On a picture-perfect day at Ashburn Golf Club in Halifax, First Tee – Atlantic hosted the inaugural First Tee – Atlantic Cup presented by Keyes Insurance on Monday, September 15th, bringing together 96 enthusiastic participants for a memorable day of golf in support of youth development through the game of golf. The event marked the launch of First Tee – Atlantic’s signature fundraising initiative. The event raised an impressive $85,000, fueling First Tee – Atlantic’s mission to empower youth through affordable access to golf across Atlantic Canada.
Thanks to exceptional hospitality from the entire Ashburn team, the day ran smoothly with a pace of play that had everyone smiling and wishing for more golf.
Highlights from the day:
- The unveiling of the stunning Terry Keyes Memorial Trophy. Shaun Keyes offered a heartfelt tribute to his father and shared what inspired his family to make this contribution in his memory. The trophy was meticulously crafted and generously donated by Dr. Graham Nickerson of Kentville.
- All four members of the winning team (Sara Wilson, Mike Francis, Huessin Rafih, and Andrew White) took home their own Stack Speed Training System, generously donated by Dr. Sasho MacKenzie.
- A live painting experience by talented East Coast artist Allie Beckwith, who joined us on Hole 17. Her painting was auctioned off for an incredible $4,000!
- The “Skip It” Challenge across the pond on Hole 10, inspired by Gary Cowan’s iconic annual tradition at The Masters. Congratulations to our winner, Lori Whitman!
- The 72-Foot Putting Challenge, channeling the magic of Nick Taylor’s legendary walk-off putt at the 2023 RBC Canadian Open. Congratulations to Adam Fleming for making the putt twice (!) and for taking home a great package donated by Bishop’s Cellar.
- A thrilling $20,000 Hole-in-One Challenge on Hole 7, sponsored by our presenting partner, Keyes Insurance. No one took home the cash, but John Gwynne-Timothy of Jaguar Land Rover generously donated an additional $500 for all the balls that landed on the green.
- The closest-to-the-pin competition on Hole 2 saw Dan Roberts taking home two free Transat flights, generously provided by Sherri Bourne from Transat and Shane Coupland from CAA Atlantic.
- The long drive competition on Hole 4 saw bombers Lori Whitman and BJ Affleck taking home leaf blowers generously donated by Green Diamond and Lindsay Construction.
- All participants were treated to great gifting, food and drinks throughout the day, with everyone taking home a sample of The Church Brewing Company’s -1 Under Lager, a beer on offer at golf courses that results in a donation to First Tee – Atlantic from every purchase made.
Thank you to our incredible sponsors and supporters who made this day possible:
- Presenting Sponsor: Keyes Insurance
- Major Sponsor: Jani-King
- Champion Sponsors: Lindsay Construction, Office Interiors, the Grant Family Foundation, and the Municipal Group of Companies
Relive the day and share the memories by checking out photos from the event.
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible, and stay tuned for more details about the second annual First Tee – Atlantic Cup in 2026!
