Aurora Sports Hall of Fame tees up first annual Golf Tourney Fundraiser at Pheasant Run

June 29, 2023 · 0 Comments

The ceremonial drum beats and traditional vocals of Traditional Anishinaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley opened the first annual Aurora Sports Hall of Fame Golf Tournament at Pheasant Run GC on Wednesday afternoon.

Wheatley delivered a ceremonial address to over 100 golfers assembled at the Shotgun Best Ball event which coincided with National Indigenous Peoples Day and the Summer Solstice.

Javed Khan, President of the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame (ASHoF), was delighted by the opening festivities and the launch of the fundraiser: “It’s our first year and everyone is here to support the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Mental Health Association. It’s a testament to the amazing work our volunteers have done.”

After Wheatley’s blessings, encouraging words, and choral leadership, the highly-spirited group of golfers dashed to their power carts and drove to their assigned Shotgun tee blocks to enjoy an ideal first day of summer at the pristine, leafy East Gwillimbury course. It was also an ideal day for Grandmother Kim to convey her message of peace and reconciliation. The Indigenous leader reminded us of “the importance of National Indigenous Peoples Day—it’s a day to highlight our presence, resilience, and sharing. It’s our way of life to be kind.”

The kindness of Wheatley was evident to all. as was the generosity of the golfers whose greens fees helped a pressing need in Canadian society—the mental health of its citizenry.

The good spirit and revelry that was evident on the golf course manifested itself during the post-round dinner which in turn set up a highly successful Celebrity Round Table—a highlight of the evening, according to Khan.

“The day was filled with an exceptional round of golf, followed by a delectable dinner, and an enlightening round table discussion hosted by 105.9 The Region’s Jim Lang. Joining us were three inspiring individuals: ASHoF Hall of Famer Mike Palmateer and Olympic Hockey Gold Medalists Paul Rosen and Erin Ambrose.”

Other sports celebrities in attendance included Olympic Downhill great Brian Stemmle, Los Angeles Kings Quinton Byfield, and former NHLers Mike Kitchen, Steve Vickers, and Greg Hotham.

“It was a true honour to have Grandmother Kim Wheatley join us in recognizing and respecting National Indigenous Peoples Day, adding a significant and meaningful element to the event,” noted Khan.

Khan’s address to the guests at Pheasant Run Golf Course focused on the target of his organization’s first annual fundraiser and he provided his heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who made it happen.

“We are proud to share that a portion of the proceeds will be presented to the Canadian Mental Health Association, York & South Simcoe, to support their important work in our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this historic event and showed their support for ASHoF and CMHA York & South Simcoe. Your involvement played a vital role in making this event a resounding success. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment.”

A good time was had by all at Pheasant Run in the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame’s inaugural charity fundraiser.

By Jim Stewart