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THE MAD POST

  Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026



 
Jun 23


Submitted by Gary Ward, General Manager & C.O.O.

Project update
 
By the time you read this the irrigation team will have completed the installation work on the golf course and will be working on the driving range field area. We expect them to wrap up the driving range this week and move on to the entrance road next week. When they’ve completed the installation on each side of the entrance road, they will de-mobilize from the property for the rest of the summer and return in the fall for deficiency work.
 
Return to Play on #6 and #17 – June 29th
 
The 29th is the date we’ve all had circled on our calendars for a year now, the date all the project work is complete, and all 18 regulation holes are back in play.
 
We’re all anxious to get back on #6 and #17 greens, it’s been almost a year since both were closed down for the enhancement work.
 
Chad will carefully monitor root depth and green speeds at both sites over the rest of the summer with an objective to maintain the long-term turf health on both surfaces.
 
Thank you for all your support and patience through this massive undertaking!


Jun 22

Submitted by Carl Penfold, Head Professional




The Mad River men travelling in Ireland - "The lads are loaded and the golf is calling."

Jun 21

 
Submitted by Chad Vibert, Golf Course Superintendent

Golf Course Update – June 23
 
Traffic Management Plan – 6th and 17th Greens
As we prepare to officially open the newly established greens on holes 6 and 17, traffic management around these playing surfaces will be a critical component of our turf protection strategy. We are asking for your help, as we try to manage these newly seeded areas.  Distribution of both pedestrian and cart traffic will be essential to ensuring the successful establishment and long-term quality of these greens, collars and their surrounding areas.

The 6th Green
With respect to the 6th green, no traffic of any kind will be permitted between the bunker and the green or collar surface on the left side of the green. There is simply no room in this area to walk without being on the green or collar surface, this will be a no go zone.
To manage traffic effectively:

  • All pedestrian traffic will be directed to the right side of the green.
  • Riding golf cart traffic will be routed to the left side of the green via the cart path.
  • Appropriate signage, ropes, and stakes will be used to clearly define the designated traffic patterns.
These measures are intended to minimize stress on the turf while allowing safe and efficient movement around the green.

The 17th Green
Traffic management around the 17th green will be more dynamic and will involve alternating pedestrian routes. This applies to both golfers walking the course and those using push carts.
To distribute wear evenly and prevent excessive traffic concentration in any one area:
  • Pedestrian traffic will alternate between the right and left side of the green surface
  • Traffic routes will be adjusted as needed based on turf conditions and wear patterns.

The primary objective of this rotating traffic plan is to reduce excessive wear on the left side of the green complex and preserve the quality of the newly established turf. By spreading traffic over a larger area, we will improve turf recovery and provide golfers with a more consistent and higher-quality turf left of the green.


Jun 20

Submitted by PA Irwin-Allen, Ladies Captain

We had our first afternoon shotgun last Tuesday and played 6 holes before we heard the thunder rumble and saw the sky darken. The lightning horn suspended play, and when all the ladies returned safely to the clubhouse, it was decided that we would cancel the round. We have been lucky with the weather on Tuesdays to date so hopefully we will see more sunny Tuesdays ahead. If you participated in skins that morning, please collect your entry money at the pro shop.

Mad River will host 12 Oslerbrook Ladies on Monday, July 20th in our first Ladies Interclub this season. We need 12 ladies to field our team. It follows our 4 ball match play format with Nassau scoring on a 2 person team.

It’s our chance to showcase our beautiful course finished and fabulous to the Oslerbrook Ladies! Please see more details on the sign up page.
https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/12808127042226766151

Jun 19

 
Submitted by Dean Elliott, Men's Captain

Our first men’s interclub of the summer was contested last Monday at Oslerbrook under sunny skies but with slightly cooler temperatures.  Mad River was well represented by an intrepid group consisting of Jaime Hugessen, Grayling Lamont, Alan Trivett, Angelo DeLorenzi, Chris Sloan, Kevin Edwards, Morgan Rubes, Colin Tyler, Brad Robbins, Shawn Bodiam, Carl Penfold and yours truly.  The team from Oslerbrook were wonderful hosts, both before and after the round.  On the course however, they were somewhat less gracious.  Despite some strong play by everyone on the Mad River team, we came up a little short.  Thanks to all who joined us at Oslerbrook.  We intend to turn the tables next year at Mad River!
 


Jun 18



Submitted by Ryan Rinneard, Director of Instruction
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Jun 17


Submitted by Michelle Larcher, Food & Beverage Manager

Wine and Beer Pairings and Father’s Day

Wine: Trust Your Palate - One of the most common wine myths is that red wine must always be paired with red meat and white wine must always be paired with fish or chicken. While those traditional pairings can work beautifully, the best wine pairing is often the one you enjoy most.

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can be fantastic with a steak on a warm summer evening, just as a lighter Pinot Noir can complement salmon or grilled tuna. Consider how the wine feels alongside the meal rather than focusing strictly on the colour of the wine.

As a simple guideline, lighter wines generally pair well with lighter dishes, while fuller-bodied wines tend to stand up to richer flavours. Beyond that, don't be afraid to experiment. After all, if your favourite wine is a chilled Chardonnay and you're ordering the Cupp burger, that's the perfect pairing for you.

Many members have been enjoying the 3XP Chardonnay this season, and while we still have a few cases remaining, it will soon be making way for a new Canadian Chardonnay. Before the last bottles are poured, we will be offering complimentary table-side tastings of potential replacements and would love to hear your thoughts.

Beer & Bites - Many of us think about pairing wine with food, but beer can be just as versatile at the table. After your round, consider sharing a few appetizers with friends while enjoying your favourite pint. The combination of food, conversation, and a cold beer often creates the best pairings of all.

Our signature Creemore Shrimp pairs beautifully with crisp and refreshing options such as Creemore Lager or Lot 9 Pilsner, while those looking for something a little heartier may enjoy our Nachos, available with chicken or seasoned ground beef, alongside a Mad Tom IPA, Side Launch Session IPA, or Modelo Especial. For a lighter option, our California Roll Salad and Vegetable Gyoza complement the easy-drinking character of Michelob Ultra or Peroni.

For those who enjoy a non-alcoholic beer, many of these pairings work just as well with options such as Peroni 0.0, Muskoka Veer's IPA, or Muskoka Veer's Lager. Whether you're celebrating a great round or simply choosing a non-alcoholic option, there's no reason to miss out on the fun of finding a favourite pairing.


Jun 16
Notes from the Chef Stephen Sagar

From the Grill

Who says you have to wait until December to enjoy a little holiday cheer?

This month we're turning up the heat while turning back the calendar with our upcoming Christmas in July Dinner—a festive meal filled with seasonal flavours, holiday favourites, and a touch of culinary nostalgia. Consider it a holiday treat in the heat.

I personally love Holiday cooking much in part to how familiar flavours instantly evoke memories. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cranberry, peppermint, and citrus have a way of transporting us to family gatherings, snowy landscapes, and crowded dinner tables, regardless of the temperature outside. If any of you make Mulled Apple Cider, you know exactly what I mean.

While the menu will feature several festive surprises, one dessert I'm particularly looking forward to serving is Peppermint Crème Caramel.

Like many of the best recipes, Crème Caramel relies on simple ingredients and proper technique. Eggs, cream, sugar, and patience are transformed into something far greater than the sum of their parts.

I hope you'll join us as we celebrate Christmas a few months early.

Chef
 

Jun 15

 
Claire Pelletier - Pro Shop Assistant

Where are you attending university and what are you studying?
 
I am currently in my fifth year at the University of Toronto, where I am majoring in Sociology with double minors in Mathematics and Statistics. I will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. 
 
What first sparked your interest in golf, and how did you get involved in the game?
 
Growing up in Ottawa, our family home backed onto The Canadian Golf Club, so I spent my summers attending golf camp and learning the game. That early introduction led to my first job at the course, and my involvement in golf has continued ever since through positions at OslerBrook and now Mad River.














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Richard Carl - Hole in One

Wednesday, June 17th
#14 - 6 Iron
Witnessed by: David Allen, James Lee & Steph Tucker




 







 

Throwback Tuesdays


The Founders Cup

Pictured in this early 1990s photograph are Mad River founders Wil Matthews, Ray Richards, and Peter Barnard, with the original Founders Cup in the forefront.

What made the trophy especially unique was its three handles, a rare find and chosen to represent the Club’s three founders. It was later mounted on a wooden base, with annual winners having their names engraved.

Sadly, the Founders Cup was lost in the 2004 clubhouse fire, making photographs such as this one even more valuable.



September 2009
Ladies Club Championship


This wonderful photo from the 2009 Ladies Club Championship comes with a timeless piece of advice from retired Mad River Professional Debbie Clum:

"Only one person will remember who came in first, and only one person may, or may not, remember coming in last."

As we look ahead to this season's Sr. Ladies Club Championship in mid-July, Debbie's words serve as a gentle reminder that participating, challenging yourself, and sharing the experience with fellow members is what truly matters.

Thank you, Debbie, for sharing this special piece of Mad River history, and for the Ladies Championship pep talk that still rings true today!



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Once again, a sincere thank you to Bill & Lorraine Strain for their exceptional woodworking talents. Be sure to check out the new poster displays in both the Men's and Ladies' washrooms, where upcoming events and activities will be featured. Over the years, Bill and Lorraine have generously contributed their craftsmanship to many club projects, including our beautiful Club Championship Board.
 

Mad Reads 4:30 - 5:30 pm 
Monday July 20 – You Don't Belong Here written by Elizabeth Becker
Monday August 17 – The Winter Fortress written by Neal Bascombe
Monday October 5 – tbd
 

Next Mad Post: 

Tuesday, June 30th 
 




 


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