The 25th Annual Dick Emerson Invitational Golf Tournament: A Legacy of Giving Back

By Chris Whelan

Celebrating its 25th year, the Dick Emerson Invitational Golf Tournament has transformed from a humble gathering to a significant annual event that not only honours a local legend but also serves as a testament of community support The inception of this esteemed tournament traces back over two and a half decades ago, when Doug Stewart, a distinguished member of the Paris Sports Hall of Fame and a beloved local coach, stumbled upon a piece of forgotten history

It all began when Daren Ayres, the then manager of Syl Apps Arena, uncovered a trove of Paris sports trophies, including the prestigious Paris Golf Club’s championship trophy adorned with the name of Dick Emerson no less than seventeen times, a revered figure in the local golfing community. Stewart, recognizing the historical significance, rescued the trophy from obscurity and presented it to John and Paul Emerson, Dick's sons, who were touched to receive this tangible link to their father's illustrious legacy

In a heartwarming gesture, the Emerson brothers decided to share custodianship of the trophy, sparking the idea of an invitational golf tournament in Dick Emerson's honour. Thus, the Dick Emerson

Invitational Golf Tournament was born, with its primary goal evolving over the years to support local causes, particularly aiding young athletes in need of financial assistance.

What started as a friendly gathering of golf enthusiasts has blossomed into a large-scale fundraising event that has raised substantial sums for the Canadian Tire "Jump Start for Kids" charity The tournament's partnership with Jump Start has not only amplified its impact but also exemplified the unwavering commitment of the organizers and participants to give back to the community

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Tournament Champs! Left to Right: Scotty (Dick) Emerson the

4th , & Mike Holman were members of the Tournament Champions, Josh Spiegel & Chucky Summit not in the

A Record-Breaking Year!

This year marked a new milestone, with a record-breaking $15,000 raised, a sum generously matched by Canadian Tire, resulting in a total donation of $30,000 to support youth sports in Brant County. The success of the tournament is a testament to the dedication and passion of those involved, as well as the unwavering support of the local community.

Over the years, the tournament has attracted a roster of notable players, including longstanding Paris residents, accomplished athletes, and prominent business owners, all united by their shared love for sports and community spirit among these great individuals are:

Alan Hepple – Former Captain of Ottawa 67, Director of Scouting for Utah.

Buzz Jr. - Son of Wilfred (Buzz) Robinson Cockburn, known locally for professional hockey, baseball, golf and he even once bowled a perfect game!

Greg (Butch) Rickford - The Right Honorable Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora – Rainy River Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, Minister of Northern Development.

Mark (Mag) McGuire - A local entrepreneur who started selling hockey equipment out of his

garage in Paris and now serves as the Senior VP of PUMA International

James (Jim) Amy - A former pitcher for the Brantford Braves and Brantford Red Sox who travels from Calgary every year to participate in the tournament.

Steve Cruickshank - A Paris native and professional referee honored for officiating his 1,000th game in the Central Hockey League

John Jones – His father Pat was well-known in town for his management of Calbeck’s grocery store and then Paris Sobeys, Josh, is an accomplished software developer dedicated to giving back to the community.

Left to Right: Jim (Tiger) Fowler accepts his prize for closest to the pin from Paul Emerson. Jim generously donates half the money back to the “Jump Start for Kids”.

A Heartfelt Thanks to Everyone from the Tournament Organizers

The Jr. Tournament Champions were the team of Cam Stewart, Tallen Pelton, Callum Dailey and Ryker Hockman

AOne Thousand dollar prize for a Hole In One is generously sponsored by Uncle Larry Pickering in honour of his late

nephew Paris Junior C Hockey Star, 2 time all Ontario Champion for Paris Joey Pickering. The prize was not won this year but Alan Hepple won the prize for the Longest Put and he also generously donated the money back to Jump Start for Kids!

Gratitude is extended to the numerous contributors and supporters who have played an integral role in the tournament's success, from organizers and volunteers to local businesses and sponsors. The tireless efforts of individuals like Linda Ogbourne, Deb Pickering, Karen Standish-Oldroyd, Gerry Hoogstraten, Jeff Johnston, Michele Stewart, Jack Stewart, Terry & Sue Brown for hosting, Shayne (Shaggy) LaHay, as well as the staff at Burford Golf Course, the staff at 214 Carson Co., Comfort Plus, Vodka Friday, ASAP, Pelton Brothers, Ed McGuire, Paris Jewelers, Camp 31, Brant Granite and Quartz, PUMA, James Amy Esquire, Moore Family, Fergus Family, Novak Family, Zach Dalpe of NHL fame, Entertainment by Robert (Bobby) Banks & Wayne Morrison, Chris Whelan and the staff of The Paris Independent, have all been pivotal in ensuring the tournament's continued growth and impact