Travel industry hits the links at Skal Golf Tournament

Over 130 members of the travel industry basked in the sunshine at Toronto’s Royal Woodbine Golf Club yesterday for Skal’s 61st annual golf tournament, getting their golfing shoes on for a day filled with fun, prizes, sportsmanship and networking opportunities.

Participants teed off after a BBQ lunch, cooling down throughout the afternoon with cold treats supplied by PAX’s very own ice-cream cart, before retreating to the clubhouse for the evening reception.

Kimberly Hartley, marking her fifth year as golf chair, told PAX that the occasion afforded attendees the opportunity to mingle and network with other industry figures in a fun and sociable setting, with the competition’s longevity a testament to its popularity.

“This is our 61st year hosting the golf tournament,” she said, “and it really reflects our motto of ‘doing business with friends.’ We are the voice of the travel industry, and we’d encourage all segments of the industry to join.

“Professionals from airlines, hotels, car rentals, destinations, travel agents, tour operators and more – they are all part of what makes travel go around. Events like this help members stay on top of the industry – it’s a fun time.”

Hartley also noted the importance of Skal’s suppliers and sponsors, with all contributions funding both worthy charitable causes and the organization itself. “The support that we get from our suppliers is valuable,” she commented. “The funds not only go towards Daily Bread Toronto Food Bank, but also Skal International Toronto. We want to ensure that we continue to host our monthly meetings – and, of course, we invite the travel industry to join.”

Kimberly Hartley, golf chair, Skal.

As golfing proceedings finished for the day, the clubhouse provided the venue for a reception and networking event, with dinner followed by raffle draws, a silent auction and live auction. Prizes were also awarded in numerous categories, including Best Team, Longest Drive (ladies and men), Closest to the Keg, and Most Honest Team.

Fittingly, the day concluded with Hartley leading ‘Skalleagues’ in the organization’s worldwide toast – “happiness, good health, friendship, long life.”

Given its enduring popularity, it comes as little surprise that Hartley confirmed to PAX that the tournament will return for a 62nd year: plans are already afoot for the next competition in August 2018.

The list of winners is as follows:

Best Foursome:

Rolf Schwartje – Skal Hamilton

Michael Paralovos – Skal Hamilton

Dan Howarth – Waste Solutions Canada

Gord Simpson – Guest of Waste Solutions Canada

Most Honest Foursome:

Reina Williams – Expedia Media Solutions

Lara Noack – TripCentral.ca

Scott Baglole – Merit Travel

Denise Graham – Experience Kissimmee

Longest Drive Men – Gord Simpson

Longest Drive Ladies – Denise Luciani – Marlin Travel

Closest to the Pin Ladies – Ashalee Mohammed – Adventure Canada

Closest to the Pin Men – Gord Simpson

Closest to the Keg – Denise Graham – Experience Kissimmee