AARO Canada and the Ontario automotive aftermarket came together on September 10 for the annual AARO Canada & Ontario Automotive Aftermarket Charity Golf Tournament, raising $14,500 for the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation. 

Held at Shelburne Golf & Country Club, the tournament welcomed 114 golfers from across the automotive aftermarket for a great day of golf, food, networking and camaraderie—all while supporting a very worthwhile cause. 

The annual tournament has become an opportunity for people from across the automotive aftermarket to reconnect with industry colleagues, build new relationships, and give back. 

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s tournament and helped make it such a success,” said Patty Kettles, Executive Director of AARO Canada. “There is something very special about seeing our industry come together for a day of fun and camaraderie while raising money for a cause that makes a real difference. To raise $14,500 this year is an accomplishment that everyone involved can be proud of.” 

One of the most important aspects of the tournament is that 100% of the money raised goes directly to the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation. The tournament’s success is made possible through the generosity and support of the golfers, hole sponsors, prize donors and volunteers who contribute each year. 

AARO Canada extends a special thank you to the AARO Canada Board of Directors for their ongoing support and commitment to the tournament. Their involvement, along with the support of the broader automotive aftermarket community, plays an important role in the continued success of this annual event. 

A special thank you also went to the tournament sponsors, including Federated Insurance, sponsor of the $10,000 Hole-in-One Contest, and CARFAX Canada, sponsor of the Putting Contest.  

“We simply could not do this without the support of our sponsors and everyone from the aftermarket who participates,” added Kettles. “Whether you golfed, sponsored a contest or sponsored a hole, donated a prize, volunteered or helped behind the scenes, you contributed to the success of the day and, ultimately, to the $14,500 being donated to High Fives for Kids.”  

AARO Canada extends special recognition to Andy Murphy (Modern Sales) for his outstanding commitment to the annual tournament. Andy is a driving force behind the event, working tirelessly to ensure everything runs smoothly and that golfers, sponsors and guests enjoy a memorable experience.

A sincere thank you also goes to Tom Dunlop (Specialty Sales & Marketing), Chair of the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation, for his ongoing support and invaluable assistance. Tom’s commitment and involvement play an important role in the tournament’s continued success and in helping raise funds for this very worthwhile cause.  

AARO Canada also gives thanks to Shelburne Golf & Country Club for providing a welcoming setting and helping make the day enjoyable for all 114 golfers.  

The AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation supports Canadian charities benefiting children and youth, helping provide opportunities, resources and assistance to young people in communities across  the country.  

The success of this year’s tournament is another example of what can be accomplished when  Canada’s automotive aftermarket comes together—not only to strengthen industry relationships,  but also to make a meaningful diƯerence in the communities it serves. 

About AARO Canada

The Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada (AARO) is an action-oriented, not-for profit association dedicated to representing, supporting and strengthening Canada’s independent  automotive service and repair industry. AARO provides its members with advocacy, education and  training, industry information, business resources, networking opportunities and programs  designed to help independent repair businesses succeed in a rapidly changing automotive industry.