Atlantic Golf Championships tee off on P.E.I. for first time

Islanders will get to watch some of the best amateur golfers in the region when the Atlantic Golf Championships come to Fox Meadow in Stratford in August. It's the first time the regional tournament willbeplayed in Prince Edward Island.

"We think it's the most prestigious tournament in Atlantic Canada for amateur golfers," says Ron MacNeill, executive director ofPrince Edward Island Golf Association.

"It's a first class event with national ranking. Players that do well at this tournament go on to national championships that's part of their prize package."

The top 20 players from thefour provinces will compete Aug. 18-21 forindividual and team titlesin a number of divisions, including men, women, seniors and mid-amateurs.

The three rounds Friday, Saturday and Sunday will be open to the public to watch.

P.E.I. Golf Association excited to showcase Island courses

MacNeillsaid he'sexcited to showcase P.E.I. and the province's golf courses.

"It's a great opportunity for some of these folks who perhaps have not experienced our golf productto get over and have a great week of golf," he said.

The tournament was created by the four Atlantic provinces three years ago. This year is P.E.I.'s turn to host. The tournament was held inNewfoundland last year and Cape Breton in 2014. New Brunswick will host in 2017.

Fox Meadow was one of half-a-dozen Island courses that submitted a proposal to host the tournament, according to MacNeill. The successful bidder was chosen by the tournament committee. All P.E.I. courses were invited to submit a proposal.

The 80 players will be here for most of the week, according toMacNeill, so he believesthe tournament should have some economic benefit for Charlottetown andthe region as well.

"It's prime time in August. I believe it's Old Home Week, so we're going to show these guests a great week and in turn they're going to show us some great golf," said MacNeill.