In Spring 1983, three members of the UNF Club - Wally Lytwyn,
Myron Petrow and Nestor Budyk - decided it was time to bring people in the
Ukrainian community together and what better way to do it than by holding a
golf tournament. Thus, the Winnipeg
Ukrainian Golf Classic was born. Their
mission was to raise money and share the wealth with other Ukrainian
organizations. With that in mind, a
professional logo was created by Walter Kulyk, with a “kozak” designed
by Stephen Mical integrated at a later date. The first tournament was held at Rossmere Golf
& Country Club and began with a Celebration Hole in the backyard of
our dear, late friend, Cecil Semchyshyn.
Ten years later the George Wach Memorial Trophy was established
honoring one golfer who exemplifies George’s nature, character and spirit,
since George had touched the hearts of many with his friendship, loyalty,
dedication and hard work.
As the years passed, every Golf Classic was held
at a different golf course, and growing larger and larger in number of
participants. From earlier members such
as Roman Semaniuk to today’s committee comprised of: Basil Galarnyk (chairperson) and members -
Gerry May, Bill Shklanka, Nestor Budyk, Julian Burdeniuk, Nick Knysh, Chris
Konopelny and Mike Labay, their dedication and perseverance has resulted in the
golf tournament becoming an annual sporting fun and fundraising event that has
donated in excess of $40,000.
The Ukrainian Canadian Taras Shevchenko
Foundation graciously thanks the Winnipeg Ukrainian Golf Classic organizers and
all their participants for a generous and kind donation of $6,000, so we too
can continue to grow and support the development of our culture and heritage in
PHOTO
From left to right:
Nestor Budyk , Gerry May,