Putting for a Cause: 29 Years of SMP Mini Putt

I’ve helped coordinate SMP’s Mini Putt since it was first launched in 1997, a few short months after I joined SMP. It was originally intended to bring clients and industry partners to our office to give them a sense of who we are, and to bring awareness of our electrical engineering services and expertise to the building and construction industry. This event, along with the family atmosphere of the company solidified my commitment to remain with SMP for three decades and counting. 

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Former partners Garry McTighe and Gerry Stebnicki got together over several evenings and weekends to build the original fourteen mini-putt holes and obstacles in Gerry’s garage for the first Mini Putt tournament. Roughly three hundred people attended our inaugural event. The course was set up between desks throughout our office, thanks to the volunteer work of less than thirty staff members. Garry’s legendary ‘Beef on a Bun’ was introduced to the city of Calgary and many adult beverages were enjoyed that day! We received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from everyone who attended, resulting in subsequent biennial events. 

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Over the years, the event has evolved to include a charity component, along with the course itself. The course layout has evolved into twenty mini-putt holes with newer fairways and greens built by staff over the last few years. Creative obstacles have also been constructed by staff, with new ones added or replaced every year. Many of the obstacles incorporate electrical and lighting components, a fitting touch for an electrical engineering firm. Fan favourites include Batman and Joker, Pac-Man, and the Downtown Calgary obstacle, complete with its own peace bridge and lighting. Staff and their families typically test the course the day before the industry event. 

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Light fixtures and lighting control systems are provided by local agencies to enhance the overall mini-putt experience. In-house DJ’s, volunteers and hard-working staff further elevate the event. Garry’s ‘Beef on a Bun’ continues to be a favorite staple, requiring at least 24hrs of preparation and marinade time. Multiple bars and beverage stations are set up throughout the office, allowing quick access to verbal lubricant. The shy and introverted suddenly become involved in discussions and introductions. 

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We’ll easily host over 1,000 people during Mini Putt. It usually starts off low-key just before noon and quickly ramps up throughout the afternoon, as more people make their way into our office and the drinks start flowing. The party continues long after the tournament ends, as many guests head to local Kensington establishments after the lights turn off. For those who have never attended before, my advice would be to leave your vehicle at home or at work. Parking near our office can be challenging to find that day! 

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Over the years I have been asked why I wear shorts and a golf shirt or Hawaiian shirt during Mini Putt. It quickly becomes apparent after spending a few minutes at the event, especially mid-afternoon! Just imagine yourself on a beach in the Caribbean, with a drink in your hand, surrounded by people having a great time. The mini-golf and your score become secondary to the overall experience! 

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The impact to the community is also amazing, and it is the part I am most proud of. 100% of the funds raised go directly to charity. Over the years, Mini Putt has raised more than $200,000 for local Calgary organizations, including Hull Services, Inn from the Cold, Meals on Wheels, Wood’s Homes, and The Alex. 

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In 2019, we raised $35,848 for Hull Services’ Outdoor Labyrinth Project, which our staff later helped bring to life through a volunteer day on site. In 2022, we raised $35,885 for Wood’s Homes in memory of our colleague Will Jones. And in 2024, we set a record with $41,623 for The Alex’s Community Kitchen. This year we are proud to be partnering with The Alex once again, directing our fundraising toward their new Mental Health Hub, and supporting causes close to home, from young children, teens and families to women and mental health. We are also setting our sights on breaking that record this year, with a goal of $45,000. 

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Mini Putt returns on November 6th, 2026, this year. Join us for a day of good company, mouth-watering eats, refreshing beverages, friendly competition and make a real difference in our community. Learn more and register here.