GHSC News Item: June 29, 2022 – The Phantom of the Open (2022)

Reported by: Stan Lapidus, GHSC Vice-President

On June 23, 2022, GHSC members Lorne Emery, Stan Lapidus, Meggan Gardner, Rick Murray, Mike Stephenson and Craig Blair attended the Canadian premier of the golf movie “Phantom of the Open.” This event was hosted by Oakville Festivals of Film & Art (OFFA) at The Centre for the Performing Arts.  

The movie is based on the true story of Maurice Flitcroft, a retired crane operator, who in 1976 played in a British Open qualifying round, despite the fact that he had only just taken up the game. Upon shooting a record high score of 121 for 18 holes, the R&A were outraged by this fiasco and the movie goes on to highlight their post round embarrassment. It is a lovely and inspiring movie that should not be missed.

The GHSC gained considerable attention due to the pre-movie red carpet treatment and small hickory display in the lobby. Following the movie, Meggan, Lorne and Stan participated in a panel Q&A (Lorne, Stan and Mike being in full period dress). The evening ended with an elaborate after-party at the posh Seasons restaurant, just a short walk from the Centre. A really wonderful evening was had by all.