Golf is back in full swing in Winnipeg

After months of snow and cold, golfers in Winnipeg are finally getting back out, and for many, it all starts with that first swing of the season, one swing at a time.

Last year alone, more than 129,000 rounds were played across Winnipeg’s municipal courses, a 30 per cent increase compared to pre-COVID times. Even with a slightly later start this spring, expectations are high once again.

“We encourage everyone to get out. It’s great to see all the young kids and lots of new people in the game, so let’s keep it going,” said Guido Cerasani, Shooter’s Family Golf Centre and Restaurant.

Meanwhile, over at the range, golfers say the long winter has them eager to get back into the swing of things.

“I think I’m just most excited to just get back outside and spend some nice time outside, and then hopefully nice weather that comes around soon. But I mean, you can’t beat golf,” said one Winnipegger.

Another Winnipegger said, “City courses are opening up tomorrow. A lot of the other courses are going to be following. I think it’s going to be great. I think a lot of people are excited. We were here yesterday. The place was just packed with people.”

One golfer said, “I think, yeah, it’s hilarious that it’s taking this long for people to figure out that it’s a great game. Yeah, more the merrier.”

While a new golfer said, “I got into golf last year, fairly new at it, still learning, but it’s always fun, coming out to the course and stuff.”

From new golfers on the range to competitive play, the sport continues to grow across Canada, something Golf Manitoba says is being felt across the province’s amateur scene. With more players signing up and more interest in tournaments than ever before, Golf Manitoba’s executive director Brian Munz says it’s only up from here.

“We’ve seen this trend since COVID, where each year has bettered itself the following year, and coming into 2026, it doesn’t seem like there is any indication that those numbers are dropping,” said Munz.

From that first swing to the final putt, golfers here say they’re just happy to be back.