Watching The Masters with good friends last Saturday and Sunday at the Couchiching Golf and Country Club, one thought came across my brain as I watched golf’s version of a train wreck.
“Jeez must be snickering upstairs.”
Don’t bother to go looking for highlight video of this year’s tournament at the Golf Hall of Fame.
I doubt you’ll find any.
The fact Trevor Immelman carded a 75 on the final day and nearly stabbed himself fatally with his spikes en route to slipping on the green jacket showed clearly that golfers are human.
Given that Tiger Woods nearly watched Immelman back up far enough for him to snag yet another Masters title had to make you wonder how things would have turned out if El Tigre had only found his putting touch over the final 18 holes.
Regardless, the snow boots, gloves and shovels have been packed away for another winter.
It’s golf season and may I say not a moment too soon.
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Those who fondly remember the late Al Shropshire for contributions he made to the golf industry in Orillia will be heartened to know the membership at the Couchiching Golf and Country Club will make sure his contributions are not forgotten.
Soon, a tree will be planted beside the fairway of the second hole, a lasting tribute to the former Director of Golf at Couchiching. Tom Hammell is accepting donations by way of the Couchiching Golf and Country Club Tree Conservancy Fund. Donations are being accepted until June 1 and anyone wishing to contribute can do so be visiting the Peter Street pro shop.
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Long before the major sporting good outlets arrived in Orillia, a gentleman by the name of Ross Prosser greeted hundreds of families and teams who went to him when they were in need of baseball, lacrosse, hockey and sports equipment of every description.
Longtime Orillians mourned the passing of a caring individual when Mr. Prosser died April 5 at the age of 91.
Ross Prosser Sports was located on Mississaga Street, just north of what is now the Brewery Bay Food Company.
It was the store generations of families visited to purchase sports equipment and Mr. Prosser knew the names of each family member. His service extended further into the community as a member of the Orillia Shrine Club an organization he was a member of for 25 years.
Like many, the first baseball glove and pair of hockey skates I owned came from his store and he made sure every item fit perfectly before he let you out of the store.
He truly was one of Orillia’s treasures and he will be missed.



