by BDO.
 
Congratulations to all the competitors, staff, volunteers and members for a successful Championship.

 Part 2 – List of Guests:

00:46 – 08:53

Emily Odwin – Competitor, Barbados

Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas

08:54 – 16:17

Alison Murdoch – Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

Rules Official for the Championship

16:18 – 24:57

Jordan Monks – MOTUS Physiotherapy (Sponsor)

24:58 – 29:24

Momo Sugiyama – Competitor, Australia

Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana

29:25 – 43:28

Sakura Sugiyama – Competitor, Australia

University of North Texas, Denton, Texas

43:29 – 1:03:26

Ken Beaumont, Ian Fraser & Sean Pierce – Royal Colwood Golf Club

Volunteer Caddies for Montgomery Ferreira, Vanessa Zhang & Casey Weidenfeld respectively

1:03:27 – 1:06:38

Matt Waterman – Closing Remarks

https://smumustangs.com/sports/womens-golf
https://heritage.golfcanada.ca/hall-of-fame-members/alison-murdoch/
https://motusphysio.ca/
https://www.purdue.edu/home/athletics/
https://meangreensports.com/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Royal Colwood Golf Club proudly hosted the 110th Canadian Women's Amateur Championship, 30 July - 02 August 2024, presented by BDO.

Congratulations to all the competitors, staff, volunteers and members for a successful Championship.

Part 1 – List of Guests:

00:45 – 08:40

Ann Martyn – Tournament Volunteer Chair

Gordy Scutt – Head Professional, Royal Colwood Golf Club

 08:41 – 15:55

John Deneer – Director of Competitions & Athlete Development for Alberta Golf

 15:56 – 20:42

Nikolina, Jordan & Paula – Food & Beverage Staff

 20:43 – 26:52 

Dave Branson – Championship Caddy Master

Jack Nessel – Volunteer Caddy

 26:53 – 36:53 

Moira Gagnon – 2025 Tournament Chair – 111th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship

Riverside Country Club, Saint John, NB

 36:54 – 55:35 

David McCarthy – President, Golf Canada

 55:36 – 1:01:40

Cynthia Adamek – Competitor 

Royal Colwood Golf Club

 1:01:42 – 1:07:18

Jeff King & Ed Bain

“The Upside” – Chek TV

https://www.riversidecountryclub.ca/
https://albertagolf.org/
https://www.golfcanada.ca/articles/golf-canada-annual-meeting-concludes-with-david-mccarthy-elected-to-serve-a-second-term-as-president/
https://www.cheknews.ca/the-upside/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Columbia Edgewater visits Royal Colwood

As Columbia Edgewater Country Club approaches its 100th Anniversary in 2025, Ky Fullerton and his friends John Delaittre and Evan Wilson visit Royal Colwood and graciously take time to join me for a quick podcast episode.  They, along with other Club members, continue to re-build the Columbia Edgewater historical archives relating to A.V. Macan as part of the centenary celebration and as the new clubhouse is being completed.
John discusses some of Columbia Edgewater's best holes #4, #17 and #9.  He also tells a good Brooke Henderson story and therefore will always be a fan of hers.
Evan talks about three distinctly key things that contribute to the likability of their golf course: good drainage; design of the routing makes or breaks your tee shot; and the inside 9 and outside 9 going in opposite directions.
Columbia Edgewater proudly continues to host the Portland Classic:  it is the longest running, non-major, on the LPGA tour.  Columbia Edgewater shares a strong connection to women’s golf in many ways.
Big thanks to Ky Fullerton, Evan Wilson and John Delaittre for their efforts and support.
Yes, we played all 18 after the podcast recording and they played Victoria Golf Club the next day!

https://www.lpga.com/tournaments/portland-classic/overview

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Royal Colwood is proud to host the 110th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO.  Elaine Bobolo, Organizing Chair, Ruth McDougall and Barb Rainey join the host Matt Waterman in studio to chat about getting ready for the Championship!  

The Championship runs 29 July – 2 August 2024 and the field will include 156 golfers. 

Royal Colwood has a long history of hosting championships and this summer’s event is expected to be a hit.

Later in the episode we talk about many of the competitors expected to play in the Championship.  

Good luck to all the competitors!

Regional Sponsors include:

Gold – Agilyx MUNIvers

Silver – McDonalds, Lexus, Boom & Batten

https://www.golfcanada.ca/competition/2024-canadian-womens-amateur-championship/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Hope you enjoy this episode with Gordy Scutt, new Head Professional at Royal Colwood.  We talk about his golf career from the very early days to current day.  Gordy has played all over the world as a Junior representing Canada, throughout his College years as a Washington Husky and later as a professional.  After playing as a pro for nearly 5 years, Gordy moved back to Victoria to begin working in the golf industry and build his resume to ascend to his new role at Royal Colwood.  
Gordy’s dream foursome includes Seve Ballesteros, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.  
He's married with 2 young daughters and looking forward to getting to know the membership, make sure you say hi if you haven't already.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

For this episode, we took the podcast on the road and compiled 4 days of content with our group of 8.

Our trip included:
Fircrest Golf Club 1923
Columbia Edgewater Country Club 1925
Inglewood Golf Club 1919
Beach Grove 1927

The first three courses were all designed by A.V. Macan and each had their own taste of what Macan liked to build into his course designs.  Specifically, the use of blind tee shots over a hill, sloped greens and fairways following the natural contours of the land.

Enjoyed playing with our group: Bill Coles, Bruce Brown, John Bodman, Ken Tucker, Kent Campbell, George Glover and Perry Carrigan.

PS George and Matt did take down Bruce and Ken in the match at Beach Grove on the final day!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Veterans Memorial Lodge is one of five Broadmead Care homes in Greater Victoria.  An attractive, comfortable Home located in the pleasant Broadmead neighbourhood in Victoria, it provides long term care for veterans and seniors on Vancouver Island.

On June 6th 2024, the 21st Annual Broadmead Care’s Charity Golf Tournament will take place at the Royal Colwood Golf Club.

Joining me to talk about this year’s event is Derrick Bernardo (President and CEO of Broadmead Care) and Sean Midwood (Chair of the Golf Tournament).  We chat about the great work being done to support our many Veterans and the success of the golf tournament.

Special Recognition:
Mr. Rudolph “Rudi” Hoenson was a Second World War Veteran from Holland, a nuclear blast survivor, a prisoner of war for three-and-a-half years, and a philanthropist.  He spent part of his life giving back to charities that touched his heart.  Mr. Hoenson has donated millions of dollars to hospitals in British Columbia, and specifically he has given over 2.6 Million to the care of Veterans at Broadmead Care facilities in Victoria.  His kindness and his story has inspired many community leaders, businesses and donors to contribute.  See the link below for more about Rudi.
https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/about-vac/who-we-are/department-officials/minister/commendation/bio/1649

Below are more links about the Charity Golf Tournament and more information on how you can support this worthy cause.
https://www.broadmeadcare.com/golf/
https://www.broadmeadcare.com/donate-charitygolftournament/ 

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

We celebrate Rupee’s 50 years of membership at Royal Colwood.  “Mr. Pallan” is well known in the Westshore area after serving for 35 years in School District 62.  Rupee’s initiation fee 50 years ago was $400 and the monthly dues were $50.  The Pallan family has grown into golf life at Royal Colwood, both Rupee’s sons got involved as Junior’s and now two grandchildren have connections.

In his 50 years of membership Rupee has “not” had a hole-in-one at Royal Colwood but he tells another story of getting the first ever hole-in-one at the Tobiano Golf Course in Kamloops, BC.  We spend a bit of time chatting about Rupee’s life around golf and how much golf has changed over the years.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Kicking off Season 2 of the A.V. Macan Podcast, we're joined by Royal Colwood Member Doug Hastie.  Doug is currently working for Golf Canada as the Director for Western Canada.  Doug learned his golf from none other than George Knudsen at The National Golf Club, he obtained his Class "A" Professional designation in 1993 and has held numerous golf management and teaching roles over his career.

Doug spends time on the podcast talking about Golf Canada's 1st Tee Program and it's mandate, he also provides details on the National Golf League (NGL) and then provides us with things we can expect at the Canadian Women's Amateur being hosted by Royal Colwood this summer (29 July - 2 August).  Doug is encouraging Royal Colwood Members to be an event volunteer by caddying, billeting or even sponsoring the tournament.

Doug has played nearly 300 golf courses around the world and rates Royal Dornoch and Spyglass Hill as very memorable.

https://www.nationalgolfleague.ca/

https://www.nationalgolfleague.ca/first-tee-canada/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In our final episode of 2023, we're joined by Lori Lumley who has just finished her 1 year term as Women's Captain at the Royal Colwood Golf Club.

Lori played competitive fastball as a youngster and into her adult years but decided as retirement approached that golf would bring her some new athletic challenges, hence joining Royal Colwood in 2019 became her new aspiration .  Lori has already improved her game to a single digit handicap!

Lori served as a municipal police officer in both Ottawa and Victoria and has the distinction of being the 1st female police officer in Canada to serve in a full-time tactical unit (SWAT/ERT).  Lori retired out of the Detective Office and fondly recalls working in the historical case file section and managing  the Michael Dunahee file.

As Captain of the Women's Division, Lori felt it was important to rebrand the name of the Division and is proud of that accomplishment during her term.  Lori also takes a few minutes to highlight the annual activities of the Women's Division around Royal Colwood.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Enjoyed speaking with current Men's Division Captain - Tyler Green.  Tyler has been a member of Royal Colwood since he was 12 years old and credits family influence for being able to play golf at Royal Colwood for so long.  In this episode, you'll be lucky to hear a great hole-in-one story from Tyler while playing at Inglewood Golf Club.

Tyler encourages more young members to consider being part of the Men's Division team.  

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode 13, Royal Colwood Professional Craig Young joins me to chat about his 23+ years at our golf club.  Craig and his wife come from competitive skiing backgrounds but his summer love of golf as a kid carried through to his working life.  Craig’s skiing accomplishments include competing in the 1988 Winter Olympic Games in Calgary and at an FIS World Cup event in 1990 where he finished on the podium with a bronze medal.

After competitive skiing, Craig went back to school and got into his Class “A” Golf Professional training with the PGA of Canada at the Oakdale Golf and Country Club.  Craig spends a lot of his time supporting Men’s/Women’s Division events and tournament operations as part of his regular duties.  You’ll have to listen for Craig’s answer to his favourite hole at Royal Colwood – he breaks it down very well.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In 2023, Royal Colwood celebrated 100 years of Club Championships and in this episode we are joined by Aaron Butters, Club Championship Committee Chair, to talk about the successes of the event.  All the Divisions had medal play competitions over the main championship weekend, and on the second weekend the Men’s Division had match play games.

Later in the episode, Aaron talks about his own start in the game in golf and will celebrate 30 years as a member of Royal Colwood in 2024.  Aaron’s favourite hole from the Macan tees is #13!

Congratulations to all the 2023 winners in their respective Divisions.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Jack Jenner is the creator and still manages the Don Ross Derby at Royal Colwood.  
This event is one of the most enjoyable tournaments on the schedule for the Men’s Division.  It consists of 2– nine hole matches on the Friday and then 3 – nine hole matches on the Saturday; these are played in 2 man teams taking the best ball score.  

The Flight winners at the end of the 5 matches (and two wild card teams) get to compete in the Derby “horse race” portion of the day.  The horse race takes place over 4 holes of elimination (in an alternate shot format) and the remainder of the field places their bets and follows along through the 4 holes.

Jack and his partner Kent Campbell are previous winners of the Derby!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Alec Mackie is the Club Captain at Royal Colwood Golf Club, he is in his second year of a 3 year term.  Alec has been a member of the Club since 1984 and is originally from Carnoustie, Scotland.

In fact, his first golf was learned at Carnoustie Golf Links as a young boy with hickory shafted clubs.  Alec was present at the 2018 Open Championship as a volunteer.  His sister and niece are both successful golfers and far better than Alec.  In 1999, his sister was working at The Open as a volunteer and was a direct witness of the Jean van de Velde collapse on the 18th hole!

Anyone wanting to take on the position of “Club Captain” can connect with him for more details.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Dave Mick – Wall Of Honour - Royal Colwood Golf Club

Dave joined Royal Colwood as a junior member in 1961 and over his golfing career he climbed the steps of recognition to be forever commemorated on the Wall of Honour at Royal Colwood.

Hope you enjoy going through some of Dave’s competitive golf life with him.

Wall of Honour

Member Canadian Team – World Amateur                            1978

                Eisenhower Cup Silver Medalist

Pacific Northwest Men’s Amateur Champion                        1973

BC Willingdon Cup Team Member                                             1971-73, 77/78

                National Champions                                                           1971-73

BC Junior Provincial Team Member                                           1968/69

                National Champions                                                             1968

BC Men’s Invitational Champion                                                 1969/72

Vancouver Island Men’s Open Champion                               1978/79/97

Vancouver Island Zone 5 Senior Men’s Champion               2008

Victoria City Men’s Champion                                                     1978/79/83/86

Royal Colwood Men’s Champion                                                1980

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Bruce Brown is our guest on episode 8 of the A.V. Macan Podcast, we chat about the Invasive Species Removal program that he and other volunteers at the Club have been working on for the past few years.   Bruce has been a member at Royal Colwood for the past 17 years and has served as the Men’s Captain.  Being a volunteer at our golf course is only a small part of the volunteering Bruce has done inside and outside our community, he talks about a few of those worthy charities he contributes to.  Bruce accurately predicted in this podcast episode that team Europe would win the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy. 

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Derek Senft is our guest on episode 7, he's a member of the professional staff at Royal Colwood Golf Club.   Derek has 10 years experience at Colwood and previously learned some of the golf industry at Victoria Golf Club and at Cultus Lake.
 Derek is big part of Junior Golf development at Royal Colwood, and he’s often seen leading young girls and boys in their exposure to the golf world.  He is a graduate of the Golf Management Program at Camosun College and speaks highly of his educational experiences that the program offered.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

John Rempel is our guest on episode 6, he's been a member at Royal Colwood Golf Club since 1980.   John served his country for 25 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force.  Once John retired from the military he decided to buy a donut franchise - which eventually became John's Donut House for the next 17 years.
John talks about his many years of golfing around Royal Colwood and cool memories of watching Dawn Coe and Steve Stricker play golf.
The "Black Swan" story is also talked about as well as many other changes at the course over the years.  John's favourite hole at Royal Colwood is #17.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode #5, Kevin Carrigan comes in to chat about his experiences at Royal Colwood Golf Club (RCGC).  He is a “Wall of Honour” member and is previously a winner of the Men’s Club Championship eight (8) times in a row!
Kevin gives credit to Tiger Woods for creating huge interest in golf while he was learning the game as a Junior.  After his high school graduation, Kevin went onto College in the United States for NCAA Division I competition.  He plans to continue to compete at the amateur level and try and get back to the highest level of competition despite working full-time as a Certified Financial Planner and co-parenting his two young children.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode #4, you’ll hear from Nolan Thoroughgood the 2022 Men’s Club Champion at Royal Colwood Golf Club (RCGC).  He is a home grown golfer at RCGC and has been a high achiever throughout his playing career.  The highlights include winning the BC Amateur Golf Championship in 2016 (at 15 yrs old) and playing college golf in Division I NCAA for Oregon State University.
Nolan has decided not to turn pro and remain in the competitive amateur ranks – likely a difficult decision for many golfers but a mature choice for a young man with his whole life ahead of him.  I’m sure we’ll see him competing at numerous future golf competitions.  He achieved an Accounting Degree with a minor in Supply Chain & Logistics Management while at College.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Thanks to Nolan for giving us an update on how things went the past couple of years since our last episode.  We get some insight into his time as Assistant Coach of the Oregon State Golf Team.

Nolan is currently looking for work – he has an undergraduate degree in accounting, holds a minor in supply chain logistics management and then he did his master’s degree in financial analytics.  

While working Nolan would still like to keep his competitive game in order and continue playing in some amateur events.  Despite knowing that it could be a stretch, some amateur events have qualifying spots in golf’s Major events, so that dream is still alive!

We spent a few minutes talking about professional golfers; it was interesting to hear Nolan’s views.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode #3, Cynthia Adamek sits down to chat about her golfing career at Royal Colwood Golf Club (RCGC).  She is the 2022 Women’s Club Champion and is a four time winner of the Championship.  Cynthia grew up around Royal Colwood and spent many summers playing and competing as a junior member.
Cynthia served in the Canadian Armed Forces as a musician performing in the Ceremonial Guard during her summer postings while attending UVic.  After University she became a professional musician with several different Symphony Orchestras.  Currently she is a French Immersion Kindergarten Teacher at John Stubbs.  

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode #2, you’ll meet Rich Chlopan the Head Professional at the Royal Colwood Golf Club (RCGC).  
 Rich has been an employee at RCGC for 8 years and has held the Head Professional position the past 4 years. He has been involved in the golf industry since 1989.  Rich is from Regina, Sask. and played Junior Golf at the Wascana Country Club.
The 2nd toast is made by Rich and is in honour of our golf course designer.  “A.V. Macan”

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

In episode #1 you'll meet Winston Michell the General Manager of the Royal Colwood Golf Club.  
Winston is 3 1/2 years into his role as the General Manager, he started the position at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic!  He is a graduate of the Camosun College Golf Management Program.
Winston looks forward to the future at Royal Colwood with lots of new projects underway and important golf tournaments coming soon.
To appropriately kick off these episodes, Winston gives the Loyal Toast .  "The King"

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The host, Matt Waterman talks about starting the A.V. Macan Podcast.

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Special thanks to the Members and Staff at Inglewood Golf Club for hosting the 2025 Interclub event with Royal Colwood.  This year’s event between Inglewood and Royal Colwood was fantastic, and we look forward to continuing the tradition.
 
Guests on this episode:
00:43 – 08:30
Ron Poborsky – Member, Inglewood GC

08:31 – 12:47
Kevin Won – Member, Royal Colwood GC

12:48 – 28:02
Mike Gove – Director of Golf, Inglewood GC

28:03 – 35:02
Brent Hopkins – Member, Royal Colwood GC

35:03 – 43:14
Scott Arrants – Member, Inglewood GC

43:15– 47:38
Maddie Davis – Staff, Inglewood GC

47:39– 49:23
Closing Remarks – Host, Matt Waterman

https://www.inglewoodgolfclub.com/the-club

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Host of the A.V. Macan Podcast, Matt Waterman, talks about the RBC Scramble Qualifying Event which took place at Royal Colwood on Sunday 20 July 2025.  Congrats to Jeremy Cook, Tristan Story, Stephen Gaskin and Andrew Avis for winning the Colwood event with a winning score of net 55.

Consider playing in this fun event next year.

https://rbcpgascramble.com/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Alberta 2025 – AV Macan Road Trip

On this episode we took the podcast on the road for our weeklong trip into Alberta in June 2025.  It was a pleasure to travel and play with fellow Royal Colwood members, John Story, Steve Fraser and Bill Coles.

Our trip included:

Sagebrush – est. 2009

Royal Mayfair – est. 1922

Petroleum – est. 1993

Calgary – est. 1897

Glencoe – est. 1984

Earl Grey – est. 1919

Highly recommend a visit to these golf clubs if you get a chance.  Lots of amazing golf holes, wonderful clubhouse facilities and the people are great. 
 
 https://sagebrushgolfclub.com/promo/a-place-with-elbow-room/

https://mayfair.ca/history/

https://scoregolf.com/golf-course-guide/alberta/region/greater-edmonton/edmonton-petroleum-golf-and-country-club

https://www.stanleythompson.com/about-stanley/stanley-s-courses/alberta/calgary-golf-country-club

https://glencoe.org/the-glencoe-golf-and-country-club

https://earlgreygolfclub.com/About

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Huge congratulations to Don Singlehurst, Superintendent at Royal Colwood, who is retiring after 34 years of devoted service.  Please enjoy listening to this episode of the A.V. Macan Podcast and with any luck you’ll get to know a little bit more about Don.  For instance, most people wouldn’t know that Don was Junior Club Champion at Royal Colwood and Gorge Vale in 1978!

Don’s first job in the golf world was as night waterman at Gorge Vale Golf Club in 1979.  He talks about the various jobs and the extensive training he was able to do that led him to eventually getting the Superintendent position at RCGC.

Congratulations Don and have a long and happy retirement!

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Since 2003, more than $2 million has been raised through this tournament to fund essential projects that help transform Veterans Memorial Lodge into a place that feels like home. In 2025, we are committed to completing the fundraising needed to renovate and revitalize courtyards and gardens at Veterans Memorial Lodge. 

In this episode I speak with Gary Garnett (Team Navy) and Chuck Oliviero (Team Army/Airforce) about the Armed Forces Challenge portion of this tournament.  The fundraising this friendly challenge generates is fantastic.  Last year (2024) the Armed Forces Challenge raised over $40,000 and the tournament raised $200,000 in support of the Veterans Memorial Lodge. 

Thursday June 5th is this year’s tournament and anyone wanting to make a donation is encouraged to visit the following link:
https://www.broadmeadcare.com/donate-charitygolftournament/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

Ewan Baldwin claimed his first Men’s Open Division Club Championship in 2025 at 15 years old.  Ewan had never played in the Open Division prior to this year, only competing as a Junior (3 time Champ) before.  It was great talking about Ewan’s golf successes for 2025.

The Royal Bay High School Golf Academy is new for Ewan this year and he hopes to compete for a spot on the Golf Team.  Another major highlight for Ewan this year was the Notah Begay III (NB3) Boys Junior National Championship in Louisiana.  He won two qualifying events (BC Provincial Championship and the Washington State Regional Championship) to reach the finals.  Ewan was 5th overall in his Division – well done!

https://www.nb3canada.org/

https://www.instagram.com/nb3jgnc/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Sayward Cup is named in honour of our Founder and first President of Royal Colwood, Mr. Joseph A. Sayward.  It was the brainchild of Mr. Richard Austin, a past Captain, after a visit by a team from Royal Aberdeen in September 2000.

Since that inaugural international match, we have had the pleasure of hosting teams from New Zealand, The R and A, and most recently, The Lucifer Golf Society. Over the past 25 years, RCGC has been fortunate to be hosted for informal matches by the finest clubs in Scotland, Ireland, and England. This trip marks our 7th journey 'across the pond'. The Sayward Cup has been contested 60 times, with each match commemorated on the trophy.

The 2025 Sayward Cup Tour made stops in South London and Kent areas for more friendly matches.  Big shoutout to this year’s Captain John Ainsworth for leading the tour.  

Our first Match was at Royal Wimbledon Golf Club on 4 September 2025.  Thanks to John Arseneau for taking time to discuss our game and experiences at Royal Wimbledon.

https://www.rwgc.co.uk/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Sayward Cup is named in honour of our Founder and first President of Royal Colwood, Mr. Joseph A. Sayward.  It was the brainchild of Mr. Richard Austin, a past Captain, after a visit by a team from Royal Aberdeen in September 2000.

Since that inaugural international match, we have had the pleasure of hosting teams from New Zealand, The R and A, and most recently, The Lucifer Golf Society. Over the past 25 years, RCGC has been fortunate to be hosted for informal matches by the finest clubs in Scotland, Ireland, and England. This trip marks our 7th journey 'across the pond'. The Sayward Cup has been contested 60 times, with each match commemorated on the trophy.

The 2025 Sayward Cup Tour made stops in South London and Kent areas for more friendly matches.  Big shoutout to this year’s Captain John Ainsworth for leading the tour. 

Our fourth Match was at Royal St. Georges Golf Club on 10 September 2025.  Thanks to Shaun Paterson for taking time to discuss our game and experiences at Royal St. Georges.

https://www.instagram.com/royalst.georges/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Sayward Cup is named in honour of our Founder and first President of Royal Colwood, Mr. Joseph A. Sayward.  It was the brainchild of Mr. Richard Austin, a past Captain, after a visit by a team from Royal Aberdeen in September 2000.

Since that inaugural international match, we have had the pleasure of hosting teams from New Zealand, The R and A, and most recently, The Lucifer Golf Society. Over the past 25 years, RCGC has been fortunate to be hosted for informal matches by the finest clubs in Scotland, Ireland, and England. This trip marks our 7th journey 'across the pond'. The Sayward Cup has been contested 60 times, with each match commemorated on the trophy.

The 2025 Sayward Cup Tour made stops in South London and Kent areas for more friendly matches.  Big shoutout to this year’s Captain John Ainsworth for leading the tour. 

Our third Match was at Royal Ashdown Forest (old course) on 8 September 2025.  Thanks to Ken Beaumont for taking time to discuss our game and experiences at Royal Ashdown Forest.

https://www.instagram.com/royalashdownold/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Sayward Cup is named in honour of our Founder and first President of Royal Colwood, Mr. Joseph A. Sayward.  It was the brainchild of Mr. Richard Austin, a past Captain, after a visit by a team from Royal Aberdeen in September 2000.

Since that inaugural international match, we have had the pleasure of hosting teams from New Zealand, The R and A, and most recently, The Lucifer Golf Society. Over the past 25 years, RCGC has been fortunate to be hosted for informal matches by the finest clubs in Scotland, Ireland, and England. This trip marks our 7th journey 'across the pond'. The Sayward Cup has been contested 60 times, with each match commemorated on the trophy.

The 2025 Sayward Cup Tour made stops in South London and Kent areas for more friendly matches.  Big shoutout to this year’s Captain John Ainsworth for leading the tour.  

Our second Match was at West Sussex Golf Club on 6 September 2025.  Thanks to Tom Coutts for taking time to discuss our game and experiences at West Sussex.

https://www.instagram.com/westsussexgolfclub/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.

The Sayward Cup is named in honour of our Founder and first President of Royal Colwood, Mr. Joseph A. Sayward.  It was the brainchild of Mr. Richard Austin, a past Captain, after a visit by a team from Royal Aberdeen in September 2000.

Since that inaugural international match, we have had the pleasure of hosting teams from New Zealand, The R and A, and most recently, The Lucifer Golf Society. Over the past 25 years, RCGC has been fortunate to be hosted for informal matches by the finest clubs in Scotland, Ireland, and England. This trip marks our 7th journey 'across the pond'. The Sayward Cup has been contested 60 times, with each match commemorated on the trophy.

The 2025 Sayward Cup Tour made stops in South London and Kent areas for more friendly matches.  Big shoutout to this year’s Captain John Ainsworth for leading the tour. 

Our fifth Match was at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club on 12 September 2025.  Thanks to Andre Lemieux for taking time to discuss our game and experiences at Royal Cinque Ports.

https://www.instagram.com/royalcinqueports/

Sound editing done by Todd Mason.