About the Tour

Each event has an entry fee of either $59 or $69, which covers tournament participation, a meal, and prizes awarded to competitors. Some specialized or multi-day events may have slightly higher fees.

The McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour does not charge a membership or joining fee. We simply coordinate a series of junior tournaments across Alberta, allowing players to participate in as many events as they choose.

Any junior player who is Under 19 years of age as of August 1st, of current year, is eligible to enter a Tour event. We do not have a minimum age limit we do but we ask parents to consider the following questions:

1. Is the player old enough to carry or pull their clubs for 18 holes? (Caddies are permitted for U10 players to assist with pace of play only)
2. Is the player old enough to be able to keep his or her own score for 18 holes?
   We do not expect the players to be Rules experts; our role is to help develop their knowledge of the Rules as they go along, but they should have enough of an understanding and maturity to keep their scores honestly and to the best of their abilities.
3. Is the player old enough to be able to keep the score of a fellow competitor for 18 holes as well?
   The players exchange scorecards on the first tee and sit down after the round at the scoring table and sign off on each other’s score. Competitors have a responsibility to the rest of the field to do this fairly and accurately.
4. Is the player capable of completing a round of golf in 4 hours and 30 minutes?
   Although a player may be able to do all of the requirements listed in the first three questions, pace of play becomes an issue for some of our younger competitors. As the long rounds go on, some juniors find themselves falling behind due to fatigue.

If the junior can answer “Yes” to these four questions, then they are possibly ready to begin their competitive career. But keep in mind that many tour events may not have many entrants in this younger age group, and the player may be directly playing/competing with kids 2 or 3 years older.

Players can expect well-organized tournaments that provide a true competitive golf experience. Each event includes:

• Official scorecards & referees – Play is conducted under the Rules of Golf, with on-course officials available to assist.
• Individual stroke play format – Players compete in age divisions, with prizes awarded in each category.
• Affordable entry fees – Fees go directly back to players through green fees, meals and prizes.
• Meal included – A meal is provided to all players during the event, ensuring everyone stays energized for the competition.
• Prizing – Winners in each division receive prizes for their achievements.
• Welcoming atmosphere – New to tournament golf? These events provide a supportive environment to help you learn and grow.
• Multiple event locations – Compete on a variety of courses across Alberta, gaining experience on different layouts and conditions.

How does a typical event run?

• Players arrive, check in, and receive their scorecard & event information.
• Players will exchange scorecards with their group mates on the first tee.
• Players compete in an 18-hole individual stroke play format.
• Players complete scoring at official tour stop scoring table.
• Enjoy a meal with fellow competitors and prizes are awarded to winners in each division.

The tour is a great opportunity to meet new friends, compete on different courses, and experience the excitement of tournament golf—whether you’re just starting out or aiming for the top!

If an event reaches full capacity, you will automatically be added to the waitlist in the order of your registration.

• If a spot becomes available, we will contact the first player on the waitlist and give them 24-48 hours to confirm their spot before moving to the next player.
• Players are also allowed to show up on event day in case a spot becomes available due to a no-show. If a spot opens up, the first player in line will be offered the available tee time and will be registered in the event.

Our goal is to ensure that all players understand the expectations when they begin competing at the provincial and national levels. Competitors are required to follow the dress code set by the host club, but we also expect all participants to be dressed appropriately at all times during the event.

We greatly value the support of parents in their kids’ activities, but once the round begins, the players are on their own. Parents can assist by:

• Searching for lost golf balls
• Carrying additional items such as a raincoat, extra layers, sunscreen, water, etc.

However, parents and spectators are not allowed to offer any advice or guidance during the round, as this maintains the integrity of the competition.

To ensure a fair and focused environment, we also ask that parents and spectators remain at least 30 yards away from the competitors during play. This allows players to concentrate and gives them the space they need to compete at their best.

While it is not required, we recommend that all junior golfers establish and maintain an official Golf Canada membership and Handicap Index through their own club or online.

Having a Golf Canada Handicap Index ensures that players are eligible for net score prizes. Without a Handicap Index, golfers will only be eligible for gross score prizes. This allows for a more accurate reflection of a player’s skill level, especially for those in the early stages of their competitive journey.

Yes, rangefinders are allowed, but only those that provide distance information only. Devices that factor in elevation changes, wind speed or direction, or compass functions are not allowed.

If you’re unsure whether a specific rangefinder is permitted, please seek approval from event staff before using it during tournament play to ensure compliance with the rules.

Competitors are generally allowed to use their phones only in the event of a medical or family emergency, or to check for potentially dangerous weather in the immediate area.

We ask that players keep phones off or in silent mode during the round to avoid distractions. Devices intended for music listening or any other non-essential uses are not permitted during the round. This helps maintain a focused and respectful environment for all participants. If you need to use your phone for any reason, please ensure it aligns with the event’s rules and guidelines.

We ask that all players are on the tee 10 minutes before their exact tee time. Please plan to arrive early enough to allow time for registration, a proper warm-up, and any other pre-round activities, ensuring a smooth and timely start to the event. Arriving early gives you time to:

• Check in at the registration desk and receive your scorecard, tee time, and any other relevant information.
• Warm up on the driving range, putting, or chipping greens (if available).
• Take a moment to review the course layout and any event-specific rules with your group or event staff.

The exact timing may vary depending on the host course’s facilities (such as a driving range or practice greens). Arriving early also provides an opportunity to grab sunscreen, extra layers, or double-check your equipment, helping you feel relaxed, focused, and prepared for your round.