Sask. golfers soak up last official weekend of summer on the green

As the last days of summer begin to fade, golfers across Saskatchewan are making the most of every round before fall settles in.

For Scott Blundell, the closing stretch of the season is about more than scores.

“It is a beautiful day. It’s a wonderful day to get out and get a round of golf in before winter sets in,” he said.

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Blundell’s highlight this year came at Rolling Pines near Nipawin, a nine-hole course carved into the trees that he calls one of his favourites.

While he summed up his overall season with the word “pitiful,” he laughed it off. Blundell plays year-round, spending winters in Florida to keep his swing sharp.

Greg Manz said this time of year is about chasing good weather and enjoying time with friends.

“Really enjoy it. Beautiful day. Hardly any wind. It’s a great day to be out golfing,” he said.

His highlight this year was breaking into the low 80s, a personal best that stood out despite the occasional rough round. But more than scores, Manz said it’s the company that matters.

“The best part is I always go out with the same guys,” he said. Pressed to describe his summer in one word, he first chose “enjoyable,” then quickly added “improved.”

Former Regina mayor Pat Fiacco said the game is a chance to appreciate both good weather and good health.

Former Regina mayor Pat Fiacco says he feels “fortunate” to keep golfing late into the season. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)

“It’s fantastic. What an amazing day. You couldn’t ask for a better day. Enjoying the sun, and we get to ruin a wonderful walk with a game of golf,” he joked.

Fiacco said he played more often this season, and his game has improved, but for him, the main takeaway is gratitude.

“I would say fortunate, absolutely fortunate to be able to do this,” he said.

Michael Brown described the season’s final stretch as “fantastic.” He and his group plan to keep playing right until the doors close for the year.

“The course is in excellent shape, the greens are running true, and unfortunately, the weeks are limited now. We’ll be ready for spring of next year after they close here,” he said.

When asked to sum up his summer in one word, Brown admitted it would take three: “work in progress.”

Golf carts lined up as Saskatchewan golfers take advantage of late-summer weather. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)