Birdies, Brands, and Big Impact: Highlights from the RBC Canadian Open

The RBC Canadian Open returned in full force this past weekend, blending world-class golf, passionate fans, and a weekend filled with unforgettable moments at TPC Toronto. From the opening tee shot to the final putt, the energy across the course was electric, and the drama didn’t disappoint.

It took four pressure-packed playoff holes to determine a champion, with Ryan Fox ultimately outlasting Sam Burns in a thrilling finish on the 18th green. Each swing had the crowd on edge, creating a finale worthy of the tournament’s rich legacy.

I had the opportunity to experience the event in person, and while the golf was spectacular, what stood out just as much was what was happening beyond the ropes. As someone always on the lookout for purpose-driven partnerships, I was inspired by the thoughtful activations, community-focused initiatives, and creative brand integrations that added depth to the fan experience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout initiatives that made a lasting impression.

Yeti Water Refill Stations

YETI returned to the RBC Canadian Open this year with a visible and practical presence across the course, thanks to two strategically placed Water Refill Stations. Each station featured six taps capable of filling a bottle in just five seconds, a simple but impactful initiative that supported hydration and helped reduce single-use plastic waste. It was a smart alignment of brand values with real fan needs.

However, despite the strength of the activation, it may have been overshadowed by one key limitation: there simply weren’t enough stations. With only two refill points located in central areas, many fans found it difficult to stay hydrated while following the action around the sprawling course. On hot summer days, that’s more than an inconvenience, it’s a missed opportunity.

Looking ahead, there’s a clear path to elevate this initiative. By expanding the number of refill stations in collaboration with Golf Canada, YETI could amplify both its brand presence and its positive impact. More stations would mean more touchpoints with fans, increased goodwill, and most importantly, a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone on site.

Birdies for Trails

One of the standout initiatives at this year’s RBC Canadian Open was Birdies for Trails, a meaningful collaboration between TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, Waste Management, and Golf Canada in support of the Credit Valley Trail. This 100km pathway will wind through the Credit River Valley, stretching from the Hills of the Headwaters in Orangeville to Lake Ontario in Port Credit, and is designed to connect communities with nature while preserving one of Ontario’s most scenic natural corridors.

The initiative came to life at the tournament’s fan-favourite Rink hole, where each birdie triggered a $250 donation and any hole-in-one would have earned a $2,500 contribution to the Credit Valley Conservation Foundation. While no aces were recorded this year, the program still delivered meaningful impact, turning on-course excitement into real-world environmental progress.

More than just a feel-good initiative, Birdies for Trails is a smart example of how sports properties can creatively link in-game performance to long-term environmental goals. It’s a blueprint for integrating sustainability with fan engagement in a way that extends well beyond the four days of tournament play and contributes to a lasting community legacy.

Building a Legacy On and Off the Course

The 2025 RBC Canadian Open was an unforgettable showcase of elite golf, passionate fans, and purpose-driven activations, all set against the backdrop of a brand-new venue at TPC Toronto. While there were naturally a few growing pains that come with a new setting, the overall experience delivered at a high level, both on the course and beyond the fairways.

As the tournament returns to TPC Toronto next year, it presents a valuable opportunity to build on this strong foundation. With intentional planning and continued collaboration, Golf Canada and its partners have the chance to develop legacy partnerships, ones that go beyond brand visibility and actively contribute to community impact, sustainability, and fan engagement.

If this year was any indication, the RBC Canadian Open is well-positioned not just as a premier stop on the PGA Tour, but as a platform for meaningful, long-term change.