MOOSE JAW — A new charitable initiative in Moose Jaw is making its debut this summer with a heartfelt mission: to honour the memory of Adam Butler by helping local youth discover the sport of golf.
The Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation is planning its first major event on Thursday, July 31, with a free junior golf day for up to 100 participants, ages six to 16, at the Hillcrest Golf Club. Participants will have to check the foundation’s social media platforms for further updates, as the exact tee-off times have yet to be announced.
“We just want to get kids out and (have them) learn to play golf, because that's what Adam would have wanted,” said Blake Butler, Adam’s brother and chair of the new foundation. “He was all about the kids having a blast and getting out and enjoying the summer.”
Blake said the day will include both morning and afternoon tee times, divided roughly by age group. The event is instructional in nature rather than competitive, with a focus on learning, meeting new friends, and simply having fun on the course.
“It doesn’t have to be anything super competitive,” he said, noting that the goal is “to get them out and have a good time, learn the game, meet some friends, and have a good laugh.”
From prize giveaways on every hole to take-home swag for all participants, the day promises plenty of fun — including a playful “Tee Off Against the Mayor” challenge, where kids can test their swing against one of Moose Jaw’s most recognizable figures, Mayor James Murdock.
“We just thought it would be a fun thing to have the mayor come out and tee off with the kids, just to add another fun spin to it. It’s nothing serious … just come out and have a good laugh,” Blake said.
If you’re completely new to golf and a bit nervous, certain sources said there’s no reason to worry.
“He’s the worst golfer ever, like, he’s the worst,” Mayor Murdock’s daughter, Jenna Murdock, said with a good-natured laugh.
There’s no cost to register, but a no-show fee will apply after July 25 to help ensure all 100 available spots are filled. Blake emphasized that the foundation’s primary goal is accessibility — removing financial barriers for families so all kids have a chance to participate.
“We want to make sure they have golf clubs to use, they have a golf course to go to, and they have instruction as well, so they know how to play and they can actually learn,” Blake said.
The July 31 event is just one component of the broader vision for the Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation. The group is also partnering with three local courses — the Hillcrest Golf Club, Lynbrook Golf Club, and The Ridge (Deer Ridge) Par 3 — to support junior golf programs and provide accessible equipment for youth.
Adam Butler was a well-known and respected community member who devoted himself to family, youth, and making a difference in the lives of others. A father of two and dedicated entrepreneur at Northern Water Cleaners, he was the kind of person who would bypass adult gatherings to spend quality time with the kids, always putting their fun and development first.
“Adam was all about making sure the kids had a good time,” Blake said. “Every single thing that we’re doing with this legacy, we ask ourselves, what would Adam do?”
The Foundation is sponsored by the Moose Jaw Co-op and the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club. To register, volunteer or learn more, visit AdamButlerJGF.com or follow the foundation on Facebook and Instagram at “Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation.”
The Hillcrest Golf Course is located at 1599 Main Street North.
