The new era of Otty is here. Gone are the days of wraps at the turn, a grueling 18 holes at Perth Golf Course for Raven to choke on, and Saturday 36 holes. For the firs time ever, the Otty Invitational will stretch over 3 days, and 3 different courses. Smiths Falls makes its DGA debut and Canadian Golf and Country Club returns for the first time since 2019, making this Otty one for the ages.

This may be the most open either division has ever been. DGA coach Griff has got many of the DGA, excluding Justin Hanes, playing some of the best golf of their life. However, expected babies, a bout of gout, sore hammys, torn labrums, and general out-of-shapeness will bring all the golfers back down to earth over this 3 day grind.

A division, like every year except one, is made up of the same 8 golfers. 2 teams that have played together, and 2 new combinations. Evan Hammond and Ben Milinkovich team up looking to re-create their 2022 record setting -10 score. Ryan Raven and Matt MacIntyre team up, also for the first time since 2022 where they came 2^nd place. The two new teams are Dillon James teamed up with Chad Keohane, and Casey Floyd teamed up with Kyle Craig.

B Division, like every year except one, is made up of 8 different golfers. Gary Drisdelle makes his DGA debut teaming up with Boomer Oviedo. Pat Theriault and Scott Quinn team up for the first time since 2022, where they look to improve on…*checks notes*…no final score entered. Cody Willcott and Justin ‘Zen’ Hanes team up for the first time, looking to not walk off the course if things go wrong. Last and not least are Brent Daviault and Ryan Dillon, who are also teaming up for the first time.

The moment everyone is looking forward to is the Champions Dinner, where Casey Floyd’s famous 3 hour baked burgers are being served along side Dillon James’ Smoked Mac’n’Cheese and potato salad. Rumour has it that Floyd is already pretzel brained for the whole week because of the dinner. According to GROK, this is what the burgers will look like.

Keys to Success:

A Division

Evan Hammond + Ben Milinkovich

Most are deeming this squad as the team to beat come the weekend. The duo boasts 6 Otty Green Jackets, but none since 2022 where they won together. Their game can compliment each other well, while Hammond is dealing with the chipping yips, he is dialed tee to green. Short game is all that former 1 seed Milinkovich still has in the bag so if he can contribute some stress free up and downs then this team will have a good shot at their 4^th Green Jacket come Sunday. The tee game will have to rely on Hammond, as Milinkovich Balls Lost off the Tee Percentage (BLOT%) is at 66% in his last 2 rounds.

Ryan Raven + Matt MacIntyre

Also teaming up for the first time since 2022, the Raven/MacIntyre duo will have to get over some big hurdles this weekend. The duo has a combined 1 Otty win (MacIntyre 2021), which is less than any other single player in the field. Raven, who likes to describe Connor McDavid as “not able to win the big one” will need a long hard look in the mirror before teeing it up at Otty. The only solace for Raven is that there is no Perth this year, so the level of demons will be considerably less. MacIntyre is bringing a brand-new putter to Otty in the hopes of a revitalization of his imagination around the greens. Both have had up and down seasons to start the year, but if the ying is yinging and the yang is yanging then don’t be surprised to see this team in contention come Sunday.

Dillon James + Chad Keohane

Dillon James is coming off his first ever Calabogie win, absolutely carrying his team to victory. He did his best to pretend he wasn’t the 2 seed during his DGA Match Play first round match, but unfortunately for him, the teams were already made. James is one of the defending champions this week, and is teamed up with a 2 time winner in Chad Keohane. Keohane is coming off a dominate 74 to win his first round DGA match play. This duo is probably the longest combined team in this year tournament, which will be a huge advantage at all 3 courses. This duo will have flip wedges in on most holes, so if their wedge game and putters are on, look for them in the winners circle.

Casey Floyd + Kyle Craig

Two of the biggest robots the game of golf has ever seen tee it up together this year. Casey ‘Broken Back but still hit 99% of Fairways’ Floyd and Kyle ‘I Play One Round a Year and Shoot 76’ Craig are an under the radar team. The games compliment each other perfectly and Floyd will be in every fairway, so Craig can unleash one of his 320yd drives. This team will have plenty of birdie looks, but will come down to the putting. In a recent 4 man scramble, Floyd self demoted himself in the putting rotation showing this teams one potential weakness. If putts are dropping, this team could sneak into the winners circle.

Score Projections

The scoring record is certainly in play this year. Subbing out a 36 hole day, and 18 at Perth for 2 considerably easier courses could see a PGA level of scoring. Like always, it will be the team playing the best and sinking putts that walks away with the green jackets.

Evan Hammond + Ben Milinkovich: -11

Ryan Raven + Matt MacIntyre: -10

Kyle Craig + Casey Floyd: -9

Dillon James + Chad Keohane: -9

B Division

Gary Drisdelle and Jason Oviedo

Gary Drisdelle makes his DGA debut, partnered with his old Nita Beer Panthers teammate Jason Boomer Oviedo. Not sure if 2 more opposite playing styles have ever teamed up, but as they say, opposites attract. Dris may be the best golfer on paper, but players making their DGA debut have never won. Wiley vet Oviedo will have to guide the young grasshopper through the grind that is a DGA event. If this duo can keep the ball in play and sink some putts, the green jacket should be theirs.

Brent Daviault and Ryan Dillon

Another team that are two very different players stylistically, these two have plenty of Otty experience. The only 2 players in the B Division that are Otty OGs, these two have had their share of ups and downs at the Otty. Dillon, who won the last Otty he played in, is finding his post lesson stride and will be a massive contributor with that patented fairway finder. Daviault, who is now a snotty member of the Royal Ottawa, will have to keep focus without a caddy and comfort station every two holes. If Daviault’s driver is on, and Dillon is his normally steady self, this team has a great shot at winning it all.

Cody Willcott and Justin Hanes

The biggest rivals these two will face this weekend is themselves. The DGA leaders in walking off the course, the Willcott/Hanes duo will have to take every single word of Zen Golf into consideration this tournament to have a shot. One early bogey could send these two into a never ending spiral. The games themselves are in a good spot, with Willcott and Hanes both playing some good golf at the moment. However, one call from either Lindsay or Em will have these two racing home faster than you can say gout. If they can keep a level head, and if Hanes can withstand the 3 day stank from Willcott, these two should be the favourites to win the Green Jackets.

Pat Theriault and Scott Quinn

These two have teamed up before, but it was a very different version of Scott Quinn. Arguably Girff’s greatest achievement, Quinn has cut his golf handicap in half and is coming off a career low 88, albeit at Greyhawk. The age old question of will his game travel is still certainly in the air. Theriault on the other hand is coming in hot after a big win in his match. The longest hitter in the DGA will look to bully the short courses this weekend, setting up his partner who is “dialed from 140 in”. If Theriault is dialed off the tee, this team will have birdie looks all week. Quinn has guaranteed winning, so lets see if he can come up big under pressure. As they say, first time for everything!

Score Projections

Just like the A Div, the scoring record is certainly in play. The B Div as a whole has gotten significantly better, and some easier courses will lead to low scores

Gary Drisdelle + Jason Oviedo: +19

Brent Daviault + Ryan Dillon: +20

Pat Theriault + Scott Quinn: +20

Cody Willcott + Justin Hanes: +20

The biggest tournament of the year is finally here! The Masters, US Open, and the Catalina Wine Mixer all in on event, the Otty Lake Invitational. The pinnacle of sport is bringing out the best golf the DGA has ever seen.

After a 2 year hiatus from the winner’s circle, Evan Hammond has opened up the DGA to all other contenders. An astounding 12 DGA members have a win more recently than Hammond. That, along with the lessons from Griff have given some DGA members some false confidence heading into Otty.

With almost half the DGA taking lessons since last years event, 2024 could bring some of the lowest scores in DGA history. -10 for A Div and +28 for B Div are both very in play.

There are plenty of story lines heading into the 2024 tourney, including a newcomer in Chris Chojnacki, a team looking to be the first ever A Div back to back champs, and Evan “Scratch” Hammond returning to glory.

The pre tournament shenanigans have begun already. Some golfers including Cody Willcott and Justin Hanes are going the possum route, by playing some truly horrendous golf and claiming the other teams have already won. On the other hand, players like Scott Quinn, Casey Floyd, Pat Theriault and Evan Hammond are setting records left, right and center, trying to strike fear into their opponents hearts.

Just like every year, the tournament will come down to the back 9 on Sunday. The team that wins is typically the team that is mentally the strongest. The Otty is about much, much more than tee shots and putts. It is whats between the ears that matters most. The grind of 54 holes over 30 hours is not for everyone, and only the strongest come out on the other side.

A Division

Unlike last year, this years installment of the Otty Lake Invitational does have a very heavy favourite. It’s not often that the favourites lean in to that title, but this year is a very different story. Both Matt MacIntyre and Evan Hammond have called at least a 2 shot victory, with some saying that they might win by 10 strokes. The only thing that can bring this team down is an inter-team political fight, or a tainted midnight mayo sandwich (watch out Ev)

Kyle Craig and Chad Keohane team up once again looking to go back-to-back. This team may be the freshest of the bunch with Kyle Craig coming in with only 2 rounds under his belt, albeit a DGA Match Play domination of Ben Milinkovich and a DGA win at Calabogie. Keohane also comes in with a fresh body after moving out to Orleans and only has been able to squeeze in 3.5 round thus far. This team knows how to win scrambles though, so if any team is to upset the big dogs, it could be them

Dillon James and Casey Floyd team up for the first time at Otty, and are both coming in playing some great golf. Floyd has 8 birdies** in his last 2 rounds (** at GreyHawk) and James is coming in hot off 2 80s in his last 3 rounds. If Robot Casey and Luck of the Turtle DJ show up this year, they make be able to sneak their 2^nd career Otty wins.

Wrapping up A div is another repeat team from 2023, in Ben Milinkovich and Ryan Raven. They finished on the opposite end of the spectrum as Craig and Keohane last year, but worked all offseason on a new game plan for 2024. After trying the “Miss at the Same Time” strategy in 2023, the Milinkovich and Raven duo will try and do the opposite this year. Both have had up and down starts to the season, and will need to both be on the get Raven that coveted first green jacket.

Keys to Success

Evan Hammond and Matt MacIntyre

Literally the only thing this team needs to do is not kill each other over a political debate. If they can refrain from that, it will take a miracle for anyone else to catch this team. MacIntyre has been electric off the tee with his 3 wood, and his solid short game will help Hammond. The 80% shank rate on MacIntyre’s irons should not be too much of an issue with Mr. 0.4 hanidcap Hammond anchoring the approach shots. This team has no glaring weaknesses, and many strengths. The weather may be a factor however and can provide a leveling of the playing field. With rain in the forecast, and neither of these two known as mudders by any stretch, the other 3 teams are doing their rain dance heading into the weekend.

Kyle Craig and Chad Keohane

This team plays the perfect scramble golf. They both occasionally miss, but never at the same time. Last year in their 208 shots, each contributed exactly 104* (*provided by DGA StatCast) which is the perfect way to play scramble golf. Craig and Keohane are both lethal off the tee, solid irons and wedge players, and streaky putters. This has all the makings for these two to take home their 2^nd straight green jacket. Craig is coming in hot as the defeding champ of both Otty and the 2024 Calabogie.

Casey Floyd and Dillon James

This duo is coming in playing the best combined golf at the moment and will need to continue that to be in contention come Sunday. Floyd leads the DGA in fairways hit at 97.3% and James is 3^rd on Tour in driving distance at 291.4yds. This is a dangerous combo if Floyd can be safely in the fairway and let DJ try to bomb one. This team has strengths all over but it always comes down to shortgame. James has been working tirelessly this offseason with DGA teacher Griff Jones Golf and that could be the edge that puts this team over the top. However, if there is a drop of rain, and/or one snake seen all weekend, this team will come last by 10-15 strokes.

Ryan Raven and Ben Milinkovich

This is the biggest “who the hell knows” team of A div. This team could go -10 if they are on, or +10 in a heartbeat. As expected, both have had a very up and down season with Raven having a range of 73-86 and Milinkovich having a range of 80-95. If the 73 and 80 team shows up they have a chance, if it’s the 86-95 team, they can take Sunday off. For the first time in 5 years, Raven is coming in without being the runner up the year before, which should lead to a clear mind heading into this years tournament. Could this be the year Raven gets the ever elusive first green jackey?

Projected Scores

Evan Hammond + Matt MacIntyre:  -8

Kyle Craig + Chad Keohane:  -5

Ryan Raven + Ben Milinkovich: -3

Casey Floyd + Dillon James: -3

B Division

This may be the most open the B Division has ever been. Unlike the A Div, last year had heavy favourites that took it home, but this year is truly anyone’s tournament. 4/8 participants in the B Div this year have taken lessons, so this could be an all time low winning score.

The Theriault brothers are teaming up once again, which could mean some fireworks, good or bad, on the course this weekend. The brothers are going in a bit of different directions with their golf games lately, with Pat posting some of his best scores of his career, and Rich, well not playing golf at all. The younger Theriault is coming off a win at Calabogie in May and could parlay that into a great start in the Degens Cup standings for 2024.

Cody Willcott and Scott Quinn once again team up but this year feels different that all other years, for a number of reason. Quinn has seen Golf Guru Griff and has posted his best stretch of golf of his career by far. Willcott on the other hand is in one of the lowest lows of his life, and has vowed to retire from golf after Otty. He is coming off an 87* (*at GreyHawk) which hopefully has him in high spirits coming into Otty, but anyone that knows Willcott knows that if shot 1 doesn’t go absolutely perfect it might be game over. Quinn may have to play psychiatrist as well as turf repair man if Willcott gets to a dark place.

Justin Hanes and Jason Oviedo team up for the first time with some having them coming in as the betting favourites. Health will be a big factor for this squad as both are nursing bad backs. Just like Quinn, Oviedo may have to play psychiatrist as Hanes is known to get into a very dark place, especially since the newly leaked video of him on the verge of a massive rage came to light. This team may not have a bomber, but both are very consistent and they should be able to avoid any big number. Slow and steady wins the race.

Berry van Donselaar and somewhat of a newcomer Chris Chojnacki round out the B Div. Chojnacki is making his first full Otty debut, but has played a final round Sunday at Perth, replacing Pat Theriault back in 2018. The B Div vets will be trying to get in his head, and in his cup on Friday night, as they know the grind of a day the Saturday can be. If they can have him hurting come Saturday morning, that will be a win for the other groups. Van Donselaar himself is just looking to survive Otty, as the last 2 tournaments have seen him injure his wrist, then almost die in the glizzy/dip/booze/sun/gummy induced coma.

Keys to Success

Pat Theriault and Rich Theriault

While this team may be the combined longest off the tee, they are also the furthest in the woods. According to DGA StatCast, the brothers lost a combined 22 golf balls over 27 holes at Calabogie. That may work in 4 man scramble, but in 2 man, a dropped ball is a death sentence. If the brothers want to come home with the green jacket, one of them will have to step back off the driver and have a safe play. Is it likely? No. Is it needed? Absolutely. The short game of this tandem is inconsistent but will be a big factor this weekend. Pat has finally hit a good stride with the putter, but a week before Otty has decided to put a new putter in the bag, which is….a choice. If he can stay hot with the flat stick, and Rich can, pardon the pun, chip in with some offset foot chips, then this team has a good shot to be rocking the green on Sunday

Cody Willcott and Scott Quinn

Depending on which day of the week it is, Quinn will either label the green jackets theirs, or be calling this team the biggest underdogs in tournament history. While normally this would just be chalked up to Quinn being a clown, he may have a point with the emotional rollercoaster that is Cody Willcott. Less than a week ago he was playing whack-a-mole on the 6^th hole at Kanata, but followed it up with a solid 87* (*at GreyHawk).  If Willcott is his usual dynamite self, and with the new found traj of Quinn. This team will be a serious contender come Sunday. The only thing holding them back is whats between the ears.

Justin Hanes and Jason Oviedo

This team may not be the flashiest, but there are not pictures on a scorecard. Both these players are consistent in every facet of the game and compliment each other nicely. Oviedo will be puffing his chest out nicely as the only defending champ in the B field this year, after 2023 teammate Ryan Dillon had to withdraw with a wonky back. Oviedo will need to use his savviness to keep Hanes in the moment and not battling his inner demons. If this team can avoid the big score and just chug along, they may sneak ahead of some teams and be in the winner’s circle come Sunday

Berry van Donselaar and Chris Chojnacki

The main thing this team needs to avoid is losing the tournament on Friday evening, like van Donselaar unfortunately did last year. Teams that rock the green jackets walk a fine line at the fire on the Friday and Saturday night. Enough to be loose in the morning, but not too much to not be able to throw some darts. Chojnacki has never gone through the full grueling 54 grind, but will learn quick it is a marathon, not a sprint. If van Donselaar can tame him tee shots and provide some patented “Rain Man” short game, this team very well could be champs come Sunday

Projected Scores

Pat Theriault + Rich Theriault:  +20

Cody Willcott + Scott Quinn:  +20

Justin Hanes + Jason Oviedo: +20  **loses first playoff hole after Hanes whiffs 3 times

Chris Chojnacki + Berry van Donselaar: +20

Event Details:

• Event Name: Degens Cup Final
• Date: October 14th & 15th

Details: The Degens Cup Final, a pinnacle in the Degens Golf Association calendar, stands out as the sole singles event of the year, drawing the attention and anticipation of every member and fan. This event, reminiscent of the esteemed FedEx Cup in the PGA Tour, brings individual golfers into a fierce competition, not only aiming for victory but also to inscribe their names in the association’s history with their skill, strategy, and pressure performance across various rounds and courses.

The two-day battle kicks off at Grey Hawk Golf Club, renowned for its slow, strategic greens, where players will navigate through a demanding round of 18 and can apparently swing as hard as they can with their eyes closes and still find their ball in the middle of the fariway. The competition then shifts to the Carelton Golf & Yacht Club, a member-owned private club located in Ottawa, Ontario, known for its impeccable course conditions, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to an unparalleled member experience with a reliable half way house to grab a refreshment on a sunny day. The club, which is recognized for its perfect course conditions and a highly walkable layout, also offers a delightful addition of amazing beverage carts, ensuring the event is not just a competition but also a celebration of the sport and camaraderie within the association.

This individual event ensures that each player, while having their own journey, also contributes to a different chapter of the same story, crafting a narrative that will be remembered and revisited in the years to come. The Degens Cup Final is not just a tournament; it’s a story of individual battles, triumphs, and the sheer love for the game of golf.

Players to look out for:

Casey Floyd

Wild Card Wonder with a Secretive Streak: Casey, the maverick of unpredictable plays, is all set to dazzle and perhaps baffle the spectators at the Degens Cup Final. His wild card status makes him an exciting player to watch! However, Casey has a peculiar dislike for people knowing his tee times. Knowing that his schedule is out in the open for this two-day event might play mind games with him. Will he manage to keep his focus and surprise us all?

Chad Keohane

Steady, Ready, but Jet-Lagged?: Chad, the embodiment of consistency, is all set to showcase his steady and reliable gameplay. His calm and strategic approach might just be the key to conquering the challenges ahead. Chad is the front runner to take home the trophy, but whispers about his recent trip to Italy linger in the air. Will the potential jet lag be a hidden opponent, or has he managed to leave it behind on the European greens?

Cody Willcott

Strategizing Beyond the Screen: Cody, the king of strategic plays, is ready to bring his A-game and intelligent navigation to the courses. His gameplay is sure to be a masterclass in strategic golf. However, this isn’t a video game, and Cody’s skills will be tested in the tangible greens and fairways of the real world. Known for his trash talk, Cody needs to tread carefully with his words to avoid a 24-hour ban. Can he let his gameplay do the talking instead?

Dillon James

Country Strong with a Wild Side: Dillon, the underdog champion, is ready to sneak his way to the top. His quiet yet effective gameplay might just spring a few surprises at the Degens Cup Final. Dillon, as country as they come, has been training in a rather wild manner, taking down deer and polar bears. His competitors might find themselves facing a man who’s battled beasts and is not here to play games.

Evan Hammond

Emotional Battles and Challenging Greens: Evan, the veteran with a wealth of experience, might not be ready to tackle the new challenges that Carelton Golf & Country Club will present. However, Evan has been facing a different kind of challenge – dealing with backlash in the group chat, which seems to be getting to him. Nightly tears and therapy sessions with his wife Jessica might be his secret weapons or his downfall, especially with Carelton’s challenging layout, which has been his nemesis in the past.

Matt MacIntyre

Political Debates and Scandalous Days: Matt, the calm strategist, is ready to navigate through the challenges with a serene demeanor and brilliant strategies. His calm approach might just be the secret weapon amidst the competitive storm. However, Matt has been embroiled in controversial political debates and scandals, seen across various news outlets. With a lack of fan support and a spirit dampened by scandal, will he find the strength to rise above it all on the course?

Pat Theriault

High Stakes and Hazy Days: Pat, the silent warrior, is ready to let his gameplay speak volumes. His powerful plays and silent progression through the course will be a fascinating journey to witness. However, Pat, coming off a hiatus from golf and back-to-back weddings, might still be riding high from his last experience with weed. The question lingers: Is his weed hangover gone, and can he push through the haze to claim a win?

Scott Quinn

Energetic Endeavours and Culinary Love: Scott, the spirited challenger, is ready to bring his energetic gameplay to the forefront. His spirited plays and challenging maneuvers will surely add a thrilling dynamic to the tournament. Scott comes into this weekend with an extra spring in his step, thanks to his newfound love for Hello Fresh and Factor meals. In arguably the best physical shape of his life, his competitors might need to keep a wary eye on this energized contender. Will his physical peak translate into a peak performance on the course?

Ryan Raven

Steady Sails Amidst Physical Trials: Ryan, the steady player, is ready to showcase his reliable and steady gameplay. His consistent performance might just be the stability needed to secure a win. However, with a recent promotion, Ryan has been on the road more often, driving long distances to prospect customers, which might have taken a toll on his hips. Will this potential physical hindrance impact his usually steady swing, or will the good vibes from his promotion propel him forward?

Ryan Dillon

Playful, Potent, and Impeccably Dressed: Ryan, the playful competitor, is ready to bring joy and fierce competition to the greens. Balancing fun and serious gameplay, he will surely be a delightful player to follow. Known for being the best-dressed player, Ryan always brings a dash of style to the course. Fresh off a win at the Fall Classic, he’s riding a wave of momentum into this weekend. Can he maintain his winning streak and once again prove that looking good and playing well can go hand in hand?

Jason Oviedo

Loud, Proud, and Unabashedly Unconventional: Jason Oviedo, known not just for his gameplay but also his distinct, hearty laugh on the course, brings a unique energy to the Degens Cup Final. His loud presence isn’t just limited to the course; Jason is notably inconsiderate of those catching their beauty sleep in the mornings. The question lingers: will these habits seep into his golf etiquette? If he forgets to fix his divots at the meticulous Carelton Golf & Yacht Club, he might find himself facing a lifetime ban from the pristine greens. On the other hand, Grey Hawk Golf Club, known for being more lenient and showcasing a more forgiving course condition, might be more accommodating of Jason’s vibrant personality and laissez-faire approach to course maintenance. Will Jason manage to keep his gameplay clean, or will his habits create a divot that can’t be repaired?

Ben Milinkovich

Swing, a Hit, and a Dash of Irony: Ben is back, and his arm is ready for action! With the Degens Cup Final on the horizon, all eyes will be on him to see if his comeback story will be penned down in the history of Grey Hawk and Carelton Golf & Country Club. But here’s a twist – Ben has been replaced by ChatGPT for his writeups, and with Sambat on the horizon, he might be swinging his way out of a job soon. Will Ben channel his potential joblessness into a fierce drive on the course, or will the irony be too much to handle?

Berry van Donselaar

Powerhouse, Greens, and a Dash of Mystery: Berry, the man known for his powerful drives, is ready to tackle the slow greens of Grey Hawk. His towering shots and strategic plays will surely be a spectacle in this prestigious event. But whispers of post-concussion-like symptoms linger in the air, shrouding Berry’s participation in a veil of mystery. Will Otty Lake be a silent witness to his struggles, or will Berry rise above, turning whispers into awe-inspired conversations?

Justin Hanes

Quiet Storm, Stylish, and Jointly Competitive: Justin, the dark horse of the tournament, is ready to silently make waves, all while ensuring his style is on point with every swing. His quiet ascent on the leaderboard will surely keep everyone on their toes, but beneath the calm exterior, there’s a dependency on a certain green – and we’re not talking about the golf course. If there isn’t a joint to calm his nerves, Justin might spiral into the rough. If only Pat could transfer some of his weed hangover to Justin, he might stand a chance to keep his cool and perhaps even elevate his game to new highs.

Kyle Craig

Fighter, Debater, and Club Tosser Extraordinaire: Kyle, the resilient fighter, is all set to battle through every round, and his never-give-up attitude will surely shine through, making each of his plays a testament to his fighting spirit. But Kyle’s battles aren’t just verbal or against the golf ball – they’re also against his clubs. Known for his passionate debates and equally passionate club tosses, Kyle brings a unique flair to the tournament. The over/under on club tosses this weekend is set at 3.5. Will Kyle keep his cool and his grip on his clubs, or will the course see a few flying irons this weekend?

The weather may be cooling down but the race for the Degens Cup™ is heating up! With only two tournaments left on the calendar, getting top points at the Fall Classic is a must if you want a chance at the crown.

The Fall Classic is the 2^nd and final major of the DGA season, so more than just points are on the line. For the players that have missed an event, or have had a slow season, winning this weekend is still just as important.

This is the 2^nd installment of the Fall Classic, if you count last years handicap/sandbagging debacle. The first round will be played at Whitetail with the 2^nd and final round being played at Dragonfly.

With only the Tour Championship after the Fall Classic, the Degens Cup may come down to who can take home the prize this weekend.

There are 8 teams of 2 competing for the top prize. Teams were selected randomly and all play will be handicap adjusted (Scott you can look up what a handicap is so you understand how it works)

Degens Cup Standings

A Division			B Division
Player	Points		Player	Points
CHAD KEOHANE	1800		JASON OVIEDO	1875
KYLE CRAIG	1612.5		RYAN DILLON	1481.25
PAT THERIAULT	1437.5		JUSTIN HANES	850
EVAN HAMMOND	1043.75		BRENT DAVIAULT	687.5
MATT MACINTYRE	1000		ALEX LAJEUNESSE	687.5
CASEY FLOYD	643.75		CODY WILCOTT	675
RYAN RAVEN	531.25		BERRY VAN DONSELAAR	662.5
BEN MILINKOVICH	325		SCOTT QUINN	718.75
DILLON JAMES	206.25		RICH THERIAULT	531.25
			CHRIS CHOJNACKI	206.25

Teams

Ryan ‘Heavy’ Dillon and Ben Milinkovich

Evan Hammond and Jason ‘Boomer’ Oviedo

Matt MacIntyre and Casey Floyd

Kyle Craig and Rich Theriault

Justin Hanes and Ryan Raven

Berry van Donselaar and Scott Quinn

Chad Keohane and Dillon James

Cody Willcott and Brent Daviault

All things being equal, this handicapped event should not have any favourites or underdogs. However, this group of Degens is known to sandbag, cheat, reverse sandbag, dip, dive, duck, and dodge, so lets get into the breakdown

Ryan Dillon and Ben Milinkovich

Any tournament involving handicaps should have Heavy near the top of the leaderboard. Known for his janitorial back nines, Heavy will be a key to this team success. After partnering together last year, this team finished in 6^th place, with a score of +3. However, Milinkovich was playing with a broken arm during the event.

Milinkovich and Dillon can both be on, but boy can they also both be off. If Dillon gets into ‘host’ mode like he did at last years event, look for this team near the bottom of the leaderboard.

This team will be a bit of a rollercoaster, with some net eagles, but also some net double bogeys possible at any given time. If they can avoid the blowup holes at the same time, look for this team to contend

Evan Hammond and Jason Oviedo

The perennial #1 seed in the DGA Power Rankings, Hammond hates this event after coming last place in 2022. He is as against handicaps as they come and will be heard muttering “just get better” at least 100 times during the week. His anger may fuel into a good tournament however, Hammond is coming in ice cold with 0 wins in his last 3 DGA events, after his record setting DGA win streak.

His partner on the other hand, is all for this format. Oviedo comes into the Fall Classic with a hefty lead in the B Division Degens Cup standings, and looking for his 2^nd major of the year.

This team will have to ‘Ham’ and egg it to be near the top this weekend. Sources tell DGA News that Oviedo was draining every single putt in a practice round at Greyhawk on Wednesday. If he continues with the hot flat stick, this is a team that may be major champions.  

Matt MacIntyre and Casey Floyd

Just like Dillon, any tournament that mentions handicaps automatically has Floyd near the top of the list. Unanimously voted the #1 sandbagger in the DGA, Floyd comes in with about a 4-5 shot head start over the rest of the field. When Floyd goes full robot mode, there is not much that can stop him. One good shank though will have Casey laughing for 10 minutes straight and will derail his whole game.

After a spiritual golf journey to Italy, where MacIntyre focused on relaxing and enjoying nature, he has a new mindset heading into DGA tournaments. This may help both him and his teammate, as this cancer is known for blowing up at team mates (ie: Kyle Craig, Hole 1, Perth, 2020)

Both these players can play well above their handicap and will be considered one of the favourites heading into this weekend.

Kyle Craig and Rich Theriault

The true ‘Good Guys’ team of the Fall Classic may also come in with the least rounds played combined. Craig has only 2 rounds in since Otty, and Theriault does not have many more.

A little rust shaken off wont stop these competitors from getting over the hump. Their 6 combined Major wins lead all teams this weekend. That experience will help them down the stretch if they are in the hunt.

The two will have to battle through some shakey play, slow pace, and lots of fat cloots, but if they can keep a cool head and avoid blowing up at the same time, this team should be right in the thick of things come Sunday.

Justin Hanes and Ryan Raven

Teams need not fret about the duo of Raven and Hanes this weekend. With only a combined 1 real win, and none since 2017, this team wouldn’t know winning if it hit them on the side of the head.

Raven is coming off a dreadful last place finish at the Italian Open, where him and his partners could not get anything going. Hanes, who helped Team Lefty to an upset T1 finish, will have to do the brunt of the heavy lifting this weekend.

Hanes is borderline sandbagger and has the potential to play well below his handicap. Raven, while having glimpse of greatness, has had his best days and will do well to play to his handicap.

If a few putts drop, and a some things go their way, this team may have a chance at a top 5 finish.

Berry van Donselaar and Scott Quinn

The only real underdog heading into the weekend is the tandem of van Donselaar and Quinn. While setting the record at greatest heigh difference in DGA history at 1ft8in, this team will have their work cut out for them to set the records on the course.

Van Donselaar does not have an official handicap, and will be playing off a 28, while Quinn will be playing off his 41.6. Now with handicaps that high, all it takes is a few good holes to really be in contention, and both players have shown they can do it in the past. If Quinn’s short game can lead them to good par 3 holes, and the boomstick of van Donselaar can scratch off some longer holes, this team may have a FGCU run in them

Like any team, the key will be to have their good holes and bad holes not at the same time.

Chad Keohane and Dillon James

Just give them the trophy now. We all know that these two will win, anything less will be a catastrophic meltdown.

All these two do is win. Keohane is 2 for 2 this year, and is the all time wins leader. James is no slouch either with 3 DGA wins to his name.

These two have similar games, but in a best ball format you don’t need to compliment your partner as much. But a 320 drive, a wedge to 10 feet, and strong putting isn’t a bad game to have.

The only thing that may stop this team is a drive down windy roads after a night of drinking.

Brent Daviault and Cody Willcott

2 men that are no stranger to DGA controversy team up looking for a big win. Both players still have an outside shot at the Degens Cup, but a major win is always nice.

Daviault was the “champion” last year, while playing with an unofficial handicap that was about 15 strokes to high (thanks Raven and Casey). This time around he will have to win on merit, and not rely on triple bogeys counting as birdies.

Willcott on the other hand, hasn’t played a DGA event since May due to an unlucky string of 247 birthday dinners. When Willcott is on he can blow past his handicap, but one bad hole will have the inner demons ready to explode.

The team has wildly different approaches to golf, with Willcott being extremely accurate, but not too long off the tee, whereas Daviault is one of the longest hitters, but can spray it better than Tony Gwynn

Daviault will have to play both long driver and therapist if this team wants to be in the winner’s circle on Sunday.

Scoring Predictions

James/Keohane: -10

Floyd/MacIntyre: -9

Dillon/Milinkovich: -8

Willcott/Daviault: -7

Hanes/Raven: -6

Theriault/Craig: -5

Hammond/Oviedo: -3

Van Donselaar/Quinn: +1

The best week of the year is almost here! The 2023 Otty will be sure to be one of the best yet. The roster for this year’s event will be much different than last year, with a new rookie making his Otty debut, an OG vet returning to glory, and a man finally getting his life long wish of playing in the A Division.

Newcomer Alex Lajeunesse will be making not only his Otty debut, but it will be his first DGA start. He has already been warned that he will be drugged and forced to drink until he is “cross eyed” from DGA vets Scott Quinn and Ryan Dillon. No one knows more about how the drinking can affect your game than Dillon, who completely lost his game after being a “good host” at the 2022 Fall Classic, so look for this premonition to come true.

After the change in schedule for the 2022 Otty, this year’s event is back to the classic 36 hole Saturday at Mapleview, followed by the final round at Perth on Sunday. The switch last year threw some players into a frenzy and had Ryan Raven and Evan Hammond both glad that they couldn’t choke on Sunday at Perth.

While the tournament is still a few weeks away, the hot weather has Matt MacIntyre already worried about the firmness and speeds of the greens, especially the famed turtle backs of Mapleview. Without much check or spin in his game, MacIntyre prefers the soft, wet conditions he is used to at his home course of Carleton, where he and fellow A div members Pat Theriault and Chad Keohane boost their confidence. If the first few weeks of June have some rain, it could greatly benefit that trio.

Just like every year, the tournament will come down to the back 9 on Sunday. The team that wins is typically the team that is mentally the strongest. The Otty is about much, much more than tee shots and putts. It is whats between the ears that matters most. The grind of 54 holes over 30 hours is not for everyone, and only the strongest come out on the other side.

A Division

This year’s A Division has the makings to be one of the tightest tournaments ever. All years are tight, but typically have favourites going in. This year it is truly anyone’s game, with all 4 teams having a legit chance at the plaque.

The DGA as a whole is getting better, and the winning scores year over year show that. Take out the weak +1 winning score of Casey Floyd and Evan Hammond in 2020, the last 3 winning scores have been -4, -5, and the tournament record -10 last year. Look no further than A Divisions newest member Pat Theriault, who has become a member at Carleton Golf and Yacht (Who is too good and “prestigious” to host a DGA event) and seen his handicap plumet. He will join #1 seed Evan Hammond who is looking for his 4^th straight Otty Lake championship. The main hurdle for the Hammond and Theriault squad will be internal bickering.

On the other end of the spectrum is Ben Milinkovich, who may be the only DGA member moving backwards. After completing his free fall from the #1 seed all the way down to the #8 seed, Milinkovich is coming into Otty as the #7 seed. One thing going for him is that he is fresh, only playing 1 full round in the last 10 months after breaking his arm last August. The broken arm did not stop him from competing at the Fall Classic, but playing through the injury may have a lasting effect. Milinkovich will be joined by the DGA bridesmaid, Ryan Raven. Raven is on an even more impressive streak than Hammond, coming 2^nd place an astounding 5 straight years. This team does have some history together, back in 2017 the duo teamed up for Raven’s only DGA win at the now defunct Greyhawk Invitational (thanks a lot Ryan Raven, Evan Hammond, Casey Floyd). They are hoping lightning does strike twice, and they can get Raven over the Otty hump for the first time.

2 time winner Kyle Craig teams up with 1 time winner Chad Keohane. This will be their first time together at Otty, but this squad has had big wins in the past. Like Raven and Milinkovich, this team has won the Greyhawk Invitational together, putting together one of the best back 9s in DGA history en route to their 2019 win. Although Otty has not been their friend the last few years, these two come in as the slight favourites. A team with a long history together and chemistry is always a tough beat at Otty. As long as Craig does not want to Keeeermit at the end of Saturday, this team should be near the top.

The final team rounding out the field is Casey ‘Eeyore’ Floyd and Matt MacIntyre. The team got off to a rocky start at the team announcement, where Floyd’s immediate reaction was…..not great to say the least

The team is forging forward though and will have a great shot at taking home the championship. Both have 1 Otty win under their belts, riding the coat tails of Hammond for wins in 2020 (Floyd) and 2021 (MacIntyre). For this team to have a shot, Robot Casey will have to make an appearance and MacIntyre will have to continue his impressive streak of creativity around the greens.

Keys to Success

Evan Hammond and Pat Theriault.

While this team may not have tons of history together on the links (only teamed up for an abysmal May Manderley Mayhem showing), they go way back off the course as Theriault was the best man at Hammonds wedding in 2022. Hammond will have to remember this bond and friendship while taking deep breaths and explaining to Theriault’s that they should not use Theriault’s tee shot that is 40 yards left and 60 yards behind Hammond’s. And no, it does not have a “better line”. Theriault will be the key to this team’s success. We all know what Hammond can do, but Theriault will have to chip in (pardon the pun) if this team wants to take home the crown on Sunday. After a record setting win streak, Hammond is coming in a bit cold to Otty with an 8^th place finish at the Fall Classic, and tied for last at the Calabogie. Even with the 3 straight Otty wins, Hammond has had to rely heavily on his partners in years past. The fairways at Mapleview and Perth are not your wide open cow pastures that Hammond is used to at his home course of Greyhawk. Hammond and Theriault fear Otty so much so, it has come to light that the team is using a non-DGA sanctioned, illegal app to gain a technological advantage over the other competitors. There will be more to come on this breaking story

Short game has not been Theriault’s friend in the past, but he will need to sharpen that skill to help Hammond the most. If Hammond is on his A game, he alone can win the tourney. With even some help from Theriault it would be no surprise if this team hoists the plaque on Sunday.

Ryan Raven and Ben Milinkovich

The biggest hurdle Ryan Raven will face is mental. He has the game to get it done, it just hasn’t happened quite yet. The game itself has been all over the map, literally and figuratively, but all it takes is a good 2 days to become Otty champions. Ben Milinkovich also has his work cut out for him. The spray and pray tactic can only go so far at Otty, and unfortunately for this team, both players suffer from an army miss. The good news is that this team’s game compliments each other well, as both, when on their game, are well rounded players that can help in all aspects of the game. Milinkovich has won Otty a record tying 3 times, so he will have to guide the inexperienced Raven to the winner’s circle. As always, if they get some lucky bounces and some clutch putting, this team has a real shot to de-throne Hammond.

Kyle Craig and Chad Keohane

Even though this team is the slight betting favourites coming in, they will not be without their hurdles. Craig is confirmed staying at the cottage for the first time since his infamous ‘green out’, where he sat in silence for a world record 7.5 hours (felt like 7.5 days if you ask him). Keohane is no stranger to the late-night fires, but he will have to make sure his teammate is tucked away nice and early if they want to take the title. A quick Golf Canada handicap lookup will show a solid start to the year for Keohane, consistently firing in the mid-80s. The majority of these rounds coming at the pompous Carleton Golf and Yacht Club or whatever they call it. The main key for this team will be keeping the ball in bounds off the tee. Both players are typically solid off the tee, but when it goes south, it goes south in a hurry. If they can do that and come up with some clutch putting, they will be in the winner’s circle on Sunday.

Casey Floyd and Matt MacIntyre

This team may be the biggest wild card coming into the Otty weekend. Last reports have Floyd considering euthanasia even before the tournament begins. MacIntyre on the other hand is coming in hot, stating that he has never been more confident off the tee. He also states that he has the most check on Tour, so you have to take everything he says with a grain of salt. Speaking of salt, Floyd will be coming into Otty with a chip on his shoulder after being unanimously labeled the #1 sandbagger in the DGA. Unlucky for him, the Otty is not a handicapped event. There are some positives for this squad though as their games play off each other very well. Floyd can be long off the tee and have great iron play, and MacIntyre at times can have great short game and approach game. If the stars align, don’t be surprised to see this team at the top of the leaderboard.

Predictions

This year may be the toughest tournament to predict, as all teams have a shot at winning. It will come down to mental and physical strength as the tournament moves on, and as always, who makes the makeables.

Craig/Keohane: -6
Floyd/MacIntyre: -4
Raven/Milinkovich: -4
Hammond/Theriault: -4

B Division

Unlike the A Division, there is a heavy favourite heading into this weekend. That doesn’t mean the B Division is not riddled with potential story lines though.

Even more so than the A Division, the B flight’s tournament is not all about the on-course scores. The B Division loves to play mind games with a side of sabotage at the fire pit on Friday and Saturday night. Savvy vets like Ryan Dillon, Scott Quinn, Justin Hanes, and Jason Oviedo will do whatever it takes to give their team the advantage.

The 4 teams are made up of 2 teams without Otty wins, (Dillon/Oviedo and Lajeunesse/Daviault) and 2 teams with past champs**** (van Donselaar/Theriault and Quinn/Hanes****).

Newcomer Alex Lajeunesse won’t know fully what to expect until he gets there on Friday night and is handed a 12% black sludge “beer” from defending champ Berry Van Donselaar. OG Otty crew teammate Brent Daviault is known to be in bed at 9:30, and will not even be at the cottage on Friday night so at least one of the teammates will be fresh heading into Saturday.

Dillon has already stated that he will not be drinking at the fire and he is “there to win” but we all know that is a bigger boost than Pat Theriault’s drops.

As much as the shenanigans around the fire play a part, there is still golf to be played and like every year, anything can happen in the B Div.

Richard Theriault teams up with big-man Berry Van Donselaar in what is by far the most decorated B Division team, with a combined 3 Otty wins. This is a first-time partnership for the two, but could be a successful one. Both are long off the tee and can find an iron and short game every so often.

Two relatively inexperienced partners team up in Lajeunesse and Daviault. This is Daviault’s third Otty, but first since 2017. He did win a DGA event last season, picking up the W at the inaugural Fall Classic. However, playing off an illegitimate handicap, and playing with the Sandbag King Casey Floyd, we’ll have to notch that up as a half victory. Daviault can show Lajeunesse the DGA ropes, but sometimes inexperience is a blessing. Not knowing the rich, deep history of the Otty, or the prestige that comes along with being a winner can have ‘Laj’ playing loose and easy. The 12 blunts won’t hurt either.

Ryan Dillon and Jason Oviedo team up once again in 2023. Team ‘Sticky Bandits’ as they like to call themselves, are the big favorites coming in. As a team last year, they finished a solid 2^nd place, in what was Oviedo’s first crack at the Otty. With a year of experience, and 3000 more cigarettes under his belt, Oviedo is poised to win his first Otty. His DGA career is off to a great start, with a win and two 2^nd place finishes. Dillon has one win to his name as well, but both are still looking for their first major win.

Justin Hanes and Scott Quinn round out the B Division and have a history of playing together. They are here to “Erase the Asterisk” of 2019, where they won the one and only handicapped Otty event. Getting 48 strokes, the Quinn and Hanes duo took the Theriault brothers to the final hole, before the pressure was too much and the Theriaults imploded. Now playing straight up, this team will have to battle some mental demons if they want to etch their names on the trophy for real this time

Keys to Success

Ryan Dillon and Jason Oviedo

The Sticky Bandits just need to play their game and they will have success. Both are not long, but very reliable off the tee. Just keeping the ball in the short grass should be enough for these ageless wonders. Both are looking to become the oldest major winner in DGA history! The duo has had a long life of playing together, so chemistry will be no problem. The only thing that would prevent this team the title is if Dillon goes full Fall Classic mode and self-sabotages. Which is a very, very real possibility. He is known to stay in the parking lot until 3am on a Thursday to win a hyjinx, so who knows what will happen come Otty… The only weakness of this team may be length off the tee, but neither course is overly long so their accuracy should more than make up for any length lost off the tee. As long as this team keeps it in play, they should have their names on the trophy in no time.

Berry van Donselaar and Richard Theriault

This team will have to play off their past successes and find some magic this year. Both players are long off the tee, but can have a problem finding the fairway at times. A member from this team has been on the winning team each of the last 3 years, so it’s certainly not out of the question. The key for this team will be not missing at the same time. If they can avoid drops, hit some clutch putts, and dial in the approach game, they just might be able to make it 4 years in a row. There have also been some rumours that Theriault is planning to slow his pace down even more as a tactic to pretzel brain his opponents. If he can break out this strategy while not affecting his own game, his playing partners may be in for a long day. The biggest key may be van Donselaar’s sleeping arrangement. He is known to pitch his own tent, so if he gets a good rest and doesn’t blow his back out, this team should have no problems competing.

Scott Quinn and Justin Hanes

The overconfident Quinn and underconfident Hanes team up yet again looking to write their names in the history books in pen this time. It is somewhat of a blind leading the blind squad, but magic can happen, especially at the Otty. Hanes comes in as the surprise #1 seed as his game has flourished, and the likes of Pat Theriault and Cody Willcott are not in the field. Hanes is coming off back to back rounds in which he made a birdie for the first time in his career, yet is still “on sui watch”. Hanes will have to have his A game off the tee if this team want to play meaningful golf on Sunday. Quinn’s soft touch around the greens, along with some potential fire pit shenanigans will be imperative as well. Quinn claims to be a ‘team guy’ but will have to do much more than bring sandwiches to get this team over the hump. If Quinn can find some tee game and help on approach shot, then this team may have a shot, but without that they will need a miracle.

Alex Lajeunesse and Brent Daviault  

The only people that may not know what to expect more from this team than me, is Daviault and Laj themselves. Both come into Otty without many, if any, rounds under their belts for the year. Like the Theriault and van Donselaar squad, this team is a couple of bombers. They should have no problem getting off the tee, but getting down to the short strokes may be the challenge for this team. If they can find a way to have a solid short game then they could shock the world and take home their first Otty win. Daviault will be very well rested on both nights, as his latest career DGA bed time is 9:45pm. This may be an under the radar key as all other members of the B Division may go to bed dead. If Daviault is able to keep his eyes on the prize, this team may come out on top.

Predictions

The B Division is much harder to handicap, due to the handicaps, but all 4 teams have a chance. A hole out, a miracle birdie, a lost ball, or a long putt may be the difference maker in who comes out on top

Dillon/Oviedo: +38
Lajeunesse/Daviault: +50
Theriault/van Donselaar: +54
Quinn/Hanes: +55

The time is nigh! The world’s biggest tournament is set to kick-off on Saturday. No we are not talking about LIV Golf and Phil Mickelson, but the 2022 Otty Lake Invitational. As everyone knows, the tournament truly begins Friday night around the fire, where it is a fine balance of gamesmanship and intoxication. The tournament can be won or lost with decisions on Friday night.

This year’s format has changed slightly due to a scheduling conflict at Mapleview (you’ll be hearing from our lawyers). Instead of the traditional 36 on Saturday, and the final 18 on Sunday at Perth, the days are reversed which will leave teams scrambling to strategize.

The weather looks less than ideal for some of the DGA members, where the slightest breeze and a drop of rain leaves them sulking in the carts the entire day. Matt MacIntyre and Casey Floyd are already a bit 🥨🧠  looking at this weekend’s forecast.

As always, it will be survival of the fittest and whoever has the mental fortitude will come out on top.

Beer, trophies, but most importantly, bragging rights are on the line

A Division

As always, the A Division will be tight down to the last hole, where inevitably Ryan Raven will implode, leading to a 2^nd place finish. Since 2017, the largest margin of victory is 2 shots in the A division, and it will come down to who makes the makeables.

After a monstrous shuffle in the Power Rankings, 3 of the 4 teams have never played together in an official DGA Scramble event. Dillon James and Kyle Craig are the only team with some history, and what a history it is. James and Craig won the 2018 Otty together, after a wild string of lucky shots and literal bounces off turtles. Can lightning strike twice? We shall see.

Casey Floyd and Chad Keohane come in as new partners with a lot of recent success, and recent failures. Keohane won the 2017* Otty but has since finished 3^rd, 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th in the four years since. Floyd, after some abysmal showings early on has finished 1^st and 2^nd the last 2 years.

Evan Hammond and Ben Milinkovich also come into Otty as the #1 and #8 pairing. Milinkovich’s free fall from the top of the Power Rankings has finally hit rock bottom, but may play to his advantage as he now gets to pair up with Hammond, who is coming in on a 5 tournament win streak, the longest in DGA history.  This team does have a long history playing together in the Brockville Ryder Cup events throughout the years, which bodes well for their success this week.

Ryan Raven and Matt MacIntyre round out the field this week and man, who the hell knows what will happen with this team. If history tells us anything, the will finish 2^nd with Raven picking up his historic 8^th straight 2^nd place finish. The only thing holding them back from a 2^nd place finish, is finishing itself. This team could meld well together, or get in a fist fight on #1 and both walk off. Opponents just need to mention politics, the market, or Lebron James to watch this team fold like a cheap table.

Predictions

Evan Hammond and Ben Milinkovich

All things are pointing to another Hammond win, as he is far and away the #1 golfer on tour. It is so in the heads of the other DGA members, that a few have mentioned not even coming this year. If Milinkovich can keep his army miss in between the lines, and provide a few clutch shots, this team should be hoisting the plaque come Sunday

Ryan Raven and Matt MacIntyre

If this team can hold it together then a 2^nd place finish and a push for the win is certainly in their grasp. MacIntyre’s average putting will have to be lifted up by Raven, but MacIntyres safe 200 yard shot in the fairway should keep this team viable. After running out of golf balls in his 3^rd round of the year, we have it on good authority Raven is stocked up well for the tournament and if he keeps them in play, this team should be scoring low. He may be down a club from a club snap, but both members are peaking at the right time coming into Otty.

Chad Keohane and Casey Floyd

This is the team no one knows what the hell to think of. Will it be Robot Casey, or Eeyore Casey that shows up on the weekend? Will it be 2018 Keohane or 2021 Keohane that shows up the weekend? For this team to make a push they will need Robot Casey, 2018 Keohane, and perfect weather. Both players can score well and will feed off eachother. The main decision will be who shoots first, but even the smallest of calls could send this team spiralling.  If they can avoid the blow up hole, expect them to be around late Sunday.

Dillon James and Kyle Craig

Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. It seems every time James and Craig are partnered up they are under estimated, and time and time again they show up when it counts. This duo has won 2 tournaments together over the year, the 2018 Otty and the 2019 May Manderley Mayhem (RIP).  James has taken this year seriously, practicing for hours on end and ordering himself a launch monitor. It has never been the on course part that gives him troubles, but too many shotgunned Twisted Teas have caused issues in the past. Thankfully Craig is the Ying to James’ Yang and will balance the team off by have 1 sip of beer for the weekend. If Craig and Dillon play up to how they have this year, it will be no surprise to see them near the top of the leaderboard and if they get the bounces they did in 2018, they could easily be at the top.

Hammond/Milinkovich: -5
Raven/MacIntyre: -3
Floyd/Keohane: -2
Craig/James: -2

B Division

This has the makings of being the closest B Division Otty in history. Historical teams have been scrapped, and the teams are the fairest they’ve ever been. The 2 time defending champion Theriault brothers have been split up, evening the field in both play and slow pace of play.

All four pairings will be playing Otty together for the first time, which will lead to some high stress situations. Whoever can manage to avoid the blow up holes, will be hoisting the trophy high above their heads on Sunday evening.

Justin Hanes and Richard Theriault are going from the landlord/tenant to golf team relationship. Hopefully for their sake, this works out better. Theriault is coming off back to back Otty championships, with Hanes winning in 2019. This team has what it takes on paper, but Theriault has only played one round all year, worrying his teammate immensely. His mini putt game is on point though and like his pace, Theriault does not seem worried at all.

Cody Willcott and Berry Van Donselaar team up at Otty for the first time, but this is not their first rodeo. The duo won the final Greyhawk Invitational together in 2020 and are hoping to find magic in a bottle once again. Willcott’s driver is hot but Van Donselaar has joined the New Fathers Who Don’t Golf Anymore club and will be coming in with a bit of rust to shake off. Hopefully sleeping outside in his tent gives him the peace of mind heading into the big tourney.

Pat Theriault and Scott Quinn are a lot like the Hanes and young Theriault squad, with a combined 3 Otty wins in the last 3 years. A lot of the public money in Vegas came in early on this team, but with both players landing on the IL in the past few weeks, the money has moved elsewhere. Both players are coming in with a lot of new clubs in the bag, including a brand new 60 degree for Scott…… If the team can hone in the new sticks, and get a few physio appointments in, they could be a big factor this weekend.

Ryan Dillon and Jason Oviedo round out the field, with Oviedo making his DGA debut. A proud member of the New Fathers Who Don’t Golf Anymore club, Oviedo will be missing the Friday night festivities to rest up the ol’ back to get ready for 54 holes in just over 24hrs. Dillon is still chasing that elusive first major, but this may be the year he squeaks one out. Oviedo and Dillon will both be consistently in play and will be hoping the old tortoise vs the Hare ideology holds true. They may not make a lot of birdies, but this team will be parring teams to death all weekend long. If they can avoid the bad holes, they will be challenging for the win

Predictions

Pat Theriault and Scott Quinn

The early favourites still hold a slight advantage heading into the weekend, but the gap has narrowed. Theriault being on the IL, and Quinn’s fear of joining tee times means they will both have some rust to shake off early in the tournament. If they keep their heads above water, and their balls in play, they should be picking up another major win. With all the trash talk and the self imposed “Scotty Slam”, anything less than a win will be much worse than getting swept by the Avalanche.

Cody Willcott and Berry Van Donselaar

Having won a major together already, this squad knows what it takes. However, this isn’t Spray N’ Pray ™ Greyhawk, this is some of the tightest holes in Ontario, nay the world. If this team takes 0 drops this weekend, they will be riding into the sunset with major #2. 2 of the longest hitters on tour, if the duo can take advantage off the tee, they will be in a great spot come Sunday. However, the true key to the win may be the solid forged gold putter of Willcott. If that gets hot, watch out B division.

Richard Theriault and Justin Hanes

This team will have to dig deep and keep the internal fighting aside to have a chance at the win. Mind games are already afoot with Hanes ranking Hellen Keller above Scott Quinn in the putting Power Ranking. This team will have to confuse opponents and get them off their game, while staying true to their own in order to win. Hanes has certainly found something off the tee, hitting the 2007 Nike Driver with some power. Theriault is really banking on rest in the Rest vs Rust debate, and hoping he will be fresh for the long weekend of golf.

Ryan Dillon and Jason Oviedo

Captain Dillon will have to take young rookie Oviedo under his wing this weekend and show him how to handle the grind of Otty. Oviedo and Dillon are both master minds of the head games, and will need to be in full game mode not only on the course, but around the fire as well. Dillon will be planting seeds from the get go to get any advantage he can. Steady as she goes will be the mantra for this squad and if they can just stay composed and drain some putts, they will likely be at the top come Sunday. A few Voltarins, and a lot of booze will be the remedy this squad needs to be champs.

P. Theriault/Quinn: +22
Willcott/Van Donselaar: +24
R. Theriault/Hanes: +25
Dillon/Oviedo: +28

The DGA Kicks off the 2022 season with the inaugural Calabogie Kickoff, replacing the much-maligned May Manderley Mayhem. After Manderley offered a great deal of $300 to play in a mud pit, the DGA gang had to head out to the valley to Calabogie to kick off the year.

With many of the DGA members staying over night, one can only imagine the debauchery that will take place at ‘the Bogie’. It will all come down to who can handle the pressure, and the booze.

Teams/Power Rankings

Team 1: Evan Hammond, Dillon James, Pat Theriault, Scott Quinn

The tournament is over. Organizer James knew what he was doing making this team. Anything less than a 3 shot win (at least) will be a complete and utter collapse. Hammond, the overall #1 in the Power Rankings will have big help off the tee with 2 other very long hitters. This will play well at the wide-open Bogie track. Quinn will step up big around the greens with his deft touch around the greens. Looks for some big putts, birdie dances, and overall drunkenness from the heavy, heavy favourites.

Estimated Score: -15

Team 2: Kyle Craig, Chad Keohane, Ryan Dillon, Berry van Donselaar

This team will come out swinging and chugging. Craig, who’s making a push for #2 in the Power Rankings with the downfall of Ryan Raven, will be the steady anchor this team needs. Keohane, Dillon, and van Donselaar can all be explosive off the tee, both in a good way, and in a not so good of a way. The 2^nd shot will be key for this team if they want to chase down Team 1 as they will but up close on most of the holes. The flat sticks will have to be hot if Team 2 has a shot on Saturday

Estimated Score: -8

Team 3: Casey Floyd, Matt MacIntyre, Cody Willcott, Justin Hanes

A lot to unpack in a short time for Team 3. The four members haven’t hit their stride yet but if all come into form at the right time, look for them to push for 2^nd on Saturday. If things start going south, stay clear or Floyd, who is know to wildly swing and break his clubs when angry. Both Macintyre and Willcott have had ‘silent rounds’ the past week, which never bodes well heading into DGA competition. The Wild Card of Hanes could be what pushes this team over the edge. Could shoot a 95, or a 195. All just depends on the swing juice going into that 90 year old back. Team 3 will need some team bonding and some big putts to have a shot. If not, it could be a very, very quiet day

Estimate Score: -7

Team 4: Ryan Raven, Ben Milinkovich, Alex Masson, Rich Theriault

This team will need nothing short of a miracle to compete come Saturday. Outside of Raven, the rest of the team has combined for 4 rounds this year, with Theriault not even having picked up his clubs from last October’s trip. Raven and Milinkovich will have to each return to form, with big contributions from Masson and Theriault. Word on the street is the team plans to invoke the Rich Theriault pace of play as the first team off put the other teams to sleep. Watch out for some marshmallows, as this team will be doing whatever it takes to bring home the win.

Estimated Score: -5

As usual, this DGA tourney will come down to who hits the putts in the big moments. However, this time its all for 2^nd place. Congrats to Team 1 on winning the inaugural Calabogie Kickoff!

The new DGA season is set to start off with a bang in a few weeks at the 2021 Otty Lake Invitational. The true test of skill and mental fortitude are needed right out of the gates at the DGA’s most prestigious event.

A grueling 2 day, 3 round tournament, the Otty Lake Invitational is the tournament all young golfers dream of winning one day. The first 36 are played at Mapleview Golf and Country Club which is prime for scoring. A mix of challenging holes and easier holes, the players will have to capitalize on every birdie hole they can if they hope to win come Sunday.

The tournament wraps up with 18 mind melting holes at the oldest course in Canada, Perth Golf Course. The scores are typically much higher at Perth as it takes driver out of the hands and makes you strategically place your ball around the course. Even though it is a scramble, sometimes par is a great score. The front 9 is a shorter and filled with plenty of risk/reward dog legs, followed by a longer and challenging back 9.

Between Mapleview and Perth, all facets of the game will be tested, and at the end of it all a new team will be crowned champions

A Division

This might be one of the most competitive tournaments to date, and that is saying something. The largest margin of victory over the last 4 years is only 2 strokes, but this year it is truly anyone’s game. Each team has legitimate reasons as to why they think they will come out on top

Matt MacIntyre and Evan Hammond

This duo is hoping the 3^rd time’s the charm. After being paired at the 2019 Otty Lake (last place), and the 2020 Greyhawk (2^nd place), they are hoping the upward trajectory will continue to a win at the 2021 Otty Invitational. Hammond finally broke through in 2020, winning his first Otty championship, avenging ‘The Collapse’ from 2018. On the other hand, MacIntyre is looking for not only his first Otty win, but his first ever major win. This will be his 6^th crack at the Otty and is hoping he has finally figured out the elusive Mapleview, after coming dead last the last two years.

The team is coming into Otty red hot, as MacIntyre is playing some of the best golf of his life. His check is unmatched and his ability to get into the heads of his opponents (@Ryan Raven) is uncanny. Hammond himself has joined in the mind games and gone after Casey Floyd in recent weeks, by not only sending him snake videos from Floyd’s home course, but also incorporating the Neil Schuster-esque second serve drive. The fact that the second serve still outdrives Floyd by 80 yards has his 2020 teammate completely pretzel brained.

Coming in as one of the favourites, if Team MacIntyre/Hammond is going to win this year’s first major, it will come down to their putting. The flatstick is usually what breaks this team apart, as 3 separate missed 3 footers cost them a win at last year’s Greyhawk. It will be a game time decision on which of his 83 putters MacIntyre will use, but let’s hope he picks the right one. The team should have a heavy advantage off the tee, with MacIntyre leading the DGA in FIR, which will free up Hammond to drop the second serve swing, and go all out.

Ben Milinkovich & Chad Keohane

A team that hasn’t been talked about enough as we approach Major Saturday is the formidable duo of Ben & Chad. The two have won a collective 6 DGA events, including a whopping 5 major wins – totals that dwarf their competition. Despite their winning history, many onlookers may be suffering from a bit of recency bias after this team finished a lackluster 3^rd in last year’s installment of the Otty.

Being underestimated is nothing new for Keohane, and I think that is how he prefers it. A man who looks like Ghandi when compared with his degenerate brethren, he’s never been one to mix it up, but a mounting pile of evidence stating the contrary is becoming hard to ignore. An ever-inflating handicap, an asterisk, and a hole in one while playing alone? I’ll leave it to the readers to make your own conclusions.

While we are on the topic of questionable integrity, let’s introduce Ben Milinkovich – the commissioner, founder, and grand daddy of the DGA. He also fulfills the roles of webmaster, stat keeper, and data manipulator. While Ben has proven to be an effective manager (2 time NCBL Manager of the Year), one thing he can’t seem to manage is his two-way miss off the tee, but he will be looking to offset that with a strong short game and unmatched regional course knowledge. 

Keep your eye on this team on Sunday (because they’re good, but also for rules infraction purposes thanks).

Casey Floyd & Ryan Raven

Shockingly, this is the first time these two BFFs will appear as a team at the Otty Lake Invitational. Casey and Ryan share a close bond – think Han Solo and Chewbacca, or Harold and Kumar, or Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal in Brokeback – you get the idea. 

Raven’s journey has been a tumultuous one – from barely being able to finish a hole without picking up only a few years ago, to firing an even par 72 from the tees two blocks ahead of the men’s tees mere days ago, solidifying his status as the 2 seed. For all his progress, he has still yet to etch his name in the prestigious Otty Lake Invitational plaque. He will be looking to change that on the weekend, with a little help from one of last year’s champions…

Casey is coming into this year’s Otty with unmatched confidence, a set of irons that he refuses to buy, and a mop that makes the balder members of the DGA swoon. It’s most recently reported that he is indeed “back”, only days after being “not back” and “fucking done”. What version of Casey Floyd will we see on the weekend? It’s hard to say, but if plays at all like he did last year (meep morp), the rest of the field will be in tough.

Kyle Craig and Dillon James

The true wildcards of the 2021 Otty Lake Invitational will undoubtedly be the tandem of James and Craig. A team composed of 4 first names is wild enough, but these players are both known to be all over the map with their golf game at any given time. On any given Sunday, either of them could fire a 78, or a 98 and no one would bat an eye.

However, this team is known to bring out their A game when it counts, with a combined 3 Otty Lake Championships, including winning together in 2018. Although it took other worldly luck, a few turtle bounces, and picking up a hitchhiker, a win is a win.

Both players play similar styles off the tee and go for the bomb and gauge tactic. The key from their 2018 win was that one player hits OB, then the 2^nd player hits it also OB, but gets a bounce off a tree. It is a difficult strategy to master, but it will be interesting to see if lightning can strike twice.

The strength of this team definitely comes off the tee, as both Craig and Dillon are amongst the longest hitters on tour. The 2^nd shot, and scrambling will be the key for this team though. They will have their fair share of birdies, but will have to minimize the big score in order to be on top come Sunday.

Karina, if you are reading this, we will have Kyle home by 8:00pm 

B Division

Just like the A Division, this year’s installment in the B Division is anyone’s game. Last year’s teams are running it back in a full rematch from 2020. The Theriault brothers come in as the defending champs, and the slight favourites, although some unnamed B Division competitors are calling for an official to follow the Theriault’s this year. The added official will make any potential shenanigans that much harder for the defending champs.

Ryan Dillon and Justin Hanes

Last year this squad came in the runner up spot, but a lot has changed in one years’ time. Hanes has indulged in lessons for the very first time, and has this new thing called “confidence”. Dillon on the other hand is playing some of his best golf to date. After committing to the lefty life last year, Dillon has been climbing the ranks as one of the most consistent ball strikers in the division.

The challenge for this team may come between the ears. Even with Hanes’ new found ‘confidence’, he is one slice away from returning to his former mental state. Dillon will have to do everything he can in order to keep the focus on the next shot. Although coming in hot, Dillon himself has started to battle a bit of the two way miss of late, but still has been scoring quite well.

The strength of this team will be consistency. While neither of these two are considered part of the long hitters, they are both very consistent when it comes to their game.  This team won’t get too high, or too low, but as the adage goes, slow and steady wins the race.

Berry van Donselaar and Alex Masson

After finishing a disappointing 4^th place in 2020, this tandem is out for revenge in 2021. Like most of the B Division teams this year, a lot has changed since the 2020 tournament. Berry had just picked up the game and was still using clubs that were 24” too small, Masson had only one dog, no membership, and still worked at McDonalds. With all the changes, this team has a completely new goal for 2021: to win it all

Berry is coming off his first major win at the 2020 Greyhawk, while Masson won the first ever Otty Lake Invitational, so winning is nothing new for this team. The biggest factor for this team will be not missing at the same time. Both players have the tendency to miss, and miss big at times, but as long as they can avoid doing it at the same time they will be in great shape.

They will also have to live by the sword and die by the sword. Although they can miss on occasion, these two are also some of the longest hitters on Tour, which can give them a huge advantage at Mapleview. If their short game is on, this team will be poised to be at the top of the leaderboard come Sunday.

Scott Quinn & Cody Willcott

This duo is the definition of yin & yang. One has an undying passion for playing as much golf as possible, the other has essentially stored his clubs away for the winter. One has spent over $1K on drivers in the past month, the other just traded in a borrowed driver for yet another borrowed hand-me-down. One lives in the eastern village of Russell, the other calls Fitzroy Harbour home, wherever the hell that is.

However, when it comes to their respective golf games, their differences work to complement each other quite well. While Cody is known for his controlled, stiff-ankled aggression off the tee, producing some of the longest drives B division has ever seen – his partner, Scott Quinn, winner of 2019 Otty Lake B Div, is known for his deft touch around the greens and ability to drain a long putt from essentially anywhere.

As the broken clubs accumulate, and as more and more time passes before the thought of golf even crosses Willcott’s mind, there seems to be a sense of panic around this team. In a scramble format, I certainly wouldn’t count them out. The only thing we can count on – this is the last time we will see Cody for quite some time – make sure to say goodbye.

Patrick Theriault & Richard Theriault

Last year’s winning B division squad is back, looking for the first repeat win as a duo in Otty Lake Invitational history. Since last year, both men have taken incremental steps to improve their game. Pat has dedicated the early 2021 season to lessons, much like his competitor Justin Hanes. The real question is what does this mean for Kevin Haime? Could be the difference between a 5 star google review, or a report to the Better Business Bureau.

Richard has taken huge strides to improve the pace of play concerns from prior years – limiting himself to 3 vape hits between parking the cart and walking to the tee, incorporating a less elaborate alignment routine, no practice swings – all of which has freed him up for additional time to get that tee height JUST right. Say what you want, but his dedication to remarkably consistent teeing conditions is admirable.

As the odds on favourite, this team will have to play to their strengths, keep a level head, and not get caught up in juvenile brotherly arguments. In speaking with one brother – they complained about their partner’s propensity to pick their own ball, no matter the lie, angle, or distance from the hole. In speaking with the other brother, he had a simple response – “he’s an idiot”. If they can push their egos aside, this team will be sniffing the top of the leaderboard on Sunday. 

The Greyhawk Invitational is a prestigious event with a storied history. Representing one of the DGA’s two majors on the calendar, Greyhawk boasts two 18 hole championship style courses – Talon, a tree-lined parkland course with a harrowing stretch of finishing holes, and Predator, a links inspired course that features wide fairways, undulating green surrounds, and an exhilarating final stretch that will surely produce some eagles and birdies in this year’s installment of the GH Invitational. 

A Division

Evan Hammond & Matt MacIntyre

If you polled the DGA, this team would likely be voted as the odds on favourite. Partly because Hammond has played the Greyhawk courses approximately 318 times in the past 3 years, but also because MacIntyre is the DGA’s version of a Patrick Reed/Bryson Dechambeau/Rory Sabbatini type of player, not for his proclivity to cheat, to bomb the ball unforeseen distances, or willingness to use a mini putt ball while wearing a cowboy hat, but simply because everyone hates his guts. People want to see this team crash and burn, but will they? Hammond will be gunning for his second major win of the year and the DGA individual points race, while MacIntrye will also be looking for his second win of the year after an impressive win alongside Chad Keohane at Manderley. Expect an eclectic mix of cart music, several “fuck golfs”, and enough “check” to blow your god damned mind.

Shaun Crook & Ryan Raven

A fan favourite. An embodiment of etiquette, class, and respect. But enough about Shaun Crook. These two are quite familiar with each other’s games – they made a formidable run in Greyhawk’s 2019 installment of the 2v2 match play, falling just short of the finals. Afterward, Raven delivered a speech that mentioned “I” a whopping 18 times, and “We” exactly zero times. For those who know Raven best, this comes as no surprise, but we cannot downplay this team’s home field advantage. Keohane and Craig will have to show their steely resolve as Raven is known for his patented reverse stare down mid backswing – an unsettling maneuver that has shaken many to their core (Dillon James still on IR). Both will be seeking their first win of the 2020 season.

Chad Keohane & Kyle Craig

On paper, this team has flown under the radar. Keohane is treating the season’s second and final major like the RBC Scramble – sandbagging his way to a double-digit handicap before tee-off. However, anyone who has been following the DGA since its inception knows that these are two decorated players – Keohane has 4 career wins including a major, while Craig has 4 wins including 2 majors. This is a team that can do it all, but is it their time? On Sunday, fellow competitors will be looking out on Snapchat for Craig – anything that shows up accompanied by the caption “it’s lit!” will surely spell trouble for the field. Caption game – fire. Filter game – on fleek. Golf game – remains to be seen…

Matt Wing & Ben Milinkovich

The DGA’s most decorated player, three time major winner, and keeper of stats (coincidence?) Ben Milinkovich may have drawn a tough matchup this Sunday. According to ELIAS sports bureau, golfers playing alongside Matt MacIntyre averaged a whopping 6 strokes above their average score. Another challenge facing Milinkovich might be his partner, Matt Wing, who will be playing in his first ever DGA event. Battling is nothing new to Matt Wing, who regularly battles his fellow members at Brockville during their Saturday games, and also battles an 80+ yard slice with every club except the putter. Milinkovich already boasts an albatross this year and according to sources has been in full major season prep mode, his daily routine has been rumoured to look like – bag of chips for dinner, 37 games of Warzone, a random craft beer, 13 bowel movements and a maximum of 3 hours of sleep… DGA – watch out.

A Division Projected Standings

Hammond + MacIntyre: -12
Raven + Crook: -10
Craig + Keohane: -9
Milinkovich + Wing: -6

B Division

Ryan Dillon and Alex Masson

Team chemistry will be the only thing that holds these two back as Heavy’s beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on Masson’s Broncos on Sunday. A quick start will be key for these two as kick off is slated right around when these two DGA Winners will be making their way to the 1^st tee of the second round. Dillon is coming off an impressive win at Manderly, while Masson is looking for his first win since the 2018 Otty Lake Invitational.

Pat Theriault and Scott Quinn

Quinn, the DGA’s most boastful player, is looking to take home his 2^nd career major. He should feel comfortable at Greyhawk, as it is the home to the famed almost hole-in-one. His partner comes into the Greyhawk Invitiational red-hot. After winning the B-Division’s first major of the year, Theriault got the call to the big time to caddy for Evan Hammond in the A-Division at the Manderly Mayhem. The only thing standing in their way of a 2^nd career major is a potential rules infraction, as both players have made it clear they not only have cheated, they will try to again. Their playing partners will have to keep their eyes on them at all times to avoid a Patrick Reed-esque situation.  

Cody Willcott and Berry van Donselaar

This is the team Vegas has pegged to take home the title. Known as Team Putter Smash, this squad will have to get over their anger issues if things start to go awry. They should have their fair share of pars and birdies, but limiting the big scores will be key to their success. Van Donseelar, also known as ‘The Foreigner’ has never played Greyhawk but his long ball spray and pray technique should fit the course well. Willcott’s short game may be the kryptonite for this team success as the putter forged from solid gold has been known to let him down at times.

Justin Hanes and Richard Theriault

Thankfully for this duo, Sunday’s forecast has cleared. Even the tiniest potential of rain presents the possibility of this team ripping at the seams, literally. There may have been a contingency plan in place, but is there a contingency plan for Hanes’ chronic slice? If the first few holes go poorly, don’t expect a lot of chatter coming from this pair – Hanes has been known for long bouts of silence, poopiness, and a strange habit of making his friend’s fathers pay for his food at the turn. His teammate, Richard Theriault, will be doing his best to reign Hanes in and limit the variables. Expect remarkably consistent tee heights, a robot-like pre shot routine, and a significant number of club tosses. Fans have observed a direct correlation between Theriault’s pace of play and the number of beverages he has consumed – for everyone’s sake, let’s hope he has a 6 pack in tow.

B Division Projected Standings

Wilcott + van Donselaar: +19
Dillon + Masson: +21
Theriault + Quinn: +21
Hanes + Theriault: +24