We’re a month away from the opening of the 2011 golf season – and busting at the seams to start our year.  With the 100th Anniversary plans actively in the works at The Fairmont Banff Springs and the 85th season celebration in Canmore, there’s never been a better time to visit.  See below for the latest news.

Fairmont Banff Springs, Canmore Golf & Curling Club Remember Historic Match

The Fairmont Banff Springs, 5th hole

Dating back to 1932, the members of The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Club and the Canmore Golf & Curling Club have enjoyed a friendly rivalry. As the Canmore newspaper said in 1932, “Local golfers entertained the members of the Banff Club, last Sunday week and last Sunday visited the Banff course. The winner of this competition was C.Reid with an aggregate score of 164.”

Both courses hope to revive the match as both courses celebrate anniversaries this year: The Banff Springs Golf Club will enjoy 100 years of organized golf, and Canmore will open its 85 season in 2011.

Stay tuned for more information as these two member clubs gather for one more match this summer.

Needed: Your Photos and Stories

The Canadian Rockies Golf destination has just started their Facebook page and needs your photos! “Like” us at http://www.facebook.com/CanadianRockiesGolf and add your favorite photos and stories of past rounds on the golf course for those that are new to the area. Thanks in advance for your help.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Organized Golf, Offers Use of Free Hickory Clubs in May

If you’re playing the Tunnel Nine course at The Fairmont Banff Springs in May, you’ll get a chance to play with complimentary usage of hickory clubs during your round. No advance registration is necessary and clubs can be picked up at the Pro Shop, based on availability.

The Fairmont Banff Springs is also offering its new Nine and Dine program, offering either nine holes on the Tunnel Nine and dinner in the clubhouse for $69 per person, or nine holes on the Stanley Thompson course plus dinner in the clubhouse for $89. Rates are valid for golf after 5 p.m. and based on availability.

For more information or to book your tee time call golf reservations at 1 (403) 760-6801

Canmore Uncovers Greens, Readies for Spring

Canmore continues to push the snow of its greens to allow early spring sun to work its natural magic. With 2011 inventory arriving daily, golfers can get great deals from last season in its pro shop, where apparel is as much as 50% and last year’s demo sets and shoes at 40% off.

Advanced booking is now open for 2011 rounds starting at $114 per person with cart and food and beverage credit. Call the club or visit their website at canmoregolf.net.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Releases Two New Golf Packages

Guests of The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge can enjoy a Ski and Golf weekend to open their 2011 season April 30 and May 1. Those that book a round on the classic Stanley Thompson design will receive a free Marmot Basin lift ticket. Cost is $115 per round for these two days only.

For those looking for a little assistance with their swing, the golf pros at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge also invite golfers to its Spring Swing Clinic. Offered on select dates from May 22 to July 10, 2011, the package includes three nights’ lodging, six hours of golf instruction, three rounds of golf, welcome dinner with a golf pro and breakfast and lunch daily. Rates start at $859 per person on weekdays, $919 on weekends.

See http://www.fairmont.com/jasper for more details or call 1(866) 540-4454.

Silvertip Launches Online Store
If you love Silvertip, you’ll love their new online portal for pre-paid golf cards, valid throughout the season. See http://www.silvertipresort.com/ to order them, and gift cards, any time of year.

Important Dates in the Canadian Rockies:

April 15 Last day to order discounted Pre-Paid Golf Cards at Silvertip for $145/round

April 30 Anticipated opening of The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course

Month of May Free Hickory Stick Usage at The Fairmont Banff Springs

May 6 Kananaskis Country Golf Course Opens for 2011 Season
The Fairmont Banff Springs courses open

May 31 Last day to enjoy Early Season Rates at Stewart Creek Golf Club

July 13 Community celebration of the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Club 100th Anniversary

July 25 Canmore Golf & Curling Club Hosts the Alberta Ladies Junior Championship