Local youth got their first taste of golf this summer through a free seven-week program at Broadmoor Public Golf Course designed to make the sport more accessible. The lessons were delivered through First Tee Canada as part of the RBC Community Junior Golf initiative, which provides young people with opportunities to learn the game at no cost.

Youth between the ages of nine and 13 took part in weekly sessions focused on golf fundamentals, skill development and confidence building in a welcoming environment. First Tee Coach Harmeet Khalon led the instruction and worked with participants throughout the program. Lessons emphasized both the technical aspects of golf and the positive life skills that are central to First Tee programming.

Broadmoor Public Golf Course was one of four Alberta facilities selected to participate in the initiative this year and the only participating course in the Edmonton region. Participating golf courses receive First Tee programming, coaching support and equipment at no cost to the facility or the youth enrolled. The national initiative is delivered through a partnership involving RBC, Golf Canada and First Tee Canada.

Today, 38 municipal and publicly accessible golf courses participate in the program, helping introduce young people to a sport they can enjoy for years to come. TWilkie@postmedia.com