I recently had the honor of attending the 28th annual Baxter Media Canadian Travel Industry Golf Tournament, held at the stunning Sandals Ochi and Sandals Golf Upton Estate Country Club in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. This prestigious event gathered top travel agents, advisors, tour operators, and airline partners from across Canada.
As an outsider to this estee
med group, I was captivated by the lively interactions at this annual gathering, which was proudly sponsored by title sponsor Baxter Media, as well as Air Canada Vacations, and WestJet. The tournament showcased how golf can be a powerful conduit for collaboration, fostering relationships that transcend the borders of Canada and Jamaica, while highlighting the exceptional offerings of this Caribbean country.
Participants traveled from Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Prince George, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon Winnipeg, Toronto, and Montreal, all converging on Sandals Ochi for this remarkable event. The Sandals Upton Estate Golf and Country Club, one of Jamaica’s premier golf destinations, provided a breathtaking backdrop. Perched 750 feet above sea level, the course offers sweeping vistas of the sea and mountains, challenging golfers with its 6,404 yards of crafted fairways and greens. Golf Digest’s four-star rating attests to the course’s quality, inviting both novices and seasoned players to revel in its beauty while honing their skills.
Integral to the experience was the tradition of the caddy, whose expertise added a personal touch to each round. These local guides transformed rounds of golf into unforgettable adventures, sharing insights that only those steeped in the region’s culture could provide. As participants reflected on their days on the course, it became evident that the caddies were not just assistants, they were storytellers who enhanced the golfing experience.
Central to this year’s tournament was the Sandals Foundation’s Care for Kids Golf Program. This initiative is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of local golfers by providing professional lessons and mentorship while instilling values that extend far beyond the fairway.
Beyond the greens, agents had the opportunity to take part in Sandals site tours and excursions, immersing themselves in the luxurious offerings that Sandals Resorts are renowned for. When travelers think of luxurious getaways, Sandals Resorts often top the list, renowned for their unwavering commitment to high service standards and an exceptional guest experience.
The magic of Sandals lies in its ability to blend luxury with a personal touch, ensuring that every guest leaves with not just memories, but a desire to return. In a world where expectations are continually evolving, Sandals remains dedicated to its mission to provide an exceptional escape that resonates with the heart and soul of every traveler, Sandals 2.0!
The long-standing partnership between Sandals and Baxter Media has turned this tournament into a signature event in the Canadian travel industry. Established 28 years ago, it was created to bring together travel professionals to Jamaica for a week of golf, networking, and camaraderie. Over nearly three decades, it has cultivated lasting friendships, excellent golf, and a shared commitment to promoting Jamaica as a top destination.
As the sun set over the stunning Caribbean landscape, it became clear that the Sandals 28th annual Baxter Media Can
adian Travel Industry Golf Tournament is more than just an event, it’s a celebration of collaboration, travel, and a mutual passion for golf.
Until next time Jamaica, “Ya Mon!”