L-R: Crystal Elliot, CEO, Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation and Ron Sakamoto, owner of Paradise Canyon and honorary chair of the Bringing Hearts Home Campaign. (Image Credit: LNN)

By Haven Thibert

August 26, 2026

New Lethbridge golf tournament tees up support for cardiac care

Mar 31, 2026 | 3:56 PM

The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation (CRHF) has announced a new golf tournament aimed at supporting cardiac care in southern Alberta. 

The inaugural Hearts & Health Classic is set for August 26 at Paradise Canyon Golf Resort, and is expected to bring together community leaders, businesses and healthcare supporters. 

The foundation says proceeds from the event will support the Bringing Hearts Home cardiac campaign, which focuses on expanding cardiac services in the region. 

The campaign aims to reduce the need for southern Alberta patients to travel to Calgary for treatment, improve access to advanced technology and support the recruitment of specialized cardiac professionals. 

Crystal Elliot, CEO of the foundation, says the event is focused on improving access to life-saving care closer to home. 

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Ron Sakamoto, owner of Paradise Canyon and honorary chair of the campaign, says the initiative is important for families across the region, noting many patients face challenges accessing timely care outside southern Alberta. 

Sakamoto says funds raised will contribute to a broader effort to expand cardiac services locally, with the long-term goal of building a state-of-the-art program that can serve patients closer to home.

Organizers say the tournament will host between 120 and 150 participants and is designed to offer a high-quality experience while raising funds for healthcare.

As part of the initiative, a summer concert at the Yates Memorial Theatre is also planned to recognize sponsors, volunteers and supporters.

The foundation is currently seeking sponsors and participants for the event.