The 57th annual Rocky Oilmen’s Golf Tournament tees off this Friday, June 6, at Pine Hills Golf Club — and once again, it’s a sellout.

Over 220 golfers are registered to hit the links in what has become one of west-central Alberta’s most anticipated industry events. Tournament organizers say all spots were spoken for more than a month in advance.

“This just points to the fact that our events have been really successful over the last 57 years, and we want to keep that momentum going,” said Len Doroschuk Jr., president of the Rocky Oilmen’s Association.

Doroschuk says the level of interest in this year’s event is not only a testament to the West Country’s eagerness to support the community, but also a positive signal from Alberta’s oil and gas sector.

“In general, companies and people are excited to get out into the community and support local events,” he said. “There’s cautious optimism across the industry — we’re hopeful that more good things are coming down the pipe.”

Participants at the 2024 Rocky Oilmens Golf Tournament at Pine Hills Golf Club. (Rocky Oilmen’s/Len Doroschuck Jr.)

Funds raised at this year’s tournament will continue to support the association’s flagship initiative: four local high school scholarships for students pursuing careers in trades, construction, and industry-related fields. Additional proceeds will go toward supporting local programs such as junior golf, the Rocky Curling Club, and its youth curling development.

The event itself features more than 1,000 volunteer hours and widespread sponsor support, something Doroschuk says is critical to the tournament’s continued success.

“We simply couldn’t do this without our volunteers, our sponsors, and everyone who chips in behind the scenes,” he said.

While volunteer needs are filled for this year’s event, Doroschuk encourages anyone interested in helping with future tournaments or winter events — like the popular Oilmen’s Curling Bonspiel — to reach out via email at rockyoilmens@outlook.com.

The first tee time is set for 9 a.m. Friday morning, with volunteers set up in tents throughout the course supporting the event.

Doroschuk adds, the ever-popular long drive competition making its return to the course, along with a 57-yard shootout to celebrate the 57th year of the event.

The Rocky Oilmen’s Association has been a staple of the community since 1966 and has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars back to local causes over the decades.