When Robert Trail Gray Sr. designed and opened a three-hole golf course along the Bevel Line in 1926, those involved may have wondered if that course would stand the test of time.
Indeed it did, as over the next 100 years, Erie Shores Golf and Country Club became one of the region’s premier golf destinations and continues to welcome golfers from around the world.
Those three holes — where #5, #6 and #7 now stand — served as the starting point that within two years’ time, became a full 18-hole golf course.
On Saturday, July 25, a public celebration was held at the course to commemorate those 100 years.
A recently built new clubhouse, pro shop and maintenance building were all on display for people to see and experience as patrons were welcomed to the #1 fairway for an afternoon of reminiscing as Leamington’s own Jody Raffoul played an acoustic set for their entertainment.
The celebration kicked off with General Manager Alex Zappio talking about the course’s rich history and his admiration for all the members, staff and patrons.
“What a perfect day to celebrate this milestone and achievement for Erie Shores Golf and Country Club,” he said. “Being around 100 years is quite an achievement and something we’re very proud of.”
Zappio then introduced Leamington Mayor and Warden of Essex County, Hilda MacDonald, who credited the membership for their hard work and dedication over the years.
“A hundred years, can you imagine that?”, she said. “Well done to the people that work here, but also to all of you that support the club. We are proud of what you do for our community.”
Amanda Cookson, who was born in Leamington, was on hand to represent Golf Ontario and brought a plaque to commemorate the occasion.
“For 100 years, Erie Shores has been the cornerstone of Ontario golf. Since opening in 1926, this beautiful course along the shores of Lake Erie has provided generations of golfers with unforgettable experiences and memories,” she said. “A century is more than just a number. It represents countless rounds played, championships contested, friendships formed and memories created.”
Cookson announced that Erie Shores will host the U13 and U15 provincial championships in a few weeks’ time.
Wray Pollock, Vice President and Chair of the Celebrations Committee, then took to the podium and spoke from the heart about the course he calls home.
Pollock provided an update on the soon-to-be published centennial book, saying it will be coming out very soon, and announced a time capsule that will be buried on closing day this season.
“Erie Shores has survived 100 years because of its dedicated members and countless volunteers putting in unlimited hours to make the course what it is — not only for today, but for our future generations,” said Pollock.
He introduced members of R.T. Gray’s family, who were on hand for the celebration as well, before proposing a toast to the memory of the course designer.
Zappio called upon Course Superintendent Mike Toth, who thanked the members and all of his employees over the past several years for their hard work and dedication.
He said in particular, the influx of younger members has kept the course strong and bodes well for the future.
“When I started here in 2010, the amount of young people here was very sparse,” he said. “The last three or four years, it’s hard to do my work here at night, but I couldn’t be happier to see that.”
Toth acknowledged the hard work of the staff and members that made the celebration possible.
Zappio summed it up by thanking the community, staff and the members as the three driving forces behind the success of the course over the past 100 years.
The Centennial Book Committee, from left, Greg Dunmore, Ken Steingart, Wray Pollock, Ward Hutchins and Cheryl Rutgers. Author/historian Scott Holland was absent.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
Jody Raffoul performs on the first fairway.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
The 100th Anniversary Celebration Committee, from left, Walt Cherneski, Wray Pollock and Alex Zappio.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
