The highly anticipated Men’s Open golf tournament at the Portage Golf Club tees off today, and all eyes are on a potential rematch between defending champion Kenny Keeler and rising star Carson Inman.
Keeler, a longtime participant in the event, is looking to defend his title after a dramatic win last year, his first championship after multiple runner-up finishes.
"I've been doing it for years," said Keeler. "It's just a good weekend with friends and I get to see some old faces I might only see at this tournament."
Although Keeler finally claimed the trophy last year, he knows the field is full of contenders, including his close friend and rival, Carson Inman.
"Carson gave me a run for my money last year," he said. "There's a handful of guys who can definitely get it done this weekend. For me, the first step is not to shoot myself out of it early and just enjoy it."
Inman, who is coming off a strong performance at the Manitoba Amateur Championship last weekend, is eager for another shot at Keeler.
"Hopefully me and Kenny can battle it out again," he said. "It was a lot of fun last year, and I'm hoping it comes down to the last hole again."
Inman admits nerves can creep in during the final stretch.
"I think holes 16, 17, and 18 will be tough if I'm in contention. But I'm hoping to fight through that."
Both players agree that the Portage course presents a challenge. Keeler points to the second hole as particularly difficult.
"It's early in the round, but it's a long iron shot par three. A par there is a good score most days," he said.
Beyond Keeler and Inman, several other names are expected to contend for the title, including two-time winner Nolan Tutkaluk from Brandon, and local standout Quentin Neff, and consistent scorer Clark Bolton.
"There's probably 10 or 12 guys who could win it this weekend," Inman noted.
The tournament's success, players agree, is largely thanks to the organizers and volunteers who make it happen.
"It starts with the course being in great shape thanks to Farrol Asham and his crew," Keeler said. "Robby Moar runs a very well-organized tournament. People notice that it's why they keep coming back."
After the Portage Open, Keeler and Inman will team up to defend their title at the Wheat City 4-Ball Championship, representing Golf Manitoba, proof that on and off the course, their rivalry is also a partnership.
With good weather forecasted and a competitive field shaping up, the Portage Men's Open promises another exciting weekend of golf.
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