2027 SMMH Pro-Am

 Celebrating 40 Years and Continuing the Tradition

For four decades, the Dave Ellis Pro-Am has brought golfers, friends, families and community partners together in support of South Muskoka Memorial Hospital. One of Canada’s longest-running Pro-Am tournaments, the event began as a tribute to Dave Ellis and grew into a cherished Muskoka tradition.

Dave was a respected golf professional, mentor and proud Muskoka resident who had a gift for bringing people together. He was known for his warmth, humour and love of a good gathering; qualities that have remained at the heart of this tournament.

Over the past 40 years, the Dave Ellis Pro-Am raised more than $840,000 for South Muskoka Memorial Hospital. These funds helped purchase new and replacement medical equipment, tools and technology that have supported better care for thousands of patients. The tournament’s impact can be felt across generations, helping grandparents, parents, children and grandchildren to receive care close to home.

This achievement was made possible by a loyal community of golfers, sponsors, donors, volunteers and organizers. Many returned year after year, some for decades, united by friendship, a love of the game and a shared commitment to local healthcare.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ellis family for helping carry this tournament forward in Dave’s memory for the past 40 years. Their dedication has ensured that his spirit of friendship, community and generosity will always be part of its story.

We are also deeply grateful to the Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club, its Board of Directors, members and staff for welcoming this event to their course for so many years. Their generosity provided a fitting home where friends could gather, remember Dave and make a lasting contribution to the hospital.

While the Dave Ellis Pro-Am has now come to an end, the tournament’s support for local healthcare will continue.

SMMH Pro-Am

Beginning in 2027, the event will become the SMMH Pro-Am, hosted at the Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club in support of South Muskoka Memorial Hospital.

Historically, we have had about 45 donors, with the majority being long time supporters, approximately 50% of the team golf professionals have over 10 years tenure, while about 25 amateurs have each logged over 25 years.

We are extremely proud of our community tournament and welcome everyone to our annual “golfing family” competition.

The name may be changing, but the fellowship, generosity and commitment that shaped this tournament will carry forward, building on 40 years of care for our hospital and our community.