RDP's Golf Classic Supports Student-athletes in Their Pursuit of Excellence 

Sep 02, 2025

A group of golfers, student athletes, and Rufus the lion stand on a golf course fairway

The Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) Golf Classic proved to make an impact both on and off the course. Held August 25 at the scenic Red Deer Golf and Country Club, the tournament brought together community members, partners, sponsors and RDP employees in support of student-athlete scholarships. Thanks to their generosity, the event successfully raised $80,000 to help the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings and Queens achieve their academic and athletic goals.

“We are grateful for the community support of the Kings and Queens as they pursue post-secondary education,” says Patrick Machacek, Vice President, Development and Partnerships, Red Deer Polytechnic. “Through enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities, RDP prepares students for rewarding careers that help address the needs of industry.”

A deer in the foreground looks at the camera. In the background two female golfers stand on a green fairway looking away from the camera — Even the local deer came out to support RDP's student-athletes

The event, made possible by the contributions of generous sponsors and support from participants, delivered a day filled with enjoyment and memorable moments. Golfers were treated to a variety of engaging on-course activities, which included using a hockey stick to putt their golf ball, participating in a rodeo roping exercise and competing against RDP President Stuart Cullum to shoot closest to the flag.

Beyond the fun, the purpose of the Golf Classic remained clear: to support the next generation of leaders.

“The money raised at the 2025 Golf Classic will have a lasting impact,” says Randy Stewart, Manager, Athletics and Student Life, Red Deer Polytechnic. “These funds will help alleviate financial constraints for our student-athletes, so they can concentrate on pursuing excellence in the classroom, during competition and as ambassadors in the community.”

The success of the event was also due in part to the dedication of volunteers. More than 40 RDP staff and faculty, as well as 50 student-athletes, devoted their time and energy to ensure the day ran smoothly.

A group of golfers, student athletes, and RDP President Stuart Cullum standing on a fairway

Red Deer Polytechnic has a rich athletics history. Individual student-athletes and teams have impressively earned 26 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) National gold medals and 204 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) titles. In 2024, RDP Athletics was recognized as the third most successful athletics program in the CCAA during the past 50 years.

In 2025-26, more than 190 student-athletes will compete across 19 teams in 10 sports.

Learn more about Red Deer Polytechnic Athletics

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