Maritime golfers squeeze in one last swing before storm strikes

Golfers in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island didn't waste any time to hit the greens Saturday morning, desperate to enjoy one last round before a winter storm blankets the region in snow Sunday.

"Everybody's trying to get that extra round in, especially those guys who got clubs for Christmas," said Osbourne Ward, owner of the Eagle Crest Golf Course in Centreville, N.S. "It's like, 'Oh! One more chance!'"

About 50 golfers were on his course by 11 a.m., some sporting light jackets, but none needing hats.

"We're still nice and green. It's just like you were playing in October," Ward said.

He took Christmas Day off, but allowed people to play on the course using the honour system.

All the green fees that were paid Friday will be donated to the food bank in nearby Kentville. He estimates the day brought in around $500.

"It's pretty festive," Ward said. "Everybody coming through the doors is saying how happy they are that I'm open."

Generous players give to food bank, Syrian refugees

The Centreville course wasn't the only one making the most of the stunning Christmas weather.

On P.E.I. the Clyde River Golf & Country Club opened Friday to raise money for Syrian refugees.

Owner Oswald MacEachern won't say how much they raised, but he said he was impressed with the generosity of those who came.

"There was one American came and paid with American money and put extra in," MacEachern said.

MacEachern said he was certain Saturday would be the last day for teeing off. Most of the course is already closed, with just nine holes remaining dry enough to be open, he said.

"It's all a bonus, we all realize. It's been a great great fall."