Innisfail (AB) – “Few institutions show more progress or enthusiasm than the Innisfail Golf Club.” That was the 1922 declaration of the local newspaper, which has proven to be prophetic for a central Alberta gem that is marking its centennial in 2024. The historic article went on to predict ‘Innisfail will have one of the best courses in the province’ and many would agree that’s certainly come true as well.

While the 100^th Anniversary for the Innisfail Golf Club is being marked throughout the year, members and the Innisfail community will gather July 13^th at the Innisfail Golf Club for a special celebration, and to unveil a centennial commemorative piece.

Innisfail becomes one of just 24 active clubs in the province to have a century legacy. The 27-hole track is known for its scenic parkland beauty and challenging track on three scenic nines: Hazelwood, Spruce and Aspen.

For the special year, IGC has put together a book, showcasing the history, photos and stories of the club, from it’s humble nine-hole beginnings in a sandy pasture just west of the town, surrounding a lake that served as a recreational area for neighbors. The golf club was officially incorporated July 11, 1924 under the original name of Me-too-seke, a Cree term meaning ‘Meeting Place in the Woods’. In 1925, the name was changed to Innisfail Golf Club, with the bylaws registered and a maximum of 800 shares allocated.

A constant desire to progress and improve, as well as invaluable volunteer hours and contributions have been the ‘secret sauce’ to the club’s success, along with the friendly small-town atmosphere accompanying the world class course, which bears the stamp of golf course designer, the late Bill Robinson. The growth from sand greens, to the 18-hole expansion, and then adding the extra nine holes which opened in 2006, required vision and commitment from the board, staff and volunteers.

“We definitely recognize what an incredible asset the golf course is,” acknowledged Innisfail Mayor Jean Barclay, who was the first female golf professional in the province and a three-time Alberta Women’s PGA Champion. “We know it’s importance to the community. Lots of people have moved to Innisfail because of the Innisfail Golf Course. You think of the economic impact it has when you have tournaments coming in. People come and stay overnight for weekends and play golf. It’s a huge attraction for this area.”

For this Centennial year, IGC was selected by Golf Canada to hold the Junior Boys Canadian Championship August 13-16 – the first ever national championship at Innisfail. IGC has also hosted the Alberta Golf’s Men’s Amateur tournament three times – in 2002, 2016 and 2023, along with the 2009 Alberta Senior Ladies Championship.

Another milestone for the Club this year has been the rebuilding of the number nine hole on the Aspen course. It officially reopened to play June 29th. The Centennial provides an ideal opportunity for golfers to play the unique course, which prides itself on delivering a memorable experience.

For more story ideas, you can find the IGC Centennial stories at https://www.innisfailgolf.ca/latest-news/

The Centennial book is available through the Pro Shop.