News and notes from Priddis Green Golf and Country Club for Thursday, August 25th

Weather delay forces suspension of Thursday’s opening-round with 54 golfers still to finish

Friday is Red & White Day at the CPKC Women’s Open

CALGARY – A two-hour and fifty-minute weather delay Thursday forced the suspension of opening-round play at the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open.

Thundershowers hit Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club late Thursday morning with 78 players in the afternoon wave yet to begin their opening round. Play would resume mid-afternoon with Ireland’s Stephanie Meadow firing a 6-under 66 to take the early clubhouse lead. Meadow, who finished T31 at last week’s Olympic golf competition, felt she carried over some momentum from her incredible experience at the Olympics.

“I think Rio was a huge adrenaline rush for everyone that was there,” said Meadow. “I know all of us had a fantastic experience. I played pretty good in the second round there, too. I think I definitely took some confidence and am rolling it into this week.”

Defending champion Lydia Ko continued her impressive play at the CPKC Women’s Open with an opening-round 5-under 67 to sit a shot off the lead. The 19-year old New Zealand native with 14 LPGA victory has won three of the past four iterations of the championship. The Olympic golf silver medalist has found a comfort zone competing for Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship.

“I’ve felt such a warm welcome whenever I come to Canada, and obviously because I think I’ve played well here, that I think that grows a little bit more,” said Ko, winner of the event in 2012, 2013 and 2015. “But the fans have been great. I said Canada reminds me a lot like home in New Zealand, and when you can relate back to places where you can relax and you love being there, I think that’s just another great part of that tournament.”

For Ko, even more impressive than her own quick start was the loyal support of the local gallery following a nearly three-hour delay.

“Even after the delays, the fans still come out to watch me play,” commented Ko. “I don’t know if I was in their shoes if I would be able to come out three hours later, but for them to be so interested and so excited to see us here, I think it’s really cool to see that.”

Alena Sharp of Hamilton finished her round of 4-under 68 just as play was called for the day to sit as the early round low Canadian. Maude-Aimee LeBlanc of Sherbrooke, Que. shot a 3-under 69, while Jessica Wallace of Langley, B.C., and Toronto’s Rebecca Lee-Bentham shot matching rounds of 2-under 70. Seven of the 16 Canadians competing at Priddis will complete their opening round on Friday morning.

The horn was blown at 8:23 pm MDT at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club with 54 golfers yet to complete their opening-round. Play will resume at 7:15 am MDT with second-round action to follow.

CANADIAN SCORES – ROUND ONE

Alena Sharp – 68 (-4)
Maude-Aimee LeBlanc – 69 (-3)
Jessica Wallace – 70 (-2)
Rebecca Lee Bentham – 70 (-2)
Jennifer Ha – 72 (E)
Brittany Marchand – 73 (+1)
Lorie Kane – 73 (+1)
Naomi Ko * – 74 (+2)
– (Did not complete opening round) –
Brooke Henderson
Sara Maude Juneau
Jennifer Kirby
Jaclyn Lee *
Samantha Richdale
Maddie Szeryk *
Anne-Catherine Tanguay
Brigitte Thibault *

* Denotes Amateur

FRIDAY IS RED & WHITE DAY AT THE CP WOMEN’S OPEN
Friday, August 25 is Red & White Day at the CPKC Women’s Open. Players, spectators and media are encouraged to wear red and white to show their national pride in support of the 16 Canadians playing in Canada’s National Open Championship.

PAIRING AND START TIMES
Pairings for the first and second rounds of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open are available here.

PLAYER INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPTS, AUDIO FILES AND VIDEO
Interview transcripts, audio MP3 files, as well as downloadable royalty-free images and broadcast quality videos for all media interviews and scrums will be available online here.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Note: All times listed are in MDT. Times are approximate and are subject to change without notice.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE
Media can download the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Media Guide for complete statistics, records and historical information.

MEDIA CREDENTIALS
Media are reminded that the media information package for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open, including tournament information and Media Centre Temporary Gate Pass(es), has been sent. Individuals who have not yet received their packages, or those wishing to apply for media credentials, must contact Terry Lenyk at tlenyk@golfcanada.ca.

FREE ADMISSION FOR JUNIORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. The free junior pass is available here.

Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Artisan Wines, Coca-Cola, Tourism Calgary, Telus and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

News and notes from Priddis Green Golf and Country Club for Tuesday, August 24th

CALGARY – WDefending champion Lydia Ko will be chasing history this week at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club as the 19-year old sensation will look to claim her fourth CPKC Women’s Open title in five years.

Ko, who last week claimed the Olympic silver medal in Rio de Janeiro, won her first Canadian Women’s Open title in 2012 as a 15-year old amateur at The Vancouver Golf Club and then defended her title a year later—again as an amateur—at the Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton. She would return to The Vancouver Golf Club in 2015, and with her victory there, would tie Meg Mallon (2000, 2002, 2004) and Pat Bradley (1980, 1985, 1986) for most Canadian Women’s Open titles.

A 14-time winner on the LPGA Tour, Ko acknowledges the special relationship she shares with Canadian golf fans since winning her first Canadian title in 2012.

“I think the first year I played the Canadian Open was in 2012, and ever since then the crowds have been phenomenal,” said Ko. “On that last day, that last hole, I thought it was just an army of people, and that was something I’d never experienced before. Everybody has been so sweet and welcoming. Even last year was great to go back to a course that I’d won at before, and especially because it was the first time — it was my first LPGA win.”

Canada’s own teenage sensation, 18-year-old Brooke Henderson of Smiths Fall, Ont., will lead the charge of competitors looking to challenge Ko for Canada’s National Women’s Open title. Currently the no. 3 ranked player in the world, the three-time LPGA Tour winner thrives on the pressure of competing in front of the home crowd.

“The CPKC Women’s Open is our national championship,” said Henderson. “Having Canadians and people from all over the world kind of celebrate this national championship is really cool. Even this morning, I teed off at 8:00 in a pro-am on Wednesday, and there were people following me right from the start. My gallery kind of grew throughout the day, and as I finished my round, that was probably the longest autograph session that I’ve ever had just with pictures and people supporting me. It’s always really nice to have that support and know that the whole country is behind me, and not only Canada but around the world.”

A field of 156 of the world’s best players including 16 Canadians will challenge for the 2016 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open title beginning Thursday morning at 7:10am MDT off the 1st and 10th tee at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club.

PAIRING AND START TIMES – ROUND 1&2:
Pairings for the first and second rounds of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open are available here.

LORIE KANE INDUCTED INTO CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME
Lorie Kane was officially inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Tuesday evening. Click here for a transcript of her press conference.

PLAYER INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPTS, AUDIO FILES AND VIDEO
Interview transcripts, audio MP3 files, as well as downloadable royalty-free images and broadcast quality videos for all media interviews and scrums will be available online here.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Note: All times listed are in MDT. Times are approximate and are subject to change without notice.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE
Media can download the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Media Guide for complete statistics, records and historical information.

MEDIA CREDENTIALS
Media are reminded that the media information package for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open, including tournament information and Media Centre Temporary Gate Pass(es), has been sent. Individuals who have not yet received their packages, or those wishing to apply for media credentials, must contact Terry Lenyk at tlenyk@golfcanada.ca.

FREE ADMISSION FOR JUNIORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. The free junior pass is available here.

Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Artisan Wines, Coca-Cola, Tourism Calgary, Telus and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

News and notes from Priddis Green Golf and Country Club for Tuesday, August 23rd

CALGARY – With the opening-round of the $2.25 million (US) CPKC Women’s Open less than two days away, tournament week at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club continues to showcase the finest in women’s professional golf.

Wednesday, August 24 is Championship Pro-Am Day, as 48 professionals will entertain amateurs beginning at 7:15 am MDT.

Click here for starting times for the Wednesday Championship Pro-Am.

Media Centre Interview Times
The following interviews will take place in the media centre onsite at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club. All times are MDT.

Wednesday:
Alena Sharp – 11:30 am
LPGA commissioner Michael Whan: 11:45 am
Priddis Green Golf & Country Club Superintendent James Beebe – 1:00 pm
Lydia Ko – 2:15 pm
Brooke Henderson: 3:00 pm

PAIRING AND START TIMES – ROUND 1&2:
Pairings for the first and second rounds of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open are available here.

LORIE KANE INDUCTED INTO CANADIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME
Lorie Kane was officially inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Tuesday evening. Click here for a transcript of her press conference.

PLAYER INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPTS, AUDIO FILES AND VIDEO
Interview transcripts, audio MP3 files, as well as downloadable royalty-free images and broadcast quality videos for all media interviews and scrums will be available online here.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Note: All times listed are in MDT. Times are approximate and are subject to change without notice.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE
Media can download the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Media Guide for complete statistics, records and historical information.

MEDIA CREDENTIALS
Media are reminded that the media information package for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open, including tournament information and Media Centre Temporary Gate Pass(es), has been sent. Individuals who have not yet received their packages, or those wishing to apply for media credentials, must contact Terry Lenyk at tlenyk@golfcanada.ca.

FREE ADMISSION FOR JUNIORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. The free junior pass is available here.

Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Artisan Wines, Coca-Cola, Tourism Calgary, Telus and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

News and notes from Priddis Green Golf and Country Club for Monday, August 22nd

CALGARY – Twenty-one players took to The Hamptons Golf Club in Calgary for Monday’s final qualifying event in hopes of securing one of the four final spots into the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open.

Briana Mao of Folsom, CA, finished atop the leaderboard with a 3-over par 75 to earn medalist honours.

Mao, who holds conditional LPGA Tour status, battled cool and blustery conditions to top the field.

“It was really difficult conditions today, but I just hit it straight and low and it worked out,” said the LPGA Tour rookie and University of Virginia alumnae. “I knew scores were going to be high because the conditions were so difficult. But, I was patient and hit the ball well. So, I’m pretty happy right now.”

Mao will be playing her first pro event in Canada, but she also competed in the Canadian Women’s Amateur in 2014, where she tied for 30th.

Also earning exemption was Brigitte Thibaul of Rosemère, Que., a 17-year-old amateur who carded a 77 to finish second to qualify for her first LPGA Tour event.

Christine Song of Oakville, CA and Angel Yin of Arcadia, CA shot 78 and 79 respectively to claim the final two exemptions into the field.

With the addition of Thibault to the field, a total of 17 Canadians will now compete for Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club.

Click here for complete results from the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Monday Qualifier at The Hamptons Golf Club.

Media Centre Interview Times
The following interviews will take place in the media centre onsite at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club. All times are MDT.

Tuesday:
Jennifer Ha & Jaclyn Lee – 12 pm
Lorie Kane (2016 Canadian Golf Hall of Fame inductee) – TBD

Wednesday:
Alena Sharp – 11:30 am
Priddis Green Golf & Country Club Superintendent James Beebe – 1 pm
Lydia Ko – 2:15 pm
Brooke Henderson – After Am Pro-Am

PLAYER INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPTS, AUDIO FILES AND VIDEO
Interview transcripts, audio MP3 files, as well as downloadable royalty-free images and broadcast quality videos for all media interviews and scrums will be available online here.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Note: All times listed are in MDT. Times are approximate and are subject to change without notice.

2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN FINAL QUALIFIER
The final four spots into the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open field will be determined at the final qualifying competition at The Hamptons Golf Club in Calgary. The Final Qualifier features 18 holes of stroke play with the low four competitors receiving exemptions into the field. If necessary, a hole-by-hole playoff will be conducted immediately following the conclusion of play.

Additional information regarding the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Final Qualifier can be found here.

CP HAS HEART EMPLOYEE PRO-AM
The players and start times for the 2016 CP HAS HEART EMPLOYEE PRO-AM have been announced. A total of 23 players from the CPKC Women’s Open field will take to Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club to entertain 69 amateurs.

Click here for players and start times.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE
Media can download the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Media Guide for complete statistics, records and historical information.

MEDIA CREDENTIALS
Media are reminded that the media information package for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open, including tournament information and Media Centre Temporary Gate Pass(es), has been sent. Individuals who have not yet received their packages, or those wishing to apply for media credentials, must contact Terry Lenyk at tlenyk@golfcanada.ca.

FREE ADMISSION FOR JUNIORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. The free junior pass is available here.

Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Artisan Wines, Coca-Cola, Tourism Calgary, Telus and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

Networks to broadcast of all four rounds of Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, beginning August 25 at 4 p.m.

CALGARY – Golf Channel, TSN and RDS will deliver live coverage of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open to Canadians coast to coast. Golf Channel will produce the live broadcast, while TSN will carry the feed for all four rounds. RDS will provide French-language commentary of the broadcast. Coverage of the 44th playing of Canada’s National Open Golf Championship will begin during the first round on Thursday, August 25 at 4 p.m. MT.

The 2016 CPKC Women’s Open will feature the top 10 players on the LPGA Tour’s Official Money List and 96 of the top 100. World No. 1 and three-time champion Lydia Ko will look to defend her CPKC Women’s Open title against the LPGA’s best, including world No. 2 Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand and Canada’s Brooke Henderson, who is currently ranked No 3. in the world.

In addition to the domestic coverage provided by the trio of networks, the CPKC Women’s Open will be broadcast on the Golf Channel in the United States and by LPGA international broadcast licensees around the world.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Note: All times listed are in MDT. Times are approximate and are subject to change without notice.

2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN FINAL QUALIFIER
The final four spots into the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open field will be determined at the final qualifying competition at The Hamptons Golf Club in Calgary. The Final Qualifier features 18 holes of stroke play with the low four competitors receiving exemptions into the field. If necessary, a hole-by-hole playoff will be conducted immediately following the conclusion of play.

Additional information regarding the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Final Qualifier can be found here.

CP HAS HEART EMPLOYEE PRO-AM
The players and start times for the 2016 CP HAS HEART EMPLOYEE PRO-AM have been announced. A total of 23 players from the CPKC Women’s Open field will take to Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club to entertain 69 amateurs.

Click here for players and start times.

2016 MEDIA GUIDE
Media can download the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open Media Guide for complete statistics, records and historical information.

MEDIA CREDENTIALS
Media are reminded that the media information package for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open, including tournament information and Media Centre Temporary Gate Pass(es), has been sent. Individuals who have not yet received their packages, or those wishing to apply for media credentials, must contact Terry Lenyk at tlenyk@golfcanada.ca.

FREE ADMISSION FOR JUNIORS AND FIRST RESPONDERS
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. The free junior pass is available here.

Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Artisan Wines, Coca-Cola, Tourism Calgary, Telus and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

Field to include all top 10 players from the current LPGA Official Money List, including 34 Olympians

CP Has Heart campaign to raise funds in support of the Alberta Children’s Hospital

16 Canadians to compete at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club

Tickets for all tournament rounds still available; Children 17 and under get in FREE

CALGARY – Golf Canada in partnership with Canadian Pacific (CP) announced today the field of competitors set to challenge for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open taking place August 22–28.

The 156 player field competing at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club will feature the entire top 10, 46 of the top 50 and 96 of the top 100 on the LPGA Tour’s Official Money List.

The field also includes 34 Olympians, fresh off their experience in Rio, where women are competing in Olympic golf competition for the first time since 1900.

World No. 1 and three-time champion Lydia Ko will look to defend her CPKC Women’s Open title against a stellar field of the LPGA’s best, including world No. 2 Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand and Canada’s own Brooke Henderson, who is currently ranked No 3. in the world.

LPGA stars Stacy Lewis, Suzann Pettersen, Anna Nordqvist, Michelle Wie, Paula Creamer, Cristie Kerr, Karrie Webb, Morgan Pressel, Ai Miyazato, Azahara Munoz, Brittany Lincicome, Shanshan Feng, Na Yeon Choi, Sandra Gal, Charley Hull and Jessica Korda will all challenge the world’s top-3 in Calgary.

“We are thrilled to welcome the world’s best to Calgary for the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open,” said Tournament Director Brent McLaughlin. “In addition to welcoming a stellar field, together with our proud partners at CP, we look forward to raising significant charitable dollars in the community through the CP Has Heart campaign supporting a very important cause.”

The Alberta Children’s Hospital is the official charity beneficiary of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open. All funds raised through the tournament will support pediatric cardiac care and research at the Hospital.

The field of 156 competitors will vie for the US$2.25 million purse as the championship returns to Priddis Greens for the first time since 2009, when Norway’s Suzann Pettersen earned her second-ever LPGA Tour victory. The 2016 winner’s share is $337,500.

“The CPKC Women’s Open is not only set to feature arguably the strongest field on the LPGA Tour, but also the very best rising talents in Canadian and international golf,” added McLaughlin. “Golf fans are sure to be treated to an unbelievable showcase of world-class golf.”

Brooke Henderson, a three-time LPGA winner, will be joined by a strong group of Canadian talent. Among those players are fellow Olympian Alena Sharp of Hamilton, 2016 Canadian Golf Hall of Fame inductee Lorie Kane, Samantha Richdale of Kelowna, B.C., and Maude-Aimee LeBlanc of Sherbrooke, Que.

Last week, Golf Canada and CP announced that two Calgary natives, Team Canada Amateur Squad member Jaclyn Lee and newly-turned pro Jennifer Ha, would be receiving exemptions into the field. In all, 16 Canadians are set to compete at the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open.

On Monday, August 22, the LPGA Tour will conduct an 18-hole stroke play qualifier at the Hamptons Golf Club in Calgary to determine the final four exemptions directly into the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open.

A full field list of players confirmed to compete in the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open is available by clicking here.

Free Admission for Juniors and First Responders…
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. Parents of juniors can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

As a small token of appreciation for all the valued work they do in the communities they serve, we’ve also extended a complimentary invitation to the CPKC Women’s Open to all Southern Alberta First Responders and their families.

Tickets…

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine on Canadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

– 30 –

ABOUT THE 2016 CP WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the CPKC Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Coca-Cola and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men, women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.
Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(p) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Martin Cej
Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-7298
(e) martin_cej@cpr.ca

16 Canadians to compete at Priddis Greens Golf and
Country Club

Calgary, Alta. (Golf Canada) – Golf Canada and Canadian Pacific (CP) are pleased to announce the names of 14 players who have received exemptions into the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open taking place August 22Ð28 at Priddis
Greens Golf and Country Club.

Calgary natives Jaclyn Lee and Jennifer Ha will have a home crowd advantage as they compete at the 44th playing of Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship.

Lee, 19, is enjoying a stellar year on the course. The Ohio State University sophomore won the Alberta Ladies Amateur Championship, tied for third at the Women’s Porter Cup and finished as a quarter-finalist at the PNGA’s Women’s Amateur Championship.

Ha, 22, is playing her first full year as a professional. She earned her first pro win in April at a National Women’s Golf Association (NWGA) event in Florida. The Kent State graduate won another NWGA title the following month at another event in Florida.

Both Lee and Ha play out of Glencoe Golf & Country Club, which is approximately 40 kilometres north of Priddis
Greens.

Naomi Ko of Victoria is also enjoying a banner year. The 19-year-old N.C. State sophomore claimed the Canadian Junior Girls Championship last week in Nova Scotia at the Links at Penn Hills. The CPKC Women’s Open will be the third LPGA event of 2016 for Ko. In May, she claimed medallist honours at a sectional qualifier to earn entry into the U.S. Women’s Open. A month later she won the Portland Classic Amateur Championship to earn a spot in the Portland Classic, where she would play the weekend after making the cut.

Maddie Szeryk, 20, a dual-citizen of Canada and the United States is currently ranked No. 41 on the World Amateur Golf Ranking. Szeryk, who plays collegiate golf for Texas A&M, will be competing in her second CPKC Women’s Open.

Lee, Ko and Szeryk are members of the Team Canada’s National Amateur Team, while Ha is a program alum.

Seven Canadians who primarily compete onthe Symetra Tour Ð the LPGA’s developmental circuit – have also been granted CPKC Women’s Open exemptions, including Team Canada Young Pro Squad member Sue Kim of Langley, B.C.

Other Canadian Symetra Tour players granted exemptions include Jessica Wallace of Langley, B.C., Sara-Maude Juneau of Fossambault-sur-le-lac, Que., Rebecca Lee-Bentham of Toronto, Brittany Marchand of Orangeville, Ont., Jennifer Kirby of Paris, Ont. and Anne-Catherine Tanguay of Quebec City.

Hannah O’Sullivan, a former World No. 1 now ranked No. 3 in the world, will also be competing in Calgary. The 18-year-old Arizona native competed in both the 2016 U.S. and British Women’s Opens.

The 14 players earning exemptions into the CPKC Women’s Open will join a world-class field at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club that features the Top-3 on the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings: No. 1 and three-time champion Lydia Ko; No. 2 Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand; and No. 3 Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont.

Other LPGA Tour stars confirmed to compete include international fan favourites Stacy Lewis, Paula Creamer, Michelle Wie, Suzann Pettersen, Sandra Gal, Charley Hull, Stephanie Meadow and Morgan Pressel.

The Canucks receiving exemptions will join a Canadian contingent led by Henderson, Canadian Pacific ambassador Lorie Kane of Charlottetown, as well as fellow LPGA Tour players Alena Sharp of Hamilton, Maude-Aimee LeBlanc of Sherbrooke, Que., and Samantha Richdale of Kelowna, B.C.

Sharp and Henderson are representing Canadaat the Rio 2016 Olympic Games from August 17-20 In total, 16 Canadians will compete at Priddis Greens.

ÒThe CPKC Women’s Open is not only set to feature arguably the strongest field on the LPGA Tour, but also the very best rising talents in Canadian and international golf,Ó said Canadian Pacific Women’s Open Tournament Director Brent McLaughlin. ÒGolf fans are sure to be treated to an unbelievable showcase of world-class golf.Ó

A field of 156 competitors will vie for the US$2.25 million purse when the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open makes its return to Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club for the first time since 2009 and the third time in tournament history.

On Monday, August 22, the LPGA Tour will conduct an 18-hole stroke play qualifier at The Hamptons Golf Club in Calgary to determine the final four exemptions directly into the 2016 Canadian Pacific Women’s Open.

Free Admission for JuniorsÉ
Golf Canada and CP are proud to offer free admission to the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open to any spectator aged 17-and-under. In addition to free admission for juniors, parents can take advantage of discounted tickets by using the
promotional code JUNIOR and clicking here.

First conducted in 1973, Canada’s National Women’s Open Championship has allowed the brightest stars of the LPGA Tour to shine onCanadian soil and inspire the nation’s next generation of female golfers.

ABOUT THE 2016 CANADIAN PACIFIC WOMEN’S OPEN
The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The Canadian Pacific Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Coca-Cola and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

ABOUT CP HAS HEART
At CP, we know that a railroad may serve as the arteries of a nation, but at its heart is community. That’s why, through CP Has Heart, we’ve already committed more than $6 million dollars to help improve the heart health of men,
women and children across North America. And along the way, we’re showing heart whenever we can. Find out more on www.cpr.ca or @CPhasHeart.

ABOUT CANADIAN PACIFIC
Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit www.cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

GOLF CANADA Ð LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Federation and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 305,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
(P) 416-434-5525
(e) dpino@golfcanada.ca

Jeremy Berry
Director, Media Relations
Canadian Pacific
(p) 403-319-6227
(e) jeremy_berry@cpr.ca

Auto sales and leasing company announces partnership with Championship

This year’s Canadian Pacific Women’s Open is set to take place at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Calgary from August 22-28, 2016.

AutoCanada, through the Courtesy Auto Group (Courtesy Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram and Courtesy Mitsubishi) and Hyundai Calgary Auto Group (Calgary Hyundai and Crowfoot Hyundai), will be participating on-site throughout the week and will be teaming up with CP for the CP Hole-in-One for Heart activation. Amateur golfers will have the opportunity to shoot for a hole-in-one to take home a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, Courtesy Auto Group and Hyundai Calgary Auto Group will be showcasing their multiple brands and models with vehicle displays throughout Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club.

“We are proud to sponsor the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open and are excited to work alongside Golf Canada at such a fantastic event,” said Tom Orysiuk, President of AutoCanada. “The Courtesy Auto Group and Hyundai Calgary Auto Group have a long-standing commitment to community investment, and partnering with CP for the Hole-in-One for Heart activation is a great opportunity to give back to community in support of the Alberta Children’s Hospital.”

The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation is the official charity beneficiary of the 2016 CPKC Women’s Open. All funds raised through the tournament will support pediatric cardiac care and research at the Hospital.

“We are grateful to AutoCanada for their support of women’s golf in Canada,” said Golf Canada Chief Commercial Officer Gavin Roth. “Their diverse line of quality vehicles will play a key role in ensuring our world-class field gets around Calgary during tournament week.”

ABOUT AUTOCANADA

AutoCanada is one of Canada’s largest multi-location automobile dealership groups, currently operating 53 franchised dealerships, comprised of 60 franchises, in eight provinces and has over 3,700 employees. AutoCanada currently sells Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Infiniti, Nissan, Hyundai, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Audi, Volkswagen, KIA, BMW and MINI branded vehicles. In 2015, our dealerships sold approximately 62,800 vehicles and processed approximately 848,000 service and collision repair orders in our 912 service bays during that time.

ABOUT THE 2016 CANADIAN PACIFIC WOMEN’S OPEN

The stars of the LPGA Tour will challenge for the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open from August 22-28, 2016 at Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club in Priddis, Alta. The Canadian Pacific Women’s Open, Canada’s National Women’s Open Golf Championship, is proudly sponsored by Canadian Pacific, RBC, WestJet, Molson Canadian 67, TaylorMade adidas Golf, AutoCanada, Corby Distilleries Ltd., Delta Calgary South, Coca-Cola, Telus, Artisan Wines and CVS Controls Ltd. For information on volunteer opportunities, tickets or corporate hospitality, visit www.CPwomensopen.com, or call 1-866-571-5742.

GOLF CANADA – LOVE THE GAME. GROW THE GAME.

Golf Canada is the National Sports Organization and governing body for golf in Canada representing close to 310,000 golfers at more than 1,400 member clubs across the country. A proud member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, Golf Canada’s mission is to grow participation, excellence and passion in the sport while upholding the integrity and traditions of the game. By investing in the growth of the sport and introducing more participants of all ages to the game, our goal is to be relevant to and respected by all Canadian golf enthusiasts from coast to coast. For more information about what Golf Canada is doing to support golf in your community, visit www.golfcanada.ca.

For Further Information Contact:

Christopher Burrows
Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer
Phone: 780-509-2808
Email: cburrows@autocan.ca

Dan Pino
Director, Corporate Communications
Golf Canada
Phone: 1-800-263-0009 x 406
Cell: 416-434-5525
Email: dpino@golfcanada.ca

19-year old, three-time champion Lydia Ko will be looking to make history at this summer’s CPKC Women’s Open

There is a rhythm, a tempo, to the sway of a regal train, particularly one grand enough to have carried Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth and other assorted royalty, dignitaries and celebrities, that the most successful, the most consistent of golfers can appreciate.

“Blue sugar!’’ laughs Lydia Ko, setting eyes on the icing of a mini-cupcake as a small lunch plate of salami, prosciutto and a mini-burger is dropped on the table.

“Where did they get that?”

There’s something comforting, even disarming, in seeing the world’s No. 1 female golfer, winner of 12 LPGA tournaments, including two majors, and over $5.9 million in career prize money, still being able to get charged up over something as you-and-me mundane as a dollop of blue icing.

Just an everyday, ordinary teenager jacked by a sugar overload.

Ko, of course, is anything but ordinary. She is, in actuality, a prodigy, in her field what Mozart was to a fortepiano or Bobby Fischer to a chess board.

The youngest-ever player to win a professional tournament, woman or man [a record since bettered by Canadian sensation Brooke Henderson];
The youngest-ever Major winner, woman or man;
The youngest ever to be ranked No. 1;
The youngest ever to claim the Rolex Award as the LPGA’s player of the year;
Named one of Time magazine’s Most Influential People for 2014.

Aboard the fabled Royal Canadian Pacific on this day, though, promoting the CPKC Women’s Open at Priddis Greens Golf Club outside Calgary, August 22nd to 28th, she’s not the woman to beat each and every weekend or a role model/idol to a new generation of ball-strikers, but a 19-year-old snapping selfies to post, kibitzing with her mom and sister.

That, too, draws us in.

Ko’s Canadian ties stretch back almost to the beginning. Her family immigrated to New Zealand from Seoul, South Korea when she was six years old. Raised in Albany, N.Z. and now living in North Harbour, the family very nearly relocated to Ontario.

“My sister was studying in Toronto at the time,’’ she’s explaining over the click-clack, click-clack of the Royal Canadian Pacific steaming down the tracks. “Our family was actually planning on moving to Canada but some little issues came up so we ended up going to New Zealand. Maybe that connection of me almost living in Canada might be a little spark that happens (when she plays here).”

“Whenever I come to Canada it feels a lot like New Zealand. Even just driving here this morning, I see these houses and it feels like a neighbourhood in New Zealand. It feels a lot like home. I feel a really huge welcome.”

Someone should really make her an honorary Canadian.

As a 15-year-old amateur Ko gobsmacked the golf world at the Vancouver Golf Club, winning the CN Canadian Open by three shots over Inbee Park. She defended that title, again as an amateur, at the Royal Mayfair in Edmonton a year later, then returning to the scene of her B.C. triumph last fall and chalking up a third, besting American Stacy Lewis in a playoff.

No wonder she’s developed a love-in with this land.

“Coming to play in that first Canadian Open, it was two weeks after I won the U.S. Amateur. As an amateur you always dream of winning that tournament.

“So afterwards I was so emotional, so happy. I think it took me a couple days to settle down a little bit. Christina Kim ran up to me and said ‘Hey, congratulations on the win.’ And that’s when I felt,’ Hey how amazing is this sport?’

“For me that week the goal was just to make the cut. I wasn’t expecting anything else. After two days I put myself in good position, after three days I put myself in a really good position. Then the fourth round was one of the best final rounds I’ve had in my career.’’

For someone so young, the expectations people have for her are mighty; the bar she herself has set, dizzying.

“There is pressure and stress, especially the higher you go,’’ she admits. “But if it’s not fun, it’s not worth it. You’ve got to have fun to have a long career. And golf is a sport where you can play for a long time. And there’s so much more than the results and the trophies.”

“To be honest, when I was 15 or 14, I did say ‘Hey, I want to go out on a Friday night and, you know, watch a movie with my friends or have a sleepover.’ Now I’m learning you get these rewards afterwards. After our season finale, I go to Korea. Last year I went on a three-four day trip with my friends. Just us.”

“The younger you are, you’re really in the moment, you want what you want and you want it right then. I still do, but I’m slowly learning that at the end of the season, you can enjoy all these things. Go to concerts, etc., etc. I’m having this experience of a lifetime being here, in Calgary, from a small-town in New Zealand. I’m going all over the world, seeing all these places, meeting all kinds of people.”

That balance, between being a happy teenager and the world’s best at what she does, is a At 19, most kids are still trying to figure out how to parallel park properly.

“Well, I can’t parallel park, either,’’ Ko admits.

“Being 18 or 19 years old now,’’ says her mom, Tina, “is different than being 18 or 19 when we were, our generation. The (golf) field is getting younger. They develop; grow up, faster and faster, because of technology. Same as when she was 15, I do my job as a mom.”

“She played well in amateurs. She’s used to the attention. But not so many tournaments. I’m trying to get her to skip a tournament. But she says ‘I’m a professional. I can’t take a week off because I’m tired.’

“I don’t know what’s happening inside her but she feels pressure, at almost every tournament. She thinks she has to play well, better, best. I tell her ‘You don’t need to get stressed. Relax.’ But it doesn’t help sometimes.”

Like most kids, Ko loves sports, one of her passions being the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. The night she arrived in Calgary, the Warriors played Game 7 of their semi-final series against Oklahoma.

“On the flight from Minneapolis to here there was no TV. None of those little screens. I was getting excited so I decided to sleep through the last two-and-a-half hour flight. When I got off the plane there was like 14 minutes to go so I was refreshing my Twitter account every single minute.”

“I was getting so nervous. I was trying to refresh, refresh. You’re not allowed to have your phones on around customs but fortunately the game just finished before I got there. What a comeback. For them to be down two and win the next three games. It was a lot of fun just to refresh the Twitter. I think I would’ve gone crazy if I was actually watching it.”

Golf people go crazy watching Lydia Ko. Her poise. Her precision. Her beguiling combination of veteran savvy and teenage exuberance.

Imagine. Already tied with Hall of Famers Meg Mallon and Pat Bradley for most Canadian Open wins in a career. And not yet 20. With the chance to move on top, alone, three weeks into August just outside Calgary.

Lydia Ko may hold a foreign passport and live 13,000 kilometres away, but in a staggeringly short period of time this honorary citizen has written a Canadian sporting history that Pierre Berton would appreciate.

“As I said, playing in Canada is like being home for me,’’ she says. “I feel comfortable here. I feel the support here. Winning this tournament again … it would be … would be …Pretty sweet.”

Every bit as sweet, perhaps, as a dollop of blue icing sugar atop a mini-cupcake.