The CPKC Women’s Open in Calgary broke records this year by raising $4.3 million for heart health initiatives in Alberta. The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation received $3.8 million, while the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation received $507,000.
Lauren Coughlin clinched her first LPGA Tour victory by finishing 13 under par, earning $390,000 from the $2.6 million purse, one of the largest outside the majors.
CPKC President and CEO Keith Creel expressed delight at hosting the event in Calgary, CPKC’s global headquarters. He commended the support from over 2,000 employees, contributing to the tournament’s success. Creel congratulated Lauren Coughlin and thanked Calgarians for their enthusiastic support, highlighting the event’s impact on children’s health.
“This year’s record-breaking donation underscores CPKC’s commitment to children’s heart health,” Creel emphasized. CPKC Has Heart, the company’s community investment program, has raised over $22 million since 2014.
The substantial contribution was achieved through various initiatives, including CPKC Birdies for Heart, which pledged donations for birdies made by golfers. CPKC also matched donations during Heart Month in February.
Saifa Koonar, CEO of the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, expressed gratitude for CPKC’s ongoing support. The funds will advance research on early detection of heart defects in children, aiming for improved outcomes.
The Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, as this year’s community partner, also lauded CPKC and participants for their generosity. Manon Therriault, CEO of the foundation, highlighted the impact on cardiac care in the Alberta Central Zone and the ongoing hospital expansion.
Laurence Applebaum, CEO of Golf Canada, praised CPKC Has Heart for its significant impact on pediatric heart health, affirming its status as a leading philanthropic initiative in Canada.