Bootleg Gap In Kimberley To Host 123rd BC Amateur Championship, Purcell To Host Supplemental Qualifier

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

KIMBERLEY, B.C. (December 2, 2024) - Bootleg Gap Golf Club in Kimberley has been selected by British Columbia Golf as the host site for the 123rd BC Amateur Championship, the week of July 14-18, 2025.  

“Bootleg Gap is one of our Province’s strongest courses and a true hidden gem in the eastern edge of British Columbia,” said Jerome Goddard, BC Golf director of rules & competitions. “The BC Amateur will be a thrilling week for our players and the Kimberley community as we showcase all that the area has to offer as a golf destination.”

“Hosting the BC Amateur is an incredible honour for Bootleg Gap. It’s an opportunity to showcase our course and facilities while welcoming some of the finest golfers in the province. We’re thrilled to support British Columbia’s next generation of golfing talent,” said Trevor Simkins, general manager and head golf professional at Bootleg Gap.

Bootleg Gap runs amongst an unspoiled forest with views of the St. Mary’s River. A combination of open driving holes and tighter riverside holes will test all areas of competitors’ games. The par 72 layout plays at over 7100 yards. “To score well at Bootleg Gap, golfers must know when to play aggressively and when to play safe to save strokes. Our golfer’s biggest challenge may be trying to stay focussed on their game while surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and 360-degree mountain views,” said Simkins.

The most recent Provincial Championship held at Bootleg Gap was the 2021 Men’s Senior Championship, won by Michael Kennedy in a playoff. The Club boasts an 18-hole championship layout, as well as a 9-hole recreational course and a spacious practice facility.  

On July 13th, Purcell Golf Club will host the Supplemental Qualifier for players who are not previously exempt and unable to qualify through their Zones. “Purcell Golf welcomes the best of BC to our hidden gem. Nestled in the ponderosa pines, golfers will face a tough challenge from the tee box, with many risk-reward options,” said Simon Jones, director of golf at Purcell Golf. “A tight front nine teases you with some strategic decisions to be made. The back nine opens up and offers some more length with stunning views of the St. Mary's valley.”

The BC Amateur Championship will be contested over 72 holes of stroke play with a field size of 156 players. Monday, July 14th will be a practice round and competitive rounds will be Tuesday, July 15th to Friday, July 18th. Top finishers will qualify for the 120th Canadian Men’s Amateur at The Royal Ottawa Golf Club in Gatineau, Quebec from July 28-31, 2025.

More information on entry requirements and registration dates will be available in early 2025.