Mosquito Mayhem: LPGA Pros Battle Bugs in Edmonton

Edmonton's Royal Mayfair Golf Club is experiencing an unusually large mosquito population, impacting the ongoing CPKC Women's Open. This surge in insects is attributed to record rainfall earlier this year, creating ideal breeding conditions. City scientists have indicated that mosquito populations are at their highest since the 1980s, with eggs capable of remaining dormant for up to a decade before hatching with sufficient precipitation.

Professional golfers participating in the tournament have voiced their struggles with the abundant mosquitoes. Many players are resorting to wearing long sleeves and pants, even altering their typical attire, to protect themselves from the relentless biting. One golfer described the situation as not wanting to become "buffet meat" for the insects, while another noted that the pests, while bothersome, could potentially increase focus on the game, as seen in a player's impressive eight-under-par 62 round.

The conditions at Royal Mayfair have become a significant talking point among the players, with some noting the mosquitoes are more prevalent in the morning and improve slightly later in the day. Despite the challenges, the tournament continues, with players adapting their strategies to cope with the unexpected atmospheric condition. The heavy rainfall has created a unique challenge for the historic golf club and its international competitors.