THUNDER BAY -- Jeff Hunter is back for Round 3 at the Staal Foundation Open.
The Thunder Bay golfer on Tuesday learned he’d been given one of three remaining sponsor’s exemptions into the tournament.
Hunter played in the first two editions of the event in 2014 and 2015, missing the cut both times.
“Receiving an exemption into this year’s Staal Foundation Open means so much to me. I continually strive to be a strong ambassador for junior golf and development here in Thunder Bay. An event like the Staal Foundation Open is incredibly motivating to myself and all young local golfers,” Hunter said in a release issued by tournament officials.
“I feel so proud to be a part of the event again this year. I have actively participated in different areas of the Staal Foundation Open over the last two years from caddying to attending clinics and last year I qualified to play. I am very thankful for this chance to play once again and will continue to work hard on my game.”
For Evan Littlefield, it’ll be his first opportunity to put his game up against the Mackenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada pros in his hometown when play kicks off next Thursday.
Littlefield, a recent graduate of the Niagara College golf management program, captured the 2010 Canadian Tire District Amateur title and last weekend finished in a three-way tie for third at the Keg District Open, seven shots behind winner Evan DeGrazia.
“I am incredibly honoured to receive an exemption into this year’s Staal Foundation Open. This is an amazing opportunity to be able to play with some of the best up and comers from around the world and take my career to the next level;” says Littlefield.
“I am excited to represent Thunder Bay and compete at the course I started my amateur career on, Whitewater Golf Club. Golf is my No. 1 passion and my ultimate goal is to play professional golf and play in the 2017 Mackenzie Tour - PGA TOUR Canada’s Qualifying School. This exemption puts me one step closer to that dream.”
Australian Jarryd Felton, acting on advice from golf superstars Adam Scott and Jason Day his game was ready for overseas competition, landed the third sponsorship.
Felton won his professional debut at the 2015 New South Wales PGA Championship and is currently ranked 773rd in the world.
The tournament kicks off on July 14, with opening ceremonies set for Monday.
