BOLTON, ONTARIO (September 14th, 2012). Hosting the 10th Annual Taste of Croatia Golf Tournament at the scenic Glen Eagle Golf Club in Bolton, the Canadian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce had yet another successful event with 144 players navigating 18 holes. Known for its creative twist on the golf course, the Canadian-Croatian Chamber of Commerce never ceases to disappoint, showcasing different cultural attributes both on and off the course.
Umbrellas, tents and rain gear were put to good use at the tournament this year and although it could have been a wash out, golfers and the Chamber stayed positive, demonstrating that nothing could rain on their parade – or their tournament! While the dancers in their “nošnjas” (authentic Croatian costumes) were not able to join the foursomes for pictures, photographer Walter Sudetić did brave the elements to provide the golfers with their group shots.
During lunch golfers were treated with a taste of “risotto with Istrian truffles” supplied by Wanda Srdoć of White Truffles and superbly prepared by chef Petar Budiša of Dalma Catering. Alongside this delectable dish was a sophisticated selection of Croatian wines to sample, provided and served by Tamara Oswald of Mirus Wines & Spirits.
Throughout the day, golfers enjoyed specialty beverages such as Croatian wine, Ožujsko and Karlovačko beer, Loza (Grappa), Stara Sliva (Plum Brandy) and Studenac Mineral Water. Sampled alongside the beverages were a variety of Croatian delicacies such as Bajadere chocolates, figs, sausages, cheese and prosciutto (supplied by local Croatian delicatessens) and “kolači” (Croatian cookies), generously donated and prepared by Cake Royale. New to the Taste of Croatia this year were Croatian cabbage rolls, donated and prepared to perfection by Croatia Restaurant. At the halfway hut golfers were treated to “palačinke” (Croatian crepes) prepared by Vera Milicevic and aromatic expresso coffee supplied by Baka Gallery Cafe.
Also featured was the Croatian Canadian Internment Project with Frank Jankac and Croatian Tourism presented by Kuna Tours, where one lucky golfer won a three night stay at The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik Riviera.
Once the tournament came to an end, the golfers were invited into a warm (and dry!) cocktail hour prior to dinner where the Croatian band Široka Duša warmly welcomed participants with authentic Croatian music.
Robert Hudaj, Master of Ceremonies hosted the speech where a slideshow of the day was viewed while the golfers enjoyed Croatian wine, pork and lamb which was roasted to perfection by Božo Budiša, alongside their dinner. There were many people to thank including all the dedicated Chamber members and friends whose support is greatly appreciated as well as the hardworking volunteers from Croatian Folklore Group Sljeme, Alumni Students from McMaster University, Baka Communications Staff and several others who dedicated their day to making the tournament a success. Although there was no winner for the hole in one, other contest winners were announced, being rewarded with trophies provided by Mario Grgic. Also announced was the winner of the 42” LED TV and the two winners who tied for the putting contest and then generously donated their proceeds back to the Chamber.
To conclude the evening, wine, CD’s, DVD’s and gift bags, provided by Eurotrade Import Export Inc. were given to each golfer. The gift bags were comprised of various Croatian products such as jams, coffee, tea, spices, soups, chocolate and cookies ensuring the golfers took home their own Taste of Croatia.
