The Gilbert Plains Country Club was set to host Golf Manitoba's men's mid-amateur and women's amateur championships from July 1 to 3.
Then everything changed. Many areas in the Parkland were hit by disastrous flooding, including the Country Club in Gilbert Plains late last month. The course has been closed since, and there is no word on when it will reopen for play.
The cleanup is massive. There's a long road ahead. To help alleviate some of the pressure, the Dauphin Kings provided the Country Club with their 50/50 license, and it's now live.
"I don't think it's any secret. Our insurance deductible is $100,000," said Scott McCallum, General Manager. "That's the goal we're trying to raise here."
The pot is nearing $12,000. The draw date is on Sunday, August 30. You can get tickets here.
McCallum said he's incredibly grateful for all of the support already received. Every ticket purchased makes a difference. The Gilbert Plains Country Club is one of the premier golf courses in the province and a hotbed for golfers in the region.
"People have been so, so generous through this. Several people in the golf community have reached out," added McCallum. "The RM has been a huge help. They're issuing charitable tax receipts. People have been making donations. We know that we're loved abroad and by a lot of people around here."
While it's an extremely difficult time for so many in the region, McCallum knows they'll get through it; it will just take time. He thanks the Municipality of Gilbert Plains for being there from the start. He also thanks the Manitoba Government for some of the programs in place.
"Ron Kostyshyn has been fantastic with giving us the attention that he can and support," ended McCallum. "I know sometimes in the government, hands are tied. He definitely acknowledges how important we are to tourism in our area. And how important the Gilbert Plains Country Club is in the Parkland."
Other golf courses in the region have also stepped up. If you're a member at the Gilbert Plains Country Club, you can play five free rounds in August at the Swan River Golf and Country Club. The Neepawa and Minnedosa Golf and Country Clubs are offering 50% off green fees.
The Dauphin Lake Golf Club is also offering 50% off green fees. Those are only applicable if you're a member at the GPCC.
