WINNIPEG, Man. — The legacy of the late educator and golf enthusiast Rod Lindquist is living on through the Rod Lindquist Memorial Golf Tournament, which recently raised $3,500 in support of First Tee – Prairies.
The nine-hole event, held each May at Southside Golf Course, began as a way for family and friends to honour Lindquist’s memory. It has since grown into a spirited tournament that reflects his lifelong belief that everyone should have the opportunity to play golf.
Lindquist, who taught and coached for more than 50 years, was a member of Niakwa Golf Club as a child and later competed on the Manitoba amateur tour. As a teacher at St. John’s-Ravenscourt School, he introduced golf into the curriculum, started a school club, and guided students through their first swings with patience and care.
“Golf was my dad’s passion, and teaching was his gift,” said his daughter, Raechelle Mudray, who organizes the tournament alongside her husband, Duane. “He believed everyone should have the opportunity to play golf, and he lit up when he saw others improving and enjoying the game. Supporting First Tee – Prairies is a way to continue sharing his love for the sport with young people.”
First Tee – Prairies is Golf Canada’s youth development program, providing equity-deserving children across Manitoba and Saskatchewan with affordable access to golf, while teaching life skills such as confidence, respect and perseverance. Community-led initiatives like the Rod Lindquist Memorial Golf Tournament are vital in supporting this mission and helping more young people experience the game.
Those interested in hosting a fundraiser in support of First Tee – Prairies can learn more at firstteeprairies.ca/get-involved/fundraising/.