Hunter Thomson, the defending champion of the Peloton Glencoe Invitational, returned to The Glencoe Golf & Country Club in Calgary on Wednesday, feeling the winning vibes from his greatest golf victory a year ago. The 22-year-old Calgarian recalled his hometown celebration as he arrived at the course, seeing his picture on the tournament signs.
A Career-Defining Moment
“It’s really cool driving down that road this morning and seeing my picture be the first one,” said Thomson. “To be the defending champion this year is an honour, really. When I was growing up in Calgary, I’d always seen this event as a big deal. For that to be my second professional start and to hoist that trophy and get that cheque, it helped kick-start my career.” Thomson added that he had a strong summer last year, making the victory even more meaningful.
Expanded Field and Record Purse
The 30th annual event, scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, has grown significantly. The field now includes 100 golfers—elite amateur and professional men and women from across Canada—competing on the renowned Forest Course. This year’s championship features a record $150,000 purse, with $25,000 awarded to the winners of both the men’s and women’s professional divisions.
Thomson, a former Glencoe member, is confident in his chances: “I know this course really well—I’ve played it hundreds of times. I’ve been struggling a bit this year, but it’s coming. I’m going to play well eventually, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened here.”
Notable Competitors
The competition is stiffer than ever, with 10 past champions, current and former Team Canada athletes, rising PGA Tour Americas talents, and many of Canada’s top-ranked amateurs. Among the newcomers is Montreal native Joey Savoie, who recently won on the PGA Tour Americas in Ecuador and made the cut at the PGA Tour’s RBC Canadian Open. Savoie makes his Glencoe Invitational debut and is considered a favourite.
“I’ve always wanted to play this golf course and this event,” said Savoie, 31. “I have a few friends here playing in it. When I got into the Canadian Open, it opened up my schedule, and it just made sense to come here.” Savoie will also compete in the Mickelson National Invitational from July 2-4.
