MARKHAM, Ontario — At most golf courses, an air horn or a public address system is used to signal a shotgun start, which is a round or tournament where competitors all begin play simultaneously from different tees around the course. Unless, of course, you are playing the Angus Glen Golf Club and Conference Centre and the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) is hosting the day.
Then, things can get a little spectacular.
To kick off the first of what is hoped to be an annual event, Joe Bowen, the voice of the Toronto Maple Leafs, was on hand to warm up the crowd and introduce some of the VIP's. These included the CDS, General Rick Hillier, and the Chief Warrant Officer of the Canadian Forces, Greg Lacroix.
"It's a day to simply say people are remembered, appreciated and certainly recognized in our country," responded Gen Hillier when he was asked what the event was all about. The CDS also had a more personal message for the troops: "I'm proud of you, but so are all Canadians. Thank you for what you do."
After some very brief speeches and much speculation on the accuracy of the Toronto Maple Leafs watch worn by the CDS, Gen Hillier turned the microphone back to Mr. Bowen. The broadcaster invited the crowd to look up into the sky as two members of the SkyHawks, the Canadian Forces Parachute Team, landed on the 18th fairway.
Following the parachute demonstration, Mr. Bowen introduced Michael Burgess, a popular singer, tenor and actor who sang the Canadian national anthem. The golfers then proceeded to their carts to await the shotgun start. On this special day, things were done in grand style with the Canadian Forces Snowbirds Demonstration Team swooping down for a low level pass of the club house and course to signal the beginning of the tournament. And as if that was not enough to get everyone's attention, the planes made another pass as the players were heading out to their first holes.
Kevin Thistle, President of the Angus Glen Golf Club and Conference Centre, was one of the driving forces behind the Canadian Forces Appreciation Day. "We're just here to have some fun first of all and raise some money," he answered when asked why the troops were invading his course.
It was estimated that that this activity would raise approximately $50,000, money that is earmarked for the CDS Military Families Fund. Also joining CF members on the links were members of the corporate world and civilian participants wishing to contribute to the fund.
At the conclusion of this magnificent day of golf, participants were treated to an evening of dinner, entertainment and outstanding prizes. Michael Burgess sang and the Jazz Combo of The Central Band of the Canadian Forces delighted the crowd. Don Cherry, never one to pass up an opportunity to hang out with members of the Canadian Forces, was on hand for part of the evening.
Article and photos by Sergeant Brad Phillips
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