The annual COPP-RCMP Charity Golf Tournament teed off Thursday in Portage la Prairie, continuing a long-running tradition that raises funds for local youth while showcasing strong community support for the Citizens on Patrol Program.
Held under sunny skies, this year's event welcomed dozens of golfers, local sponsors, and volunteers. Everyone is working together to support a cause that benefits both safety and youth development in the region.
Local support keeps tournament strong
Bev, the coordinator of the tournament and a key COPP member, says the group was excited to once again host one of their biggest events of the year.
“It’s been going strong for years, and we had a ton of teams out playing again this year,” notes Bev. “It’s great to see the support from everyone.”
Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Create of Play Program, which is administered by the Portage Family Resource Centre and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains.
Bev says the tournament plays a dual role for COPP, fundraising and visibility.
“We’re always trying to be present in the community,” she adds. “This event is one of the best ways we do that, along with our appreciation BBQs.”
Golfers were treated to slices of pizza from Boston Pizza and ice cream sandwiches courtesy of What’s the Scope as they played through the course. After wrapping up their rounds.
Milestones and memorable moments
It wasn’t just a day for good golf, it was also a day to celebrate. Longtime community member Orville Cairns marked a major milestone by celebrating his 80th birthday with everyone at the tournament. Making the day even more special.
One of the biggest highlights of the day came from golfer Ian Post, who stunned fellow players by sinking a hole-in-one on Hole #10 . An unforgettable moment that drew cheers across the course.
RCMP voices strong backing for COPP
Among those attending was retired RCMP officer Lil Figgins and her husband, who spent much of her career in Portage la Prairie, with additional postings in The Pas, Selkirk, and at RCMP headquarters in Winnipeg. Figgins has long supported the Citizens on Patrol Program and speaks highly of their work.
“I did most of my career right here in Portage la Prairie, but then up north in The Pas and Selkirk and headquarters in Winnipeg. But I have always sanctioned, condoned and supported the COPP,” says Figgins.
“Not only are they lovely, brave people for going out during the day and night time which they are, this is their expression: they are the eyes and the ears for the RCMPs,” adds Figgins.
“They are a remarkable resource for the RCMP and for the city and town of Portage la Prairie itself,” says Figgins.
She also reflects on longtime volunteers who helped shape the local program.
“Good friends of ours, Rose and Bud Carrier, oversaw the COPP until last year. They retired after several years and they're wonderful,” notes Figgins. “But they have a group of new people here as well that are doing very well.”
Stride Credit Union lends a hand
Helping make the tournament a success this year was Stride Credit Union. Tents and short games at various holes were set up with the help of their team, who were hands-on throughout the day.
Stacey Turner, marketing representative for Stride, says supporting local events is part of the credit union’s mission.
“Stride believes in community,” says Turner. “We like to give back to our community, and this is one of the ways that we give back, by supporting all the golf tournaments and coming out and lending a hand.”
With strong community backing, heartfelt partnerships, and a shared commitment to making a difference, the COPP-RCMP tournament once again proved itself as more than just a round of golf, it’s a reflection of Portage’s dedication to safety, youth, and each other.
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