Next Generation Golf in Kamloops
By Lisa White
6-year-old Everett’s passion for golf may have started near birth. At 18-months old, he was given his first set of clubs (plastic might we add) and by 2 years old, his obsession took off after receiving proper clubs from his Grandpa.
Everett and his Dad, Joe, hit the links on average 3-5 days a week and are often joined by his Mom, 4-year-old sister Ellie, and Uncle Shane. “Golf has always been a part of our family, and seeing Everett’s love for the game develop has been the coolest thing for a dad,” says Joe. “It’s family time – it teaches him honesty, patience and perseverance; and it’s just fun!”
Everett has played at almost all of the golf courses in and around Kamloops and is pretty pumped to have so many great tracks to test his game. Every Thursday, Everett joins his pals at Big Horn Golf & Country Club in the Operation 36 lesson program with Director of Golf, Kathy Gook.
We caught up with Everett to answer a few questions about his passion for golf:
What do you love about golf?
“I love the challenge of beating my score and shooting for birdies.”
Which is your favourite golf course(s) in Kamloops?
“I like Tobiano and Eaglepoint Golf Resort, a lot but I get excited to try new courses and tackle the challenge of new holes.”
Do you prefer Par 3s or Par 5s and why?
“I really like par 3’s because I sometimes get birdies and want to get a hole in one… one day. That will be the coolest thing.”
Do you have a favourite golf hole in Kamloops?
“The 17th hole at Tobiano because it’s short but over a gully, which is a cool challenge. I usually get it close on this hole with my pitching wedge or choke up on my 8!”
What is your favourite apres golf treat?
“I really like fish & chips from the Black Iron Restaurant at Tobiano or or ice cream from Scoopz Ice Cream. My favourite flavour is lime or bubble gum.”
Do you have any golf goals?
“I really want to play in the PGA some day and shoot a 61.”
What do you find the hardest thing about golf?
“I don’t like golfing in the rain or hitting the ball into deep bunkers. It’s also really hard to get hole in ones or eagles, but hopefully one day I will do it.”
What advice would you give to someone coming to Kamloops for a golf weekend?
“I will come and golf with you!”
Aside from golf, what other fun things do you like to do with your family?
“I like playing card games with my family, but I also like to visit the BC Wildlife Park or the Big Little Science Centre. On a sunny day, it’s super fun to visit the beach at the Quaaout Lodge and Talking Rock Golf Course (I like golfing there also!).”
Any final thoughts?
“It’s good to practice lots and be a good sport even if you get a double bogie on the first hole or a birdie on the 6th! Also, I am going to live in the giant house on hole 6 at Tobiano one day when I’m 35.”
Everett, we love following you on Instagram and will be cheering you along in your quest for 61. Keep crushing drives and sinking putts with your Dad and family.
**Note – All Kamloops championship courses have junior rates, but some require a junior to be joined by an adult. Plan ahead by inquiring with each golf course directly for Junior play specifics.