Smiths Falls invited to come out and support Brooke Henderson this Saturday as she makes her way to the Paris Olympics

Smiths Falls’ own Brooke and Brittany Henderson will be travelling to Paris this weekend to participate in the 2024 Olympics, and the Town of Smiths Falls is inviting everyone to come out and celebrate as the two make their way through local streets on Saturday.

Paris 2024 marks Brooke’s third Olympic appearance in women’s golf; she also participated in Rio in 2016, and Tokyo in 2021.

Brooke and Brittany were raised in Smiths Falls by their parents Dave and Darlene, and initially learned golf at the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club. In 2012, Brooke won her first professional event as an amateur at the age of 14. At 17 years old she became the third-youngest winner of the LPGA Tour in history. In 2018 Brooke became the first Canadian to win the CP Women’s Open since 1973. Throughout her professional career Brooke’s father has been her coach, and Brittany, also a former professional golfer, now supports Brooke as her caddy.

“The Town would like to invite all residents to give Brooke and Brittany a proper send-off on Saturday, August 3rd as they commence their travels,” says a media release from Smiths Falls.

Brooke and Brittany will be travelling through town at approximately 1:30 p.m., starting at the Brockville Street/Beckwith bridge and travel through Beckwith Street, Elmsley Street North and Cornelia Street West towards Roger Stevens Drive.

“As a community, we are rallying behind Brooke and wish her and Brittany all the best as they embark on their journey to Paris,” said Mayor Shawn Pankow in a media release. “I encourage all residents to come out this Saturday to show your support to Brooke as she prepares to compete against the top female golf professionals in the world.”

The Town is also inviting residents to stop by Town Hall or the Community Centre this week to sign their name and best wishes on a flag that will be presented to the Henderson sisters by Mayor Pankow and members of council to show support.