With teams ranging from first-time duffers to seasoned veterans like Ambassador Ian McKay and his teammates, on May 29 the stage was set for a day of friendly competition at the CCCJ’s annual Golf Scramble. Held at the award-winning Tsutsujigaoka Country Club in Tochigi, this year we had a record-breaking 116 golfers, making it the largest Golf Scramble in CCCJ history. 

Nestled among the rolling hills of Ashikaga City, the course provided a spectacular backdrop for a day of golf, networking and fellowship among Canada-Japan business partners and friends.

Arriving at the clubhouse, players were greeted by a sea of sponsor flags lining the entrance, a visible reminder that events of this scale are made possible through generous support by CCCJ members and partners.

Special thanks to Platinum Sponsor Air Canada and Gold Sponsors Dassault Systèmes, Manulife, Funeral Support Services and Fairmont Tokyo. Thanks also to Robert Walters, which supplied the tournament gift bags, including branded tumblers that many golfers clutched throughout the day.

Teeing off with beer

The day began under clear, sunny skies, setting an optimistic tone from the outset. Players were welcomed with an ice-cold beer courtesy of Baird Brewing and its Nakameguro Taproom, the Shuzenji-based craft brewery founded by Bryan and Sayuri Baird. Their crisp Pale Ale set the tone for the day ahead, providing a refreshing start after the long trek from Tokyo.

Once the groups headed out onto the course, the scramble format quickly proved why it remains such a favorite. For the uninitiated, the beauty of a scramble is that all it takes is one good shot and the rest of the team can build from there. Having a rough day off the tee? No problem. Sent a ball into the trees? Someone else has probably found the fairway. It keeps things moving, keeps it social and, most important, ensures that everyone can contribute.

Hockey gloves and hot dogs

One of the liveliest spots on the course was Hole Two, where CCCJ corporate member Funeral Support Services had set up camp for the day, hosting the Longest Drive competition. Golfers arriving at the tee were greeted with hot dogs and Canadian whisky. Plus, a uniquely Canadian challenge: participants had to hit their drives while wearing oversized hockey gloves.

The sight of experienced golfers attempting to grip a driver while wearing hockey gloves drew plenty of laughs from teammates and spectators alike. Despite the obvious handicap, several participants still managed remarkably impressive drives. The eventual winner, Jeremy Sampson, rose to the challenge and claimed top honors.

Beyond the fun, Funeral Support Services also brought a charitable element to the tournament by collecting donations for TELL, the long-established volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the mental health needs of Japan’s international community. In an incredibly generous gesture, the team pledged to match every donation made on the day. It was wonderful to see golfers stopping by not only for a drink and a laugh, but also to support a cause that touches so many people in our community.

From final putts to final prizes

As golfers drifted back from the final holes, stories of miraculous putts and “creative” scorekeeping could be heard around the clubhouse. Before long, everyone gathered for dinner, where a generous buffet spread awaited. 

Long-time corporate member Canada Packers helped make the evening even more memorable by providing Canadian pork for the meal. Their contribution was a particular highlight, giving golfers the chance to enjoy a taste of Canada while recounting the day.

Led by Master of Ceremonies James Howell, the awards ceremony was one of the highlights of the day. As golfers enjoyed dinner, speculation was rife. While some thought Ambassador McKay’s team were leading contenders, it was ultimately the team of Yusuke Ito, Joe Odell, Greg Rozitis and Yoshiji Matsuda that took home the top prize! The winners took center stage to accept their prizes, posing for photos while proudly donning some questionable Canadian toques.

The evening also featured a raffle draw for prizes, including two Business Class tickets from Air Canada, a luxury accommodation stay from H2 Group, and a Hoshino Resorts gift card provided by Houze. The draws were eagerly anticipated and the winners were celebrated, rounding off the night on a lively and memorable note.

More than a golf tournament

The Golf Scramble has always been about more than competition, bringing together members, partners, newcomers and friends of Canada for a day of connection, camaraderie and good spirits on and off the course. 

As the final groups departed and the sun set over the Tochigi hills, there were plenty of smiles, a few well-earned drinks and conversations that carried long after the final putt. Golfers headed home with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for the CCCJ community.

Thank you to our Sponsors!