Yellamaraju ties for fifth at THE PLAYERS Championship
Sudarshan Yellamaraju’s unconventional journey to the PGA Tour reached another milestone Sunday as the Canadian rookie delivered a breakthrough performance at THE PLAYERS Championship.
Yellamaraju carded a final-round 4-under 68 at TPC Sawgrass to finish tied for fifth at 9 under par, four shots behind winner Cam Young.
The 24-year-old’s finish marked his first career top-10 result on the PGA Tour and the best showing by a rookie at the tournament in more than a decade. It was also the strongest result by a Canadian at The Players since Stephen Ames won the event in 2006.
Yellamaraju said the result reinforced his belief that he can compete at the highest level.
“I know I can compete and contend, and I have a lot of belief in myself, but that results-based confidence is something you can’t match,” he said. “Once you do something, you know you can do that or better.”
Making his tournament debut, Yellamaraju approached the week with modest expectations while still aiming to contend.
“As a rookie you just go out and see what you can do,” he said. “I always want to win every tournament, but that’s not realistically possible.”
Yellamaraju’s final round started quickly. The Canadian made three birdies in his opening four holes and added another at the par-5 ninth to reach the turn in 4-under 32.
A bogey on the short par-4 12th slowed his momentum, but he rebounded with birdies at Nos. 15 and 16 before finishing with a bogey at the difficult closing hole.
Playing in front of the large Sunday crowds at TPC Sawgrass was another new experience for the rookie.
“It was awesome,” Yellamaraju said of the fan support. “Yesterday when I had that run of birdies the crowd started cheering me on and it kept me motivated even when I was getting a little tired.”
The strong finish also reflected a mindset that has helped define his rise through the professional ranks.
“I’m not someone who packs it in,” he said. “I never give up. I’m very resilient.”
Yellamaraju credited that approach for helping him handle the challenge of one of the PGA Tour’s most demanding courses.
“Everything has to be really good on this course,” he said. “You’ve got to drive it well, hit good approach shots, chip it well and putt it well.”
The Canadian earned US$925,000 for the result, the largest payday of his young PGA Tour career.
Corey Conners was the next-best Canadian in the field, finishing tied for 13th after a final-round 74, his third straight top-15 result at The Players Championship.
Nick Taylor shot a 1-over 73 on Sunday to finish tied for 42nd, while Taylor Pendrith also closed with a 73 to tie for 46th.
TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE | Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Induction Celebration
Tickets are now on sale for the Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2025 induction celebration.
The event will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Pine Ridge Golf Club. This year’s ceremony honors four individuals who have made significant contributions to the game in Manitoba, along with a special recognition for a long-time supporter of the golf community.
This celebration is proudly sponsored by the Alex & Peggy Colonello Foundation.
The Class of 2025
- Tim Campbell (Builder): A renowned sports journalist whose decades of insightful coverage at the Winnipeg Free Press elevated the profile of golf both locally and nationally.
- Jill Hardy (Athlete): A four-time Manitoba Women’s Amateur Champion and former Manitoba Amateur Golfer of the Year with a competitive career spanning over two decades.
- Nick Mickoski (Athlete): A multi-sport legend and former NHLer who achieved golfing greatness as a Manitoba Amateur and Senior Champion, as well as a three-time Harold Eidsvig Memorial Trophy winner.
- Sandy Paterson (Athlete & Builder): Recognized for a lifetime of excellence both as a competitive player and for his significant contributions to the growth of the game in the province.
In addition to the formal inductions, the evening will include a special presentation recognizing George Sigurdson for his continued support and impact on the Manitoba golf community.
Event Information & Tickets
The Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving the history of the game and honoring those who have brought distinction to the sport in Manitoba and Northwest Ontario. We invite all members of the golf community to join us for this special evening.
- Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
- Location: Pine Ridge Golf Club (66059 Pine Ridge Road, Sunnyside, MB)
- Reception: 6:30 p.m.
- Program: 7:30 p.m.
- Tickets: $35 + GST
Dress is smart casual. A cash bar will be available.
For assistance with tickets, please contact Golf Manitoba at 204.925.5730 or at info@golfmb.ca.
Help us Preserve the Game Together
If you are interested in supporting the Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame, donations can be made through the Golf Canada Foundation. The Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame & Museum Inc. is a registered charitable organization with the Canada Revenue Agency and all donations will yield a tax-deductible receipt.
For the complete directory of honoured members, visit mbgolfhof.ca.
Golf Canada Transitions to Hole-by-Hole Scoring Standard for Public Players
WINNIPEG – Golf Canada is modernizing how scores are recorded across the country, establishing hole-by-hole score posting as the new standard for all Public Player members, with an effective start date in the Golf Manitoba region of April 15, 2026.
This update is part of a phased national initiative to improve the accuracy of the World Handicap System (WHS). While the transition begins with Public Players this season, Golf Canada has confirmed that hole-by-hole scoring will become the universal standard for all members nationwide in 2028.
Precision Meets Performance
Moving away from total-score entries ensures that every Golf Canada Handicap Index is as accurate as possible. By recording scores hole-by-hole, the Golf Canada system automatically applies Net Double Bogey adjustments—the maximum score allowed for any given hole—removing the need for manual calculations and ensuring a fair field for all golfers.
A Data-Driven Golf Experience
Beyond handicap accuracy, this updated scoring method unlocks a suite of digital tools designed to help golfers understand their game on a deeper level:
- Personalized Analytics: Players gain access to #MyGolfYear, featuring detailed stats like greens in regulation, pars, and birdies.
- Trackable Progress: Identify specific strengths and weaknesses over time to help guide practice and improvement.
- System Integrity: Standardized reporting ensures that the WHS remains a reliable reflection of playing ability worldwide.
Join the Public Player Program
The Public Player program is designed for golfers who do not belong to a private or semi-private club but still want to maintain an official Handicap Index and access the exclusive suite of game enhancing member benefits.
Public Player Membership Includes:
- An Official Golf Canada Handicap Index
- Up to $1,500 in Incident Protection (covering broken windows, equipment theft and cart accidents)
- Exclusive national and regional discounts on travel, insurance and dining
- Eligible to compete in provincial and national championships
Click below to join Golf Manitoba / Golf Canada as a Public Player and start tracking your game today.
Join Golf Manitoba / Golf Canada
Preparing for the 2028 National Standard
By introducing this standard for Public Players now, Golf Canada is paving the way for a smooth transition across the entire membership base by 2028. This phased approach allows the organization to provide dedicated support and ensure the Golf Canada app and Score Centre website continue to offer a seamless user experience.
Contact and Support
Golf Manitoba is committed to assisting players through this transition. For questions regarding score posting, the Rules of Golf, or handicapping, please contact:
Sam Beavis-Hickey Director of Rules and Competitions, Golf Manitoba
Phone: 204-770-4172
Email: sam@golfmb.ca
A Legacy of the Game: An Evening in Support of Bison Golf, presented by the Johnston Group
On Monday, April 20th, 2026, the University of Manitoba Bison Golf Program, in partnership with the Johnston Group, hosts an evening of unparalleled storytelling and professional insight at the St. Charles Country Club. This event brings together three distinct voices to explore the evolution of golf, from its most historic matches to the modern-day PGA Tour.
The Program
Experience a defining moment in Manitoba golf history. Join Hall of Fame Honoured Member Mr. Steve Bannatyne for a moderated look at the legendary match between George Knudson and Roberto De Vicenzo. As Knudson’s former caddie, Steve offers a rare insider’s view of the players and the electric atmosphere of that historic day.
What does it take to compete on the world stage today? Mr. Derek Ingram, Head Coach, Team Canada – Men, will discuss the standard of dedication required to succeed as a tour-caliber golfer. As a coach to PGA Tour standouts Corey Conners and Taylor Pendrith, as well as Manitoba’s own Aaron Cockerill, Derek offers a firsthand look at the modern professional game.
Award-winning author Mr. Joshua Evenson (Links to St. Andrews—Loveletters to the Home of Golf) joins the program to share his experiences working with the Keiser family and the Dream Golf team. Mr. Evenson will recount his journey through the world of “destination golf” and his work on some of the game’s most iconic projects.
Hospitality & Prizes
The evening features several exceptional opportunities for attendees:
- Grand Door Prize: A four-person, three-round golf package at the highly anticipated Rodeo Dunes project in Denver, Colorado ($4,000 USD value), gifted by Dream Golf.
- Featured Raffle: A limited-edition copy of Mr. Evenson’s Links to St. Andrews.
- Refreshments: Hors d’oeuvres will be served along with a cash bar.
- Attire: Dress for the event is smart casual.
- Event Schedule: Doors open at 6:30 PM with the program running from 7-9:30 PM.
Registration & Support
The Bison Golf Program relies on fundraising and donations to cover 100% of its annual operating budget. While the University provides facility access and administrative and academic support, the program’s growth depends entirely on the generosity of donors.
Tickets are available for $300 plus fees and includes a $215 tax credit. Ticket sales will close at 12am on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
If you are interested in supporting the program but are unable to attend, donations can be made directly to the University of Manitoba. Please direct your gift to the Golf Program Excellence Fund.
Contact
For more information, please contact Ken Mould by email or by phone at 204.881.5157.
Level 2 Referee Certification Seminar Returns this March
It is a fundamental truth in amateur sport: No referees, no game.
Since Golf Manitoba’s founding in 1915, volunteers have been the heartbeat of our organization. From our premier amateur championships to junior development programs, we rely on a dedicated community of officials to ensure the game is played with integrity, fairness, and passion.
Being a referee is more than just knowing the Rules of Golf; it is a way of life and a commitment to giving back to the game we love. To support the growth of our championship season, Golf Manitoba is pleased to announce an in-person Level 2 Provincial Certification Seminar taking place March 20-22, 2026.
Why Your Contribution Matters
Volunteering as a referee offers a front-row seat to the best amateur golf in the province. Level 2 certified referees are vital members of our team, eligible to officiate at all Golf Manitoba provincial championships. Whether you are a longtime player, a PGA of Canada member, or new to the rules, your involvement ensures our athletes have a professional and fair environment in which to compete.
As a “professional volunteer,” Golf Manitoba is committed to supporting you. We provide a full uniform package and cover all eligible expenses, including training, travel, meals, and accommodations where necessary.
Seminar Schedule & Location
All sessions will be held at the Sport Manitoba Building in the Theatre Room (Lower Level), 145 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg.
- Friday, March 20: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday, March 21: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Sunday, March 22: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Food, beverage and snacks will be provided for all three days.
Certification Requirements
Golf Manitoba is proud to offer this certification at no charge to those looking to give back to the sport.
- Prerequisite: Candidates must have achieved a score of 85% or better on the Level 1 Online Exam.
- Certification: To become Provincially Certified, attendees must achieve a minimum of 80% on the Provincial exam and complete 50 hours of on-course experience, including 10 hours of mentorship with a Nationally certified Referee.
- Optional Learning: Writing the exam is not mandatory for those simply wishing to advance their rules knowledge without pursuing formal certification.
Registration
Help us safeguard the future of the game in Manitoba. Registration for the Level 2 Seminar will close on March 17, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
For more information on volunteering with Golf Manitoba, please visit our Volunteer Page.
Contact
Please contact Sam Beavis-Hickey (Director of Rules and Competitions) by email for all Level 2 inquiries.
Golf Manitoba Remembers Robert (Bob) Fallis
Golf Manitoba remembers Robert (Bob) Fallis, who passed away on February 18, 2026. A lifetime member of the Pine Ridge Golf Club, Bob volunteered countless hours with Golf Manitoba as Rules Chair, referee, and board member.
Drawing on his career as an educator, Bob was the driving force behind the rules seminars that Golf Manitoba continues to offer today. His dedication to the sport’s heritage was equally significant, including over ten years of service on the Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame Board of Directors. Bob will be remembered by his peers for his expertise, his quick wit, and the genuine character he brought to the course.
Golf Manitoba extends its deepest sympathies to Robert’s family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pine Ridge Golf Club later this spring, with details to follow.
Registration now open for 2026 Golf Canada National Championships
Registration is now open for 2026 Golf Canada National Championships.
A reminder, two national championships will be hosted in Manitoba this summer.
Neepawa Golf & Country Club welcomes the NextGen Prairie Championship June 19th to 21st followed by the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship presented by BDO September 8th to 11th at Niakwa Country Club.
For the 2026 Golf Canada Calendar, click here.
Golf Manitoba remembers Robert Damsgaard
With heavy hearts and deep love, the family of Robert Nelson Damsgaard announces his sudden and unexpected passing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Rob was born in Dauphin, Manitoba on September 4, 1966.
Rob is survived by his loving wife, Mishelle Russo; his daughter, Isabella Dennis; his sisters Donna (Bill) Wilford and Karen (Ken) Irvine of Winnipeg; and his brothers Brian (Wendy) Damsgaard of Dauphin and Bonar (Sherri) Damsgaard of Kelowna. He will be deeply missed by his nieces Meaghan (Matthew) Trachsel, Marissa Wilford, and Madison (Chris Sitarz) Wilford; his nephews Kris (Chloe) Irvine of Winnipeg, Kraig (Jennifer) Irvine of Oakbank, Dwayne (Jamie) Damsgaard of Dauphin, Darren (Nicci) Damsgaard of Lloydminster, Brad (Cary) Damsgaard of Salt Spring Island, and Kevin Damsgaard of Vernon; along with many great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives he touched.
He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Laura Damsgaard of Dauphin; his niece, Leanne Damsgaard; and his late wife, Tanya Damsgaard (née Howe).
Rob was a highly accomplished and respected golf professional who began his career under the mentorship of Dauphin’s Stan Homeniuk. He went on to serve as Head Professional at Swan River, Winnipeg’s Wildewood Club, St. Andrew’s Larters, and most recently, The Player’s Course. He was recently honoured by the CPGA for 25 years as a Class A Head Professional, along with six years as an Assistant Pro and six years working in the golf shop during his school years. Golf was not just his profession, but a lifelong passion and a community that became family.
Rob loved his weekly hockey games with fellow golf pros, trips down south for tournaments, and competing in PGA events across North America. A devoted Winnipeg Jets fan, he took great pride in knowing the latest stats and facts about any and all sports teams — and he was rarely wrong. He loved the debate, the banter, and especially the laughter that came with it.
Above all else, Rob was devoted to the people he loved. He was a proud husband, a deeply loving father, a caring brother, an exceptional uncle, and a loyal friend. He had a sharp wit and a wonderfully dry sense of humour, often making obscure references that sometimes only he understood — and that was part of his charm. He found genuine joy in teaching, storytelling, and sharing his knowledge with anyone willing to listen. Whether on the golf course, at the rink, travelling through Europe, or gathered around with family and friends, Rob brought laughter, perspective, and heart to every room he entered.
His sudden loss leaves an immeasurable void, but his stories, humour, and love will live on in all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Golf Manitoba Scholarship Fund in memory of Robert Damsgaard. The website is www.golfmb.ca/scholarship or call (204) 925-5730 for more information.
He would remind us to keep our swing smooth, our stats straight, and never take life too seriously.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at The United Church in Meadowood, 1111 Dakota Street at 2:00pm.
Golf Canada launches Foundation Heritage Grant Program
The Golf Canada Foundation and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame are proud to announce the creation of the Golf Canada Foundation Heritage Grant Program.
The newly established Heritage Project Grant will provide financial assistance of up to $2,000 to support community heritage projects related to the game of golf in Canada.
The Heritage Project Grant is open for applications to all Golf Canada members (golf course, facilities and individual members). The deadline for applications is Friday, March 27, 2026. To apply for the grant and review specific evaluation criteria, please click here.
“We are excited to announce the launch of the Heritage Project Grant and appreciate the generous support from our donors and partners with the Golf Canada Foundation for making this possible,” said Meggan Gardner, Director, Heritage Services, Golf Canada. “Bringing to life the history of various golf events and competitions, its champions, and most importantly, the community that golf creates, is what this grant will support.”
Heritage Projects that would qualify for the Heritage Project Grant can include, but are not limited to:
- Collection and digitization of historical documents, photographs and artifacts related to golf in Canada.
- Conducting oral history interviews with golfers, historians and members of the golf community.
- Dissemination of findings through a dedicated website, community events and social media channels to engage the public.
- Supporting the publishing of printed or electronic history books and websites.
For more information on the Heritage Project Grant, please contact Meggan at mgardner@golfcanada.ca.
SAVE THE DATE | 2025 Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame
The Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the Class of 2025 Induction Celebration will be held Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Pine Ridge Golf Club.
Tickets will go on sale Sunday, March 15 at 9:00am. Tickets will be available for purchase online.
To read the Hall of Fame inductees announcement media release, click here.