The Manulife LPGA Classic wrapped up yesterday after a six-year run under the Toronto-based insurer's name, which puts the Ontario-based tournament "in jeopardy" of continuing as it seeks a new title sponsor, according to a front-page piece by Josh Brown of the WATERLOO REGION RECORD. Manulife is "moving in a new direction and won't be back next year." The insurer has "sponsored the event since its inception" in '12 when it was held at Waterloo's Grey Silo Golf Course. A "healthy crowd of about 65,000 passed through the gates during the week." The tournament "could still be back next year; but a new title sponsor would have to be in place by about November at the latest for it to work." There is a "chance the Classic could also return" in '19 after a one year hiatus. Eliminating the event "would leave the Canadian Pacific Women's Open as the lone" Canadian date on the LPGA schedule (WATERLOO REGION RECORD, 6/12). LPGA Dir of Tournament Business Affairs Becky Newell said that a sponsor search for the tournament is "underway." Newell: "Is it going to happen? I can’t say for sure. But I definitely think it’s a strong market that we can come back to with the right partner." Golfer Alena Sharp said, "I hope maybe we can find a different sponsor because it’s great for the area. ... Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hopefully we’ll be back next year" (CP, 6/11).
