Page 30 - GBC English Winter 2022

Vince Kishimoto
Golf provided Vince with his first job as a caddy and his last job as a retired Regional Director, Central Ontario Chapter of the NGCOA Canada. Vince’s
family golf tournament spanned 25 years at the Royal Ashburn GC. Contact Vince at back9@sympatico.ca.
The Next
Spotlight
Generation
As a retired Regional Director for NGCOA Canada, I have been exposed to every type of
golf course ownership model. To me, the most captivating human-interest businesses have been family owned and operated. There are so many stories with shining examples of grand success and the individuals or circumstances that each can enhance the fabric of achievement as a part of where the golf industry is today.
Royal Ashburn Golf Club, Ashburn, ON
18 holes, est. in 1962
In 1962, Wilson Paterson opened the Whitby Golf Club, which became Thunderbird Golf Club, and eventually the Royal Ashburn. To Wilson, the golf professional, the course was the thing. Build it and they will come. So, from a bare bones start of a well- laid configuration golfers did come.
Fast forward to the late 1990’s twin sons, Scott and David, were becoming immersed in the family enterprise. Their brand became the focal point as Royal Ashburn was awarded Armorial Bearings (coat of Arms) in 2006. Vested at the prerogative of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II they added the
Paterson family tartan as a signature to all their signage and communications. Tartan kilts are even worn by all golfer assistants adding to the experience that is Royal Ashburn.
Today, as Wilson has recently passed, their focus on diversity beyond just the golf course has paid strong dividends to attract business on a wider scale. The Durham Region just outside of Toronto to the north-east is bereft of overnight accommodations. Steady inquiries for stay and play opportunities has resulted in the installation of 5 cozy cabins being installed along the 18th fairway. Post COVID demand for weddings has been brisk enhanced by the stunning surrounds of the Chapels in the Wedding Gardens, the prettiest first tee ever and beautifully appointed banquet facilities. In 2021, the boys introduced their very own craft beers. The Farm and the Founder beers were created to bring their history to life. The happy unintended consequence of installing a large marquee tent with outdoor prep kitchen has been an influx of a whole new customer base. This has enabled them to allow outside caterers to serve ethnic foods to the delight of a diverse cultural market.
30 Golf Business Canada