The Rogers Charity Classic has once again demonstrated the powerful intersection of professional sports and philanthropy, announcing a historic fundraising achievement for 2025. The PGA Tour Champions event, held at Calgary's Canyon Meadows Golf & Country Club, generated a record-shattering $26.6 million to support hundreds of children's charities across Alberta.
A Celebration of Community Impact
The announcement of the monumental fundraising total was made during a celebratory community event at Brown Bagging for Calgary's Kids. The occasion featured a lighthearted sandwich-making competition, bringing together local golf figures and community members, including Calgarian golfer Wes Martin. Martin, who made a surprising debut at the tournament in August, finished as the top Canadian with a 4-under-par 206.
"I did not realize how much this tournament raises and for how many charities it helps," Martin admitted during the event. While he humorously confessed to being a simple "peanut butter and jam guy" when it comes to sandwiches, he emphasized the importance of the cause. "It's for a good cause, and it's nice to be a part of it," he stated, acknowledging the shift from his usual focus on performance to the event's broader charitable mission.
Milestone Achievements and Provincial Support
This year's record-breaking contribution pushes the tournament's all-time fundraising total to an astounding $164.3 million since its inception in 2013. The funds are distributed through the Rogers Birdies for Kids program, presented by AltaLink, which supports thousands of Alberta youth annually. The assistance covers critical areas such as counselling, sports programming, and essential family support services.
Rogers Communications played a pivotal role, kickstarting the 2025 campaign in June with a $1-million donation to the Birdies for Kids fund. Tony Staffieri, President and CEO of Rogers, highlighted the company's commitment, stating, "We are proud to make Alberta stronger by supporting children's charities through the power of sport. It's a real privilege to help even more youth in our communities with another record-breaking fundraising effort this year."
The Tournament's Legacy and Future
The 2025 tournament champion was Australia's Richard Green, who hoisted the trophy on August 17. However, the true victory, as underscored by the recent celebration, extends far beyond the golf course. The event has cemented its status as a cornerstone of charitable giving in the province, leveraging the appeal of world-class golf to address pressing community needs.
For participants like Wes Martin, the experience offered a new perspective. "I've always kind of looked at the tournament from a selfish standpoint, right? 'Can I get there', and 'How am I going to do?'" he reflected. Now, having seen the direct impact of the funds raised, he and many others are fully invested in the event's philanthropic legacy, ensuring that the Rogers Charity Classic continues to be a driving force for good in Alberta for years to come.