Thursday, April 30, 2020

New V1 Coach App Brings Golf Instructors and Coaches Unprecedented Data and Game Analytics

Using V1 Game Data, Coaches Build Finely-Focused Lesson and Practice Plans


(Novi , MI) – V1 Sports (V1), creators of the industry-leading golf swing analysis software for teaching pros and golfers, has brought to market the new V1 Coach mobile app, a dynamic, data-rich system to help golf instructors and coaches manage their students’ performance data to optimize lesson content, practice plans, course management and scoring habits.

The V1 Coach app adds to V1 Sports’ suite of golf performance and feedback tools and uses deep analysis of on-course performance data (collected by the powerful V1 Game mobile app, which features GPS data to provide accurate yardages to greens, hazards and landing zones paired with detailed and intuitive performance analysis technology) to help finely tune a player’s track to improvement and lower scores.

With V1 Coach, instructors can see a detailed portrait of their players’ strengths, weaknesses and tendencies over time. Thanks to the mobile app’s advanced analytics engine, a golfer’s data syncs directly from the V1 Game app to V1 Coach, allowing coaches to see when their players are playing, how they are playing, and what they should be working on most. For coaches of teams or competitive players, the Coach View enables a quick comparison of players’ strengths in familiar “Strokes Gained” categories. In V1 Coach, Strokes Gained information is partitioned into Tee-to-Green (T2G), Driving (D), Approach (A), Short Game (S), and Putting (P).

Shotlink™️-style maps of shot locations and scores help coaches develop and share on-course strategy and course management. Full shot histories of how a hole has been played at the team (V1 Coach) or individual level (V1 Game) are available to highlight specific miss tendencies on specific holes and courses.

“If coaches and instructors want to get down into the very DNA of their players and students on-course performances, V1 Coach is a must-have tool for working smarter and teaching golfers to manage every phase of the game better,” says V1 Sports CEO Bryan Finnerty. “The level of data in V1 Coach that can be applied to teaching and focusing practice time effectively is an absolute breakthrough. This is the new indispensable tool for golf coaches everywhere.”

V1Coach7.pngIn a simple-to-use Coach’s Dashboard, round summaries show performance data relative to selected reference categories, like specific handicap ranges (from Tour Player to 25 handicap) and gender. In addition to Strokes Gained, V1 Coach use a powerful analysis engine to reveal deeper insights. V1 Coach also has the intuitive ability to identify good days and bad days relative to a player's baseline/historical performance tendencies.

Another key analysis given in both the V1 Game and V1 Coach App is potential. Accessible in the Round Summary and the ‘Teach’ view of the V1 Coach App, "potential" is displayed to show what the player could be scoring if they clean up the most decisive errors from a given round, like penalty shots, three putts and leaving approach shots off the green or too far from the pin.

“After a round, you may be frustrated that you missed that last six-footer, but the V1 Game might tell you the deeper insight is that you had a bad driving day and why, Maybe you were missing left all day,” says Dallas Webster, developer of V1 Coach and V1 Game. “V1 Game also tells you everything you did well in clear-to-follow data points. Over time, this data is aggregated and, when the data is uploaded to your instructor or coach’s V1 Coach app, the skills you should be working on become more evident.”

V1 Coach features built-in branding that allows coaches to add their custom colors and logo to the app’s user interface. Players who join a team receive that same branded experience throughout the V1 Game app.

“The V1 Coach app gives coaches and instructors a meticulously-organized and intuitive system to track, analyze and work with students, effortlessly making lessons and practice time more targeted and geared toward the most necessary areas of improvement. Once you use it, you’ll wonder what you ever did without it,” Finnerty says.

Visit https://v1sports.com/blog/v1-sports-launches-v1-coach/ for more information. Apple users may download the V1 Coach app from the App Store.

Troon Selected to Manage Parkland Golf & Country Club in Parkland, Florida

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in club management, development, and marketing, is pleased to announce it has been selected to manage Parkland Golf & Country Club in Parkland, Florida. The Parkland Golf & Country Club Foundation recently acquired the sports club and golf club from Toll Golf. Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon, will oversee golf and sports club operations, food & beverage operations as well golf course agronomy and club/membership marketing.

Located between Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, Parkland Golf & Country Club is a premier private community with a full suite of club amenities for residents. At the heart of the community is the luxurious 43,000-square-foot Sports and Social Club, with state-of-the-art fitness center, steam and spa treatment rooms, two resort-style pools, two splash pads for children, 10 tennis courts (including 9 Har-True clay courts), a children’s playground and pavilion. Parkland’s Greg Norman Signature Designed golf course winds its way through the 792 acre community. The course opened for member play in 2004, measures 7,118-yards from the championship tees and plays to a par of 72.

“Parkland Golf & Country Club is a spectacular community with an active, family-oriented membership,” said Ricardo Catarino, vice president, operations, Troon. “We are thrilled to be working with the Board and HOA as we look to further elevate the member and guest experiences at both the golf club and sports club.”

Parkland’s modern Tuscan-style clubhouse features a fully stocked golf shop, lounges, locker rooms, and Ninety-One, a restaurant named in honor of Norman’s professional victories. Members enjoy a stylish indoor bar and lounge for evening cocktails as well as a beach-themed, poolside mixed grill and bar area for daytime socializing. Parkland Golf & Country Club is also capable of hosting elaborate parties for up to 300 people in the large banquet room or more intimate gatherings of 35 people or less in the smaller dining rooms.

“The Parkland Golf and Country Club homeowners and homeowners association are thrilled to be working with Troon Privé,” said Parkland Golf & Country Club Board President David Gott. “The Board of Directors feel that Troon is a best-in-class company and will bring solid management, innovative programs and attention to detail to our club. Parkland Golf will strive to be a member-centric club with complete focus on a wonderful experience – Troon will be integral in achieving that vision.”

For more information on Parkland Golf & Country Club visit www.parklandgcc.com or call (954) 905-2120

For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.

Reynolds Lake Oconee Among Golf Digest Editors' Best Southern Golf Resorts

(Greensboro, Georgia) – Reynolds Lake Oconee has been recognized as a 2020 Golf Digest Editors’ Choice Award as one of the top golf destinations in the southeast.

“This program now enters its fifth year, and our mission to serve our readers has not wavered,” said Max Adler, the magazine’s editorial director. “We seek to identify ‘The Best Things in Golf,’ with an emphasis on lifestyle properties, products and services.”

Reynolds Lake Oconee is considered one of the most diverse golf experiences in the southeast with courses designed by legendary architects: the recently renovated Great Waters by Jack Nicklaus, The National by Tom Fazio, The Oconee by Rees Jones, The Landing and The Preserve by Bob Cupp, as well as the members-only Creek Club by Jim Engh.

Along with its highly-regarded golf courses, Reynolds Lake Oconee features a full range of sporting activities, with access to more than 350 miles of Lake Oconee shoreline and four marinas; shooting sports at the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds; hiking trails, and an award-winning tennis center, together making it one of the most impressive community and golf destinations in the world.

Luxury merges with Southern hospitality at the stunning, newly transformed 257-room Ritz-Carlton resort. Drawing inspiration from the lake views and lush landscapes that encompass the waterfront retreat, the resort’s multi-million-dollar renovation springs new life into the luxury guest rooms and suites, The Ritz-Carlton Club Level Lounge, and guest experiences - all capturing the spirit of lake life.  Interiors designed in a soothing palette of cream, grey, green and blue, reflect the charming ambience of a stylish lakeside home, with hints of nostalgia that beckons guests to “linger longer” and shape new memories together.

Resort amenities include a full-service spa and fitness center, expansive meeting venues, Southern-inspired dining featuring local fare, and outdoor activities including an infinity pool overlooking the lake, fishing, jet skiing, paddle boarding and wakeboarding.  Six distinct two-and three-bedroom cottages overlook The Oconee golf course, and provide the ultimate “home away from home” experience, while the three-story Lake House, with four bedrooms, gourmet kitchen, media room and private pool, is the quintessential waterfront residence.

The resort community is situated on the 19,000-acre Lake Oconee located between Atlanta and Augusta.

For more information about Reynolds Lake Oconee, visit www.reynoldslakeoconee.com.  To book a reservation at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee visit www.ritzcarlton.com/reynolds.

Post-Pandemic: What Will the Travel & Hospitality Industry (Have to) Look Like?

(Hopewell, NJ) — Once coronavirus stay-at-home orders and global travel bans are lifted, the industry cannot simply return to business as usual. Destinations, resorts, hotels, airlines, cruise and tour operators and other suppliers will need to play a primary role in alleviating travelers’ anxieties about re-engaging with the outside world and re-embarking on leisure vacations and business trips.

The true challenge will be finding the correct balance across five competing operational factors in what can only be described as our “new normal” according to Lynn Kaniper, co-owner and president of Dana Communications, a leading travel, hospitality and lifestyle marketing agency.

Kaniper, who has led the creation of award-winning campaigns for world-class brands around the globe, has weighed in with her own vision of what the travel and hospitality industry may look like in the coming months.

Maximum Occupancy vs. Personal Space 


Prior to this global health crisis, the travel and hospitality industry’s emphasis was on maximizing occupancy for greater profits—think: more passenger seats on commercial airliners, more tables in restaurant dining areas, more hotel guests congregating in communal spaces and more attendees in meeting and event spaces.

When the world emerges from an era that mandated being no nearer than six feet to another human being, occupancy levels need to be reconsidered:
Airlines: Replacing entire fleets with new aircraft to allow for greater personal space would be cost-prohibitive. Fortunately, many airlines are already clearing sparsely booked flights for takeoff and/or eliminating the dreaded middle seat to allow for passenger social distancing. It would be wise to continue these practices until traveler confidence is fully restored.
Restaurants: Adding or expanding outdoor seating for alfresco dining, eliminating the once-in-vogue communal table and distancing diners are all tweaks that can be made to an existing restaurant’s layout. Another critical change we should see in eateries and conference F&B? A calculated step away from buffet-style service toward individually plated and served meals as well as single-serve or boxed refreshments.
Hotels & Resorts: Coming off the runaway trend of communal spaces for work and play—with guests and digital nomads mixing in convivial lounges, bargoers savoring drinks elbow-to-elbow, meeting attendees clustered tightly around U-shaped table setups and event guests mingling at cocktail hours with close-set hi-tops—best practices for group space occupancy levels will need to be reformulated.

Sustainable vs. Sanitized


Over the past decade, there’s been a laser-like focus on continually improving environmentally conscious efforts to reduce an organization’s carbon footprint. Hotels and resorts asking guests to re-use bath linens to promote water conservation efforts is a perfect example of this practice.

Post-pandemic, travelers will be on watch for evidence of ever-higher standards of cleanliness—as well as listening carefully to external communications around specific measures being taken to ensure their health, such as:
- Complimentary (and plentiful) hand sanitizer dispensers in public areas.
- Distribution of a welcome amenity that can include a bottle of hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and other personal-sized hygiene and cleaning products.
- Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces (i.e. guestroom doorknobs/handles, airliner tray tables, restroom fixtures, stair railings, elevator buttons, etc.)
- Renovated and new spaces designed with finishes proven to reduce the survival time of germs and viruses.
- Air quality improvements—this will vary depending on the industry. For example, most modern airliners already boast High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration systems in their cabins, capable of capturing more than 99.9% of airborne microbes, resulting in air quality similar to that of a hospital. At the other end of the travel spectrum, conditions aboard cruise ships proved to be a frighteningly fertile breeding ground for COVID-19.
- Extensive employee training and health screening.

Taking sanitization and hygiene a step further, Singapore has launched the SG Clean Programme, an initiative to audit the country’s accommodations, attractions and other tourism establishments and award them with certification if they meet seven rigorous criteria. These criteria cover everything from the appointment of an on-site program manager to temperature and symptom checks for employees, contractors and guests to record-keeping of all preventative measures being taken.

In-Person vs. Virtual


Face-to-face interactions with staff have long been a prominent touchpoint for making vacationers feel welcomed, especially in the luxury travel sector. Of course, even before this outbreak, the gold standard of personalization has been increasingly addressed in the digital realm with customized communications to loyal customers.

Similarly, traveler convenience has been improved through technology—including mobile check-ins and room keys, chatbot customer service and smart hotel rooms. Watch for technology to take an even stronger foothold in the industry, post-pandemic, so visitors can enjoy travel experiences without feeling as though they’re putting themselves at increased risk of infection.

On the flip side, technology has become a viable competitor for destinations that are home to convention centers and hotels and resorts offering meeting spaces. With planners converting their live group events to virtual and organizations becoming adept at video conferencing for meetings, DMO and hospitality group sales professionals will need to reinforce the benefits of face-to-face gatherings and deliver a value proposition proven to positively impact ROI.

Security vs. Safety


Some airport security protocols put in place after the terrorist attacks of 9/11 have already been walked back to protect the flying public against a new, invisible enemy. Specifically, the U.S Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has enacted the following three key adjustments, among others:
- Personal items such as wallets, keys and mobile phones can be stowed in carryon items to go through the X-ray system
- Face masks may be worn throughout the screening process (although a TSA agent may ask passengers to momentarily adjust their mask to confirm identity)
- Up to 12 fluid ounces of hand sanitizer may be packed into carryon bags (versus the previous maximum of 3.4 ounces of any single liquid)

Over Tourism vs. Preservation


International travel hotspots (notables including Venice, Reykjavik and Barcelona) are suddenly experiencing a temporary unburdening of resources and period of solitude at normally overcrowded landmarks, attractions and cultural sites. Moving forward, tourism-dependent destinations must determine where the pendulum must fall—between inviting wanderlusters from every corner of the world back within their borders to regain some of the losses suffered during this shutdown and preserving their local treasures for future generations of residents and travelers alike.

While the current health emergency is like nothing our industry has ever experienced before, we can trace parallels from its resulting fallout to those triggered by past crises, including the aftermath of 9/11 and the great recession. If history has proven anything, it is that travel and hospitality are vital to world economic markets and humanity’s well-being.

We will come out of this pandemic, necessarily and forever changed, but at-the-ready for the pent-up demand that is certain to come. Activity will begin with local and regional leisure and business travel to second- and third-tier destinations and, slowly-but-surely, expand outward to the largest cities—first domestically, then abroad.

A re-opening checklist for hotels may be found at www.danacommunications.com.

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Stonebridge Golf Club Recognized for Environmental Excellence by Audubon International

(ROME, Ga.) — Stonebridge Golf Club – the storied Arthur Davis-designed golf course located one-hour northwest of Atlanta – has been honored for their ‘ten years of certification’ as an Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary.

Audubon International recognizes golf clubs who show commitment to environmental stewardship and efforts to maintain a comprehensive management program focused on wildlife and habitat, water conservation, resources, outreach and education. After designation by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), courses must go through a recertification process every three years.

Stonebridge is one of 858 courses in the world to be designated as a certified ACSP golf course. With the partnership, Stonebridge participates in numerous sustainability projects including conserving energy, reducing water use, utilizing integrated pest management techniques, naturalizing areas and managing resources in an environmentally responsible matter.

“We are thrilled to receive this very humbling honor from Audubon International for our sustainability efforts,” says Patrick Kirn, general manager of Stonebridge. “Having an environmentally-friendly golf course is at the forefront of our mission at Stonebridge, so whenever maintenance or improvements to the layout are being made, we make sure to carefully review each step.”

Opened in 1994, Stonebridge Golf Club is one of northern Georgia’s most popular courses. The 18-hole public golf course measures 6,816 yards from the longest tees and surrounds the spacious clubhouse, allowing for gorgeous views of the Lavender Mountains and abundant wildlife. The course features four sets of tees for all skill levels.

“We must continue to be a forward-thinking facility especially in the uncertain times we live in,” continues Kirn. “The only way our industry survives is if we become smarter about our resources, so Stonebridge can continue to serve as a community asset for years to come.”

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Royal Albartross to Donate 10% of All Sales to Support ClubsHELP

Luxury Goods Maker Supports Initiative to Aid Frontline Responders to COVID-19


(London, England) – Royal Albartross—the bespoke, London-based luxury goods company— will donate 10% of all online sales in the month of May to ClubsHELP, a newly-formed 501(c)3 foundation created to connect U..S. golf clubs with hospitals in their local areas to provide critically needed support for health workers as they care for victims of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

World Golf Hall of Famer, 2019 Presidents Cup Captain, and PGA Tour golfer Ernie Els issued a challenge to his fellow professionals and club golfers everywhere asking them or their companies to become the captain of a club, adopt their local hospital, and tap club resources to deliver greatly needed supplies to those on the frontlines during this unprecedented international health crisis.  

“I am delighted to accept this challenge from Ernie,” said Alex Bartholomew, Founder and CEO of Royal Albartross, and like Els, a native of South Africa. “It’s the least we can do for the first responders who are putting their lives on the line every day. We recognize that we are part of a larger golf family and community and believe Royal Albartross can make the greatest positive impact by contributing to the Clubs HELP organization to serve our communities through our golf clubs.”  In her video, Bartholomew challenged other brands to do the same.

Golf’s premier organizations, including the National Club Association and Golf Writers Association of America, leadership, and management companies have pledged to jump start the ClubsHELP program and make a swift and meaningful impact in communities throughout the United States. Additionally, the American Hospital Association (AHA) and American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) have alerted their memberships that golf clubs across the country are activating.

To be a captain, register your club, pledge support, or get additional information, access the web site at www.clubshelp.org or text ClubsHELP to 71441.

To purchase a Royal Albartross product and support Clubs HELP access the web site at www.albartross.com.

Miracle on the Green! Three Aces, One Hole, on One Day at Calvert Crossing Golf Club

(Calhoun, Louisiana) – Husband and wife, Buck and Jo Stein, and friend Jim Turner pulled off the nearly impossible on April 17, making three aces on Calvert Crossing Golf Club’s 124-yard, par-3 5th hole. The odds of this amazing occurrence are about the same as winning the Powerball. The probability of an average golfer making a hole-in-one is roughly 12,000 to 1. The chances of two people acing the same hole, on the same day, from the same foursome are roughly 64 million to 1 range – according to the National Hole-In-One Registry. Add in a third person, hitting from the same tees and the statistics are off the charts.

Buck Stein, age 79, and Turner, age 87, were paired together as part of a foursome in the club’s senior outing and teed off at 9 a.m., while Jo Stein, age 75, played with friends Harolyn Falgoust and Angela Martin and teed off at 10:10 a.m.

Upon arriving at the 5th hole, Turner was third to play and hit an 8-iron from 124 yards, while Buck Stein went last (fourth) and hit a 9-iron from the same distance, noting the pin was just below the second tier of the green or center- left of the green.

“All of the other players were already in their carts ready to drive to the green and nobody knew that either of our balls were in the hole until pulling up to the green,” said Buck Stein. “It was unbelievable that both balls stayed in the cup with the foam COVID-19 blocks in place.”

I could not believe it,” said Turner. “I was so struck with excitement, I only took a photo of the balls in the cup and did not think to ask the group to take a photo of Buck and me together, but then we could not get close or high-five anyway under all the COVID restrictions.”

About an hour later, Jo Stein used a 5-wood, “for some added distance, as the wind had picked up,” from 124 yards.  

“I thought the ball was real close to the pin,” explained Jo Stein. “I asked Angela Martin if it was in and she used her range finder to see the ball.  Angela then jumped up and down screaming ‘It’s in the hole!’”

Married for 56 years, the Stein’s have played at Calvert Crossing an estimated 2,000 times over the last 18 years, but had never aced the short par-3. In fact, Buck and Jo have a 3.3 and 3.5 scoring average respectively on the hole. Turner estimates that he’s played the course 2,080 times over his 20 years at the Club and carries a 3.3 scoring average on the hole.

Buck Stein has had six previous holes-in-one, while Jo Stein has had one previous ace, on the par-3 17th hole at Calvert Crossing in 2015. Turner has had two previous aces – 40 years ago at Pine Hills and 10 years ago on the second hole at Calvert Crossing.

“The bar is not open at Calvert Crossing during the COVID-19 crisis, so Harolyn, Angela and I plan to celebrate after the restrictions are lifted,” said Jo Stein.

“If the bar had been open, there would have been some celebration for sure,” added Buck Stein. “Instead, we called family members and friends to tell them about the holes-in-one.”

Buck Stein has been playing golf for about 50 years, and Jo has been playing approximately 38 years. Jo plays regularly with Ms. Falgoust and Ms. Martin, while Buck and Jo play together an average of three to five times per month. Turner started playing golf in high school and has never had a golf lesson. Turner and Buck Stein are usually paired together one to two times per month.

“Three aces on the same hole, on the same day is absolutely incredible,” said Kevin LaFontaine, general manager, Calvert Crossing Golf Club. “I’m thrilled for Mr. and Mrs. Stein and Mr. Turner!”

Managed by Troon’s Honours Golf division, Calvert Crossing Golf Club is located in the West Ouachita Parish of Louisiana and is one of the premier private golf clubs in the area. The Club features a modern, 18-hole layout co-designed by John Floyd (who worked under Jack Nicklaus) and Bill Zimmerebner, and is carved through the rolling hills of Calhoun. Members enjoy the beautiful and peaceful “walk in the woods” the golf course provides along with casual dining, and access to special member events.

For more information on Calvert Crossing Golf Club, visit www.calvertgolfclub.com.

Troon Launches New Midwest Troon Card, Portion Of Proceeds To Benefit Feeding America

(Chicago, Ill.) – With golf courses throughout the Midwest now open for play, Troon has launched a new Midwest Troon Card. With the Midwest Troon Card, golfers have the opportunity to save on golf at nine Troon-affiliated, Green Golf Partners courses in four Midwest states. As part of the program and in an effort to help those in need, Troon will donate $50 from every Midwest Troon Card sold before May 15th (then $25 after May 15th) to Feeding America. The health and safety of guests and associates continues to be the company’s top priority as all Troon-affiliated clubs remain vigilant in taking numerous safety precautions.

Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States and provides meals to more than 40 million people each year, including 12 million children and 7 million seniors. Headquartered in Chicago with multiple foodbanks across the Midwest, Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people they serve.

“With food banks across the country seeing a 70 percent increase in need, it’s more important than ever to support Feeding America,” said Matt McIntee, CEO of Troon’s Green Golf Partners division. “We’re proud to partner with Feeding America, while also providing an outlet for golfers to stay active and enjoy the game.”

Through early bird pricing, Troon Midwest Cards can be purchased for $79 for a TwoSome Card or $109 for a FourSome card through May 15th at www.TroonCard.com. After May 15th prices increase to $99 for a TwoSome Card and $149 for a FourSome Card. 2020 Troon Midwest Cards are valid from April 24, 2020 through December 31, 2020. Troon Midwest Cardholders will enjoy rates of up to 50 percent off, "2 for 1" golf offers, Troon’s “Best Rate Guarantee” and more at nine Troon-affiliated, Green Golf Partners facilities across the Midwest, including:

Illinois
Sunset Hills Golf Course in Pekin

Indiana
Saddlebrook Golf Club in Indianapolis
Thunderbolt Pass Golf Course in Evansville
Twin Bridges Golf Club in Danville

Minnesota
GreyStone Golf Club in Sauk Centre

Wisconsin
New Berlin Hills Golf Course in New Berlin
Northwood Golf Course in Rhinelander
Johnson Park Golf Course in Racine
Princeton Valley in Eau Claire

For golfers looking to expand their playing options beyond the Midwest, Troon also offers National Troon Cards, accepted at 130-plus affiliated golf courses, as well as state and region-specific Troon Card programs. The National Troon Card offers Cardholders preferred rates at all participating Troon facilities, including properties across the continental United States, Hawaii, and international facilities. Plus, some state-specific cards also include “bonus states” so Cardholders can tee it up in neighboring states. For active duty, reserve and retired military personnel, Troon also offers the Patriot Troon Card with the same incredible benefits as a National Troon TwoSome Card at a 58 percent savings over the regular National Troon TwoSome Card. All Troon Cards offer discounts at Troon’s international locations.

Troon Cardholders can reserve tee times within three-days of their desired date of play and enjoy up to 50 percent off golf fees. For those who can’t wait until three days out to book their tee time, with Troon Card’s Best Rate Guarantee, Troon Cardholders can book any online rate and still receive 15 percent off their golf fees at check in. The benefits of being a Troon Cardholder go beyond savings on golf. Troon Cardholders can improve their golf games by participating in complimentary clinics, play more golf with exclusive replay rates and explore the world of Troon with customized experience packages. Troon Cardholders can treat their friends, and themselves, to “2 for 1” golf offers and can celebrate their birthday in style with “birthday round” discounts. Plus, throughout 2020, Troon will host quarterly appreciation events for top-spending Cardholders.

Additional Troon Card benefits include the Troon Card Facebook Group, which provides instant news and special offers exclusively to Cardholders, 10 percent off merchandise at participating golf shops and golf course restaurants, Troon Card E-News with monthly special offers and the ability to book tee times online at www.TroonCardTeeTimes.com.

To view the entire list of participating courses, see Troon Card rates or to purchase a Troon Card online, go to www.TroonCard.com or visit any participating facility.  For more information on Feeding America, visit www.feedingamerica.org.

'ASGCA Insights' podcast debuts

Golf leaders will provide their perspective on the status of the industry and how facilities may be more successful


(BROOKFIELD, Wis.) – “ASGCA Insights,” a podcast from the American Society of Golf Course Architects, premiered April 27. “ASGCA Insights” features discussions with men and women who are making a positive difference in the golf industry. Podcasts are shared at ASGCA.org and will be available on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio and Stitcher.

The challenges facing all aspects of golf are many and varied, but so are the people working each day to meet those challenges head on. “ASGCA Insights” provides perspective and information that details what folks are experiencing today and gives thought to what the future may hold for the game and industry.

“This is a fun and informative podcast for anyone working in the golf industry, or those who simply enjoy playing the game,” ASGCA President Jan Bel Jan said. “There are so many bright people who have great ideas to share: architects, superintendents, builders, course owners, journalists and more. The experiences they have had and the good work they are doing to strengthen golf should be shared. ‘ASGCA Insights’ wants to talk with all of them!”

The premier “ASGCA Insights” episode features the “Value of the Golf Course” with ASGCA Past President Erik Larsen. For a number of years, Larsen has actively promoted that a golf course brings value to a host community in several ways, including Economic, Environmental and Social. The interview is available at https://tinyurl.com/y8eebhl8.

Upcoming episodes include interviews with Henry DeLozier of GGA Partners, award-winning journalist Brad Klein, Forrest Richardson, ASGCA, and ASGCA Past President Tom Marzolf.

Primland Nominated for Best Hotel in Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2020

Luxury Boutique Resort in SW Virginia Garnered Top 10 Distinction in 2019 for U.S. South Venues


(MEADOWS OF DAN, VIRGINIA) – Primland, the luxury boutique resort nestled amid 12,000 Blue Ridge Mountain acres in Southwestern Virginia, has again been nominated as one of the world’s top hotels in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2020. Voting for favorite hotels is open through June 30.

The Readers' Choice Awards is one of the most important awards in the travel industry, celebrating the best places in the world, and opinions count. The prestigious award gives travelers the opportunity to elect their favorite hotels in the world. To vote visit www.cnttraveler.com/rca/vote and select “Hotels and Resorts” category.  Now more than ever, good news for the travel industry is needed.

Primland appreciates the continued support of its guests. The luxurious resort hopes to re-open and welcome back guests on May 21, 2020.

The Readers' Choice Awards celebrate the best places on the planet – from far-flung wilderness retreats and close-to-home urban hotels to Mediterranean villa specialists and destination spas in Asia. Voting opened on April 1 and concludes in June. To vote and for more information, visit https://www.cntraveler.com/rca/vote

“Unbiased acclaim from travelers is the best kind of reinforcement that we’re doing things well, and we strive to ensure our guests are deeply inspired every time they stay with us,” said Steve Helms, Primland Vice President.

GolfLogix Introduces Printed Green Books to Help Every Golfer Read Greens Like a Pro

The traditional paper yardage books just got an upgrade with cutting-edge green contour data for more than 14,000 courses nationwide. 


(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) — GolfLogix, the most downloaded app in golf history, today introduced Green Books, the first easy to read green-reading guide designed and priced for the everyday golfer to "Play Smarter."

The rules-compliant Green Books combine detailed 3-D imagery, including yardages, with the sophisticated green-contour data that the majority of professional golfers use in competition. With the GolfLogix tour-level intel, golfers can reach into their back pockets and read every putt quickly and confidently to enable lower scores and speed up play.

These durable and water-resistant Green Books are available for more than 14,000 courses at www.golflogix.com.
 
Professionals and amateurs alike have long relied on printed yardage books to guide their decision-making with confidence. However, the prohibitive cost of mapping the contours of each green down to centimeter accuracy has prevented all but the top courses from gathering this data independently. GolfLogix's unprecedented catalogue of more than 14,000 courses offers accurate professional insight at a price point fit for any golfer.

The topographical guides include three views of every hole. Quick-view heat maps outline the green's undulations and provide large, easy-to-see arrows which help golfers identify the areas to avoid when planning approach, pitch, and chip shots. Using these amazing course management features will provide more straight, uphill birdie putts and stress-free pars. A second, close-up perspective of the green highlights the subtle changes in elevation and direction that are often undetectable to the naked eye. Combined, the maps help make every putt read quick and simple, and virtually eliminate the 3-putt.

This printed guide also features yardage book-quality color images of every hole with 50-yard grids to help plan your tee shots and avoid the major hazards. Green Books mimic the GolfLogix app's Approach Mode, allowing golfers to strategically target positions on the green for their best opportunity of draining their putt.

"With our foundation as a software company, we are uniquely positioned to produce these Green Books with detailed course-specific intelligence that helps golfers read greens quickly and with confidence," President of GolfLogix Pete Charleston said. "It was important to us to make accurate green-reading maps accessible for the everyday golfer. I'm proud to say golfers can purchase a Green Book for less than it costs to play a round of golf at most courses."

GolfLogix Green Books give golfers a quick and accurate read without having to walk around the hole, removing the cost of uncertainty by showing exactly how the putt will break on every hole.  Putting with the confidence of a quick and accurate read will speed up the game and shaves strokes.

For players who leave their phones in the locker room, a printed Green Book of their favorite course is the perfect way to play strategically without sacrificing the traditional tranquility of the game.

"GolfLogix Green Books give you the same data-filled map of every green that college teams and pros pay thousands for," said Kellie Stenzel, a GOLF magazine top 100 instructor. "You won't waste time circling the pin countless times; instead, you'll discover a new confidence that saves strokes on every course you play."

The $40 GolfLogix Green Books can be purchased at www.Golfogix.com. PGA Professionals can contact GolfLogix to receive free samples and set up their golf course resale program.

TRUE Linkswear Partners with PGA Tour Player Joel Dahmen

(Tacoma, Wash.) — TRUE Linkswear announced an exciting new partnership with PGA Tour Player Joel Dahmen to wear TRUE exclusively in 2020. After an impressive collegiate career at University of Washington, Dahmen joined the PGA tour in 2017 and has already racked up an impressive three top-ten finishes so far this 2020 TOUR season.

Joel Dahman
As a Pacific Northwest Native, Joel was a natural fit for the Tacoma, Wash. based golf footwear brand.

“I’m excited to partner with TRUE Linkswear; I’ve been wearing their shoes for quite some time and I’m thrilled to finally formalize the endorsement” states Joel. Dahmen will be sporting his favorite models on TOUR and providing invaluable insight to TRUE as he helps test prototypes and the newest launches.

TRUE is constantly pushing themselves to think outside the box, and relies on the feedback of TOUR pros like Joel to help refine their offerings to fit the needs of every golfer, both on and off the links. “We couldn’t be more excited to have a NW legend like Joel on board,” says Jason Moore, President of TRUE, “his personal background both on and off the course is invaluable. His philanthropy efforts within the community, as well as his personal mission to do good in the world, resonate extremely well with what TRUE aims to accomplish. After beating cancer in 2011, he has an unique perspective on golf and life in general; his insight will help TRUE all across the board.”

Learn more at www.truelinkswear.com.

Monday, April 27, 2020

New Culinary Series Premieres on GOLFPASS

Fairway to Table Premiere Showcases Austin Country Club, with Future Visits to Hazeltine National and Olympia Fields


(ORLANDO, Fla.) – A demanding public has turned cooks into culinary artists – and not just at the world’s finest restaurants. No longer are country clubs places “where chefs go to die,” but creative incubators for some of the best in the business.

Fairway to Table presented by ClubBuy, a new series premiering today exclusively as part of the GOLFPASS digital membership program, will be a culinary adventure exploring some of the nation’s finest country clubs, while introducing the artists behind the apron who are creating local flavors and fantastic feasts for their members.

Hosted by chef and author Michael Ponzio, each episode of Fairway to Table will showcase the culinary program at the best country clubs across the U.S. Ponzio currently serves as the executive chef for the Union League Club of Chicago, following six years in the same role for the world-ranked Platinum golf club, Medinah Country Club. He also is the author of the cookbook, Cibo: Anybody’s Guide to Italian Cooking.

The premiere episode of Fairway to Table will feature Austin Country Club, one of the oldest existing clubs in Texas and home to one of the greatest golf instructors who ever lived, Harvey Penick. Executive Chef Bob Burns, a self-professed “hunter-gatherer,” has dedicated 42 years of his life to the private club industry and his passion for food to Austin C.C.’s menu, which features prime beef, direct-sourced seafood, wild game and premium vegetables. The episode follows Chef Burns, as he flexes his culinary creativity with a dish featuring Asian-inspired Texas Brisket with Korean Quinoa, Fried Brown Rice, Gochujang and duck egg. Later, Chef Ponzio rolls up his sleeves and takes to the streets of Austin to visit one of the city’s landmarks, Louie Mueller Barbecue and third-generation pit master Wayne Mueller. The two build one of the restaurant’s iconic platters: dinosaur bone-in short rib, beef brisket and pork sausage.

Future episodes of Fairway to Table will visit Hazeltine National (May 12) in Chaska, Minn., and Olympia Fields Country Club (June 2), located just outside Chicago – both steeped in golf lore and hosts to some of golf’s biggest events and major championships throughout the years.

Watch a Preview of Fairway to Table Here.

Golfers Invited to V1 Sports Online Lesson Webinar- Thursday April 30

Top teacher Jake Thurm to Demonstrate Ease, Efficiency of Remote Instruction


(Novi, MI) – V1 Sports (V1), creators of the industry-leading golf swing analysis software for teaching pros and golfers, is inviting the public to take part in a unique live webinar demonstration Thursday April 30 (2:30pm Eastern) presented by Golf Digest Best Young Teacher and PGA TOUR coach Jake Thurm and V1 Sports CEO Bryan Finnerty.

The Chicago-based Thurm will show those in attendance how an advanced “remote lesson” powered by video captured on the free V1 Golf app, and also using the V1 Pressure Mat, can benefit golfers who are serious about improvement.

Finnerty, live from his basement in Metro Detroit, will serve as Thurm’s student for the session to show golfers and instructors how simple it is to conduct remote video lessons with the V1 Golf app (for golfers) and the V1 Pro app (for teachers) and how much game improvement a teacher and golfer can accomplish even when they’re in two different places. In addition to having cameras capture his swings using the V1 Golf app, Finnerty will also have the V1 Pressure Mat in place so Thurm can see where he’s imparting to pressure to the ground at any given moment during his swing.

Easy to use in a home, garage, basement or yard, golfers can use the popular V1 Golf mobile app to film and send their swings to the teaching pro of their choice and receive lessons with voiceover, telestration and custom drills. V1 recently surpassed the 4 million mark in online lessons and has seen an uptick in usage since Shelter in Place practices began more than a month ago. In addition, the V1 Golf Plus subscription allows golfers access to one of the largest libraries of tour swings for comparison and exclusive tips and drills.

The V1 Pressure Mat is the first portable mat built to record a golfer’s balance distribution information (measured by foot pressure) and Center of Pressure (COP) during the golf swing. Combining real-time data on a golfer’s weight transfer with V1’s top-in-class camera systems and video software makes each lesson more impactful and can markedly expedite a player’s improvement.

“Technology has come so far in the game. Connecting to your pro through your V1 Golf app is an awesome way to improve from home, especially with so many avid golfers and teachers stuck at home. In addition, if instructors can get golfers on the V1 Pressure Mat, they could teach them to maintain a dynamic posture and get through the ball properly, finishing with most of their weight on the lead side,” Thurm says. “We look forward to showing the power of video, data and how to quickly help golfers build better swing habits in the Webinar this Thursday.”

In additional to practical swing instruction, practice drills golfers can work on at home and demonstrations of V1 Sports’ teaching technology, Thurm will cover a variety of practical topics on setting up a practice or teaching space that is optimized for remote video lessons.

These topics include:
- V1 Golf app and Best Practices for filming your golf swing
- V1 Sports online lesson technology
- V1 Pressure Mat and top trace overview
- V1 Home Camera System and Hitting Bay setup for your home

A Question and Answer session will immediately follow Thurm’s exclusive live webinar.
Registration is free and simple. RSVP online to reserve your seat for the Zoom webinar using this LINK.

To learn more about V1 Sports full suite of video capture and analysis technology for game improvement, including the V1 Golf mobile app and the V1 Pressure Mat, visit www.V1Sports.com.

Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Circling Raven GC Cancel Symetra “Road to the LPGA Tour” Event

Tournament for Professional Women Golfers at Acclaimed Property Moved to 2021


(Worley, Idaho) – Circling Raven Golf Club – the No. 1-rated public course in Idaho and amenity of Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel – today announces that the Circling Raven Championship, a Symetra Tour “Road to the LPGA” event, will be canceled this season.

The inaugural event was scheduled for Aug. 24-30, 2020, the first in a three-year partnership with the Tour. It was to have featured a full field of competitors battling for $200,000 in prize money.

“This is the right thing to do, and we look forward to working with the LPGA in hosting the Symetra Tour’s Circling Raven Championship in 2021,” said Laura Stensgar, CEO, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel.

“We anxiously await the inaugural Circling Raven Championship in 2021,” said Mike Nichols, Chief Business Officer, Symetra Tour. “As we reworked this year’s schedule, the goal has been to provide as many safe playing opportunities for our Symetra Tour professionals as possible, with an eye towards the future as well. While Circling Raven Golf Club and Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort have decided to postpone their event until 2021, we know their team is anxious to build a long and fruitful partnership.”

More details about next year’s tournament will be announced when they have been determined. For more information about Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel and Circling Raven, call 1.800.523.2464 or visit www.cdacasino.com.

The Reserve Club Honorary Member Susie Berning Named to World Golf Hall of Fame

Longtime instructor in exclusive company in Class of 2021


(INDIAN WELLS, Calif.) — Four-time major champion Susie Maxwell Berning, a treasured golf instructor-in-residence at The Reserve Club since its inception in 1998, has been selected as an inductee in the World Golf Hall of Fame, Class of 2021.

Susie Maxwell Berning
“Susie embodies every characteristic of a Hall of Famer: exceptional skill, integrity and passion, and is dedicated to the sport and professionalism of golf,” said Bill Lane, Club President at The Reserve.  “Her vast playing and teaching expertise is exceeded only by the personal attention she provides, enriching each lesson or playing experience. We are most fortunate she shares her time with members, and we are thrilled she has been elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame.”

“Susie embodies every characteristic of a Hall of Famer: integrity, exceptional skill set, passion and dedication for the sport and professionalism,” said Bill Lane, Club President at The Reserve.  “Her vast playing and teaching expertise is exceeded only by the personal attention she provides, enriching each lesson or playing experience.”

Berning began playing golf at the age of 15 and won three-straight Oklahoma State High School Golf Championships. She was the first female to be offered a golf scholarship from Oklahoma City University and played on the men’s team.  After becoming an LPGA professional in 1964, she earned the Rookie of the Year title. Throughout her career, she won 11 times including an impressive four Majors – the 1965 Women’s Western Open and the U.S. Women’s Open three times in 1968, 1972 and 1973. She is one of only four women to win the U.S. Women’s Open three or more times, and the first to accomplish this while juggling a family.

For the past 20 years, Susie has been an LPGA Teaching Professional at The Reserve Club and has become an integral part of The Reserve family.

Berning joins Tiger Woods, Marion Hollins and Tim Finchem in the induction class of 2021. The four Inductees will bring the World Golf Hall of Fame Member total to 164.

She is the recipient of the 2018 LPGA Pioneers award for her contributions to the game and was recognized during the LPGA’s 50th Anniversary in 2000 as one of the LPGA’s top-50 players and teachers.

Berning has two daughters, Robin Doctor and Cindy Molchany. She was one of just a few LPGA players who traveled with children in the 1970s, driving a motorhome across the country to tour stops.

The Reserve Club is an exclusive, environmentally responsible golf and residential community. The Reserve’s 700 acres includes its prized 18-hole course – plus three Trophy Holes – occupying one of the last great expanses of native desert landscapes designated for golf in the Coachella Valley. Designed by Weiskopf and Jay Moorish, the course’s greatness is defined by the natural flow of the land, from rugged outcroppings and ridges to picturesque canyons nestled into the surrounding Santa Rosa Mountains.

For more information about The Reserve Club, call (760) 674-2239 or visit www.thereserveclub.com.

Will COVID-19 Spark a New Era of Walking?

“Golf is a good walk spoiled,” goes the quote often attributed to Mark Twain. Though over recent years the prevalence of cart usage in recreational golf has meant the game has drifted somewhat from its origins. However, in the post-covid era, that might be set to change.

As states and golf venues start to think seriously about how and when they will get golfers back out on the course, there are several rules being proposed for reducing the spread of coronavirus, with minimizing exposure to shared surfaces and keeping a distance of 6ft apart at the heart of them all.

“The safety of golfers and the wider population is the number one priority when thinking about the return to golf,” says Rick Oldach, CEO of push cart specialist BIG MAX U.S.A. “But golf is a self-policed game, and I believe with the application of sensible, self-policing rules such as leaving the flag stick in, no rakes in bunkers, modified cups and walking the course, golf can adapt its practice to be in the first wave of sporting activities that restart with a strict level of safe participation.”

It is in walking the course that BIG MAX has seen clear evidence of golfer’s willingness to adapt to new ways of playing. In states where golf courses have remained open and also in areas preparing to return, BIG MAX USA has seen unprecedented demand for its award winning Fold Flat push carts. In April, year on year unit sales of push carts increased exponentially with online sales alone jumping by 800% from March 2020.

Rick continued, “It is clear there is a pent up demand for golf throughout North America as spring arrives with everyone exercising good judgement and abiding by the stay at home orders. Golfers feel that walking allows them to maintain safe distancing and maximum hygiene while getting out in the fresh air to play this game that we all love. Golf provides a safe outlet and walking delivers the physical component that helps alleviate whatever stress we are all feeling as we navigate through this crisis.”

“Studies have shown that on average, you walk 69% further than the scorecard yardage in a single round of golf and that you burn more or less the same calories using a push cart as you do carrying your bag, so new walkers will certainly feel the immediate health benefits. But more than that, golfers that typically ride in a cart will experience the joy and camaraderie and wonderful pace of play that walking alongside your playing partners brings to the game - keeping proper distancing of course! I think this new experience will take many by surprise and hope that it will continue long after we’re through this period.”

For more information on the BIG MAX line visit https://us.bigmaxgolf.com or follow socially:
facebook.com/bigmaxgolf
Twitter: @BIGMAXGOLF
Insta@ @BIGMAX.GOLF

The Highland Course at Primland Earns Acclaim as a Top State Venue

Virginia Business Magazine Bestows Honor for Luxury Resort’s Superb Golf Amenity


(MEADOWS OF DAN, VIRGINIA) – The Highland Course at Primland, the boutique luxury resort set amid 12,000 pristine acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, landed at No. 9 on Virginia Business magazine’s top courses in the state and No. 3 on the list of courses not requiring a membership.

There are more than 300 golf courses in the Commonwealth. Voting panelists considered variety in design, routing, strategy, fairness, shot values, memorability and aesthetics. The lists were unveiled in the newly published April issue of the publication.

“It’s gratifying that this accolade was determined by Virginia residents who have played The Highland Course. The first-person credibility means that golfers can count on an outstanding experience,” said Steve Helms, Primland Vice President.

This is the latest of several recent “best-in-kind” awards for The Highland Course:
- Editors’ Choice, Golf Digest, Best Mid-Atlantic Resorts (March 2020)
- No. 32, Golfweek Top 100 Resort Courses in the U.S. (December 2020)
- No. 30, Golf Digest, America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses (2019-2020)
- Golfscape, World’s Top 100 Golf Courses (March 2019)

Designed by Englishman Donald Steel, The Highland Course is renowned for its stunning mountain views, natural routing and seamless layout that takes full advantage of the surrounding nature. Golfers can book their preferred experience from a variety of options at Primland – instruction, individual rounds, group events, stay-and-play packages, even a bundle of 12 rounds for $2,100 that can be shared with other players through August 2020.

The golf course is one of many Primland activities and amenities. A partial list of others includes first-class food and beverage menu, fly fishing, shooting sporting clays, riding ATVs, mountain biking, yoga, world-class spa, archery, water sports, horseback riding, tomahawk throwing, guided hikes, and tree climbing. There is a wide array of lodging options, cottages, tree houses, mountain homes and rooms in the refined Lodge.

For more information about Primland, visit Primland.com, or call 866.960.7746.

ECCO® GOLF Introduces ECCO S-THREE

New Midsole Design Supports Foot ‘Zones’ for Unparalleled Comfort and Performance


(LONDONDERRY, NH) – ECCO – a leading manufacturer of innovative footwear – introduces the ECCO S-THREE hybrid golf shoe featuring an innovative midsole technology targeting three areas of the foot providing zonal support, dynamic comfort and performance during each golf movement.

Available for men and women, the S-THREE is crafted using ZONAL FLUIDFORM TECHNOLOGY to create a molded midsole with three distinct zones of softness to ensure the right balance of cushioning and stability exactly where golfers need it most.

“This breakthrough midsole technology gives the S-THREE some of the best performance features on the market, without sacrificing comfort or style,” says Jesper Thuen, General Manager, ECCO GOLF USA. “It is just the latest in a long line of innovations that have made ECCO GOLF one of the most trusted brands in golf footwear.”

The ZONAL FLUIDFORM TECHNOLOGY applied in the polyurethane midsole that creates three different zones with three separate levels of rigidity include:
Zone 1 – Comfort: Heel of the midsole is engineered for medium softness to ensure greater cushioning and comfort.
Zone 2 – Stability: Central part of the midsole has higher levels of rigidity to deliver lateral stability throughout the swing.
Zone 3 – Flexibility: Forefront of the midsole comes with the highest level of softness for guaranteed walking comfort and flexibility.

Due to the advanced multi-section injection process, the midsole of every pair of S-THREE shoes will have unique color transitions between the different sections, giving each pair of shoes a distinctive look.

The shoe’s uppers are crafted from thicker ECCO NAPPA leather, made in ECCO’s own tanneries, with 100% waterproof GORE-TEX technology that keeps feet dry and comfortable in all conditions. They sit atop the award-winning ECCO DYNAMIC TRACTION SYSTEM (E-DTS) outsole, providing more than 100 traction bars and 800 traction angles for excellent grip in all playing conditions.

A double layer of neoprene in the collar and heel provides increased padding for additional wearing comfort throughout the swing, while ECCO FLUIDFORM Direct Comfort Technology creates an integral, flexible and durable bond without the compromises common with conventionally stitched and/or glued assemblies.

Like all ECCO GOLF shoes, S-THREE is crafted at company-owned factories that utilize FLUIDFORM technology to bond the upper and outsole unit, creating a one-piece shoe without the use of glue or stitching. Benefits include flexibility, durability and a lightweight construction.

ECCO GOLF shoes are worn in competition around the world by Henrik Stenson, Thomas Bjørn, Fred Couples, Erik van Rooyen, Doc Redman, Lydia Ko, Minjee Lee and Caroline Masson, among others.

Sunday, April 26, 2020

Golf Course Operator Surveys Shows How Pandemic Impacts Public Golf

Prepayment of Tee Times a Necessity for Doing Business for the Majority of Operators Surveyed

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – While the nation’s golf courses deal with unprecedented disruption of their day-to-day business due to state and city mandates due to the coronavirus pandemic, GOLFNOW is shedding some light on their most-pressing challenges by revealing results from golf course operator surveys taken in March and April.

With the most recent survey concluding on April 15, a total of nearly 1,300 responses were divided among the two questionnaires.

The most definitive data point in the research—whether the reporting facilities had closed for play—increased from a 42 percent to 62 percent, in just the couple of weeks between surveys. For many of those remaining open, manpower had been reduced by layoffs and furloughs. In the March GOLFNOW survey, 24 percent of respondents reported having laid off at least half their workers. In the April follow-up, that percentage had increased to 39 percent. Another 12 percent responding to the April survey said they had furloughed or laid off between one-quarter and one-half of their workforce.

Changes to payment practices are under consideration at many courses, with some operators describing online prepayment as a necessity for doing business. Short-staffing has been commonplace and the need to maintain safety precautions is vital, two factors that favor the “park and play” approach and discourage in-shop payment.

A pair of questions in the April survey revealed that among respondents who remain open for business, 52 percent were not accepting cash. The second question asked generally about forms of payment and provided multiple response options. A combined 17 percent said they had either “changed to online payments only” or “changed to credit card by phone only.” Six out of 10 said they were still at the golf shop counter, collecting payments and checking golfers in.

Mild winter weather in large parts of the U.S., combined with the lack of other entertainment options, increased early-spring golf activity in some places. The March survey revealed 24 percent said that rounds played had increased over the same period in 2019. In the April survey, 15 percent said rounds were even or increased.

When asked in the April survey how long their course could go without green fee revenue during golf season before their business “suffers irreparable damage,” 27 percent said less than one month, 50 percent said from one to three months and the remaining 22 percent said they could go three months or longer.

On that basis, interest in government relief was evident. Almost two-thirds, 63 percent, said they had visited the SBA.gov website in search of information about CARES Act programs to assist small businesses in distress as a result of COVID-19 disruptions.

Projections and speculation about the country’s transition from the COVID-19 crisis to a gradually more open economy have mentioned golf as an activity more easily restarted than many others. That may be a partial reason for the fairly optimistic outlook that emerges from the April study, which concludes with the question: “What do you expect business levels to be like following the COVID-19 outbreak?”

One in three, exactly 33 percent, said business would be “about normal.” A spirited 8 percent said “much better” than before and 22 percent said “slightly better” than before. Meanwhile 29 percent felt it would be “slightly worse” than before the crisis and 9 percent said “much worse.”

Saturday, April 25, 2020

USGA App Launches on Amazon Fire TV with Expanded VOD Programming

More than 250 hours of on-demand content includes final-round championship coverage, feature films and historical vignettes


(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The USGA announced the expansion of its Over-The-Top (OTT) digital streaming offerings with the launch of the USGA app on Amazon’s Fire TV.  The free USGA streaming app, which features more than 250 hours of USGA championship final-round broadcasts, films, highlights and more, is now available in the Amazon Marketplace, in addition to the respective app and channel stores on Apple TV and Roku.

Launched in 2019 in partnership with Cisco, the USGA streaming app gives golf fans the opportunity to watch thrilling historical content, as well as rare footage of many of golf’s iconic moments, spanning the 125-year history of the USGA.

“We know golf fans are hungry for content and we want to serve them,” said Navin Singh, chief commercial officer of the USGA. “Launching a Fire TV app broadens our reach to the millions of viewers who spend time in the Amazon Marketplace. We are thankful to our partners at Cisco for helping us present an expansion of our VOD programming and achieve a record number of average minutes viewed on our OTT channel last month.”

Viewers will find more than 100 hours of historic U.S. Open final-round and playoff telecasts from 1972-2019, as well as vignettes dating to the first championship in 1895.

With more than 50 hours of on-demand U.S. Women’s Open programming, the app features the largest streaming library of women’s professional golf. Viewers can choose between final-round broadcasts of 16 U.S. Women’s Opens between 1995 and 2019, a collection of 30-to-60-minute films chronicling championships from the last 25 years, as well as championship vignettes going back to 1948.

Viewers can also experience more than 25 hours of archival U.S. Amateur Championship footage and Walker Cup Match broadcasts, ranging from the original newsreel recapping Arnold Palmer’s 1954 U.S. Amateur win, to the championship-match telecasts of all three of Tiger Woods’ U.S. Amateur victories, to telecasts of players such as Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas competing in the Walker Cup.

“The USGA streaming app now boasts one of the largest collections of archived golf broadcasts and historical content,” said Singh. “Fans have an unprecedented opportunity to relive the inspiration, determination and glory of winning a USGA championship.”

Later in 2020, the app will feature live streaming of several USGA championships, including featured groups and bonus coverage of the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur.

Original films, including “U.S. Open Epic: Tiger and Rocco,” “1962 U.S. Open: Jack’s First Major” and “Michelle Wie: Breakthrough at Pinehurst” are complemented by documentaries chronicling legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Se Ri Pak, Tiger Woods and Payne Stewart.

A list of featured programming will be shared weekly on usga.org and across the association’s social channels, including @USGA on Twitter, USGA on Instagram and on Facebook.

The USGA streaming app is available on Amazon’s Fire TV, Apple TV and Roku.

Incrediwear Launches Help a Healthcare Hero Donation Program

The brand aims to donate hundreds of anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving sleeves and socks to healthcare workers nationwide


(CHICO, CA)​ — ​Incrediwear​, makers of elite, wearable, anti-inflammatory sleeves, socks and braces, have launched their ​Help A Healthcare Hero Donation Program​. The program is designed to get their pain-relieving, circulation-boosting products into the hands (or on to their feet!) of healthcare workers currently battling the COVID-19 crisis nationwide.

After being contacted through their social media from a nurse working 13 hour shifts on top of a long commute to and from their hospital, the recovery accessory brand knew they had to take action. Distributing as many as they can of their anti-inflammatory sleeves and socks to healthcare workers who spend long periods of time on their feet and moving their body, seemed the perfect solution.

“​As a past health provider and constantly working with doctors, nurses and health aids, I know first hand fatigue, pain and discomfort can affect quality of work,” ​ said Jackson Corley, founder of Incrediwear. ​“Incrediwear has been proven to alleviate pain, reduce fatigue, prevent injuries and accelerate recovery; everything our healthcare workers need to be their best in this most important time in history!​”

Customers have the option to purchase a donation bundle consisting of a product for them, and a product to donate at 50% of its normal cost. They can also purchase just the donation product on its own. The campaign is looking to run for at least two weeks with a goal to distribute hundreds of products to centers across the country. Recipients like the ​Intermountain Wasatch Back Instacares​, who are dealing with COVID-19 testing on a daily basis, will receive their products as soon as the campaign is over and donations have been tallied.

How Incrediwear Helps
In a study with the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, Incrediwear supplied 66 Nurses and Staff with Incrediwear products to use at work. 27 nurses opted to participate in an initial survey of any ailments they may have been currently experiencing.
   
Everyone who participated reported improvement in areas of pain, stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and other specified discomforts. They rated an improvement of 9.5/10 for pain and aches, 9.5/10 for stiffness, 10/10 for swelling, and 9/10 for fatigue.

The brand, that began the year with their first partnership with the ​Education First Pro Cycling Team​, is worn by some of the top outdoor and track athletes, and is also in pharmacies and medical offices worldwide​. Their material is embedded with carbon and germanium, semiconductor elements that release negative ions when stimulated by body heat. Unlike compression socks and sleeves that decrease blood flow and lymphatic flow, Incrediwear products sit lightly on the skin to increase blood flow, activate cellular vibrations, and allow the body to heal.

The company was founded in Chico, CA in 2009 by Corley - a certified chiropractor and avid mountain biker - and has striven to revolutionize the Health, Fitness and Sports Industry ever since to allow the wearer to get back to an active lifestyle. Incrediwear is not just wearable technology, it is a lifestyle philosophy.

For more information on the donation program, visit: https://incrediwear.com/pages/covid19donationpromo

Friday, April 24, 2020

GOLF Channel to Air 'Big Break Dominican Republic' Marathon on Monday w All-Star Reunion Cast

Making its Premiere in 2010, Big Break Dominican Republic Featured Series’ Most Captivating and Polarizing Personalities


(ORLANDO, Fla.) – GOLF Channel continues its “Big Break Mondays” marathon with an encore presentation of Big Break Dominican Republic on Monday, the series’ 14th season featuring a reunion cast of Big Break’s most captivating and polarizing personalities. Big Break Dominican Republic will air in its entirety from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. ET with a special encore of the final two episodes from 9-11 p.m. ET.

Filmed at Casa de Campo Resort in the Dominican Republic, the series features 12 aspiring professional golfers – six men and six women – in a team competition. The teams compete in a variety of golf challenges per episode, with the ultimate goal of knocking the other out of contention. The winning team at the conclusion of the 10-episode series shares the grand prize of $100,000, with $50,000 going to the most valuable player (MVP), who is crowned Big Break Dominican Republic champion.

Big Break Dominican Republic contestant (and current GOLF Channel host – School of Golf) Blair O’Neal is scheduled to join Morning Drive on Monday at 9 a.m. ET to recount her experience on Big Break. Additionally, members of the cast are scheduled to engage on Twitter throughout the day on Monday and in primetime for the final two episodes using #BigBreak. Tom Abbott, host of Big Break Dominican Republic, also will engage on Twitter via @TomAbbottGC.

The cast of Big Break Dominican Republic:

Men:
- Andrew Giuliani
- David Mobley
- Blake Moore
- Anthony Rodriguez
- Brian Skatell
- William Thompson

Women:
- Lori Atsedes
- Sara Brown
- Christina Lecuyer
- Brenda McLarnon
- Blair O’Neal
- Elena Robles

Also today, Big Break Ka’anapali and Big Break Prince Edward Island today joins previous Big Break seasons previously launched on GOLFPASS, golf’s only comprehensive digital membership that offers everything golfers love about the game, bringing the total number of series on GOLFPASS to 11. Each week, full Big Break seasons are launching on GOLFPASS, with seasons currently available including Big Break I; Big Break II: Las Vegas; Big Break III: Ladies Only; Big Break IV: USA vs. Europe; Big Break V: Hawaii; Big Break VI: Trump National; Big Break VII: Reunion; Big Break Mesquite, Big Break Sandals Resorts, Big Break Ka’anapali and Big Break Prince Edward Island.

The Big Break series concept, which was at the forefront of the reality competition craze started by Survivor in the late 1990’s, features professional golfers competing in skills challenges that test their physical abilities and mental toughness, finding themselves in situations when these words from legendary golfer Ben Hogan were never proven more true: “The most important shot in golf is the next one.” On Big Break, the competitors must perform or be eliminated.

Champions from each season of Big Break received his or her “Big Break,” exemption(s) to compete on the world’s top professional tours. Big Break provided break-out opportunities for current tour professionals, including Wesley Bryan, Matt Every, Tony Finau, Tommy Gainey, Kristy McPherson, Ryann O’Toole, Gerina Piller, Jackie Stoelting and Richy Werenski.

The series also featured other memorable characters like Danielle Amiee (Big Break III:  Ladies Only), Sara Brown (Big Break Sandals Resorts), Mark Farnham (Big Break I), Eddie Gardino (Big Break IV: USA vs Europe), Andrew Giuliani (Big Break Disney Golf), Mark Murphy (Big Break Ireland), Blair O’Neal (Big Break Prince Edward Island), Chad Pfeifer (Big Break The Palm Beaches), Anthony Rodriguez (Big Break VIII: Mesquite) and Bri Vega (Big Break VI: Trump National), among many others.

GOLF Channel Upcoming “Big Break Mondays” Programming Schedule
Monday, May 4 Big Break III: Ladies Only

GOLFPASS Big Break Programming:
Available to Stream Now:    
Big Break I
Big Break II: Las Vegas
Big Break III: Ladies Only
Big Break IV: USA vs Europe
Big Break V: Hawaii
Big Break VI: Trump National
Big Break VII: Reunion
Big Break Mesquite
Big Break Ka’anapali
Big Break Prince Edward Island
Big Break Sandals Resorts

USGA Cancels 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior and U.S. Junior Amateur Championships

Entries for six remaining amateur championships delayed


(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The USGA announced that due to the continued uncertainty surrounding the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, several additional changes have been made to the 2020 championship season schedule:

U.S. Girls’ Junior and U.S. Junior Amateur Championships
The 72nd U.S. Girls’ Junior, which was scheduled for July 13-18 on the Blue Course at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Eisenhower Golf Club in Colorado Springs, Colo., and the 73rd U.S. Junior Amateur, which was scheduled to be played July 20-25 at Hazeltine National Golf Club and Chaska Town Course, both in Chaska, Minn., have been canceled and will not be rescheduled.

“Our primary focus when making determinations around championships continues to be the safety and well-being of everyone involved,” said John Bodenhamer, senior managing director of Championships for the USGA. “While we are incredibly disappointed to have to make the decision to cancel our two junior championships, we know it is the right one.”

Current and proposed federal, state and local guidelines regarding gatherings would make effectively conducting qualifying for both championships next to impossible for Allied Golf Associations, which were scheduled to hold 100 qualifiers in 41 states between late May and early July.

“Given that juniors in most parts of the country are not physically attending school at this time, we did not feel comfortable asking them to compete in qualifying events,” said Bodenhamer. “We considered postponement but knowing that school will restart in many places around the country in August, we did not believe it was a viable option.”

Remaining 2020 USGA Amateur Championships
In addition to the cancellation of the junior championships, the USGA has made the decision to delay opening entries for six additional amateur championships until the week of May 18: the U.S. Women’s Amateur (scheduled for Aug. 3-9 at Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, Md.); U.S. Amateur (Aug. 10-16 at Bandon (Ore.) Dunes Golf Resort); U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur (Aug. 28-Sept. 3 at Berkeley Hall Club in Bluffton, S.C.); U.S. Senior Amateur (Aug. 28-Sept. 3 at Country Club of Detroit in Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich.); U.S. Mid-Amateur (Sept. 12-17 at Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin-Sabot, Va., and Independence Golf Club in Midlothian, Va.); and U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur (Sept. 12-17 at The Lakewood Club in Point Clear, Ala.).

The USGA will continue to rely on CDC and WHO recommendations, as well as state and local government guidelines in locations where championships and qualifiers are to be conducted, in determining schedule considerations for the remaining six 2020 amateur championships.

In addition to the U.S. Girls’ Junior and U.S. Junior Amateur Championships, the USGA previously canceled four 2020 championships: the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball and U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball on March 17, and the U.S. Senior Open and U.S. Senior Women’s Open on April 6.

In early April, the USGA also announced the postponement of the 75th U.S. Women’s Open to Dec. 10-13 at Champions Golf Club in Houston, Texas, and the postponement of the 120th U.S. Open Championship to Sept. 17-20 at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y.

2021 U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball and U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championships
The USGA has also delayed opening entries for the 2021 U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball and the 2021 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championships until the week of July 6. The 2021 U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball Championship will be contested April 24-28 at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas. The 2021 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball will be played May 22-26 at Chambers Bay in University Place, Wash., and The Home Course in DuPont, Wash.

Thursday, April 23, 2020

NBC Sports' Digital Golf Businesses Providing Most Comprehensive COVID-19 Resources

GOLFNOW, GOLF Advisor, GOLF Business Solutions and Clubhouse Solutions Share Resources to Serve Golfers and Golf Industry Professionals


(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Serving recreational golfers and golf industry professionals, alike, with the most comprehensive news and market data during the coronavirus pandemic, the digital businesses within the NBC Sports Group golf portfolio – GOLFNOW, GOLF Business Solutions, GOLF Advisor, and Clubhouse Solutions  – have become golf’s most-dependable, daily go-to resource.

Combined, these digital businesses hold a unique position in golf due to their ability to gather real-time information available through GOLFNOW’s partnerships with more than 9,000 golf course partners around the world, as well as from a global sales force that is in constant communication with courses in their local areas.

EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES:
Golf Industry Report Daily: Rounds by Market – GOLFNOW has the ability to aggregate real-time, year-over-year data detailing online rounds played in markets across North America – by day, week, month and year. This data provides golf course operators with the ability to compare their own golf course performance against others, allowing them to make more sound decisions for their businesses. This information is distributed to anyone at no cost – via a daily email and dedicated pages on both GOLF Advisor and GOLF Business Solutions.

Golf Course Updates by State – the latest information regarding the open/closed status of every golf course in every state – public and private – gathered from GOLFNOW, through GOLF Advisor editorial team research, as well as crowd-sourced submissions.

Golf Industry Weekly Report – GOLF Business Solutions produces the Golf Industry Weekly Report video feature, anchored by GOLF Channel’s Gary Williams, which covers the biggest stories in golf each week and a look at the data that is driving the industry. The report can be viewed through a variety of GOLF Business Solutions resources, including its dedicated COVID-19 website pages, daily email, as well as LinkedIn. It also can be found on GOLF Advisor’s Golf and COVID-19 page.

DEDICATED WEBSITE SECTIONS:
Dedicated COVID-19 website pages are available on GOLF Advisor (consumer), GOLF Business Solutions (industry) and Clubhouse Solutions (private clubs), which feature a comprehensive slate of information, including:
- Daily reports from the GOLF Advisor editorial team featuring the latest industry news.
- Graphics:
  *Bar chart representing percentage of U.S. golf course closures due to COVID-19 by day since March 14.
  *Interactive, color-coded graphic representation of the U.S., revealing information when rolled over with computer mouse.
  *Heat map of the Americas, with color-coded dots representing golf course open/closed status.
- Survey results from more than 800 golf course operators, revealing answers on a variety of topics from safety protocols, employee status, business outlook and more.
- Golf Course Status spreadsheet detailing, by state, imposed government mandates and links to the media coverage of the latest news.
- Links to the latest headlines from the golf industry, along with a headline archive that can be accessed on demand.
- Tips on how to play safely during the pandemic, included with safety guidelines provided by the World Golf Foundation and the National Golf Course Owners Association.

What Golf Course Operators are Saying:
“It’s hard to follow all the news but that email seems to cover all the relevant information and I read it every day.” – Mike Daron, New England Country Club, Bellingham, Mass.

“That’s pretty well done. Thanks for sharing and will be sure to pass along. It will be good content for our new employee intranet site.” – Scot Wellman, Landscapes Golf Management

“It's nice to be kept up to date by GOLFNOW's Golf Industry Report as we deal with effects of COVID-19 across the country. Here in Pittsburgh, we have been closed since March 25, but watching what is happening is giving me insights on how to handle things once we can be operational again.” – Tom Beeler, Grand View Golf Club, Braddock, Pa.