American Golfer

Sweetgrass Golf Club's Perfect Foursome Package, Tour Event Returns in 2012

2012-01-29T07:35:00.000-05:00

(HARRIS, MICHIGAN) - Sweetgrass Golf Club - an award-winning amenity of Island Resort & Casino in Michigan's Upper Peninsula - has officially opened 2012 tee times and is actively selling golf packages, giving golfers a chance to play the championship site this spring.

The list of April-October offerings is led by the Perfect Foursome package, including a round at Sweetgrass and nearby TimberStone and Greywalls courses, with two nights' stay, starting at $265. All three courses are Golfweek-ranked top 20 courses.

"We recognize that value is still the name of the game in regional golf travel, and kept our rates low again this year," said Tom McChesney, Executive Director of the Island Resort & Casino, which operates the public golf course. "Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois golfers are now including a trip here every year because of the diversity and quality experience we offer."

The Perfect Foursome can now be booked by calling 1-877-ISL-GREEN (475-4733). Additional information on other overnight packages and daily greens fees starting at $75 can be found at www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com. Discounted greens fee rates are also available for those in the immediate community.

Accommodations are provided at the Island Resort & Casino, with 275 rooms and a 24/7 gaming facility boasting over 1,400 slot machines, active table games and a weekly live entertainment line up, as well as five restaurants. Headliners on the Island Showroom stage in 2012 include nationally recognized entertainers such as Comedienne Kathy Griffin, Sawyer Brown, The Band Perry, Huey Lewis & The News, and Merle Haggard.

Sweetgrass staffers are readily preparing for the 2012 Island Resort Championship - a Symetra TOUR event formerly known as the LPGA Futures Tour - welcoming 144 LPGA professional female golfers for a 54-hole stroke play tournament June 28-July 1. Corporate sponsorships are actively being sold and volunteers welcomed to support the event.

For more information or to download a 2012 scorecard, see www.sweetgrassgolfclub.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Announces 2012 Golf Packages

2012-01-28T07:46:00.000-05:00

(Destin, Fla.) - Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort - the 2,400-acre resort featuring four championship golf courses on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast - today announces its 2012 golf packages.

Featuring Sandestin's entire course roster (Burnt Pine Golf Club, Raven Golf Club, Baytowne Golf Club, and The Links Course) and providing guests with a deluxe condominium, villa, town home, or hotel accommodations, the lineup is:

• 4 ½ Star - For serious golfers and course collectors, it features a round at Rees Jones' Burnt Pine Golf Club (a private club) and a round at Robert Trent Jones II's Raven Golf Club (host of two PGA Champions Tour events). Starting at $141 - $191, depending on season.

• Player's - Blending a Tour-quality track with a relaxing golf experience, the offering includes a round at Raven Golf Club and a round at Baytowne Golf Club, designed by Tom Jackson. Starting at $113 - $174, depending on season.

• Classic - Ideal for value-oriented golfers, it provides a round at Baytowne Golf Club and a round a The Links Course, also a Jackson-design. Starting at $99 - $173, depending on season.

Carts, unlimited use of Sandestin's practice facility and range balls are included. Free replay rounds booked at the course the day of play are offered based on availability. Guests who book a golf package and complete their stay prior to April 15 receive a complimentary $20 beverage cart credit per golfer.

"Thanks to the variety of packages available at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, golfers can tailor a visit to their specific playing ability and budget, whether it's a golf 'mancation,' or casual family vacation," says Rick Hileman, director of resort golf.

Sandestin is the preferred vacation destination of golfers who value diverse playing experiences. The resort is the only place in the world with Rees (Burnt Pine Golf Club) and Robert Trent Jones II (Raven Golf Club) courses side-by-side. Renovated in 2005, Baytowne Golf Club has five sets of tees, including a junior tee box, and is frequently cited as an ideal family or day of arrival course. The Links Course is the original Sandestin layout, and a longtime favorite of guests and locals.

In between rounds, golfers can visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf, an assortment of casual and fine-dining restaurants, bars and nightlife, and boutique shopping. Beach access, a marina, fitness facilities and numerous organized activities are also available on-site.

Rates for all packages are based on a two-night stay. They do not include fees and taxes.

For more information: www.sandestin.com; (888) 801-4388.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Golf Fantasy Comes to Life

2012-01-27T08:12:00.000-05:00

Tennessee-based company launches “golfmanna,” a unique and user-friendly, on-line fantasy golf league that requires minimal time and money, but delivers maximum fun

(NASHVILLE, TENN.) — C.A. Schmidt says he spent more than a decade and countless hours organizing golf-related “fantasy leagues” for his group of golf-aholic friends.

In general, what the 39-year-old Nashville marketing executive encountered was a lack of commitment to fantasy golf, unkempt, “wonky” websites and poor customer service.

“My group had been playing [golf fantasy leagues] 10 to 15 years and we got tired of bouncing around from website to website,” Schmidt said. “Games would go away with no explanation and then reappear. The prizes were terrible. The user interface was poor.”

Schmidt’s frustration, combined with his gaming and Web expertise, motivated him and a St. Louis-based partner, Mark Mihal — along with other expert designers and content service providers — to launch a new fantasy golf website, “golfmanna.” The site – www.golfmanna.com – launched Jan. 16, and its fantasy season is set to begin in March.

Schmidt explains that the word “manna” means “spiritual nourishment of divine origin, or something of value that is received unexpectedly.” In this case, Schmidt says “golfmanna” represents the games, content and prizes golfers seek, along with a service committed to fantasy golf, news and commentary and related issues.

Schmidt said he hopes golfmanna will become known as a highly functional, user-friendly platform that addresses the many issues fantasy players have encountered through the years.

“golfmanna is all about user experience, building community and getting more enjoyment out of the game we all love to watch and play — and competing for something more than a sleeve of balls,” said Schmidt, a former editor at LINKS Magazine. “We think that’s a good fit with the game of golf and what we strive to accomplish here. We provide a robust outlet to better connect with the game and your fellow golfers.”

golfmanna offers dedicated resources not provided by some of the larger, conglomerate fantasy sites including fresh writing and commentary from multiple contributors as well as research and user-friendly leagues. In addition, golfmanna has already partnered with more established sports- and golf-related entities to provide a one-stop shop for all the information a player needs.

golfmanna offers simple, inexpensive games with large cash payouts. In the “One and Done” game — currently accepting registrations on the site — each team owner selects one golfer each week and once selected, that golfer cannot be used for the rest of the season. The season runs from March 22 (Arnold Palmer Invitational) to the Tour Championship on September 23. Each week, selected players earn dollars for their actual tournament performance, which are accumulated throughout the year for a team’s total according to the official money earned during each tournament.

In addition, One and Done participants can set-up a private league with an unlimited number of players. Each private league has one commissioner, and players in the private league will also be placed in a public league to compete for prizes.

The standard One and Done game is $19.99 — less than $1 per week — and reduced rates are offered for multiple entries.

In another golfmanna game, “Majors Challenge,” players pick a team of six golfers and their dollar winnings are totaled — the highest total wins. Each major (Masters, U.S. Open, British Open Championship, PGA Championship) is a separate game. Players can select different players for their team in each major and there is also a competition and cash prize for the player who has the best results from all four tournaments.

Schmidt says there are other games in development that will roll out throughout 2012, including a one-time weekly game, seasonal “tourney team” using multiple players for each tournament, salary cap formats and more. Each person who plays a golfmanna game is eligible to win $2,000 to $2,500 and the top 20 finishers in One and Done are prize earners. Majors Challenge entrants can turn $10 into $2,000 with the right picks.

“We keep the league sizes small so everyone has a better opportunity to win, place or show,” said Schmidt. “We really just want to provide the top-notch platform to host and organize the leagues – and have the community and all the information and research in one place so the user won’t have to go to a dozen different sites to gather it.”

Finally, golfmanna prides itself on assisting its players with any issues and seeks feedback or suggestions.

Said Schmidt: “It’s not about the money. We have designed golfmanna so that it requires minimal money commitment and minimal time commitment but offers maximum enjoyment.”

For information, visit www.golfmanna.com or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/golfmanna. Schmidt uses the @fantasygolfguy handle on Twitter.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Stay Warm and Dry with the Abacus Trace Wind Jacket

2012-01-27T07:38:00.001-05:00

Ahead of the 2012 season the successful, Swedish golf brand Abacus introduces a new invigorating collection for active lifestyles. Superb function combined with contemporary style is the natural foundation for the collection.

Trace Jacket & Wind Shirt (men's and women's)
The Trace jacket is a full zip and lightweight wind jacket in a high density water repellant polyester. It is windproof, light weight and has a good breathability. The stylish design features two front pockets, velcro cuffs, an adjustable waist and collar and the jacket is easily packable in a small and convenient pocket. It is also available in a short sleeve ½ zip wind shirt.

Trace Wind Zip-Off Jacket
* Material: 100% polyester high density
* Women's Sizes: XS-XXL
* Women's Colors: 620 black/white, 2302 woman trace wind jacket
* Men's Sizes: S-XXXL
* Men's Colors: 400 red, 300 navy, 600 black,100 white, 314 trueblue

Trace Wind Jacket
* Material: 100% polyester high density polysester
* Women's Sizes: XS-XXL
* Women's Colors: 457 cranberry/lt.pink, 456 iris/white, 2303
* Men's Sizes: S-XXXL
* Men's Colors: 684 black/dk.grey, 363 navy/green, 668 black/oxigen

Trace Wind Shirt
* Material: 100% polyester high density
* Women's Size: XS-XXL
* Women's Colors: 100 white, 600 black, 412 iris, 411 cranberry
* Men's Sizes: S-XXXL
* Men's Colors: 309 oxigen, 500 green, 600 black, 314 trueblue

For more information on Abacus apparel, call Caulfeild Apparel at (800) 268-7939.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Troon Appointed to Manage Taba Heights and El Gouna Golf Resorts by Orascom Hotels & Development

2012-01-26T14:12:00.000-05:00

Located at two of Egypt's finest golf destinations

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) - Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing announced it has been appointed by Orascom Hotels & Development, the largest single hotel owner in Egypt, to manage its world-class facilities at Taba Heights (www.tabaheights.com) and El Gouna (www.elgouna.com).

The signing ceremony recently took place at Orascom's Swiss headquarters following a site visit at one of their newest developments at the foot of the Gotthard Pass, Andermatt Swiss Alps. The agreement to manage Taba Heights and El Gouna will enhance not only the service, quality and marketing capabilities at each property, but will also assist in promoting the region as a recognized golf tourism destination.

"Our agreement with Orascom Hotels & Development is another significant signing for Troon's EMEA portfolio," commented Bruce Glasco, Troon's senior vice president, managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa division. "Our EMEA team will rely on its unrivalled expertise to further enhance the golfer experience and the quality of amenities and services available."

Voted the best golf course in Egypt, Taba Heights is located 20 miles from Taba International Airport on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula, at the northern end of the Gulf of Aqaba. Designed by Florida-based architect John Sanford, the magnificent 18-hole desert layout provides spectacular views from every hole as it lies between the imposing Sinai Mountains and the deep blue waters of the Red Sea. The resort's village and five-star hotels blend effortlessly into the breath-taking natural backdrop of untamed desert, cinnamon mountains and vibrant sea.

El Gouna, home to 14 spectacular hotels and built along six miles of beachfront, is the Red Sea's premier leisure destination. Designed by Gene Bates and Fred Couples, its 18-hole championship golf course was built to the highest PGA standards and has proven to be a popular year-round destination for golfers from Germany, France, Italy and Scandinavia. Award-winning American architect, Michael Graves is the mastermind behind the property's stunning clubhouse and the innovative and exciting style that surrounds El Gouna.

Orascom Hotels & Development is the primary designer, developer, contractor and marketing force behind the highly successful El Gouna, Taba Heights, Tala Bay and The Cove projects. It is also one of the key private players in the tourism sector and the largest single hotel owner in Egypt.

"We are delighted to welcome the renowned expertise of Troon," said Gerhard Niesslein, the new CEO of Orascom Development Holding AG. "Their impressive portfolio and collective experience sets the right platform for us to take El Gouna and Taba Heights golf courses to the next level. Troon will assist us in coping with the upscale movement we are witnessing in Taba Heights and El Gouna as well as establishing consistent performance and quality of golf service across both destinations, and most importantly reach out to new golf markets."

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Troon EMEA is committed to developing Troon's presence in Europe, Middle East and Africa. This rapidly expanding division now oversees operations at 37 courses in 13 countries including Dubai, England, Russia, South Africa and Spain with further expansion planned across all regions.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon is the world's largest golf management company, overseeing operations at Troon Golf (daily-fee & resort) and Troon Privé (private) properties located in 29 states and 26 countries. Additionally, 47 Troon facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon properties include The Grove, London, England; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; and Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, El Jadida, Morocco.

Visit www.TroonGolf.com for additional news and information.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

The Minikahda Club to Host 2017 USGA Senior Amateur Championship

2012-01-26T14:05:00.000-05:00

(Far Hills, NJ) - The Minikahda Club, in Minneapolis, Minn., has been chosen by the United States Golf Association to host the 2017 USGA Senior Amateur Championship. This will be the sixth USGA championship held at The Minikahda Club. The dates of the championship are Aug. 26-31.

"The USGA is thrilled to be bringing our Senior Amateur Championship to a venue so rich in tradition and championship history," said Ben Kimball, director of the U.S. Women's Open and U.S. Amateur Championships. "The Minikahda Club has always been a great supporter of amateur golf and we look forward to challenging the best senior amateur players in the world on this classic venue come 2017."

The club has previously hosted the 1916 U.S. Open, won by Charles "Chick" Evans Jr.; the 1927 U.S. Amateur, one of nine USGA championships garnered by the legendary Robert T. Jones Jr.; and the 1988 U.S. Women's Amateur, which was captured by Pearl Sinn, the first woman to win two USGA titles in the same year. In 1957, Minikahda hosted the Walker Cup, which brings together male amateurs from the United States and Great Britain and Ireland in a biennial team competition. In 1998, the club held the Curtis Cup Match, a biennial amateur team event for women that is conducted in a similar format to the Walker Cup. The USA won both competitions.

"The Minikahda Club is proud to continue its support of amateur golf as the host of the 2017 USGA Senior Amateur," said Jim Jennings, general manager of The Minikahda Club. "The Senior Amateur will mark 101 years since Minikahda hosted the 1916 U.S. Open. Players today will find the course challenging and enjoyable and the hospitality of the membership unsurpassed."

The Minikahda Club dates to 1898. The name Minikahda comes from the Sioux and is a combination of two words meaning "by the side of the water." In fact, the club is adjacent to Lake Calhoun, the largest in the Minneapolis area. Willie Watson, the club's first golf professional, and Robert Foulis designed the original nine-hole course. Robert Taylor and C.T. Jaffray joined Foulis to create an 18-hole layout that opened in 1907. A redesign of the course by Donald Ross opened in 1920 and Ron Prichard restored the course in 2001.

The USGA Senior Amateur Championship was first played in 1955. It is open to amateur golfers who are age 55 and older and have a USGA Handicap Index® not exceeding 7.4. In 2012, the USGA Senior Amateur Championship will be played at Mountain Ridge Country Club, in West Caldwell, N.J., from Sept. 29-Oct. 4. In 2013, the Senior Amateur will be conducted at Wade Hampton Golf Club in Cashiers, N.C., from Sept. 21-26.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Yes! Launches 2012 Line Of Putters

2012-01-26T09:40:00.000-05:00

New models feature new face innovation with combination of C-Grooves and TPU insert

(PLANO, Texas) - The 2012 Yes! lineup will debut a new, contrasting TPU65D insert which is placed in a precision milled slot behind the face. This insert provides improved feel, but also creates True Square Alignment as well. Yes! putters are well known for their patented C-Groove Technology, which allows the ball to begin pure roll up to 21.5% sooner for more consistent putts. The concentric shaped grooves also improve the performance of off-center hits increasing accuracy up to 40%.

Bella-Fit Fitting System
"The golf industry has put a real focus on proper fitting in recent years, the putter however has often been left out of this equation," said Chip Brewer, President and CEO of Adams Golf. "A great majority of golfers are getting fit for their woods and irons, but buy their putter off of the rack. This is a huge detriment to their game. The new Bella-Fit Fitting System fills this void and revolutionizes the putter fitting process."

Using a single Bella putter head, this system can fit for face-balanced, moderate toe hang or pronounced toe hang putter styles. It also uses an adjustable hosel to fit for lie angle. And finally, it features three telescoping shafts to fit for length of standard putters (26"-37"), mid/belly putters (36"-47") or long putters (46"-52"). Once all of the settings have been locked into position, the golfer can then hit practice putts to ensure proper fitting, an important distinction relative to most if not all other fitting putters..

Entire Line to be Featured at 2012 PGA Show
Yes! Golf announced that the highly anticipated 2012 lineup of putters featuring C-Groove Technology, which won a Gold Medal in the 2012 Golf Digest Hot List, will be launched at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, FL (Booth #3716). This will be the first launch of putters for Yes! Golf since it was acquired by Adams Golf a year ago. This year's lineup will feature standard length, belly/mid, and long putters many of which will be available in multiple finishes including satin, white pvd and black pvd. Also being showcased in Orlando will be the Yes! Bella-Fit Fitting System.

"We are thrilled to showcase our first lineup of Yes! putters at the PGA Show," said Tim Reed, Vice President of Research and Development of Adams Golf. "The C-Groove Technology provides incredible benefits to golfers of all skill levels. We believe the enhancements made to the 2012 line provide improved performance and style that all golfers seek."

Models, Pricing and Availability
The 2012 Yes! putters will be available in stores April 1st, 2012. The standard length putters will have a suggested retail price of $199.99, and will be available in 34", 35" and custom lengths. The belly/mid length putters (43" standard, custom lengths available) and long putters (50" standard, custom lengths available) will have a suggested retail price of $249.99. The white and black pvd finishes will be available in some models for a $10 upcharge.

Available Models and pricing:
Stand Length Blade Putters:
Callie-12 Satin - $199.99
Callie-12 White - $209.99
Callie-12 Women's - $199.99
Callie MB - $349.99
Bella-12 Satin - $199.99
Bella-12 White - $209.99
Jenny-12 Satin - $199.99
Sophia-12 Satin - $199.99
Mallet Putters:
Sandy-12 Satin - $199.99
Sandy-12 White - $209.99
Sandy-12 Women's - $199.99
Sara-12 Satin - $199.99
Eleanor-12 Black - $209.99
Belly/Mid Length Putters:
Pippi-12 Satin - $249.99
Sandy-12 Mid Satin - $249.99
Sandy-12 Mid White - $259.99
Sara-12 Mid Satin - $249.99
Long Length Putters:
Sara-12 Long Satin - $249.99
Sally-12 Long Milled - $349.99

South Carolina's True Blue Golf Plantation Offers a Two-Night Three-Round Golf Vacation in Facebook Giveaway

2012-01-26T09:31:00.000-05:00

Vacation giveaway carries retail value of $3,000

(Pawleys Island, S.C.) - True Blue Golf Plantation, one of America's top 100 public courses as ranked by Golf Digest, is giving away a two-night, three-round golf vacation. Those interested can visit and like True Blue's Facebook page. Once the page reaches 1,500 likes, a random drawing will be held to determine the winner of the vacation package.

The prize includes a two-night stay at the True Blue Resort Villas and three rounds of golf at True Blue Golf Plantation and its sister course, Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, for four golfers. The vacation has a retail value of $3,000 and is sponsored by Caledonia Golf Vacations.

Those interested can visit the following websites for more information: www.truebluegolfplantation.com; www.fishclub.com; or www.caledoniagolfvacations.com .

"We enjoy interacting with our customers through our websites, blogs, social media sites and, certainly, at the golf course," said Bob Seganti, director of golf at True Blue Golf Plantation and Caledonia Golf Vacations "We want our customers to enjoy our properties year round whether on vacation or at home and we like to keep them up to date on the latest happenings at True Blue and Caledonia."

Caledonia Golf and Fish Club (1994) and True Blue Golf Plantation (1998) are two of late architect Mike Strantz's most decorated layouts.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Bushnell Golf's New Patriot Packs to Support Folds of Honor Foundation, Patriot Golf Day

2012-01-26T09:25:00.001-05:00

A percentage of Patriot Pack proceeds will be donated to support families of fallen and wounded service men and women

(Overland Park, KS) - Bushnell Outdoor Products, makers of the #1 laser rangefinder on the PGA Tour, today announced its continued support of the Folds of Honor Foundation. Two new Patriot Packs have been added to Bushnell's 2012 lineup, which will continue to aid the foundation's fundraising efforts by providing a percentage of every 2012 sale of the Bushnell Patriot Pack. Since the inception of the Patriot Packs, Bushnell has donated nearly $300,000 to the foundation.

As the special edition Patriot Packs continue to be a favorite among golfers, Bushnell has introduced two new packs for 2012. The Tour V2 Patriot Pack comes equipped with a Tour V2 laser rangefinder, limited edition red Folds of Honor golf tees, exclusive orange Bushnell Golf branded golf tees, a blue silicone SKINZ, Clip & Go Mount for either bag or cart, premium carrying case and extra battery at a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $299. Also updated for 2012, the Tour V2 Slope Edition Patriot Pack features a Tour V2 Slope Edition laser rangefinder, limited edition red Folds of Honor golf tees, exclusive orange Bushnell Golf branded golf tees, a red silicone SKINZ, Clip & Go Mount for either bag or cart, premium carrying case and extra battery at a manufacturer's suggested retail price $399 (MSRP).

The Tour V2 incorporates the same "PinSeeker" technology that has made Bushnell products the #1 rangefinder on the PGA Tour. Both Tournament and Slope Editions feature golf-grip touch points for enhanced feel and stability, and is capable of ranging up to 300 yards to the flag stick with incredible +/- one yard accuracy.

For each sale of the Tour V2 and/or Tour V2 Slope Edition Patriot Packs, Bushnell will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Folds of Honor Foundation (FHF), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a mission to empower deserving military families with educational support and opportunities. Founded in 2007 by PGA Golf Professional Dan Rooney, a Major in the Air National Guard and a decorated military aviator, the FHF provides post-secondary educational scholarships to the spouses and children of service members killed as a result of their military service to the United States. To date, more than 2,600 scholarships have been awarded by FHF.

"After witnessing the continued generosity of the golfing industry and golfers all across the United States through their purchases of special edition Bushnell Patriot Packs, we have elected to continue our support of the Folds of Honor Foundation and the extraordinary mission they serve in helping the families of the men and women who defend our great country," said Blake Lipham, President and CEO of Bushnell. "Everyone at Bushnell is proud to support their efforts through the Patriot Pack and additional programs on the hunting/shooting side of our business, and we consider it an honor to be continuing our support of this extremely worthy cause."

The FHF is the beneficiary of Patriot Golf Day, a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the United States Golf Association that encourages golfers across the country to add at least $1 to their greens fees over the Labor Day weekend. Sparked by the vision and dedication of Rooney, Patriot Golf Day has become the largest grassroots golf platform in the country and has raised more than $12.8 million in just five years with the support of golfers across the country.

"Bushnell continues to impress us with their dedication and willingness to support the Folds of Honor Foundation year after year," said Rooney. "This partnership has evolved to offer consumers a great product with exclusive items in the Golf Patriot Pack, and the relationship now expands into the hunting segment of their business. What continually amazes me is the response from golfers and hunters, and their generosity in supporting the families of fallen or wounded service members."

Bushnell, the #1 choice of professional golfers, offers a full range of rangefinders, which continue to change and improve the way golfers assess distances, ultimately improving performance.

For more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders, visit the company's website at www.bushnellgolf.com. To obtain images of the Pro 1M, please go to www.bushnellgolfpr.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Carlsbad Golf Center named PING National Fitter of the Year

2012-01-26T08:03:00.000-05:00

(PHOENIX) – Club-fitting pioneer and leader PING announced today that Susan Roll and her staff at Carlsbad Golf Center (CGC) in Carlsbad, Calif., have been named the 2011 PING National Fitter of the Year.

First given in 1997, the award recognizes the Authorized PING Fitter who has demonstrated the highest commitment to custom fitting and the promotion of its benefits to golfers of all abilities.

“Susan leads a team at Carlsbad Golf Center that is experienced, well-trained, and passionately committed to PING’s custom-fitting philosophy, and her staff has helped countless golfers lower their scores through properly fit PING technology,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “Because of Susan’s emphasis on customer service, her facility enjoys a large and loyal following. Her promotion of the PING brand in the highly competitive Southern California market has helped her grow, and that’s a credit to her belief in the quality of PING equipment and the effectiveness of our fitting system. She is very deserving of being PING’s National Fitter of the Year.”

As a business owner and fitter, Roll said she values PING’s steadfast ability to turn out one high-quality product after another, making her job easier. “The word I use to describe PING is ‘consistency’. Year in and year out, PING produces a terrific product. Whether it’s women-specific or a better-player’s club, it will look great, feel great and perform great for golfers of all abilities. If I hear PING has a new product coming out I don’t even have to see it, I just know it’s going to be good.”

Roll, who has co-owned CGC with Dana Chaiken since 2003, is a Class A PGA and LPGA Professional and has more than 20 years of clubfitting experience. Her long list of accolades and honors includes Club Fitter of the Year from both the PGA’s Southern California Section and San Diego Chapter. She was recently named 2011 PGA National Merchandiser of the Year-Public Facilities.

Key to her fitting practice, Roll said, is CGC’s 58-bay, lighted range where she can monitor ball flights and make adjustments. Natural and artificial putting and chipping greens, and bunkers complement a full-service operation that includes a pro shop offering fittings and instruction from CGC’s teaching professionals. The pro shop, club fitters, and the range have all been recognized multiple times on “Best Of” lists by national publications.

Roll relies on PING’s Advanced Fitting System (AFS) Interchangeable Fitting Cart and nFlight® Custom-Fitting Software to perform complete-bag fittings with in-depth analysis. She also utilizes the iPING putter app to identify stroke type and fit her customers with the PING putter model that matches his or her stroke. “Extensive” is how she describes the AFS Cart. “Interchangeability gives us flexibility and allows us to be agile, to change all the components quickly and be able to tell the customer, ‘This is the exact club you’re going to play’. Knowing they have the right clubs for them means a great deal to people, and to me.”

She said PING is a prominent piece of her business because the brand inspires an emotional connection. “Time and again, people just light up when they hit PING equipment. They smile. They’re immediately hooked. And if someone has left PING, inevitably they come back and say, ‘Why did I ever leave? I remember this is what it feels like to play well.’ ”

In addition to Roll, CGC’s fitters include Director of Golf/Manager Mug Ogg, Head Professional Monica Stratton, Assistant Professional Les Duer, and PGA Apprentice Professionals Lee Sanudo and Ken Behrs.

Nearly 2,000 authorized PING Club Fitters were eligible for the award. Among the criteria considered by the selection committee are length of time in the program, commitment to on-going training, sustained sales growth and support of the entire PING product line.

Nominating Susan Roll was Rich Mundy, PING Field Representative for Southern California.

For more information on PING, visit www.ping.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

SkyGolf to Unveil New Wi-Fi-Enabled SkyCaddie SGXw

2012-01-26T07:55:00.000-05:00

Offers Golfers Unmatched Accuracy with Convenience of Wireless Connectivity

(RIDGELAND, Miss.) - SkyGolf, maker of SkyCaddie, the #1 Rangefinder in Golf, will have its official unveiling of the next generation SkyCaddie – the new Wi-Fi-enabled SkyCaddie SGXw – at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show (booth #943).

With its new wireless capabilities, the new SkyCaddie SGXw provides a combination of unmatched accuracy with the convenience of “on the go” access to the most accurate and up-to-date course maps in the game while eliminating the known issues with courses preloaded in other rangefinders. Preloaded courses are basically “out of date” before the device is sold and can be risky and unreliable. The SkyCaddie SGXw connects wirelessly to SkyGolf’s vast library of precision courses via Wi-Fi at home, the office, the golf course or hotspot for fast, easy course downloads and updates of the same complete and reliable course information Tour Professionals receive from their caddies and their yardage books. For wireless access “on the go,” the SGXw can even utilize many smartphones to gain Internet access as a “personal hotspot.”

The launch of the Wi-Fi-enabled SGXw is a strong complement to the award-winning SkyCaddie franchise, which is being heralded throughout the industry and among the game’s most serious players. In fact, the SkyCaddie SGX received the only Gold rating among all GPS rangefinders tested by Golf Digest magazine for the 2011 “Hot List.” This prestigious distinction followed a survey conducted by Golf Datatech, the industry’s leading independent research firm, who polled serious golfers about their opinions of lasers, dedicated GPS devices and smartphone apps. The study revealed that SkyCaddie was trusted by more serious golfers than all other rangefinders combined. SkyCaddie rated more accurate than lasers by a margin of 3-to-2 and more accurate than other GPS devices by ratios ranging from 8-to-1 and 23-to-1. The Golf Datatech survey also revealed that 94% of serious golfers believe “exact yardage” is important to their game.

“The combination of golfers’ need for accurate distances and SkyCaddie being named as the most accurate rangefinder explains why more golfers use and trust SkyCaddie for their critical distances than all other distance measuring devices combined,” said Richard Edmonson, CEO, SkyGolf. “That is why we are excited about the new SGXw providing easy and wireless download of the most up-to-date course maps in the game with the convenience of wireless connectivity. Whether their handicap is 2 or 22, we believe all golfers deserve the same trusted, reliable course maps that no Tour Pro would play without. The introduction of SGXw establishes the most advanced distance measuring device in golf, and represents the next phase in our mission to help golfers play smarter, play better, play faster and have more fun.”

Highlights of the SkyCaddie SGXw:
Dynamic RangeVue - designed for smarter and easier club selections, RangeVue’s preset yardage arcs adjust dynamically over fairway landing areas and greens to allow golfers to select the best club for every shot much more quickly. RangeVue provides more information, faster and more reliably than any laser rangefinder without aiming or requiring line of sight.

PinPoint Technology with IntelliGreen MAKES LASERS OBSOLETE- no more aiming and missing with lasers trying to get hole positions. PinPoint Technology allows golfers to measure “to the hole” by adding pin positions. Combined with SkyCaddie’s patented IntelliGreen® feature, golfers have yardages they need to the front carry, back, center and hole location, automatically from any line of approach. PinPoint eliminates the need for line of sight and the frustration golfers have with aiming and keeping a laser steady. The powerful combination of PinPoint and Intelligreen will help golfers avoid greenside bunkers, hit more greens and have more putts for birdie even if they don’t have line of sight.

New Wireless Convenience Makes Preloads Obsolete. Preloaded courses are basically “out of date” before the device is sold and can be risky and unreliable. The SkyCaddie SGXw connects wirelessly to SkyGolf’s vast library of precision courses via Wi-Fi at home, the office, the golf course or hotspot for fast, easy course downloads of the same complete and reliable course information. After a round, upload your scores instantly to ClubSG, golf’s fastest growing community, for analysis without cables or computers. For wireless access “on the go,” most cell phone carriers now offer wireless tethering to access the smartphone’s Internet access as a “personal hotspot.”

These SGXw features combine with key proprietary technology that enhances SkyCaddie’s position as golf’s market leader, including:
Interactive HoleVue with Patented Auto Zoom - with an eagle’s view of the entire hole, golfers get the distances they need to avoid hazards and play smart golf from tee to green. Using the precision of the NEW Optical Trackpad, golfers can measure to any point on the hole whether they can see what’s ahead or not.
IntelliGreen Pro – designed to save strokes and reduce three putts, IntelliGreen Pro adds distances to major green contours and false fronts, plus any other point on the green from a golfer’s angle of attack.

Complementing these SkyCaddie features, SkyGolf makes no compromises on components. The SGXw also features a large 3-inch, high-resolution, transflective TFT-LCD screen for brilliant images in the brightest sunlight; an Omni-Directional, High Performance GPS Antenna - stays locked to optimize performance and accuracy in all terrains, even under tree foliage; TruePoint GPS Precision Positioning Technology - a proprietary high-performance GPS engine for ultra-fast satellite acquisition, unmatched accuracy and proven reliability; an Optical Trackpad - providing quick and easy navigation without touching, scratching or getting your display dirty; AutoView - enabling golfers to change between the SkyCaddie’s most popular screens — HoleVue, IntelliGreen, and the Scorecard — with a simple turn of the wrist; and is preloaded with up to 30,000 courses, ready to play with basic green information. At the end of a round, thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity, golfers can quickly and easily transfer with the click of button scores and stats to ClubSGBETA, the fastest growing community in the game for passionate golfers, for post-game analysis and game tracking.

Adds Edmonson, “Everyone wants to buy a better game, so when it comes to distances, even high handicap golfers can be equal to better golfers, if they buy a SkyCaddie rangefinder because of our commitment to reliability and accuracy. Clearly, SkyCaddie has proven it is the most trusted rangefinder in the game. The new Wi-Fi-enabled SkyCaddie SGXw enhances that position, providing our community of passionate golfers with revolutionary golf mobility and allowing them to arrive at the first tee with confidence, ready to go with critical yardages they can trust.”

Suggested retail price of the new SkyCaddie SGXw, which is offered with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, is $399.95. Golfers can also enjoy a lower price to ownership when they trade-in a used SkyCaddie, a laser rangefinder or golf clubs. For more information on the SGXw, SkyCaddie membership plans and trade-in programs, visit www.skycaddie.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Greg Norman Eyewear Debuts at 2012 PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-25T16:56:00.000-05:00

(PEMBROKE PARK, FL) - Greg Norman Performance Eyewear makes its international debut at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando Jan. 26-29 and will be on display inside the Greg Norman Collection booth # 5673.

The collection is a balance of sport and lifestyle styles including high contrast and polarized lenses. The EXtreme Performance collection features lenses with NXT lens technology for extreme clarity and high color definition.

A complete tournament program for outings and events will be offered featuring customized logoed cases. The collection can be viewed at www.gregnormaneywear.com/performance. A grand prize drawing will be held for one complete collection of 24 pairs retail value over $2000.00. Only qualified golf accounts are eligible.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Difficult to Discuss ... More Painful to Tolerate

2012-01-25T16:31:00.000-05:00

New performance underwear alleviates friction, chafing for men's most sensitive region

(Durham, Ore.) - Sweat, or "schwet", in Saturday Night Live terms, happens, often around a man's most private regions. Though it is a cringe-worthy subject, sweat and friction -especially during and after a long round of golf - are real problems that can cause discomfort at best and painful, bow-legged chafing at worst.

RUEZ Performance Underwear was created by Chris Varney, an avid sportsman and medical equipment representative who wanted to find a solution to this little-discussed but quietly tolerated condition. Unlike traditional performance garments, his creation features a hole cut through the underwear's front panel, which leads to a covered compression pouch. The resulting design delivers a comfortable way to separate and protect male anatomy from contact with surrounding skin.

Designed with minimal seaming to further reduce chafing, these body hugging (but non-restrictive), wicking boxers and briefs are constructed from 85% polyester and 15% spandex. A roll-resistant waist band ensures additional comfort for long events or activities requiring cross-plane motion. The boxers also feature a small back pocket to secure room keys, ID or credit cards.

"I always ask golfers if they ever have to cope with sweat or adjusting, and 100 percent of the time, the answer is affirmative," Varney explains. "RUEZ does for men what no other underwear or ointments can by eliminating skin-to-skin chafing in a man's most sensitive region."

In recent months, RUEZ has gained a significant following from urologists and other specialists who rely on the underwear's unique pouch hold post-surgical cold packs for extended periods.

RUEZ Performance Underwear (MSRP: $28.00 - 30.00) currently is available through sporting goods retailers and specialty sports shops in the Pacific Northwest. Consumers also may purchase RUEZ gear - available in men's sizes Small through XL - through the company's web site at RUEZUnderwear.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Watson unveils pink PING G20 driver for 'Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million'

2012-01-25T14:23:00.000-05:00

(PHOENIX) – Even more impressive than his custom-made, eye-popping, all-pink G20 driver is what PING Pro Bubba Watson aims to do with it: help in his goal to raise $1 million for charities this PGA Tour season. As part of the “Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million” initiative announced by Bubba, PING will donate $300 for every drive he hits over 300 yards (up to 300 drives) in 2012. Last season, he averaged nearly 315 yards per drive on the PGA Tour.

PING is also making an upfront donation of $10,000 toward its fundraising event, which it calls “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING.” All funds raised will go to Phoenix-area charities, chosen by PING with Bubba’s support.

“I’m very fortunate to have great sponsors, and it’s awesome that PING has built me this amazing pink G20 driver and challenged me to deliver,” Watson said. “Pink has always made me stand out, but now it’s going to bring attention for a good cause, so I have extra motivation to hit the ball as far as I can. My goal is to make PING pay every cent,” he added with a smile.

PING Chairman & CEO John A. Solheim would be fine with that. “We have always admired how Bubba wears his heart on his sleeve and how generous he is,” said Solheim, who first met Bubba as a teenager. “His objectives are in step with ours -- to make the community where you live and work a better place. When he announced his intentions, we thought it was a natural fit for showcasing his towering drives with a pink G20 driver that makes you smile just to look at it. This year we have more reason than ever to hope that he’s ‘Bubba long’ and that every one of his drives goes past 300 yards.”

Written in cursive on the crown of his G20 driver are the words, “Made Exclusively for Bubba.” The loft is 8.5 degrees, the 44.50-inch shaft is a pink True Temper Grafalloy Bi-Matrix. Grips are PING 703 Gold. He takes 10 wraps of tape under his right hand, 12 wraps under his left.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

EWGA Records $66 million Golf Impact; Announces National Initiatives

2012-01-24T15:00:00.000-05:00

EWGA Embraces New Members, Programs and Services in 2012

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA) – EWGA – the trend-setting organization which enables current and aspiring business and professional women to learn, connect and play through golf – is using the power of its more than 14,000 members and their $66 million impact on the game in 2011, to create new opportunities for existing members and welcome new ones.

EWGA is the largest women-focused amateur golf association in the U.S., with 125 chapters in nearly every U.S. major market and corporate center, and in Canada and Europe. It provides affordable, organized golf, free networking, business and success insights from accomplished executives, travel and equipment discounts, and a variety of local and national benefits.

“We are constantly evolving to provide meaningful experiences and connections for our diverse members, allowing them to more fully engage in a membership tailored to their needs – young or mature, beginner or established golfer, traveler or stay-at-home,” said EWGA Chief Executive Officer Pam Swensen. “EWGA is helping women stay in the game, through contemporary, customized programs and services, and building lifelong friendships.”

Among the many benefits offered in 2012, all EWGA members will have access to the nation’s largest amateur golf tournament, interface with industry leaders such as Donna Orender, Mark Steinberg and Ty Votaw through a series of Web Café talks and Golfpalooza (its national 4-day conference), enjoy admission to all domestic LPGA and Symetra Futures Tour events, use discounts at over 250 golf courses across the U.S., and have multiple playing and learning opportunities in local communities across the country all year long. Initial membership to join EWGA at the Classic level costs $155; thereafter, annual Classic level membership renewals are $130 per year.

At the core of its 2012 initiatives is the plan to broaden its reach and appeal to new members who are in their prime career growth years and looking for tools to succeed. The association now promotes itself as EWGA, an acronym in which “E” takes on the professional or personal meaning it holds for each individual.

Enriching, enjoyable, extensive, enlightening, expedient, energetic and essential are some of the many definitions women assign the “E” in EWGA. Reflecting this reality is the EWGA’s 2012 promotional slogan “What’s Your E?”

A recent poll of EWGA’s members resulted in the national campaign.

“I joined EWGA to find like-minded women to play golf with,” said member Joan of the Chicago-Metro Chapter. “The friendships I've made along the way have grown into more worth than an annual membership fee. I know the friendships I've gained will endure forever.”

“I enjoy the friendships, but I keep coming back for the golfing opportunities – playing a variety of courses (including some that I wouldn't be able to access otherwise), chances for competition and golf travel draws me to EWGA,” said member Julie from the Raleigh, N.C., chapter.

“EWGA provides a comfortable environment for women to begin their 'relationship' with golf. I love the positive energy and excitement of a novice golfer who is receiving encouragement from our group – and then she hits a shot well and that feels really great,” said member Sharon, of the Boston chapter.

Based on a 2011 survey conducted by the PGA of America, EWGA members represent some of the most passionate golfers in the game, logging more than 35 rounds annually on average and spending over $4,500 individually towards rounds, equipment, travel and other golf-related items. The majority are in their prime earning years, with 27% in management or senior management positions within small and large international corporations. Many were beginner golfers when they first joined, hoping to advance their careers and their game.

“EWGA focuses on working women who need a supportive, proactive environment to learn or compete in golf. It empowers them on and off the course,” said Swensen. “And we have fun doing it. EWGA women are more connected within their chapters as colleagues, contemporaries and friends than any other organization they join.”

For more information about EWGA, membership and chapter locations, visit www.ewga.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Adams Golf to Make Many Aspirational Golfers Happy with Idea Black CB3 Irons

2012-01-24T11:03:00.000-05:00

Forged game-improvement irons that even better players can appreciate

(PLANO, Texas) - When it comes to game-improvement irons, they can sometimes look a little thick and boxy, but not so with the latest from Adams Golf. The introduction of the Idea Black CB3 Irons, which are finely-tuned and crafted from forged 8620 steel and designed to add forgiveness from the 4 iron through Gap Wedge, will have a wide range of players wanting to add these to their bags. It's the look, the feel and the performance that puts the CB3s in a class all to itself.

"With the CB3's we wanted to create a club with great feel and striking looks but also one that would perform well for a wide range of golfers," said Tim Reed, Vice President of Research and Development of Adams Golf. "We accomplished this with the CB3. Its design enhancements will definitely improve performance for the better player and the aspiring golfer as well."

Triple Milled & Multi-Material Advantage
The CB3 irons use a triple milled construction technique to enhance perimeter weighting and create an extremely thin face with precision grooves that deliver a high level of feel, performance and consistency. The Idea Black CB3 Irons also feature a new multi-material badge in the back cavity which greatly improves vibration and sound.

Custom Fitting
The Idea Black CB3 Irons will be highly customizable. Authorized Adams Golf fitters will have a CB3 fitting kit which has the ability to change lie angle, length, shaft flex and shaft type to fine tune the irons for each golfer's specific game. This set will also be integrated into Adams Golf's HITfit application. Based on an individual's 6-iron launch data, the HITfit app will recommend the proper set makeup including fairway woods, hybrids, irons, and wedges in order to provide the most optimized set each golfer's unique characteristics.

Stock and Custom Shaft Offerings
The Idea Black CB3 Irons will be offered with exceptional premium shafts: KBS Tour 90 (steel) or the Matrix Ozik Program 8.1 (graphite) as the stock shaft options. Through the custom fitting process, other shafts are available at no additional cost (see below for a complete list).

M. Puglielli Black Wedge - Improved Performance
For 2012, the forged M. Puglielli Black Wedges feature a new radial sole geometry that provides heel and toe relief to reduce turf interaction for more consistent shot making from all sorts of lies. Increased spin performance and feel is delivered from a triple milling process (face, grooves and back cavity) along with a laser engraved face to achieve maximum permissible surface roughness. In addition, the M. Puglielli Black Wedges will feature the DG Spinner shaft which can further increase spin up to 700 RPM for even more control. These high performance wedges are offered in RH, LH and multiple bounce and loft combinations.

Models, Pricing and Availability
The Idea Black CB3 irons will have a suggested retail price (MSRP) for $899.99 (steel) and $1099.99 (graphite). They will be offered in both right and left hand in regular, stiff and extra stiff flexes. The Puglielli Black Wedges will have a suggested retail price of $149.99. Both products will be available in stores and online beginning March 1.

Available Models:
Idea Black CB3 Standard Set Makeup: 4-GW
Also available through custom order: 3-iron
Idea Black CB3 Custom Shaft Options: True Temper Dynamic Gold
Project X
Project X Flighted
KBS Tour
KBS Tour Smoke
KBS C-Taper ($15 upcharge)
2012 Puglielli Black Lofts and Bounces: 52-08*, 54-08. 56-11*, 56-14, 58-06, 58-10
60-01, 60-06* (* Available in Left-Hand)

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cross Golf USA Will Launch Exciting 2012 Golf Apparel Collection for Men, Women and Juniors

2012-01-24T11:00:00.001-05:00

View at the PGA Merchandising Show Jan. 26-28 in Booth 4751

CROSS GOLF Representatives from Sweden, USA and New Zealand and several CROSS GOLF USA Ambassadors will be on hand to present the exciting 2012 collection for men, women and children and discuss the features that make CROSS GOLF apparel the 'go to' line for the discerning golfer who expect high performance fabric, incredible style and functionality all in one.

High performance fabric:
Cross FTX TM combinations are based on a membrane technology and used in CROSS' high performance garments, allowing the outer fabric to be waterproof while maintaining high levels of breathability. Cross FTX TM garments not only protect you from the elements, but also manage moisture and maintain proper heat balance to keep you dry.

Incredible Style & Functionality:
The Cross 2012 golf collection, inspired by Swedish pop icons, draws its inspiration from stars of Swedish pop such as Robyn - modern and a little edgy - and from the cool and slightly more chic style of the Cardigans.

The 2012 golf apparel line features bright spring colors for men, women and juniors. The men's collection showcases bright fern and flare blue in the brass and vapour; the women's line features stunning aurora yellow, bright fern and juicy pink and the junior collection offers the same color palates and contemporary designs as the adult golf apparel line.

CROSS GOLF Representatives attending the show include:
* Hakan Ekstrand, President & Chairman of the Board, Cross Sweden
* Brent McCarty, Chairman, CROSS GOLF USA
* Diana McCarty, President, CROSS GOLF USA
* Jason McCarty, Partner, CROSS GOLF USA
* Carla Bunge, US Brand Representative, CROSS GOLF USA
* Ann Liguori, CROSS GOLF Ambassador, Media/Marketing Liason

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PowerBilt's New Grand Slam Lineup Is About 'Fitting Clubs to Your Game' - at Unmatched Pricing

2012-01-24T06:56:00.000-05:00

(THOUSAND PALMS, Calif.) - What can you get for $399.99 in golf? That's the introduction price for a new high-end driver from one of the mega brands. It's also the price for an entire set of top-quality Grand Slam clubs from PowerBilt - driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, putter and bag included.

"Grand Slam has always been known as the best bang for the buck in golf," says PowerBilt President Ross Kvinge. "But that's not all. Grand Slam is also about fitting clubs to your game."

The standard $399.99 set comes with 12 clubs: a driver and fairway wood, two hybrids (3 and 4), seven irons (5-SW) and a putter. In addition, there is open stock that lets golfers add clubs to fit their game. Individual Grand Slam clubs are also offered in 5, 7, 9 and 11 fairway woods, plus a 6 hybrid and a lob wedge. Open-stock pricing is as follows: $99.99 for titanium driver, $69.99 for alloy driver, $49.99 for fairway wood or hybrid and $39.99 for lob wedge.

Grand Slam is designed for golfers ranging from beginners to mid-handicappers. "It's certainly a set of clubs that are user friendly and designed to fit a golfer's needs and skill level for a number of years," says Kvinge.

All Grand Slam clubs are made of high-quality components. The driver is offered in a maximum-performing titanium head or a more affordable alloy head. Fairway woods and hybrids are made of 17-4 stainless steel. All woods and hybrids have lightweight, consistently performing graphite shafts and come with attractive head covers. The irons are made of durable 431-stainless steel and feature a cavity-back design with a low center of gravity making them outstanding game-improvement clubs.

A mallet putter provides a large sweet spot and optimal heel-toe weighting to help eliminate pushes and pulls. The cart bag is made of durable, lightweight nylon with a graphite 14-way top and full-length dividers plus a putter tube. Nine zipper pockets provide plenty of storage options. It even has a matching rain hood.

PowerBilt has been making the Grand Slam line of clubs for generations. And the reason is simple, says Kvinge: "Quality and value are a great combination that never goes out of style. Based on what we're offering this year, the future looks bright for Grand Slam."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

'Butch Harmon About Golf presented by Titleist' Instructional Two DVD Set Nears

2012-01-24T06:42:00.000-05:00

Available to Order Jan. 23

(LAS VEGAS, Nevada) - Butch Harmon, the world renowned golf instructor to many top names on the PGA TOUR and European TOUR, announced the upcoming release of his comprehensive golf instructional two-DVD set titled "Butch Harmon About Golf presented by Titleist."

The two-DVD set features 57 chapters containing more than 250 specific tips, totaling over four hours of instruction from the man voted #1 in Golf Digest's annual ranking of America's Best Teachers for the past 11 consecutive years. In addition, "Butch Harmon About Golf presented by Titleist" features actual footage from the golf professionals who benefited from Harmon's instruction, (alphabetically) Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Natalie Gulbis, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Greg Norman, Adam Scott, Nick Watney and Tiger Woods.

The DVD is directed by seven-time EMMY award-winner Terry Jastrow. "Butch is a natural born teacher. Every golfer in the world can benefit from the lessons delivered in this comprehensive DVD, which will set the gold standard for golf instructionals," said Jastrow.

"Butch Harmon About Golf presented by Titleist" will begin shipping April 1, but will be available to order January 23.

The DVD set will be released internationally in six languages - English, Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean and Chinese.

"Over the past 40+ years I have been blessed to work with some of the greatest players in the game: Phil, Ernie, Greg, Tiger, Seve, Freddie, and several up and coming players, such as Adam, Nick, and Dustin, who are destined to carve their names in the golf record books," says Harmon. "Obviously I am proud to have been associated with them and to have contributed in some small way to their success. But their accomplishments are only part of the overall picture of the scores of everyday players, from all walks of life who have left the practice tee after working with me, that feel that their game has been improved. For everyone that has worked with me there are thousands of golfers that I will never have a chance to try and help.

"With that thought in mind, I decided to commence work on the filming of a DVD that would share a lifetime of golf knowledge with the public that would cover: the fundamentals, identifying faults and the fixes, specialty shots, short game, sand play, putting, club selection, kids, under and over 13, women, seniors and physical fitness (by the way, I do practice what I preach as I have recently lost 35 lbs.).

The DVD was filmed with the concept of paying attention to detail, thus it is a 2-disc set, 4 hours in length and laced with interviews with some of the greatest golfers of all time.

Butch Harmon About Golf:
"My thoughts were to create a DVD that was designed to help your game, capture and retain your interest, and to entertain you. Unlike any other golf instructional DVD ever produced, I'll share my thoughts supplemented with those of the game's greatest golfers that I've had the privilege of working with."

Those players who have worked with Harmon all agree that the keys to his success are his keen eye for the strengths and weaknesses of each individual player's swing; his comprehensive understanding of the game; his ability to communicate with the golfer; his toughness; his enthusiasm for his players to succeed; and his relationship and rapport with his players, making their work about teamwork rather than individual accomplishment.

The "Butch Harmon About Golf presented by Titleist" DVD set is sponsored by Titleist, Winn Grips, Rolex, Golf Digest and JMA and will be available for $79.95 on-line at www.butchharmondvd.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Glove It's New Golf Accessories Reflect Runway Trends

2012-01-24T06:30:00.001-05:00

Luscious metallics, tribal designs leap from catwalk to PGA Show

(Tempe, Ariz.) - Glove It - a leading manufacturer or women's golf accessories - is bringing fashion directly from the runway and on to the range with the introduction of its 2012 collection. The industry's only fully merchandised accessories line features a wide assortment of on-trend golf gloves, shoe bags and hats, as well as cart-style golf bags. This year, the company has expanded its lineup to include off-course styles including tote bags, wristlets and cross-body bags, among others.

With its new Signature collection, Glove It turned to nature for its inspiration. The company's Python design puts a new spin on fashion's animal print obsession, adding just a touch of the sophisticated black-on-white snakeskin pattern to gloves, visors, a new golf bag and more. Likewise, its Montana lineup adds a distressed finish to a beige and cream tone-on-tone design, bringing a rich finish to a visor, military cap, glove, as well as bags, towels, club covers and cart bag.

Growing out of the recent craze for metallics, Glove It's new Bling collection brings a hint of luminescence to the range. Designed to add a splash of glam without going overboard, coil-back visors and matching gloves are made available in shimmering finishes including Gunmetal, Olive, Light Blue, Hot Pink, Turquoise, White and Black.

Nine & Wine, the new collection created in partnership the fashionable illustration house, Bloom Designs, is ideally suited for tournament tee prizes and member guest gifts. Whimsically illustrated with images of wine glasses and golf accessories, this collection pops with bright pinks and greens on a white background, accented with coordinated zippers and pulls. The Nine & Wine pattern is available on Glove It visors, caps, accessory bags, golf towels, cross-body bag, full-fingered gloves, as well as on the wine Woozie stemmed glass koozie.

Rounding out the 2012 Glove It line are offerings from its Sport series, featuring a bold pink-and-black Pinkadilly Plaid; Red Damask with gingham trim; an earthy Meadow Twin print; black-on-white Bamboo print; plus a Grecian-inspired yellow-and-granite Citron design.

Glove It's 2012 releases (MSRP: $18.95 - $247.95) are available at golf sporting goods and green grass shops nationwide, as well as through its web site. The entire collection will be on display at the PGA Merchandise Show (Jan. 25 - 28, 2012) in Booth #3965.

For more information, visit or Facebook.com/GloveItLLC.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Wilson wins with PING i20s

2012-01-23T22:15:00.000-05:00

PING’s new i20 driver and irons help lead Wilson to victory

(PHOENIX) – PING’s new i20 driver and irons are winners in only their third event on the PGA TOUR. PING Pro Mark Wilson relied on the new technology in claiming his fifth tour title on Sunday at the Humana Challenge in La Quinta, Calif.

Wilson switched to the i20 driver and irons in the off-season and he gave the clubs their debut at the season-opening tournament at Kapalua, where he finished T1 in driving accuracy. “Usually it takes me a little time, but this was an easy change,” Wilson said, following his Humana win, where he hit 80% of the greens-in-regulation for the week. “They looked great to my eye and they perform better, so it was a no-brainer.”

Wilson relied on an 8.5-degree i20 driver with True Temper’s Grafalloy Tour X shaft. The i20 driver’s aerodynamic crown is engineered to reduce drag for maximizing clubhead speed, ball velocity and distance. Its matte-black finish eliminates glare. In his i20 irons, he played 4-PW with PING’s CS Lite steel shafts. His color code is Yellow. The multi-metal irons are workable and feature a progressive design. High-launching long irons blend with smaller short irons for optimizing control and shot making.

“We’re very excited for Mark, and to see him win so quickly with the i20 driver and irons is especially satisfying,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “Early success with our newest technology is the best form of validation for our design process. We watched Mark play a lot of great shots all week at La Quinta, even in windy conditions. We were gratified to see that the i20s offer a level of performance and innovation that the game’s best players can rely on to compete and win.”

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sunice Tour Professional Mark Wilson Wins Humana Challenge

2012-01-23T22:11:00.000-05:00

(Montreal, Quebec) - Sunice Tour Pro Mark Wilson shot 3-under par for the final round of the Humana Challenge on the Palmer Private Course at PGA West in La, Quinta, California to win the event by two strokes with a score of 24-under par for the four day event.

"I am very excited to offer my congratulations to Mark Wilson on his fifth PGA TOUR victory," said Mark Fletcher, president of Sunice. "We are very pleased to be continuing our long term relationship with Mark and wish him continued success through the end of the season."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

aboutGolf Announces Partnership with David Leadbetter

2012-01-23T22:05:00.000-05:00

Leadbetter to Appear at aboutGolf Booth #3343 at PGA Merchandise Show

(Maumee, OH) - aboutGolf, Limited, global leader in golf simulator and golf performance technology announced a new partnership with world-renowned golf instructor David Leadbetter. The kick off to this partnership will occur Jan. 27 from 10-11 a.m. where Leadbetter will appear at the aboutGolf booth #3343 at the PGA Merchandise Show.

Leadbetter's relationship with aboutGolf and its PGA TOUR Simulators includes an impending installation of the world-class technology at his famous David Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters, ChampionsGate, located near Orlando.

As well, Leadbetter has joined the company's Board of Innovation, bringing unsurpassed knowledge and expertise to the notable group, which serves an advisory role regarding new product development, prototype feedback and market opportunities and includes professionals who are proficient in not only golf, but also engineering, aeronautics, biomechanics, golf course design, field operations, and golf product development and marketing.

"I am honored to work with aboutGolf and its state-of-the-art technology," says Leadbetter. "We have a mutual passion for the game of golf and share a desire to improve it. Joining forces is guaranteed to change the game of golf."

Widely known for his work with countless PGA TOUR, European Tour, LPGA Tour and Champions Tour players, as well as his pioneering teaching techniques, Leadbetter has been instructing championship golfers for more than 30 years - including four who have achieved No. 1 in the World Golf Ranking.

"aboutGolf's affiliation with David Leadbetter is an exciting advancement for golf as a game and an industry," says Chuck Faust, President, aboutGolf. "We are excited to incorporate his expertise with our technology and development, and are enthusiastic about the golf-training advancements that will emerge from this partnership."

In addition to his on-the-course knowledge, Leadbetter offers expertise rounded by membership as a Master Professional with the Professional Golfers Association, instruction editor for Golf Channel and teaching professional for Golf Digest.

For additional information on the Board of Innovation members, please visit www.aboutgolf.com/ag-difference/partners.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Rickie Fowler and Cobra Golf - It's Go Time

2012-01-23T21:59:00.000-05:00

Golfing Superstar, Rickie Fowler, Signs with COBRA Golf

(CARLSBAD, CA) — Today COBRA Golf made it official, golfing sensation, Rickie Fowler, will join their worldwide roster of professional golfers. COBRA Golf will supply Rickie with the latest golf clubs as well as Tour Staff Bags and a selection of accessories. Rickie, who signed with PUMA Golf in 2009, will now represent the full COBRA PUMA GOLF brand both on and off the course. Rickie will also be featured in upcoming marketing campaigns for both COBRA and PUMA Golf.

“Rickie’s focus, determination and performance combined with his stand out style and joy for the game make him a perfect match for COBRA Golf,” said Bob Philion, President of COBRA PUMA GOLF. “He has had a tremendous effect in the golf industry over the past few years and his influence continues to grow. As we continue the revitalization of COBRA globally, Rickie Fowler will be instrumental in bringing our core DNA to life by being grounded in performance while bringing an edgy, unique personality and style to life. He will help us introduce the new COBRA Golf to a new group of consumers.”

To celebrate Rickie’s full COBRA PUMA GOLF partnership, ‘orange-outs’ will happen at various Tour events, COBRA PUMA GOLF Experiences, retailers and this week at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show. ‘Orange-outs’ will celebrate Rickie Fowler, his favorite color and the new COBRA AMP™ line of drivers, irons, hybrids and fairway woods. In some instances, fans will be able to participate and support Rickie, like this week at the Farmer’s Insurance Open. For information how you can join in on the fun, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cobra.

Rickie will start out the year with COBRA’s brand new AMP Driver featuring E9 Face Technology with dual roll, Advanced Material Placement, Adjustable Flight Technology with details in Rickie’s favorite color, vibrant orange, the AMP 3-Wood and AMP Pro Prototype Irons. Throughout the year, he will continue to test new COBRA Golf product and add it to his bag.

“I am so excited to have the COBRA sticks in my bag and be a full part of the COBRA PUMA GOLF Team,” said Fowler. “I’ve been hitting the AMP Driver great; I’m getting a lot more distance and the orange details look really fresh. I can’t wait to get out at Torrey Pines and put my new COBRA clubs into play.”

Rickie turned professional in 2009 and won his first professional event in 2011 at the Kolon Korea Open, where he beat out top competitors Rory McIlroy and Y.E. Yang to take home the title. He kicks off his 2012 season with the Farmer’s Insurance Open Jan. 26. Consumers can pick up their AMP Drivers, Irons and Hybrids starting Feb. 10. To find a dealer near you, visit cobragolf.com/dealer-locator.

For more information on COBRA PUMA GOLF, visit www.cobrapumagolf.com. Find on Facebook: Facebook.com/cobra, facebook.com/pumagolf. Follow on Twitter: @cobragolf and @pumagolf.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Axis1 Golf to Introduce Umbra Belly at PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-23T08:14:00.000-05:00

(West Roxbury, MA) - Axis1 Golf, maker of the world's first perfectly balanced torque free putter, announces the launch of the latest version of the Axis1 Umbra - the Umbra Belly. The Umbra has gotten the attention of both PGA Professionals and retailers worldwide, as well as being named the 2008 PGA Merchandise Show Most Innovative Club. The Axis1 Umbra Belly will be debuted for the first time at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla., at Booth #1011.

"Axis1 Umbra has been a very successful product for us. From this success we have found that there was a high demand for the belly length version," states Phil Long, Axis1 Golf Vice President. "Axis1 Umbra Belly will be the world's first perfectly balanced Belly Putter. It is developed with the same attributes of the original Umbra putter which have proven to eliminate the torque that exists from other putters causing the head face to open during the swing."

The Axis1 Umbra Belly is designed with a modern mallet head and offers a higher MOI for enhanced stability along with an L-Frame Alignment feature allowing better visual frames when addressing the ball. The Belly is available in 43" and 45" lengths.

"We have done testing with our PGA Tour staffers and a group of our PGA Professional advisory staff last fall and the feedback was extremely positive" Long stated. "The feedback was so good that shortly after the show the Axis1 Umbra Belly will make it's debut on the professional tours which is a great endorsement for this new putter."

Axis1 will be participating at the Outdoor Demo Day Jan. 25 at Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge in Orlando, Florida. Luis Pedraza, founder and designer of the Axis1 brand, will be available on the putting green to showcase the new Axis1 Umbra Belly as well as the award-winning Eagle and Umbra putters to influential PGA Professionals and VIP retailers.

For appointments to see the latest addition to the Axis1 Putter Collection please contact Phil Long at phillong@axis1golf.com. For more information, please visit www.axis1golf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cutter & Buck Introduces New Logo, Brand Identity

2012-01-23T08:04:00.001-05:00

(SEATTLE) – Cutter & Buck has unveiled a new logo that is intended to retain the core elements of the company’s previous logo, but also provide for a striking and modern look that reinforces an overall new brand initiative while evoking the classic styling for which the company has long been renowned.

The company, established in 1989 in Seattle, announced that it would be embracing its regional heritage with a new brand identity, “Genuine Spirit of the Pacific Northwest.” As part of the brand initiative, the company introduced a denim-based fashion line, which epitomizes the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

While not straying too far from its proud 20-plus years tradition of golf-inspired premier, high-quality sportswear, Cutter & Buck executives said the goal of the new initiative is to evolve its brand from niche-specialty to a global lifestyle brand, befitting of the Pacific Northwest where residents naturally thrive between an urban and outdoor lifestyle.

For more details, contact Cutter & Buck at (800) 713-7810 or visit www.cutterbuck.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

P3ProSwing Introduces Online Play

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

(BETHEL, Me.) - P3ProSwing (www.p3proswing.com), an award-winning golf-swing analyzer, instructional aid and simulator, will introduce its new online-play feature at the PGA Merchandise Show Jan. 26-28 in Orlando, Fla. P3ProSwing technology will be on display in booth #1759.

“Now P3ProSwing users will be able to play golf online against one another, playing on any of our 41 virtual golf courses and competing with players from around the world,” said Jay Russo, managing partner of P3ProSwing. “This exciting new feature allows players to enjoy competing, using their golf skills and their own clubs.”

Individuals can host a game or play with any of the other 11,000 P3ProSwing unit owners worldwide. By connecting with other P3ProSwing users, golfers can see their shots on the screen and enjoy head-to-head playing action. Using Skype or other communication tools, players can see their partners and competitors during a round, as well as their shots in real time. The online-play capability, already incorporated into P3ProSwing units, has been activated through the P3ProSwing server and now is a live feature for the global network of P3ProSwing customers with the most recent software or those who choose to upgrade to it.

Through the P3ProSwing Facebook page or the P3PlayGlobal.com forum to be launched March 1, P3ProSwing owners will be able to find other P3ProSwing owners who are looking to play golf online.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PING Sponsors $5,000 ‘Skins Game’

2012-01-23T07:47:00.000-05:00

Putting Contest at PGA Merchandise Show

(PHOENIX) – PING is inviting PGA Professionals from around the world to test their putting skills against their colleagues for a chance to win up to $5,000 in prize money at the PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 25-28, in Orlando, Fla.

“The PING $5,000 Putting Skins Game” will utilize all the features of the company’s iPING putter app, including the recently released “Skins Game” function, to crown a champion. The competition is exclusively for PGA Professionals on PING’s expansive putting green at its booth in the Orange County Convention Center. The finals will be held as part of PING’s main stage presentation Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. in the PGA Equipment Forum.

“We’re looking forward to giving PGA Professionals a great experience with every feature of our iPING putter app, and in particular the iPING Skins Game,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman and CEO. “The app offers a wide variety of tools that PGA Professionals can use to expand their fitting and teaching services, and ‘The PING $5,000 Putting Skins Game’ is a fun way to get everyone excited about bringing this one-of-a-kind technology back to their home course.”

Qualifying takes place during show hours, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Jan. 26. Players first register at PING’s booth, where they will be fit for the event with either a new Anser Milled or Nome putter using the app’s iPING Fit feature. iPING Fit identifies a contestant’s stroke type – straight, slight arc, or strong arc – and matches him or her with the model that fits their stroke, the key to more consistency on the greens. Classifying PING models by their face angle and corresponding stroke type is a new putter-fitting approach the company calls Fit for Stroke.

After a competitor is Fit for Stroke and chooses a putter, he or she rolls five 10-foot putts to record a Consistency Score, reflected in a number similar to a golf handicap, as determined by the iPING app’s Measure mode. Measure is a key feature of the iPING app for the iPhone 4, iPhone4S or iPod touch (4th generation). The app works in conjunction with a PING Cradle, which holds the mobile device and clips onto the putter shaft just below the grip.

Everyone who competes in Thursday’s qualifying will receive a free PING Cradle. The 32 players who post the best Consistency Scores on Thursday will advance to Friday’s match-play competition, which utilizes the iPING Skins Game.

The top 32 will be notified to return for their designated tee time Friday morning, when they will compete in two-person, single-elimination iPING Skins Game matches until the four players with the most consistent putting strokes have advanced to the afternoon finals.

The Finals
For the finals Friday at 1 p.m., the PING Cradles and the mobile devices come off, and the four finalists will play a three-hole skins game putting to actual golf holes at various distances. The game format will follow a traditional skins competition where holes have rising dollar values. The first hole is worth $1,000, the second $1,500, and the third $2,500.

iPING Skins Game is available now for current users, and new users can download the iPING app for free from the App Store on iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.   Cradles are available from PING authorized golf shops. PING Cradles are available for the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (4th generation).

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PGA Certified Professional Program 2.0 Makes Historic Debut

2012-01-23T07:41:00.000-05:00

Launch of New and Improved All-Digital Training and Education for PGA members Offers Flexible Curriculum Based on Demands of Golf Industry Employers and Consumers

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA Education has formally unveiled the first component of a new, multi-million dollar investment in the professional development of PGA members, with the launch of the PGA Certified Professional Program 2.0 (CPP 2.0) as the centerpiece of The PGA of America’s advanced training and education curriculum.

Aligned with the goals of the Golf 2.0 strategic initiative to give PGA members a state-of-the-art skillset to grow the game of golf, PGA CPP 2.0 is an online, career-enhancing education curriculum that ensures that PGA members have the skills, competencies and job requirements demanded by employers and customers throughout the golf industry.

Designed with direct input from employers and industry experts to immediately enhance PGA members’ expertise and performance in the workplace, the all-digital PGA CPP 2.0 is an intuitive program available on PGALinks.com that will offer four certifications – Golf Operations (now live); General Management (now live); Player Development (a new certification scheduled to debut in Spring 2012); and Instruction (Summer 2012) – which will span across seven defined Career Paths.

“The PGA Certified Professional Program 2.0 is a relevant, user-friendly career enhancement tool for PGA members to gain the critical skills needed to respond to a rapidly changing marketplace,” said PGA President Allen Wronowski. “The PGA of America is committed to providing lifelong learning and education of its Members that they can translate knowledge acquired into performance in the workplace in real time, in order to grow their business and the game.”

The all-digital upgrade offers rich and vibrant content that is fun and easy to use across a library of 3,000 course offerings.

“PGA CPP 2.0 is designed to provide a good user experience that is easy to understand and directly focused to what matters most on the job—grow customers and improve profitability,” said Dawes Marlatt, a PGA Master Professional and PGA Director of Education. “The entire program is an investment in the PGA member, so they can literally learn the information today…and apply it tomorrow, using a flexible design, fewer required courses and more self-directed electives.”

The seven career paths encompass: Golf Operations, Retail, General Management, Executive Management, Ownership and Leasing, Golf Instruction and Player Development.

“Continuing Education has always been a hallmark of The PGA of America,” said PGA Employment Consultant Phil Berry. “We have updated the content and the delivery system to cater to the needs of today’s employer, especially in the areas of sales and marketing, growth of the game and player development. CPP 2.0 is designed to enrich a PGA member’s arsenal of skills, in order to set you apart in your current job or to demonstrate to your employer a commitment, ability and readiness to move up into the management ranks.”

Attendees at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla., can “test drive” the new CPP 2.0 with a guided tour at the PGA Member Business Center in the Valencia Room on the 4th Floor of the Orange County Convention Center, Jan. 26-28.

For more information, PGA Members are encouraged to contact the PGA CPP 2.0 Mentor line at (866) 866-3382 Ext. 4 or pgacpp2mentor@pgahq.com.

Professional Golf Coach Sean Foley Signs with PSP Golf as Lead Endorser of "The Little One" Club

2012-01-23T07:40:00.000-05:00

Foley to appear in aboutGolf simulator at the PGA 2012 Merchandise Show Jan. 28

(SCOTTSDALE) - PSP Golf is thrilled to announce a new partnership with prominent golf instructor Sean Foley, who will become the lead endorser for the revolutionary practice club The Little One - the most used game-improvement club on Tour.

The Little One is a warm-up club that is comprised of a seven-iron with normal specifications but uses a club-face roughly the size of a golf ball. Foley will also endorse PSP's The Wee One, a similar tool for junior golfers.

"This is an extraordinary opportunity for PSP Golf. We are honored and look forward to our partnership with Sean, who we consider one of the best young minds in golf," says Dan Bonomo, President/CEO of PSP. "Our visibility and acceptance among Tour players and teaching pros has continued to grow, while amateurs are quickly understanding The Little One is a simple warm-up club that if used on the range before play will help lower scores and make them better players."

To mark the beginning of this partnership, Foley will be appearing at PSP's The Little One booth at the PGA 2012 Merchandise Show taking place at the Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando, FL on Saturday, January 28th from 1 to 2:30 p.m. At the show, he will sign autographs and answer questions from fans following a live demonstration with "The Little One". Prior to his appearance in the PSP booth, Foley will give another live demonstration of the product in an aboutGolf Simulator at Booth #3343 at 12:30 p.m. Representatives from Henry-Griffitts (HG), custom club fitting pioneer and distributor for PSP's The Little One, will be available to answer questions. PSP will also be promoting a contest that will see the winner receive a three hour lesson with Foley.

"The Little One is one of the best warm-up clubs I have ever seen," says Foley. "It will quickly help improve ball striking, concentration, swing plane, tempo, and confidence no matter what caliber of player you are."

Foley's clients, which include Hunter Mahan, Stephen Ames, Tiger Woods, and Justin Rose, had outstanding years in 2011, compiling $8,112,787 in PGA Tour earnings, two victories, 22 Top-10 finishes, and two selections to the American 2011 Presidents Cup Team. Foley currently lives in Orlando with his wife and two sons, and teaches out of Orange County National.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Fila Golf to Showcase 2012 Apparel Collection at PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-22T09:25:00.001-05:00

Iconic sportswear brand offers vintage-inspired styles, new outerwear

(MONTREAL) - Fila Golf - the internationally recognized men's and women's sportswear brand exclusively licensed in North America by Fersten Worldwide -- will introduce its vintage-inspired 2012 collection featuring a new outerwear range of products at Booth 2155 during the PGA Merchandise Show, January 26-28 in Orlando, FL.

The latest offerings play off 1950s prep school athletics, blending ski, tennis and golf styling with modern technical properties and premium fabrics. The collection is enhanced by time-honored details such as mesh rolled shoulders for men, keyhole and sweetheart necklines for women and the addition of rich Crimson to the color palate.

"Our goal is to create innovative and functional apparel that is true to FILA's century-long heritage," says Nancy Robitaille, Fila Golf Principal Designer. "This line blends seamlessly with previous offerings, but has a unique flare that's both reminiscent of classic resort styles and fun."

Highlighted by premium fabrics, bold colors and authentic styling, the latest offerings are separated into six sub-collections - Essenziale, Forza, Primo, Strato, Fuori and Bersa. Color blocking, sleek stripes and subtle texturing providing a refreshing twist on golf fashion. The men's and women's polos, shirts, layering pieces, outerwear, pants, shorts, skorts and accessories retail for $20 to $140.

For more information, visit www.ShopFilaGolf.com or call 800.565.7462.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Crosshairs Golf Introducing '4 in 1' Ergo-TEE Golf Tee at 2012 PGA Show

2012-01-21T13:31:00.000-05:00

(Indianapolis, IN) - CROSSHAIRS GOLF announces that it has applied for a patent on the new Ergo-TEE. This new performance golf tee is very durable and made with a proprietary blend of synthetic materials. It is virtually unbreakable. It is also biodegradable.

The Ergo-TEE is 3 1/4" tall and it can perform three additional functions other than teeing a golf ball. It has been designed as a Pitchmark Repair Tool, a Stencil to draw straight lines on a golf ball, and a Club Groove Cleaner.

The unique ergonomic design of the CROSSHAIRS Ergo-TEE has been created for both comfort and secure finger and thumb placement to be used as a Pitchmark Repair Tool. The thumb fits comfortably on the handle at a perfect pivot angle to promote correct forward 'pushing' motion. This creates the optimal leverage to repair ball marks properly without damaging the green.

The middle section or thumb handle of the CROSSHAIRS Ergo-TEE is the same diameter as a golf ball. By placing the spherical portion of the thumb handle on top of a golf ball, it can be utilized as a Stencil to draw lines on the golf ball. This helps with both putting and driving alignment.

The CROSSHAIRS Ergo-TEE can also be utilized as a Club Groove Cleaner by placing the beveled edge of the bottom of the tee inside the grooves of a golf club iron.

Visit their Booth #3819 at the PGA Show in Orlando, January 26-28.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PowerBilt's New Air Force One DF Driver Combines Deep Face with Nitrogen Technology for 'Unmatched Power'

2012-01-21T13:21:00.000-05:00

(THOUSAND PALMS, Calif.) - What do you get when you combine PowerBilt's highly acclaimed Nitrogen-Charged technology with a deep-face driver? "Unmatched power and accuracy," says Ross Kvinge, president of PowerBilt, the only brand in the world that has continuously made hi-end golf clubs for nearly a century.

"The deep face makes a difference," adds Kvinge, referring to the new Air Force One DF driver. "Basically, we've developed a driver with a face that's 5 millimeters taller - or deeper - than the previous model. Combine that with nitrogen and you get the driver that consistently hits it long and straight no matter where the ball is struck on the face."

The challenge in today's hi-tech driving market is figuring out how to maximize driving distance within USGA limits. "There's no question that we put more technology in a driver than any other club maker," says Kvinge. "Let me prove it by counting the ways."

First and foremost is PowerBilt's patented Nitrogen-Charged technology which is found only in Air Force One clubs. By filling the clubhead with nitrogen gas, no internal bracing is needed for the clubface. At the same time, the clubface is milled remarkably thin. The face thickness is only 2.8 mm while other high-end drivers are more than 3 mm. The thinnest face in golf combined with no internal bracing creates maximum rebound effect across more of the clubface.

Secondly, the deep face helps with distance in two ways. It creates a more square face, which reflexes better and more consistently than a more rectangular face. It also reduces ball spin, which creates longer drives. And for golfers with extremely fast swing speeds, reduced ball spin can cure the distance-killing balloon effect.

The third reason the Air Force One DF is the most technology rich driver on the market is the shaft. Fujikura, one of the most popular driver shafts on the PGA Tour, has developed a proprietary shaft designed to complement the performance of the Air Force One DF clubhead. With the Fujikura proprietary shaft, the Air Force One DF's suggested retail price is $249. It's also available with Fujikura's highly acclaimed Motore shaft with an MSRP of $299.

PowerBilt is also introducing a fitting kit, which will enable key accounts to offer various branded shafts. "Each golfer has unique swing characteristics," adds Kvinge. "And with the fitting kit, our key accounts which really know how to custom fit a golfer will be able to match the appropriate shaft with our Nitrogen-Charged technology. That's giving a golfer the ultimate driver."

The finishing touch on the Air Force One DF driver is the attractive all-white crown that features an ultra-hard satin coating and a black PVD finish on the sole, meaning it will keep its handsome appearance for years to come.

FAIRWAY WOODS & HYBRIDS
All the improvements to the Air Force One DF driver are incorporated into the fairway woods, which are available in 15- and 19-degree lofts. The ultra-thin face is only 1.6 mm. The high MOI head is made of 17-4 stainless steel and has the Fujikura stock shaft. The price is $149.99. The hybrid clubs have the same features and construction and are available in 20-, 23- and 26-degree lofts. Fujikura is the stock shaft. The cost is $119.99.

"PowerBilt has something no other club-maker can offer - and that's Nitrogen-Charged Technology," states Kvinge. "We're winning customers from the megabrands because they've tried it and they've seen that nitrogen is a game changer. While we don't have the marketing muscle of the publicly owned brands, we're proving that innovation can go hand-in-hand with a traditional brand like PowerBilt."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

GolfGulfShores.com (AL) Offers Stay-and-Play Trip Giveaway

2012-01-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Coastal Destination’s Golf Show Stops include Chicago, Los Angeles and Toronto

(GULF SHORES, ALABAMA) – Gulf Shores Golf Association, a partnership of nine outstanding golf courses on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, is offering a chance to win a stay-and-play golf trip to all who visit the Golf Alabama booth at seven industry shows in the next three months.

Golf Gulf Shores will be in attendance at the following shows in conjunction with the State of Alabama Tourism Office/Golf Alabama:
* St. Louis Golf Show, Jan. 20-22
* Columbus, Ohio Golf Show, Jan. 27-29
* Tulsa, Oklahoma Golf Show, Feb, 10-12
* Cleveland, Ohio Golf Show, Feb. 17-19
* Chicago Golf Show, Feb. 24-26
* Los Angeles Golf Show, Feb. 24-26
* Toronto, Canada Golf Show, March 2-4

"Our website is jam-packed with pertinent information, including free quotes for customized stay-and-play packages, but nothing can replace meeting golfers and getting the word out about Gulf Shores in person,” says Duncan Millar, Golf Gulf Shores Executive Director.

The Stay-and-Play Package Giveaway – partnering with Kaiser Realty, Inc. – will include a 3-night stay in a 3-bedroom condominium and two days of golf for four players, or up to eight rounds of golf. One winner will be randomly drawn in March. To enter the contest, golfers need only submit their contact information at the Golf Alabama booth at any of the above expos.

Below is a small sample of packages that can be booked at www.golfgulfshores.com. These rates include all taxes and fees and are based on a group of four golfers staying four nights and playing three rounds of golf at three different pre-determined courses. Golfers booking these custom packages can add an Unlimited Golf option at all nine partner courses year-round:

* 2 Bedroom Condominium with Golf Course View
Available through 2/26/2012
Rate: $68.32 per person per night ($273.27) for golf and room
Description: Starting at rate based on 4 people staying in a two-bedroom condominium with either one king or a queen bed, two twin beds and a sleeper sofa.

* Double Queen Hotel Room with Gulf Coast View
Available through 2/26/2012
Rate: $88.65 per person per night ($354.58) for golf and room
Description: Starting at rate based on 2 people staying in a one room with two queen beds.

Other News and Notes from the Gulf Shores Golf Association:
* Getting to Gulf Shores to Become Even Easier: US Airways will expand service between Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) and the recently renamed Pensacola (Fla.) International Airport (PNS) – less than an hour’s drive from Gulf Shores/Orange Beach – starting March 25. Daily flights will arrive at Pensacola at 4:09 p.m. (leaving Washington at 2:35 p.m.) and 9:20 p.m. (leaving at 7:45 p.m.). Flights to the nation’s capital will depart Pensacola at 6 a.m. (arriving in Washington at 9:21 a.m.) and 4:40 p.m. (arriving 7:58 p.m.). US Airways Express partner Air Wisconsin will operate the service to Pensacola on 50-passenger Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ200) aircraft.

* New Mobile Website: The GSGA debuted a unique, mobile-friendly website version. The app features clickable sections for Play, Stay, Dine, Maps, Custom Quote and ENews Signup. Golfers clicking each section will find a list of section-appropriate GSGA marketing partners, with each being accessed via a click. There’s also an option to view the full website with a click. In addition, the GSGA launched a new, 3.5-minute-long HD video showcasing the beauty of all nine member courses. The video can be found on GolfAlabama.com and You Tube.

To view up-to-the-minute news, photos, events and special offers, see facebook.com/GolfGulfShores or follow the GSGA on Twitter at twitter.com/GolfGulfShores.

Travelers can also sign up for a free subscription to the Golf Gulf Shores monthly e-newsletter at www.golf.gulfshores.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Turtle Dunes Country Club Opens in Acapulco

2012-01-20T19:53:00.000-05:00

Representing Mexico's newest golf experience

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) - Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development, and marketing, announced the opening of Mexico's newest golf experience - Turtle Dunes Country Club located within the master-planned community of Princess Diamante in Acapulco.

Turtle Dunes is an exclusive, full-service country club located on the grounds of the iconic Fairmont Acapulco Princess and The Fairmont Pierre Marques. The club's new 18-hole golf course, world-class resort clubhouse, state-of-the-art fitness center, and the world's only Lorena Ochoa Golf Academy are set to reestablish the property as the foremost golf destination in Mexico.

"The opening of Turtle Dunes Country Club comes with much anticipation," said Jim Bellington, Troon's senior vice president, operations and development. "Combining the new championship-style golf course with unmatched amenities and superior customer service positions this property as the most desirable golf destination in the region."

Accessible only to members, and guests of The Fairmont Acapulco Princess and The Fairmont Pierre Marques, Turtle Dunes is a 7,250-yard gem set within a lush tropical sanctuary, featuring expansive water features and aged, towering parota trees that frame several holes. Designed by golf course architect Tripp Davis, special attention was directed at restoring the heritage of the site by recreating the rolling sand dunes that once defined the landscape. The finished project has not only created a uniquely beautiful experience for golfers, it also marks the historic return of an environment where a variety of sea turtles once nested and flourished.

Turtle Dunes and the surrounding development have been created to provide a sense of community with facilities and activities devoted to the entire family. The clubhouse includes a beach club, restaurant, large event lawn for private parties and special events, and luxurious men's and women's locker rooms. The fitness center has a full range of equipment and plans exist for a pool with private cabanas and a social ballroom. Tennis and paddle courts are also part of this complex as well as a children's activity and educational center.

Turtle Dunes is currently in the founding-member phase, offering 100 founder Diamante memberships and 100 founder Pearl memberships. After the founder Diamante and Pearl memberships are sold out, memberships will only be available only to those who own real estate in Princess Diamante. The founding-member phase is the only opportunity for people living outside Princess Diamante to acquire a Turtle Dunes membership.

For more information, visit www.turtledunescc.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Ashworth Golf Introduces New Colors to the Cardiff Shoe Collection

2012-01-20T19:45:00.000-05:00

Highly successful Ashworth footwear model adds to momentum with new color options for 2012

(Carlsbad, CA) - Ashworth Golf, an authentic golf brand dedicated to bringing modern style to the golf course, has announced the release of three new color options for the highly successful Cardiff. The expanded line of footwear will debut in February in a unique Iron colorway, followed by the introduction of Brown (March) and White (July).

The Cardiff’s spikeless platform provides more than adequate stability and traction (dry and wet environments) with strategically placed traction lugs of varying sizes designed to deliver optimal grip in all conditions even for the most competitive golfers. PGA Tour professional Sean O’Hair chose to wear the Cardiff at the 2012 Tournament of Champions after testing it over the holiday break. “I was looking for a shoe that resembled the comfort of some of the tennis shoes I wear without sacrificing performance on the course,” said O’Hair. “The Cardiff is very comfortable to walk in and it gives me the cushioning and traction I was looking for even in wet conditions, which is phenomenal.”

Since its introduction in June 2011, the Cardiff has proven to be nothing less than extraordinary; the shoe has outsold its original forecast, has been seen on the PGA Tour and become a staple in a golfer’s wardrobe. “Introducing this category to Ashworth Golf has proven successful,” said Bill Price, VP Global Footwear. “The Cardiff sold more than double the original forecast and each of the past six months we’ve exceeded monthly sales and margin goals. We’re very excited to roll-out the new colors for 2012 and keep the momentum going.”

The Cardiff was created to deliver the functionality of a traditional golf shoe with the versatility and comfort typically found in a casual town shoe. Perfect for going from the office or backyard bbq to the course, the Cardiff offers playability, wearability and sure-footed traction made to be in style everywhere and that can be worn anywhere. A tumbled, full-grain leather upper with suede accents offer durability, a rich look and feel and also waterproof protection backed by a 2-year waterproof warranty. The soft and pliable molded-rubber outsole provides a comfortable, low-profile fit without the sensation of traditional spikes.

The Cardiff is offered in medium width and for 2012 will be available in five colorways: Iron/White/Toro Feb. 1, Tan/Black/Gum available at retail March 1, and White/White/Dark Marine July 1 with a MSRP of $120 USD.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

High Definition Golf Introduces New Curved Screen Golf Simulators

2012-01-20T11:48:00.000-05:00

New Systems to be Launched at 2012 PGA Merchandise Show

(Ontario, Canada) – Interactive Sports Technologies continues its legacy of innovation with the launch of a series of new High Definition Golf simulator models that feature curved “wrap-around” screens, a wider field of view and stunning high resolution graphics.

The new wide screen simulators create a totally immersive playing environment, which is so realistic, that it will be easy to forget that you are playing indoors. These simulators feature a larger curved screen, a 16:9 aspect ratio and a screen resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. Now, “the world’s most amazing golf simulator” just became even more amazing.

Whether for entertainment, golf instruction, club fitting or golf retail, High Definition Golf systems can be configured to meet your specific needs. A large compliment of options include a Professional Golf Instruction Studio, automated video swing analysis featuring Jim McLean’s 8-Step swing system, a complete suite of tools for club fitting and equipment comparison as well as live Internet play featuring real-time audio and video.

These exciting new additions to the High Definition Golf line up include all the cutting edge technology that has made HDG the leader in the golf simulator industry. These include highly accurate ball & club tracking and measurement systems, realistic golf courses that look and play like the real thing, and intuitive easy-to-use touchscreen interfaces. This is why High Definition Golf is the definitive choice for PGA Tour pros, top golf instructors and golf equipment manufacturers.

Installation is quick and simple, with no sub-floor and minimal construction is required. And, your HD Golf simulator can be designed in either a “soft-wall” or “hard-wall” configuration for the most aesthetic appeal. Looking for a home theater? HDG Home Theater - brings movies and sporting events to life on the large high brightness/contrast screen by connecting your satellite or cable service, or by using the built-in DVD player. You can even connect a game console for the ultimate video gaming experience.

“High Definition Golf provides a turnkey solution for those looking to invest in a golf simulator. We will work with your architects, builders and designers every step of the way. We provide design, consulting and installation services, floor plans and CAD drawings as well as superior service and post installation aftercare,” says President & CEO Todd Richardson.

Be the first to tryout the next generation of High Definition Golf simulators at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show, taking place in Orlando, Fla., January 26-28, Booth #2413.

For more information please visit www.HDgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Lunar Technology Keeps Soaring with the Introduction of the Nike Lunar Ascend

2012-01-20T10:59:00.000-05:00

Nike Golf combines innovative technologies to create the ultimate lightweight summer golf shoe

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Leveraging the success of the Nike Lunar Control men’s golf shoe, Nike Golf is expanding its Lunar offering with the addition of the new Nike Lunar Ascend men’s golf shoe. Loaded with innovative Nike technology, the Nike Lunar Ascend features Nike’s Hyperfuse construction and Integrated Traction.

Available now, the Nike Lunar Ascend is engineered with the ingredients of the perfect lightweight and breathable golf shoe that combines stability and the comfort of Lunar cushioning. To achieve these optimal combinations, Nike Golf collaborated with Nike Inc. to utilize Hyperfuse construction to deliver the perfect summer golf shoe.

An upper construction technique that originated in Nike Basketball, Hyperfuse construction is an innovative multi-layered construction that ensures lightweight support, comfort, breathability and durability. Hyperfuse is an engineered composite of three different materials: an internal synthetic underlay for structure and support, a performance mesh layer for breathability and a thin TPU durable outer layer for additional protection and support. The base stability layer and the breathable layer are fused together with the thin TPU skin layer for a no-sew construction. Hyperfuse construction allows the Nike Lunar Ascend to achieve structure and stability while maintaining lightweight breathability. This Nike innovative technology results in a serious performance golf shoe.

The Nike Lunar Ascend utilizes the Tour-proven Lunarlon foam cushioning paired with an Integrated Traction performance outsole. Integrated Traction is a molded TPU outsole that enhances traction and ground feel while reducing the overall weight of the shoe. The lower profile of the Nike Lunar Ascend increases stability while utilizing Integrated Traction to eliminate spike pressure and maintain traction. The Integrated Traction outsole allows more flexibility and greater natural motion for the foot.

Developed in Nike’s Innovation Kitchen, Lunarlon cushioning system is another proprietary technology from Nike that offers underfoot comfort, ground feel and stability. The Lunarlon foam midsole is lightweight, durable and highly responsive resulting in a unique combination of cushioning and support.

Packed with golf-specific technology, the Nike Lunar Ascend is the pinnacle lightweight and breathable performance summer golf shoe.

Key Features:
* Hyperfuse technology combines synthetics, mesh and TPU
* Lunarlon cushioning in heel
* Full-length comfort sockliner
* Full-length TPU Integrated Traction
* Nike Power Platform

Nike Lunar Ascend
Available: Now
MSRP: $130.00 (MAP/Street $99.99)
Colors: White/Black-Action Red-Granite; Black/Black-Grey-Electric Green; Soar/White-Metallic Cool Grey-Black; Cool Grey/White-Black-Action Red

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cutter & Buck Renews Agreement as Official PGA of America Partner

2012-01-20T10:07:00.001-05:00

(SEATTLE) — Cutter & Buck, which designs and markets upscale sportswear and outerwear with distinctive, comfortable designs, high-quality materials and rich detailing for men and women, has extended its agreement with The PGA of America as the lead apparel partner for its spectator events, including the PGA Championship, Ryder Cup and the Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid.

This extension marks the 13th year of the partnership, which will continue through 2017.

“Cutter & Buck has been a longtime partner with The PGA of America and a tremendous supporter of the PGA Professional,” said PGA President Allen Wronowski. “We are very proud of our Championships, and we appreciate Cutter & Buck’s role in providing high-quality apparel that define the fashion of our events.”

Cutter & Buck sells its products through golf pro shops and resorts, specialty retail shops, corporate sales and online at cutterbuck.com.

The Seattle-based apparel manufacturer markets to men and women who appreciate innovative, high-quality sportswear using the best fabrics and trims, classic styling, and a wide range of colors to create clothing that looks and performs impeccably.

Thanks to a heritage of superb craftsmanship, countless professional golfers rely on our timeless apparel to complement their games. The company has enjoyed continued growth in the ANNIKA line, named and designed for legendary golfer Annika Sorenstam, since its introduction in 2004. The company also produces a separate women’s line under the Cutter & Buck label.

For additional information on Cutter & Buck, access its website at www.cutterbuck.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

SeeMore Introduces SB1 and SB2 Platinum Series

2012-01-20T07:53:00.000-05:00

SeeMore launching new products, new SPi Teacher Certification Program at PGA Show

(Franklin, TN) - SeeMore expands its SB Series line by introducing the SB1 and SB2 putter models in Platinum Finish in Standard length, Belly length, and Broomstick options. The SB2 is available in center shaft or heel shaft options for even further customization. The SB Series putters are 100% milled and made in the USA and offer the key benefits of SeeMore’s original RifleScope Technology (RST) in a classic mallet style. The SB Series heads also include weight ports for fine-tuning of head weight.

“The beautiful new SB1 and SB2 platinum milled putters are fast becoming some of our most requested head shapes on tour, particularly in the new belly versions,” said Jim Grundberg and Jason Pouliot, SeeMore co-owners.

SeeMore Putter Institute
SeeMore has also recently launched the SeeMore Putting system to golfers in the form of introducing the SeeMore Putter Institute (SPi), where golfers and instructors will be able to come together in person and online to share these fundamental ideas about how to improve putting performance, including the new discussion about belly putters.

SPi is a learning system based on the simple fundamentals of finding proper grip, alignment, stance, and posture that allow a natural, free, and simple putting stroke on each and every putt. It is based on the technology built into the SeeMore putter itself, and on the refined teachings of SeeMore Global Ambassador Pat O’Brien – putting instructor to Zach Johnson, and many other top PGA Tour and developing players. O’Brien has been teaching the SeeMore System around the world for more than 12 years, ever since he watched his good friend the late Payne Stewart benefit from the SeeMore putting system to win 1999 US Open and lead the tour in putting statistics that year.

O’Brien set out to train the next generation of young players to become better putters through use of this system, which he saw would benefit players of all levels. Since 2001, his students Zach Johnson and Vaughn Taylor have become widely known as two of the best putters on tour, with a Major Championship, nine PGA Tour Victories, $32 million in earnings, and numerous Ryder Cup and President’s Cup appearances between them.

The SPi program teacher and fitter certification program is managed day to day by PGA member Ted Gallina, SeeMore’s Director of Instruction and Tour training. Becoming SPi Certified will help golf teachers formulate a complete teaching plan to help their existing students and recruit new students to become great putters using the SeeMore system that has won two Major Championships and set numerous putting records on the PGA Tour. It is a complete game plan, which will give any golf instructor a new level of confidence in the proper teaching and fitting involved in putting instruction. Becoming certified requires training and personal coaching. Teachers attending the PGA show c at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show. SeeMore will be offering 20-minute “quick certification” sessions at booth # 707. To schedule an appointment for your certifications, e-mail ted@seemore.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

NIVO's all-new 2012 Collection is playful, confident, and original

2012-01-19T19:36:00.000-05:00

Displaying at Booth #6263 at the Orlando PGA Show

(Montréal, PQ) - In an explosion of color and excitement for the coming season, NIVO unveils an all-new 2012 Collection at the PGA Merchandise Show.

Flowery prints exude lush warmth in the Tropics Collection with functional yet feminine details across a palette of navy, white, scuba blue and lighted-hearted orchid – perfect for the carefree days of summer. In the laid-back summer mood, Tropics is designed for relaxed mixing and matching, with a vibrant striped sweater adding to the sporty, athletic feel.

The 2012 Retrospect Collection features wonderful colors and minimal shapes. Color blocking, modern stripes in different widths of blue, white, green and black make a bold statement, yet in a fun way. With brilliant colors and abstract prints, the collection is ‘Retro’ cool and still perfectly modern.

The 2012 collection debuts at the all-new NIVO Booth # 6263 at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando Jan 26-28. You can also learn more about NIVO at www.nivosport.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PGA of America Jobs, Employment Services

2012-01-19T10:35:00.000-05:00

Initiative kicks off 11th annual Jobs in Golf Month

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – As the national job market shows signs of recovery in 2012, The PGA of America’s 11th Annual Jobs in Golf Month—which highlights online employment resource tools and a breadth of jobs within the industry—will kick off in conjunction with the 59th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28, and continue promoting employment in golf throughout the month of February.

Building on the success of its previous campaigns at the PGA Merchandise Show, The PGA
of America’s Employment Services (located at Booth #2885) will highlight job opportunities that are currently posted on PGAJobfinder.com. The Jobs in Golf Month initiative at the PGA Merchandise Show includes recruitment services by leading industry employers; golf-related job posting boards; on-site interviewing for industry positions; employment workshops; and comprehensive PGA Employment Services.

In addition, PGA.com/employment, home to PGA Employment Services, is the centerpiece of the Jobs In Golf Month initiative, and serves as the golf industry’s online resource for jobs. In support of Jobs in Golf Month, PGA Employment Services is ramping up its available resources to ensure that PGA members continue to find and maximize their career opportunities.

“The PGA of America is delighted to present Jobs in Golf Month for the 11th consecutive year,” said PGA President Allen Wronowski. “In 2012, the emphasis on job placement is central to the growth of our field and the overall economy. The exciting positions offered during Jobs in Golf Month provide an opportunity to achieve a dream career within the golf industry, which employs more than 2 million people nationwide.”

PGA Employment Services was developed to serve as the golf industry’s hiring resource and a support mechanism to help ensure the 27,000 men and women PGA Professionals have the necessary tools to secure employment. In addition to serving as a vehicle for PGA Professionals, PGA Employment Services offers a direct communication link between golf industry employers and individuals seeking to gain employment in the golf industry.

PGA Employment Services is supported by 12 regional PGA Employment Consultants based throughout the country. These employment consultants serve as an invaluable resource for both PGA members and golf industry employers, working tirelessly to match applicants with appropriate employers that are seeking to hire talented and dynamic PGA Professionals. These Employment Consultants are also charged with further educating employers on the unmatched benefits of hiring a PGA Professional.

Employment-related education seminars are also being featured at the PGA Member Business Center, and will be led by the PGA Employment Consultants. Some of the featured seminar topics include “What Your Employer Wants – Connecting with Golf 2.0,” “Grow Your Value Starting NOW – The Strategy of Golf 2.0,” and “Utilizing Golf 2.0 – Your Competitive Edge,” among others.

While The PGA of America offers additional resources to promote Jobs in Golf Month and the benefits of hiring PGA Professionals throughout the month of February, the Association’s expansive employment services division, which caters to PGA Professionals, golf industry employers, and individuals seeking a position within the golf industry, is an everyday commitment throughout the year.

Among the many service options from the Employment Center, The PGA offers CareerLinks, a complimentary employment referral service with PGA Employment Consultants based throughout the country to provide support to employers and PGA Professionals. With this service, PGA Employment Consultants help employers identify the skills and experiences that are necessary to perform a specific job, and then enter the search specifications into the CareerLinks database to identify qualified PGA candidates. Last year, more than 470 positions were filled through the CareerLinks service.

Other employment services include PGA Jobfinder, an online tool located at www.PGA.com/employment, which helps golf industry employers fill a variety of golf industry positions from PGA Teaching Professionals to Clubhouse Staff to Manufacturer’s Sales Representatives. The PGA also retains the services of a wage-and-hour consultant to help PGA Professionals and employers interpret labor laws and wage-and-hour information. Since last January, more than 3,035 jobs for PGA Professional positions were posted on PGALinks.com and nearly 1,900 positions were listed on the public job board on PGA.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Ross Fisher Joins Nike Golf

2012-01-19T08:54:00.000-05:00

Four-time European Tour winner signs multi-year agreement

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Nike Golf is proud to announce that Ross Fisher, a four-time winner on the European Tour, has joined the Nike Golf Tour Staff.

In switching to exclusively play and wear Nike Golf products, Fisher is making the first manufacturer change during his seven-year career as a tour professional. The 31-year-old from West London, whose most recent victory was at the Irish Open in 2010, has signed a multi-year agreement to represent the Swoosh from head-to-toe.

Fisher said he was attracted to the energy and innovation that Nike Golf has been bringing to golf since it launched its first equipment line just over 10 years ago. "Just looking at the history of Nike, it's all about innovative products that are designed specifically for athletes. Nike Golf is the same. At Nike, golfers are athletes," said Fisher.

Speaking about his plans for the 2012 season, Fisher said: “My first priority this year is to get back into the world’s top 50, and with the backing and support of my coaches and the team at Nike Golf, I am sure that it’s a realistic goal. Since the end of the season I’ve been working hard on all aspects of my game. I’m really bombing it with the VR Pro Limited Edition driver and I’m looking forward to putting all the new gear into play. At the moment we’re experiencing a golden period for European golf, particularly in Britain, and I just want to be back up there challenging for Majors and another Ryder Cup appearance.”

With four individual wins to his name, and team wins in the 2010 Ryder Cup and Seve Trophy, Fisher remains one of the most talented players of his generation. Joining the European Tour in 2006, he has won four times in consecutive years from 2007, with victories at the KLM Open, the European Open in 2008, the Volvo World Match Play in 2009, and the 3 Irish Open in 2010, where he fired a second round 61 at Killarney.

A notoriously long and accurate ball striker, Fisher gained the honor of having the lowest cumulative score for the four major championships in 2009, when he finished fifth at The US Open.

"We are excited to welcome Ross into the Nike Golf Family," said Mark Thaxton, Global Director of Sports Marketing Operations for Nike Golf. "We look forward to working with him to ensure he is equipped with the best equipment for his game. Ross is a great player, with an aggressive playing style and we are confident he will thrive in 2012."

Fisher’s first tournament as a Nike Golf athlete will be at the Abu Dhabi Championship, which takes place from January 26-29.

Fisher’s Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 8.5-degree
* Fairway Wood: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 3-wood/15-degree
* Hybrid: Nike VR Pro 18-degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro Blades (3-9)
* Wedges: Nike VR Pro 47-, 54- and 60-degree
* Putter: Nike Method 001
* Ball: Nike 20XI-X
* Apparel: Nike Golf Tour Performance and Sport Collection
* Footwear: Nike Golf TW 2012

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

LPGA superstar Paula Creamer to visit Sundog Eyewear Booth at PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-19T08:26:00.000-05:00

(Orlando, FL) - LPGA superstar and 2010 U.S. Open Champion Paula Creamer will visit the Sundog Eyewear Booth #2773 at the PGA Merchandise Show Jan. 27 from 10:45 am to 11:30 am.

Since the debut of her first Collection in 2007, Creamer – a nine-time winner on the LPGA Tour – has been instrumental in designing her signature Sundog Eyewear. Fashionable and functional the 2012 Paula Creamer Collection includes FREESTYLE, BRAVO, AURA, ICONIC, CAPTIVA and ALLURE models available in Polycarbonite and Mela-Lens.

The complete 2012 Sundog Eyewear Collection will be presented at the Show at Booth #2773, and can also be viewed at www.sundogeyewear.com.

For 2012, Sundog Eyewear continues the evolution of sunglasses designed specifically for golfers with the introduction of 12 new models at the PGA Merchandise Show featuring Sundog Eyewear’s industry-leading Mela-Lens technology.

“Mela” is an abbreviation for Melanin, a naturally produced pigment that acts as a sunscreen protecting the skin from High Energy Visible light or “blue” light. In partnership with BNL Sun Lenses, an Essilor company, Sundog Eyewear has created the Mela-Lens lines utilizing synthetic melanin to produce state-of-the-art melanin lens technology. Mela-Lens absorbs light seamlessly over a broad spectral range providing superior blue light filtration with minimal color distortion, and 100 per cent UVA/B protection. Mela-Lens features the Eternity Hard Coat for superior abrasion resistance.

Tour Proven, Sundog Eyewear Mela-Lens are the sunglasses of choice, on and off the course, of 2010 LPGA US Open Champion Paula Creamer, 2010 Open Champion and 2012 Africa Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, 2011 BMW International Champion Pablo Larrazábal, and 2003 Masters Champion Mike Weir.

The 2012 Sundog Eyewear line includes the Paula Creamer Collection; Mike Weir’s Weir Golf Signature Series; Mela-Lens Polarized and Mela-Lens Photochromic models; and the complete Core Golf line.

Meet Paula Creamer at the Sundog Eyewear Booth #2773 Jan. 27 from 10:45 am to 11:30 am.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

New, Lighter ClubGlider Travel Bag for 2012

2012-01-19T08:14:00.000-05:00

(Missoula, Montana) – ClubGlider from Sun Mountain is the next evolution in golf travel bags offering extendable legs and wheels to support 100% of the weight, while eliminating the repeated bending and lifting required with traditional travel bags. With the ClubGlider, walking around is effortless thanks to the maneuverability of the bag’s pivoting wheels.

ClubGlider is available in three different models – Pro, Meridian, and the new-for-2012 Journey – offering protection for golfers ranging from weekend warriors to touring professionals. All three models are in golf shops now with retail prices ranging from $199 - $299. For the retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

ClubGlider literally glides from parking lot to luggage counter and back again with retractable legs that easily extend and then tuck away securely for travel. And, thanks to the maneuverability of ClubGlider’s pivoting wheels, walking around is effortless. ClubGlider offers all or more of the protection and storage space of a traditional golf travel bag while eliminating the heavy lifting and constant bending normally required to get through the airport.

The new for 2012 ClubGlider Journey offers the same benefits as the other ClubGlider models and is smaller and lighter thanks to a more tapered design. While being more compact, ClubGlider Journey still offers ample space for golf bag, golf clubs, and golf shoes. ClubGlider Journey is constructed from 1200 denier fabric as compared to the ballistic-type nylon used on the Meridian and Pro models.

Making the cut from over 1,000 entrants in the Golf Channel “Fore Inventors Only” reality show, ClubGlider was named one of five finalists in this search for the next great golf invention. Following a successful introduction, Sun Mountain increased the offering to include additional models. ClubGlider Meridian is the new name for the original ClubGlider. ClubGlider Pro is the largest of the three models made to accommodate tour players oversized staff bags or two lightweight carry bags. ClubGlider Journey is a smaller and lighter version.

Benefits of ClubGlider include legs that support 100% of the weight, eliminating on average over 22 pounds of pressure from the golfer’s shoulders and back. ClubGlider can also be loaded while standing, eliminating the need to bend all the way over as with other travel bags. Additionally, with the ClubGlider, the repeated bending and lifting while waiting in line is a thing of the past. Plus, ClubGlider can support additional luggage, freeing the traveler’s hands. ClubGlider is simple, fast and easy to use with retractable legs and wheels that lock securely for travel. ClubGlider includes heavy-duty two-way zippers, thick foam padding extending down the travel bag to protect clubheads and shafts, internal storage pockets, internal cinch straps, ballistic fabric, vinyl-reinforced wear areas, and a lift-assist handle.

For 30 years Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts. Sun Mountain's many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain's "Ahead of Time Design" motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment.

For the Sun Mountain retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Antigua Announces Tour Team for 2012

2012-01-19T08:08:00.000-05:00

(PEORIA, ARIZ.) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of lifestyle apparel under the distinguished Antigua and Slazenger brands - has announced its Tour Team for year 2012.

Representing the Antigua brand on the PGA Tour are veterans Tom Pernice, Jr., Billy Mayfair, Kevin Streelman, Notah Begay III, Chris Couch, Gary Christian and Troy Kelly. On the LPGA Tour, major winner (Kraft-Nabisco) Stacy Lewis, Solheim Cup member Brittany Lang, tour veterans Stacy Prammanasudh, Alison Walshe, Wendy Ward, Gerina Mendoza along with tour rookie Juliana Murcia Ortiz will be wearing Antigua products. For the Champions Tour J.L. Lewis will be sporting Antigua apparel.

"We're very proud of these outstanding golfers, who represent everything Antigua stands for," says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "Golf fans look up to these players and having them wear our exciting 2012 apparel on their respective tours is a great honor, as well as a showcase, for us."

The Spring 2012 season for Antigua combines outstanding quality, style and value. The new line once again exemplifies why the Antigua brand is one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of genuine golf and sports apparel.

Based on the success of Antigua's newly introduced exclusive DESERT DRY XTRA-LITE (D2XL) lightweight moisture management performance products Antigua expands its XTRA-LITE offering in an updated color palette with the launch of the company's Spring 2012 collection.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Abacus Introduces the Gullane Cardigan for Spring 2012

2012-01-18T08:45:00.000-05:00

Ahead of the 2012 season, the successful, Swedish golf brand Abacus introduces a new invigorating collection for active lifestyles. Superb function combined with contemporary style is the natural foundation for the collection. The clear graphical feeling is continued with a careful hand, even though roses have been given a place in the collection. Pink, Cranberry and Lilac characterize the spring 2012 collection for women.

Abacus continues with undiminished vigor to develop good looking clothing for golf and active lifestyles. Function and material have a central role in the brand’s quality profile, something that has been given much attention by the international golfing world. Amongst others, the European team in The Solheim Cup was equipped with Abacus clothing.

“Yes, you can actually say equipped” says Abacus’ MD Sven-Olof Karlsson. “The players take the clothing very seriously and make high demands on all the details. Every garment must promote freedom of movement and do its job. And of course they must be attractive, the players want to look good and feel self-confident when they go out on the tee.”

One item from the collection that features a rose design is the Gullane. It is a soft cotton/acrylic cardigan with a decorative flower design and feminine cut. The sweater features ¾ sleeves and a decorative ribbon tape in the buttoning.

Material: 55% Cotton/45% Acrylic 
Sizes: XS-XL
Color: 313 navy fl ower, 109 white flower

For more information on Abacus apparel, call Caulfeild Apparel at (800) 268-7939.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Tommy Hilfiger Announces Keegan Bradley as Global Ambassador for Golf Collection

2012-01-18T08:41:00.000-05:00

Bradley will be the global ambassador for "Tommy Hilfiger" golf apparel through 2014

(NEW YORK) - The Tommy Hilfiger Group, which is wholly owned by PVH Corp., announced that Keegan Bradley, the 2011 PGA Championship winner and PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, will serve as global ambassador for the Tommy Hilfiger golf line through 2014. Commencing January 2012, Bradley will represent the brand by wearing select pieces from the men's golf collection.

"I am thrilled to have Keegan Bradley as the global ambassador for our golf collection," said Tommy Hilfiger. "His energy both on and off the course is inspiring and a wonderful fit for our brand. We wish Keegan the very best on his upcoming season."

"I am really excited about joining the team at Tommy Hilfiger," said Keegan Bradley. "Tommy Hilfiger is an iconic American brand and I am extremely proud to be a part of its growth in golf going forward. The brand produces fantastic apparel for wear both on and off the golf course and in my opinion, if you look good, you play good!"

"Keegan's style, values and determination make him an ideal person to have on our team," said Mark Fletcher, President of Fletcher Leisure Group. "The timing could not be better as Keegan's game has great momentum as does the Tommy Hilfiger brand."

The Spring 2012 collection is inspired by the preppy, energetic spirit of the Tommy Hilfiger brand. Adding a twist to signature classic American sensibility, the collection's technical performance fabrics focus on style and fit. Through a licensing agreement with Fletcher Leisure Group, the men's and women's golf line is available in the U.S., Canada and Europe at private and public golf clubs, golf specialty stores, sport specialty stores, resort accounts, and corporate accounts, as well as tommy.com.

Targeting men and women golfers, the collection offers a wide selection of garments with approximately 100 styles for men with expected retail prices ranging from $65 for short-sleeved polos to $120 for sophisticated outerwear options. The versatile women's collection includes approximately 75 styles with expected retail prices ranging from $65 for bermudas and polos to $120 for knits and outerwear.

Tommy Hilfiger launched men's golf apparel in 1994 and expanded into women's golf apparel in 2000; in 2004 the collection was introduced in Europe.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Players Towel Captures Sony Open in Hawaii Victory in First Full Field Event of the Year

2012-01-18T08:35:00.000-05:00

(Phoenix, AZ) - Players Towel, featuring high performance microfiber waffle technology, started 2012 just as it left off 2011; on the victory stand by capturing the Sony Open in Hawaii.

"I would like to congratulate the winner of the Sony Open in Hawaii for his stellar play in the year's first full field event," said Patrick Le Vine, founder of the Players Towel. "By playing bogey free golf on the back nine in tough conditions the player not only earned himself his third career victory but also a coveted return trip to the Masters."

With 20 wins on tour in 2011, the Players Towel has quickly earned its reputation as the towel of choice for the world's best players and their caddies. "We didn't just sit on our laurels after a dominating 2011 season," added Le Vine. "We built a better towel, more absorbent, more durable, better protection from moisture and debris yet lighter and stronger. With a victory already in the year's first full field event we are looking ahead to another dominant year."

Additionally, as the official towel of the Sony Open in Hawaii, the Players Towel helped tournament organizers raise funding and awareness for many local charities. "The Sony Open is a great contributor to these local charities and we are pleased that we were able to support the tournament and give back to the many deserving charity organizations affiliated with the Sony Open," added Le Vine.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

New TriSwivel Push Cart Features Front Wheel That Swivels 360 Degrees

2012-01-17T17:30:00.000-05:00

Cart Gives Golfers Effortless Maneuverability Walking the Course

(RICHMOND, Va.) - Bag Boy, the No. 1 name in push cart innovation has introduced a new three-wheel push cart. The revolutionary cart features Swivel-Tech Technology to make walking the course more enjoyable. The new TriSwivel cart is the only cart on the market that features a front wheel that swivels 360 degrees, giving golfers effortless maneuverability. The swivel wheel can be locked into place by engaging the remote Swivel Lock Out when walking hills or long distances.

“As the industry leader in the walking cart market, we are constantly looking for ways to make walking the course easier for golfers through new and innovative technology,” said Craig Ramsbottom, President, Dynamic Brands, Golf Division “The TriSwivel is just another example of our engineering team using technology that makes a significant difference in a product category.”

The TriSwivel push cart features Swivel Tech Technology in the 9.5 inch-front wheel that makes the cart feel like it has power steering. The front wheel swivels 360 degrees to make changing directions simple along with increased maneuverability. Engaging the remote Swivel Lock Out will lock the swivel wheel into place.

The TriSwivel is constructed of a lightweight, weather resistant aluminum frame with maintenance free 9.5 inch-front and 11.5 inch-oversized rear wheels that roll easily through all types of terrain. The cart is loaded with convenience features such as one-step handle adjustment, a handle mounted parking brake, a deluxe scorecard and pencil holder, and a tee, ball and umbrella holder. The TriSwivel also features an integrated beverage holder, an oversized storage bag and a compatible bag bracket for a cart or stand bag.

The cart folds down in three simple steps to 22 x 14 x 18 inches, making it super compact to fit into the car trunk. Backed by a one-year warranty and available in four colors – red, silver, white and matte black, the TriSwivel will be in golf specialty stores by March 1 for a suggested retail of $269.95.

Bag Boy will debut the TriSwivel at the PGA Merchandise Show Demo Day Jan. 25 at Orange County National, in Orlando, Fla. and also at the PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26 -28, at the Orange County Convention Center in booth No. 1553.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

aboutGolf Debuts aG Mobile, Portable Training Device, at PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-17T11:37:00.000-05:00

(Maumee, OH) - aboutGolf, world leader in indoor golf simulator and performance technology, continues its mission to offer advanced learning technology with the introduction of aG Mobile - a portable training aid - to its exclusive golf equipment ensemble.

aboutGolf will be showcasing aG Mobile at the upcoming 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando and invites all guests to visit Booth 3343 to discover aG Mobile for themselves.

aboutGolf - which boasts a clientele lineup of well-known golfers, professional athletes, celebrities and business professionals - is world-renowned for its indoor golf products, including PGA TOUR Simulators and proprietary 3Trak ball and club tracking technology. However, with the launch of aG Mobile, the company provides a way to take superior golf technology to the range.

"aG Mobile is versatile and robust enough to use both indoors and out with the same accuracy," says Chuck Faust, President, aboutGolf. "And its more than a launch monitor - using the same 3Trak technology found in our PGA TOUR Simulators, aG Mobile provides accurate ball and club data where you need it."

In addition to proprietary technology, aG Mobile is equipped with wireless networking that allows the user to connect to any Windows-operated tablet or computer/LCD monitor for software display. Further, the durable, weather-proof equipment can gather data with most standard range balls and is fully compatible with aG Balance Pro Tour and Perform Pro Lite, providing the company's dual-force plate balance technology and advanced data interpretations on-the-go.

This dynamic, portable teaching suite, made up of aG Mobile, aG Balance Pro Tour and Perform Pro Lite, is being used by the European Tour Performance Institute, with whom aboutGolf is collaborating on development of complimentary products.

For additional information about aG Mobile, aG Balance Pro Tour or Perform Pro Lite, please visit www.aboutgolf.com/products.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Bridgestone Inks Multi-Year Deal with Golf Humorist Feherty

2012-01-17T11:33:00.000-05:00

Golf Television Personality and Acclaimed Author David Feherty Will Star in 2012 Bridgestone Golf Ad Campaign

(Covington, Ga.) — Bridgestone Golf, the #1 Ball-Fitter in Golf, announced today that it has forged a relationship withmulti-talented golf journalist and humorist David Feherty to serve as a brand spokesperson over the next two years.

As part of the deal, Feherty will be featured in the upcoming Bridgestone Golf 2012 ad campaign along with Fred Couples, Matt Kuchar, Davis Love III, Brandt Snedeker and Lee Trevino. In addition to his role in the lineup of new commercials, Feherty will also star in a series of web-based videos aimed at educating golfers on golf ball technology and the importance of choosing a golf ball suited to one’s swing characteristics.

Coming off of an incredibly successful maiden season of his self-titled talk show “Feherty” on The Golf Channel, the former European PGA TOUR Star and current CBS golf commentator’s popularity is at an all-time high, and Bridgestone is excited about what Feherty lends to its brand mission in 2012.

With a smile, Dan Murphy, Vice President of Marketing – Bridgestone Golf, Inc., said, “Truthfully, Feherty wasn’t our first choice, but with Justin Timberlake already taken our options were pretty limited. I guess instead of bringing sexy back, we’ll have to settle for bringing funny back.” Murphy added, “In all seriousness, David’s knowledge of golf equipment and his ability to educate while entertaining make him a great fit for what we’re all about at Bridgestone.”

Having fit over 150,000 golfers through its Bridgestone Challenge ball-fitting program, Bridgestone Golf possesses a robust bank of amateur golf swing data. After more than four years of the ball-fitting program, Bridgestone still finds that nearly 8 out of every 10 players are playing a golf ball that does not fit their game. So Bridgestone plans to put more marketing muscle than ever before into golf ball technology education in 2012. In addition to education efforts using Feherty, Bridgestone will increase the number of ball-fittings it conducts this year and will look to expand upon its popular B-FIT web-based expert chat service that was launched two years ago.

Feherty said, "Not a lot of people know this, but I am a huge ball expert. In fact,over the years I played for a living, my balls took a lot of punishment in the form of tops, shanks, cuts, scrapes, and I've even lost a couple. As it turns out, I was playing with balls that should have been hit by someone else in the first place! Well, you live and learn. I think I've been driving on the wrong tires too. It's safe to say that Bridgestone is making my world better."

Visit www.bridgestonegolf.com to learn more about Bridgestone Golf’s 2012 plans.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Feel Golf's Pro Tour 787 PR White Driver New for 2012

2012-01-17T08:06:00.000-05:00

Feel the technology at the PGA Show: Demo Day, Booth 2300 and the ETC

(SANFORD, Fla.) - Feel Golf Co., Inc., an innovator in golf club design since 1985, will be exhibiting its new White Pro Tour 787 PR driver at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando Jan. 25-28.

The Pro Tour 787 PR driver is designed for maximum forgiveness and "spring-like effect." The
Pro Tour 787 has a very high MOI (Moment of Inertia) providing straighter drives even with off center tee shots. The Pro Tour 787 driver had 22 percent more fairway landings when independently tested against other drivers.

Using Face Angle Variance technology (FAV), the Pro Tour 787 has an open heel and closed toe design for up to two degrees of sidespin forgiveness. The four piece Triple Forged Beta Titanium head produces results with consistency across the entire face.

The 787 PR is USGA conforming, but according to their report is "Borderline on the CT" and "for spring-like effect." In other words, the Pro Tour 787 driver is hot.

"The Pro Tour 787 incorporates our history and expertise of producing some of the longest drivers on the market," said Lee Miller Founder and CEO. "We always strive to maximize performance with feel and that's a key benefit to our end customer, the recreational golfer."

PGA Show attendees will have a chance to test Feel Golf's entire product line during the 2012 Demo Day at the Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden, Fla., as well during the PGA Show at the Equipment Test Center at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

The pro Tour 787 is also available in black.

For more information, go to www.feelgolf.net.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Golf Tees For All Skill Levels - Introducing The ZFVictory

2012-01-17T07:58:00.000-05:00

(Oakbrook Terrace, IL) - Zero Friction has enhanced their line of high performance golf tees with the newest addition of the ZFVictory, the 5-prong Zero Friction performance tee. Made of a bio-composite material, the ZFVictory offers increased stability in ball placement with the performance benefits of the Zero Friction tees. The ZFVictory is ideal for golf courses, especially ones that may be hesitant on switching to a high performance tee because it has the feel of a traditional golf tee, but the look of performance with a specially designed contoured cup.

In a carefully created plan, Zero Friction has crafted a unique golf tee line that is ideal for all skill levels. The original 3-prong Zero Friction, known as the ZFTour is designed for professionals who are looking for increased distance in their drives with a skillfully designed performance tee that offers the least ball to tee surface coverage. The key to the ZFTour is to aim one tee at the target, allowing for 50% of the ball to be exposed directly to the club face.

The 4-prong ZFXtreme is designed for professional golfers and amateurs alike who are looking for the sleek high performance feel that Zero Friction offers with the increased performance in their game. The ZFXtreme rates the highest among independent testing in carry distance, total distance and least in dispersion when compared to other known golf tees in the industry.

Next in line, the ZFVictory, the 5-prong version, was developed for the average golfer who is hesitant on switching from a standard cup tee, but is willing to try a something a little different. The ZFVictory offers increased stability when placed on the tee, while offering a performance cup.

Finally, the ZFe-Tee is the most traditional among the Zero Friction line. Created with a standard cup, the ZFe-Tee offers the bio-composite Zero Friction tee, which allows for less tee breakage on the golf course, as with all Zero Friction tees, and more time concentrating on your game.

Zero Friction has also created traditional tee lines with the ZF FATTEE and the ZF Advantage Tee systems that allow for traditional bamboo tees to work with you in your golf game and not against you.

Zero Friction is proud to be the No. 1 performance tee on the PGA TOUR with more TOUR players picking up Zero Friction tees each week compared to any other products on the marketplace, and with so many products to offer, why wouldn't you as well?

Zero Friction has created not only another new golf tee, but a new look to the premium performance golf tee line, continuing to stay ahead in an industry where the golf tee is often lost in thought.

Follow along on Twitter: twitter.com/excelgolf - #nobouandaries.

Follow along on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ZeroFrictionGolfProducts.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Bushnell Golf Introduces Revolutionary Tour Z6 Laser Rangefinder

2012-01-17T07:50:00.001-05:00

Ultra-compact, vertically configured Tour Z6 offers new, advanced technologies for 2012

(Overland Park, KS) - Bushnell Outdoor Products, makers of the #1 laser rangefinder on the PGA Tour, today introduced its smallest, most technically advanced golf laser rangefinder - the Tour Z6. With its ultra-compact size and increased power, the Tour Z6 has been engineered with new Vivid Display Technology and E.S.P. technologies. The Tour Z6 offers optimal distance measuring performance with the look and feel of a fine precision instrument.

"At Bushnell, we continue to pride ourselves on offering advanced technologies to enhance our already industry-leading rangefinding products," said Jordan Vermillion, Product Director at Bushnell. "It is so important for golfers to have precise measurements, and the all new Tour Z6 offers that and more. We're excited to be able to provide consumers faster and the most accurate measurements to enhance their game. The Tour Z6 combines the technological advancements of Vivid Display Technology, E.S.P. and PinSeeker into the smallest golf laser rangefinder Bushnell has ever developed."

The ultra-compact Tour Z6 is a vertically configured version of Bushnell's industry-leading-line of laser rangefinders that introduces Vivid Display Technology. Created specifically for Bushnell's premium rangefinders, this optical enhancement improves contrast, clarity and light transmission dramatically for enhanced use. The brightness of the digital readout information has also been increased, providing rapid, positive yardage acquisition in all lighting conditions. It is simply the best head's up projection display on the market.

Also new to the Tour Z6 is E.S.P technology - Extreme. Speed. Precision. E.S.P. provides yardage faster and more accurately than ever before. Not only has the acquisition speed been increased to a lightning fast level, E.S.P. provides ½ yard accuracy from 5-125 yards, and the distance is displayed to 1/10th of a yard. Having more accurate lasered distances enables the golfer to strategize and hit every approach shot with confidence.

As with all Bushnell rangefinders, the Tour Z6 provides instantaneous measurements in yards and meters with incredible accuracy to any target on the course. The Tour Z6 boasts 5-1,300 yards ranging performance, including 900 yards to trees and 450+ yards to the flag and is legal for tournament play (all Bushnell laser rangefinder models, except the Bushnell Pro 1M Slope Edition and Bushnell Tour V2 Slope Edition, are legal to use when USGA rule 14-3/.05 is in effect).

Product features include:
• PinSeeker Technology to zero in on the flag
• Up to ½ yard accuracy
• 5 yards-1,300 yards ranging performance (450+ yards to a flag)
• Vivid Display Technology (VDT) for all lighting conditions
• E.S.P. (Extreme. Speed. Precision.)
• 6x Magnification (objects appear 6x closer)
• Premium lens coatings for superb optical quality
• Adjustable diopter setting
• Rubber armored metal housing
• Posi-Thread Battery Door
• Waterproof (IPX7) and RainGuard HD lens coating
• 3-Volt Battery and Premium Carry Case are also included

The Tour Z6 will be available at Bushnell retailers nationwide beginning in April, with a retail price of $399.

Bushnell, the #1 choice of professional golfers, offers a full range of rangefinders, which continue to change and improve the way golfers assess distances, ultimately improving performance.

For more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders, visit the company's website at www.bushnellgolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sligo Wear Expands International Lineup of Tour Players

2012-01-17T07:42:00.000-05:00

(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) - Sligo Wear, known internationally for its trend-setting style, has signed Scotland’s Russell Knox to a 2012 endorsement contract that will see the PGA Tour rookie decked out in Sligo Wear’s distinctive, cutting-edge apparel.

“I am thrilled to begin my PGA Tour career as a Sligo Wear ambassador,” said Knox, 26, who opened his rookie season on the Tour last weekend in Hawaii. “The line offers style and performance, so I can look my best while competing.”

A native of Inverness, Scotland, who makes his stateside home in Jacksonville Beach, Fla., Knox earned his way onto the PGA Tour this year by finishing among the Top 25 on the Nationwide Tour money list in 2011. Knox wound up No. 12, with $242,821, and proved he had the talent to win by taking the Chiquita Classic at TPC River's Bend near Cincinnati, Ohio.

“Adding Russell to the Sligo Wear staff of tour professionals adds another dimension to our world-wide outreach,” said Shawn Aucoin, Director of Sales and Marketing for the rising global brand. “Russell has demonstrated he has the talent and desire to win on tour.”

Knox, who made the cut in 17 of 20 starts in 2011, joins two other members of the Sligo Wear professional staff on the PGA Tour this year – three-time winner Brian Gay, from Texas, and Canada’s Graham DeLaet. Sligo Wear also will be represented on the Nationwide Tour in 2012 by Justin Hicks, from Michigan, as well as prominent American golf instructor Jeff Ritter, based in Phoenix.

Sligo Wear’s reputation for introducing technologically advanced materials and vibrant colors is reinforced by its eclectic 2012 collection that includes distinctively designed golf shirts, short- and long-sleeved wind shirts and jackets, as well as sweaters in three styles – v-neck, quarter-zip and cardigans – and technical solid and patterned pants and shorts.

Follow the company on Twitter @SLIGOWEAR or on Facebook at Sligo-Wear-Inc.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Golf Shakes Up Traditional Golf Style with the Introduction of the Nike Golf Sport Apparel Collection

2012-01-17T07:36:00.000-05:00

For Spring 2012, Nike Golf enables athletes to show their true colors and play irreverent golf

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) - To complement Nike Golf’s industry-leading Tour Performance line of apparel, the Nike Golf Sport Collection delivers new style choices. With bold and statement-making styles, Nike Golf's Spring 2012 Sport Collection empowers athletes to show their true colors and express themselves both on and off the course through the passion of sport.

Nike Golf apparel exudes high energy, but the 2012 Sport Apparel collection goes further in delivering youthful styling to golfers who want an exuberant, expressive look. The Sport Collection features new designs for polos, cover-ups, pants, shorts and headwear that represent a vibrant and irreverent passion for golf as a modern and athletic game for all ages and attitudes.

The Sport Collection features playable, technical golf apparel that integrates Dri-FIT and cotton-blend fabrication to keep golfers cool and comfortable. The materials signal a return to the comfort in performance Dri-FIT blends for a more relaxed and casual attitude, but are still designed and styled to be authentic to golf. Silhouettes in the Nike Sport Collection are trim and tidy. With a slightly slimmer fit and cotton-blend fabrics, the Sport Collection styles are bold and stylish.

Color is the noise in the Nike Sport collection with an emphasis on Safety Orange, an iconic Nike staple, in both body colors and details. Notable among the new releases is the Jersey Swoosh polo (MSRP $75.00) and the Sport Heather Pant (MSRP $110). The Jersey Swoosh polo has a sleek-fitting cut, a variety of bold seasonal colors and Nike's patented Dri-FIT technology. The Sport Heather pant is a new slim-fit cut that uniquely blends classic fashion with modern details for golfers who want to look stylish while maximizing their performance on the course.

"Our Men's and Women's Sport Collections provide an exciting new apparel line with a different point of view towards the sport of golf,” said Doug Reed, Global Category Business Director, Nike Golf Apparel and Footwear. “This collection gives consumers an alternate way to enhance their 'expression of golf attitude and style’ both on and off the golf course. The Nike Golf Sport Collection gives the athlete a new look and feel for golf apparel that moves beyond the traditional boundaries of golf.”

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Caney Putterworks announces designing new wood-core putters

2012-01-16T15:52:00.000-05:00

(WESTFORD, Mass.) - Golfers typically choose a putter that inspires confidence. They know a putter that feels great, performs well, and looks sharp can enhance positive thoughts, calm nerves, and help make more putts. That is the proposition behind the creation of Caney Putterworks, a new custom putter manufacturer founded by Noah Caney. Combine beautiful Form with high Function and a pleasing Feel to maximize personal satisfaction.

According to Mr. Caney, "After 20 years of play - and unsuccessfully shopping for a putter with better feel - my putting game improved most when I designed and built a wood-core club that uniquely rewarded me with just the right balance between sweet-spot forgiveness and the feel of striking the ball perfectly. And the beautiful sculpted form of the putter head certainly added to that satisfaction."

Caney Putterworks develops, designs, and expertly crafts custom putters that incorporate an exotic hardwood core and striking surface within a precision-machined metal head. This hybrid configuration for CP's blade putters ingeniously positions club mass at the heel and toe to communicate a solid feel with exceptional feedback. CP's mallet putters use perimeter weighting for a stable and balanced feel plus a large, forgivable sweet spot.

The wood-core of both putter types provides a softer strike with a pleasing sound. The smart design of each club aids in aiming, supports stroke accuracy, and encourages consistency. Plus the precision craftsmanship and stunning appearance of the sculpted stainless-steel heads inspire pride and confidence.

Each Caney Putterworks club is custom manufactured in the golfer's preference for metal finish, exotic wood (cocobolo, pink ivory, and others), shaft length, and grip type. For guidelines on selecting the "right" putter plus full specifications, all options, and ordering information, visit www.caneyputterworks.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Johnson Wagner Wins Sony Open with New TaylorMade R11S Driver, Wearing Ashworth Golf Apparel

2012-01-16T12:56:00.000-05:00

Third PGA Tour Win for Wagner who Switched into R11S Last Week

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) - Earlier this week at Waialae Country Club, Johnson Wagner told TaylorMade Tour representative Paul Loegering that with the R11S, he had “never been able to hit is driver so long, high and straight.” Wagner, a new member to the TaylorMade Tour Staff in 2012, used his new white driver and a lot of confidence to pull away from a congested field at the Sony Open for his third PGA Tour win of his career.

It was the first win in 2012 for the all new TaylorMade R11S, the most adjustable driver in golf. The all-white, USGA maximum 460cc R11S features a 3° Flight Control Technology (FCT) sleeve and an all-new 5-way Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) which allows the golfer to find their optimum address set-up – a proprietary setting not found in any other driver. Combined with TaylorMade’s Movable Weight Technology (MWT), the new R11S driver can be tuned for 80 separate launch settings, making it the most adjustable driver in golf.

Last week at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions, Wagner finished in the Top 10 and now sits atop the 2012 FedExCup points race.

Wagner also switched to Ashworth Golf apparel this year.

Equipment:
R11S driver 8 degrees
Burner SuperFast 2.0 fairway 15 degrees
Apparel:
Ashworth Mesh Back Pocket Polo: AM1377 Navy
-Self-fabric collar
-3-button placket
-Open Sleeve
-Pocket on right chest

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sea Pines Resort Offers Value-Packed 'Escape Vacation' Package

2012-01-15T08:01:00.000-05:00

Book before Jan. 31 to "Escape Twice" at Hilton Head destination for $99

(HILTON HEAD, S.C.) - The Sea Pines Resort -- Hilton Head's most distinguished retreat and home of iconic Harbour Town Golf Links - is offering its "Escape Vacation" package featuring an additional three-night return visit for $99 when booked before Jan. 31.

The Escape Vacation special offers stays at the seminal Lowcountry destination from March 3 - Sept. 7, 2012. This extraordinary family-friendly special (www.seapines.com/vacation-rentals/specials/) includes:

- Up to 15 percent off a weekly home or villa rental
- $100 resort credit for golf, food / beverage and activities
- Three-night "Escape Twice" return stay for $99
- Ten percent off food and beverage at resort restaurants
- Children under 12 eat free at the Harbour Town Grill and Surfside Outdoor Restaurant & Bar
- Complimentary golf for kids under 12 on Heron Point by Pete Dye and the Ocean Course

"With our Escape Vacation package, our guests enjoy a trip they'll never forget not just once, but twice," says John Munro, Director of Hospitality, Sales and Marketing. "Few locales offer as wide a range of accommodations, family activities, championship golf courses, restaurants for all tastes and all set against the splendor of sweeping Atlantic beaches and seascapes."

Additionally, the package features a complimentary beach family photo session; children under 12 cruising free on a dolphin ocean excursion; choice of a gratis eco-tour, two-person Sea Pines activity or visit to Coastal Discovery Museum at historic Honey Horn; complimentary access for two guests to the Harbour Town Lighthouse; unlimited use of fitness center equipment; two hours complimentary tennis per day at The Sea Pines Racquet Club; and free wireless internet access in all accommodations.

When booking the Escape Vacation package online or by calling (866.561.8802), enter or mention the promotion code: ESCAPE.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Pocono Mountains Golf Update

2012-01-14T08:12:00.000-05:00

Ice Tee Tournament Rescheduled for Feb. 26; 2012 Golf-A-Round Card Now Available

(POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA.) – The 2012 Ice Tee Tournament, a family-friendly nine-hole golf event scheduled for Jan. 29 in the Pocono Mountains (www.poconosgolf.com), has been postponed due to soft ice conditions and has been rescheduled for Feb. 26 at Lake Wallenpaupack.

Tee times are still available and spectators are also welcome for the 21st edition of the Ice Tee event, located at Ehrhardt’s Restaurant in the Lake Region of the Pocono Mountains. More than 300 golfers of all ages and handicaps are expected to compete for prizes and giveaways, including awards for lowest score and closest to the pin contests. Two nine-hole challenging courses will be created in 2012, complete with tree-lined fairways, greens, water traps, obstacles and rough.

Last year’s 20th-anniversary field included a record 352 golfers, each of whom received a colored golf ball and scorecard with the course layout. Competitors are limited to their choice of two clubs, plus a putter, to play the course, with fairways lined by recycled Christmas trees.

Tee times will be every 10 minutes between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., with the awards ceremony scheduled for approximately 3 p.m. The cost to participate is $15 per golfer in advance or $20 at the door. Applications are available at visit@lakeregioncc.com or by calling 570.226.3191.

2012 Golf-A-Round Card On Sale Now

The 2012 Golf-A-Round Card, which features tremendous discounts for eight courses, is now available.

Each card costs $40 and is good for the entire 2012 golf season. Cardholders can play twice per season for $25 a round with cart at each of the following participating courses: Fernwood Golf Course, Hideaway Hills Golf Club, Jack Frost National Golf Club, Mount Airy Golf Club, Pocono Manor Inn & Golf Course, Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Split Rock Resort & Golf Club and Woodloch Springs Country Club.

Cards can be purchased now by calling 800.POCONOS (800.762.6667).

Fernwood Resort Purchased, Course Stays With Previous Owner

Commercial developer Jim Ertle and his family have purchased the Fernwood Hotel and Convention Center in Bushkill, with immediate plans to completely renovate the food-and-beverage areas, and revive the hotel and convention center.

The Bushkill Group, which owned the resort, will retain ownership of the golf course, the snow-tubing hill and 600-plus time-share units. Both groups will sell golf packages and cross-promote each other.

The ownership division is designed to benefit the facility long-term, allowing more management focus on the resort’s varied activities.

Pocono Mountains Upcoming Family Events and Specials

Banking on its tremendous 2011 success, Mount Airy Golf Club will reinstate its Golf & Slot specials every Tuesday during golf season in 2012. For $40 and golfers will receive 18 holes and a cart, in addition to $40 in slot money at the resort’s casino.

While golf is still a few months away, family winter activities in the Pocono Mountains are in full gear, including:

* Eagle Watches: Monroe County Environmental Education Center will offer field trips to the upper Delaware River in search of resident and wintering bald eagles on Jan. 20 and 27. Cost is $20/non-MCEEC members, $14/members (570.629.3061). Participants will meet at MCEEC at 8:30 a.m. and return at 5:30 p.m. Other area Eagle Watches include the Annual Bald Eagle Field Trip with the Eagle Institute at Promised Land State Park (Jan. 21; 570.676.9969) and Eagle Watch I at Pocono Environmental Education Center (Jan. 28; 570.828.2319).

* Crystal Cabin Fever – Lakeville, Pa., is home to the Sculpted Ice Works Factory, which hosts an annual ice carving and competition each February with an annual theme. See full log cabins made of ice blocks, slide on ice slides, sip a frosty beverage at the ice bars and more. Feb. 10-26. Admission is $10. See 800poconos.com for information or call 570.226.6246.

* Ski Shawnee Winter Carnival – This Feb. 26 outdoor festival for the entire family includes ice sculptures, demonstrations, outdoor barbecue and live entertainment. Combine with a day of snow tubing on the Pocono plunge. See 800poconos.com for information.

* Inn at Pocono Manor – The newly renovated Inn at Pocono Manor’s Ski Camelback Package – available seven days a week based on weather conditions through March 31 – includes an all-day lift ticket at Camelback Mountain Resort (skiing, snow tubing and snowboarding available), guest room accommodations and full breakfast buffet. Discount ski rental vouchers are also available. Rates start from $230 per package, per night, based on double adult occupancy, taxes and gratuities included, Sunday through Thursday (from $263 Friday through Sunday).

* Woodloch Resort – The Ski ‘N’ Stay Weekend Package at Woodloch Resort – available Friday through Sunday from Jan. 20-Feb. 5 – includes spacious and immaculate accommodations, one full-day Ski Big Bear lift ticket per person, per night; two-meal plan (breakfast and the family-style dinner included daily), endless activities and amenities and family-friendly nightly entertainment. Rates start at $340 per adult, per package, based on double occupancy. A two-night minimum stay is required.

See www.poconosgolf.com for a complete list of golf courses, resorts and activities; or view interactive planning map and live webcams throughout the Pocono Mountains at www.800poconos.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Product Review: Nike 20XI-X

2012-01-13T16:37:00.000-05:00

Longer. Straighter. Ask any golfer what they’d like out of their golf ball and you’re most likely going to get one of the two answers.

Those who split the fairways dream of another 10 yards. Big bombers would love to find the short grass more often. And everyone wants to hit more greens.

The golf gods may have teamed with the engineers at Nike Golf to deliver both distance and control with the new 20XI-X golf ball.

The slogan “Revolutionary to its Core” gets to the heart of the matter. The new RZN-Core boasts a proprietary resin chemistry that delivers performance unlike any other ball. That’s marketing lingo, but what are the facts?

The 20XI-X features:
* Faster initial velocity for maximum distance;
* Highest levels of MOI (moment of inertia) for longer, more controlled shots; and
* Steeper spin slope for lower driver spin and higher wedge spin.

American Golfer had to examine these bullet points because they sounded too good to be true. Could a ball be engineered to jump off the driver, finding extra yardage off the tee (and not sacrificing accuracy), while then - seemingly - transitioning to a “feel” ball, making it easier to hit the green? In a word ... yes.

Considering this website is read by people and not robots, American Golfer used a 9-handicapper to test the Nike 20XI-X alongside two comparable (in both price and prestige) golf balls. Here are the results:

Twenty drivers hit with Nike’s 20XI-X travelled an average of 271 yards. Rival 1 and Rival 2 averaged 268 and 265, respectively. Wedges were then tested from 115 yards, allowing a maximum of two shots removed because of mis-hits. The 20XI-X averaged 12 feet, 4 inches from the pin. Rival 1 and Rival 2 averaged 14-6 and 14-1, respectively.

If you’d like longer drives in the fairway and shorter birdie putts, American Golfer recommends the Nike 20XI-X.

There’s a new option for golfers looking for more spin, as well. The 20XI-S boasts higher levels of “tour spin and control” without sacrificing distance.

Find out more at www.Nike.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Pukka Sets Its Sights on the 2012 PGA Merchandising Show

2012-01-13T11:19:00.000-05:00

New products, on-site designers, Demo Day sponsorship, tour players and annual party to capture full attention of show attendees

(Findlay, Ohio) - Pukka, designer and manufacturer of premium custom golf headwear, announces its participation in the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando FL. January 26-28. Located in booth #4173, Pukka will unveil the industry's most complete line up of custom headwear including popular seasonal collections. Each collection features exciting new cap styles, fabrics, color combinations and trending designs that only Pukka can execute as part of its proprietary production model at industry-low minimums.

PGA Show attendees will be the first to preview and purchase from Pukka's new collections for 2012 featuring over 100 new pre-designed styles. As always, Pukka offers the ability to allow customers to create fully-custom headwear, further cementing the 2012 theme; Breaking the Rules of Customization. Simply put, if you don't see what you are looking for, Pukka can create it for you stemming from nearly ten years of experience in designing custom headwear that sets them apart from their competitors.

"The annual PGA Merchandising Show is the most important event of the year. It sets the tone for the rest of the year in terms of product exposure and networking. It gives us an opportunity to connect and interact with PGA Professionals, merchandisers and buyers alike and show support for our industry partners including the PGA of America as the official headwear sponsor of the PGA Demo Day," explains Tate Miller, President of Pukka Headwear.

"I must also point out that the demand for product innovation including performance fabrics, new colors and the ability to customize in low minimums has never been higher. It's a trend in retail strategy. Complete customization is the foundation of our core headwear program. We can literally make thousands of custom looks out of 35 core styles of headwear," adds Miller.

"Each year we hit the show floor with a theme and this year's theme is 'Breaking the Rules of Customization.' As simple as it sounds; it encompasses our core program capabilities and the personality of our brand. Show attendees and industry leaders will get the opportunity to interact with the theme in various environments as an overall brand experience inside the booth and out on the main floor," says James Thompson, Pukka's Director of Marketing.

For more information, visit www.pukkaheadwear.com or call 877-345-5110 to speak with a customer service representative. You can also follow Pukka at www.facebook.com/pukkaheadwear and www.twitter.com/pukkaheadwear.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Celebrities Make Their Mark on the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-13T11:11:00.000-05:00

Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, Ken Griffey Jr., Lee Trevino, Natalie Gulbis, Paula Creamer, Lexi Thompson, Tom Kite, Chip Beck, Michael Breed, Butch Harmon, Hank Haney & More ...

(NORWALK, Conn.) - Many of the 1,000-plus golf companies and brands at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show will host celebrities, PGA & LPGA stars and renowned PGA teachers during PGA Merchandise Show events, Jan. 25-28 in Orlando, Fla.

PGA Merchandise Show week tees off with the PGA Show Outdoor Demo Day, January 25, at Orange County National Golf Center with a full schedule of special events and celebrity appearances including:
• 9:15 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Jay Golden - Golf Comedy Clinic, Tee 3
• 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Frankly Golf - Approach to Teaching, Tee 3
• 10:30 a.m. Celebrity Appearance - Mike Dobbyn, JumboMax Golf Grips Tent
• 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Peter Johncke - Trick Shot Master, Tee 3
• 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Brian Crowell - Slice Free Golf, Tee 3
• 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Celebrity Appeareance - Lexi Thompson, Cobra PUMA GOLF Cube
• 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Michael Breed - Three Degree Putting Solution, Tee 3
• 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Nike Golf Athlete Exhibition TBA
• 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Celebrity Appearance - Ronnie Renner, Cobra PUMA GOLF Cube
• 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Dennis Walters - Golf Lessons and Life Lessons, Tee 3
• 2:00 p.m. Celebrity Appearance - Mike Dobbyn, JumboMax Golf Grips Tent
• 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. PX3 Athletics, Tee 3
• 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Celebrity Appearance - Blair O'Neal, Cobra PUMA GOLF Cube

PGA World Golf Hall of Fame member Jack Nicklaus will open the PGA Merchandise Show on Thursday morning, January 26, during the event's Opening Ceremony and lead the industry's keynote address on Golf 2.0 ~ an industry-wide initiative to grow participation in golf, on the PGA Forum Stage. Ken Griffey Jr., representing the U.S. Boys and Girls Club, joins Nicklaus and PGA officials to announce an exciting new program targeting junior golfers.

Throughout the three-day PGA Merchandise Show, January 26-28, at the Orange County Convention Center, PGA & LPGA stars such as Tom Kite, Lee Trevino, Chip Beck, Natalie Gulbis, Paula Creamer, Lexi Thompson and Diego Velasquez will be joined by top PGA teachers such as Hank Haney and Michael Breed, along with a host of trick-shot artists, long-drive champions, fashion designers, inventors, actors and authors.

The celebrity and special events schedule is updated daily at www.pgashow.com. Currently, appearances include:

* Jack Nicklaus
* Ken Griffey Jr.
* Tom Kite
* Lee Trevino
* Chip Beck
* Lexi Thompson
* Anna Nordqvist
* Paula Creamer
* Hank Haney
* Natalie Gulbis
* Butch Harmon
* Dave Pelz
* Nancy Lopez
* Michael Breed
* Diego Velasquez
* Blair O'Neal
* Sophie Horn
* Renee Powell
* Billy Casper
* Mike Dobbyn
* Peter Johncke
* Brian Crowell
* Ronnie Renner
* John Ashworth
* Mossimo Giannulli
* Brian Gay
* Karen Stupples
* Nicole Smith
* Ryan O'Toole
* David O'Keefe

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

TaylorMade Golf Company Signs 12-Time PGA Tour Winner Justin Leonard

2012-01-13T09:59:00.000-05:00

Leonard Debuts TaylorMade Golf Clubs at Sony Open

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – TaylorMade Golf Company announced that Justin Leonard has joined the TaylorMade Tour Staff. Leonard, a 12-time PGA Tour winner and the 1997 Open Champion and 1998 Players Champion, played an R11 driver, RBZ Tour 3-wood, Tour Preferred MB Irons, xFT wedges and a PENTA TP golf ball in the opening round of the Sony Open. Leonard also debuted a TaylorMade Staff bag and hat.

“TaylorMade is an incredible company that has always been on the cutting edge of new technology,” said Leonard. “I have seen and heard so much about their line of white metalwoods and putters and I’m excited to begin the year with their equipment.”

Born in Dallas, Leonard attended the University of Texas where he won a NCAA Championship. He won the U.S. Amateur Championship in 1992 before turning professional and joining the PGA Tour in 1994. His first career victory came at the 1996 Buick Open where he cruised to a five-stroke victory.

Leonard has played on three Ryder cup teams (1997, 1999, 2008) and five President’s Cup teams (1996, 1998, 2003, 2005, 2009). In 1999 he became part of Ryder Cup lore by holing a 45-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole at The Country Club in his singles match, which clinched the half-point that allowed the U.S. to retain the Cup.

In Justin’s Bag at Sony Open:
* R11 10.5 Driver
* RBZ Tour 3-wood
* Burner SuperFast 5-wood
* Tour Preferred MC 3-Iron
* Tour Preferred MB Irons (4-PW)
* xFT wedges 54, 58

Nike Golf Introduces VR_S Irons

2012-01-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

Nike VR_S irons feature NexCOR face technology for maximum speed and distance

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – Continuing with the perpetual theme of speed and distance in its new VR_S line of clubs in 2012, Nike Golf is introducing the Nike VR_S irons. Nike’s new award-winning VR_S club line is an extension of the successful Nike VR franchise, which was first introduced in 2008 and has more than 50 worldwide wins including three major championships.

The Nike VR_S irons feature NexCOR variable face-thickness technology, resulting in Nike’s fastest and farthest irons ever. Nike’s new NexCOR Face Technology brings driver face technology to its irons for the first time. It maximizes distance for the widest range of players through a new speed-expanding multi face thickness design. The NexCOR infinity design creates a bridge for ultra-thin, ultra-hot faces and unmatched ball speed from every club in the bag.

Nike engineers conducted impact studies and were able to map where consumers hit the ball on the face at impact on every club. Based on those results, the location of the NexCOR technology differs from club to club.

“We are driven to help golfers get better,” said Tom Stites, Director of Club Creation for Nike Golf. “This NexCOR technology allows for the clubface to produce greater energy return, higher trajectory and longer and straighter shots. Golfers will start noticing that they are hitting shorter irons into the greens. This will not only help to improve their confidence level, but also their game.”

The VR_S clubface delivers a high COR face for more distance. The new face construction expands the maximum COR zone from the low-center to the high-toe where the majority of iron shots are struck.

Using Nike’s PowerBow technology, the weight is positioned off the face with an undercut construction. The PowerBow technology produces a faster, higher launch for maximum carry, straighter ball flight and steeper descent to hold greens.

The Nike VR_S family includes drivers, fairway woods, irons and hybrids - all combining to what is the fastest and hottest family of golf clubs that Nike Golf has ever produced, and, in turn, generating more distance for every shot.

VR_S Irons
Availability: February 3
Specifications:
4-AW, True Temper Dynalite 90: S,R; RH/LH;
4-AW, Nike Fubuki K: S,R,A; RH/LH;
5H,6H,7-SW Nike Fubuki K: W; RH
Street Price: $599 STEEL/$699 GRAPHITE

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Performance Has No Boundaries

2012-01-12T09:47:00.000-05:00

(Oakbrook Terrace, IL) - Performance Has No Boundaries. It is a concept that Zero Friction has massaged, outlined and finally created until we felt the time was just right. As the world recognized Zero Friction "Z" logo continues to grow, Zero Friction felt it is appropriate to create a tag line that goes along with the values and aspirations of the company.

Since Zero Friction started in 2005, the belief of no boundaries continues to grow; in sport and in life. Zero Friction has continually shown a devotion to supporting the game of golf at the grassroots level, helping talent fulfill their potential with no boundaries, through associations such as The First Tee, American Junior Golf Association, Easter Seals, PGA TOUR, the Long Drivers of America and the David Leadbetter Academies. Zero Friction is honored to be the official tee of these fantastic golf organizations and looks forward to the continued growth of players of all ages. We do not focus solely on the exposure that other brands seek through front line logo placement on athletes. Rather, we invest in those who share our values and can inspire others.

The recently launched new website www.zerofriction.com, empowers performance has no boundaries and allows for golfers of all ages to share their stories of breaking boundaries at every level. We encourage you to email us at info@zerofriction.com, or tell us via Facebook or Twitter (#noboundaries) with stories of yourself or others you know as golfers continue to break boundaries in life and sport every day.

Zero Friction is proud of the slogan performance has no boundaries, and as Zero Friction continues to grow, we recognize:
Obstacles Challenge Us
Difficulties Define Us
Hope Empowers Us
Time Defeats Us
Performance Has No Boundaries

Visit Zero Friction at booth 2201 to check out Zero Friction's Performance look.

For more information, visit www.zerofriction.com, call 877-316-7492 or e-mail info@zerofriction.com.

Follow along on Twitter: twitter.com/excelgolf - #noboundaries

Like on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ZeroFrictionGolfProducts

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Steve Stricker Relies on Full Line of FootJoy Performance Products to Win in Hawaii

2012-01-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

FootJoy Brand Ambassador Steve Stricker kicked off the 2012 season in style, cruising to victory at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions for his 12th career victory. Stricker, now ranked #5 in the world, closed with a 4-under 69 Monday for a three shot victory. He is now a perfect seven-for-seven when entering the final round of a 72-hole event with the outright lead.

Stricker surged to the top of the leaderboard during Saturday's second round with an impressive 10-under 63 and was steady over the final two rounds with consecutive 69's. Applying pressure on the leader was an army of FJ players. In the winners-only field, 78% of the participants chose FJ golf shoes, including 13 of the top 15 finishers. This follows a remarkable 2011 season during which FJ players were victorious in 30 of the 46 events (65%) on the PGA Tour.

Stricker's victory coincides with the launch of FJ's first full line performance apparel collection now available to consumers. Steve has been wearing FJ apparel since the beginning of the 2011 season and wore shirts from three of the Spring 2012 fashion color collections at Kapalua.

Stricker notes: "I love the new apparel, especially the shirts, because they're comfortable and very easy to play in. I was impressed with how well they wick moisture, too. Last year at the John Deere Classic it was incredibly hot and humid but the shirt looked and felt as good when I finished as it did when I started my round."

In addition to a representation of FJ apparel, Steve relied upon the comfort and stability of DryJoys Tour golf shoes in managing the steep hills of Kapalua. "Built for the Tour That Inspired Them," DryJoys Tour deliver the comfort, flexibility and waterproof performance that players at all levels have come to expect from the DryJoys brand while integrating the next generation Tri-Density TPU Stability PODS outsole for the stability and performance required to compete on the tour's most demanding courses, like the Plantation Course.

After claiming the lead following 36 holes, Stricker executed several flawless feel shots en route to victory, trusting the amazing fit and performance of the Pure Touch Limited glove. The new standard in product leadership, innovation and outstanding performance for the committed player, Pure Touch Limited delivers a soft, supple feel and a precision, tailored fit.

For more, visit:
www.footjoy.com
www.dryjoystour.com
www.footjoy.com/apparel

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Antigua Named Official Apparel for the 2nd Annual RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup

2012-01-12T09:32:00.001-05:00

(PEORIA, ARIZ.) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of genuine golf and sports apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand - has been named the official apparel of the 2nd Annual RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup, the company announced today.

Antigua apparel and headwear will be used in all aspects of the 72-hole tournament, whose field of players will compete March 12-18 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Ariz.

Players in the Founders Cup will be competing for a $1.5 million dollar purse as well as a promise of $500,000 to be donated to the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf Program.

"We are excited and honored by the chance to be an official supplier for the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup," says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "The inaugural event was great, the new 72-hole event for 2012 will be fantastic!"

About the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup
RR Donnelley, the LPGA and its players truly confirmed 'Why It's Different Out Here' in 2011, making golf history by not only remembering the women that made the LPGA a reality, but also by "paying-it-forward" and playing entirely for charity and the expansion of the Girls Golf program," LPGA Commissioner Michael Whan said. "Next season, with RR Donnelley's vision, we will prove that the Founders Cup sequel is even better than the original."

Tickets can be purchased online at www.LPGAFounders.com or by calling 888-LPGATIX (574-2849). Children 17 and under will receive free tournament admission with a ticketed adult. Active military members and their immediate families can receive free tournament admission when showing a valid active military ID at the main admission gate.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

SCOR Golf Recognized by 2012 Golf Digest Hot List

2012-01-12T09:26:00.000-05:00

(Victoria, TX) – SCOR Golf, a division of Eidolon Brands, announced that its innovative SCOR4161 wedges and short irons are included in the prestigious 2012 Golf Digest Hot List. The Hot List is the annual process that arrives at the most comprehensive ranking of the best new clubs in golf. The SCOR4161 line of scoring clubs won a silver award in the wedges category with four and one half stars in the “performance” and “look/sound/feel” ratings and four stars in “innovation.”

“We are honored by Golf Digest’s recognition as an emerging leader in the scoring club category,” said Terry Koehler, President of SCOR Golf. “The judging panel for the Hot List includes some of the industry’s leading experts as well as a representation of the ‘everyman’ golfer. For SCOR Golf to be recognized right alongside the best-known brands is great testament to our innovation, technology, and performance for golfers of all skill levels.

“With only four months in the marketplace, SCOR and our product line doesn’t yet have the retail distribution or huge marketing budget to have scored in the “Demand” category, yet we held our own with the major brands based solely on performance. Only one other wedge scored higher in that category than our SCOR4161,” added Koehler. “Across the entire spectrum of Hot List testing – drivers, irons, fairway woods, hybrids, wedges and putters – SCOR is the only niche company to have placed this high. We are thrilled that our innovation and performance has been so highly recognized by the testers.”
Highlights of the Hot List review include:
-“Not simply a wedge, this is a dynamic theory about short-game set makeup.”
-“The sole design is a proven quantity.”
-“You can really knock this down. Exquisite for the low spinner.”
-”In the bunker, each shot had the right amount of nip and zip.”

The company received an early indication that they made an impact during Hot List testing in October, when one of the invited testers called SCOR Golf to order a full set of five SCOR4161 scoring clubs. Then, immediately after seeing them, his best golf buddy ordered a set of his own.

“You guys really had them talking,” this customer told SCOR Golf. “People were asking each other, ‘who are these guys?’, because no one had ever heard of SCOR, but when they hit the clubs, they immediately saw that these were truly something different from the rank-and-file wedges from the major brands. I voted with my wallet and bought a full set immediately after returning home.”

Since 2004, Golf Digest has conducted extensive testing of all new clubs that are coming to market each spring. The February “Hot List” issue has become one of the biggest selling issues of the year. The list is typically dominated by major brands which enjoy powerful market awareness, and rarely do products from upstart companies present such a compelling package of innovation that historic demand has to be discounted in the scoring.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Golf Adds Rising Star Kevin Chappell to its Roster of Talented Athletes

2012-01-11T21:36:00.000-05:00

Chappell will play with Nike Golf clubs from its VR franchise; has switched to Nike's 20XI ball; and will wear Nike Golf apparel and footwear

(Beaverton, OR) - Nike Golf today announced the signing of 25-year-old Kevin Chappell, who makes his professional debut as a Nike Golf athlete when he tees it up in the first round of the Sony Open in Honolulu, HI. Chappell has signed a multi-year agreement and will represent Nike Golf in clubs, ball, footwear, glove, bag, apparel, headwear and accessories.

Chappell's new bag of Nike Golf clubs are highlighted by Nike's successful VR Franchise, including an 18-degree hybrid from Nike's brand new award-winning VR_S line of clubs. He also will be playing with the new Nike 20XI ball featuring RZN Core technology, a new lighter and faster innovative material that Nike believes will obsolete rubber core technology. His putter is a Nike Method putter, featuring Polymetal Groove technology that reduces skid while generating a truer forward roll. He will be wearing apparel from Nike Golf's Sport and Performance line.

Chappell is no stranger to Nike Golf. Prior to signing with the Swoosh as a head-to-toe athlete, he wore the popular Nike Lunar Control golf shoe, featuring Nike’s Lunarlon Foam and Nike Flywire - two technologies that together result in a lightweight shoe providing maximum comfort and stability.

“From the moment I put on those shoes, I knew immediately what Nike Golf stands for – innovation.” said Chappell. “They bring a new vibe and style to the sport. I love that attitude. I’m excited to be playing with Nike clubs and am especially excited about the new 20XI ball. It’s awesome.”

During his rookie season on the PGA Tour last year, Chappell posted three top-10 finishes, including a third-place finish at the U.S. Open, which was his first-ever major championship start on the PGA Tour. Chappell’s best finish was a tie for second at the Valero Texas Open.

Before earning his PGA Tour card, Chappell enjoyed an illustrious career in 2010 on the Nationwide Tour, which was highlighted by a win and seven top-10 finishes.

A native of Fresno, California, Chappell attended UCLA, where he led the Bruins to a national golf title in 2008 and was a three-time All-American selection. Chappell also won the NCAA individual title and Player of the Year.

“Kevin is a super athletic guy with a wealth of talent,” said Mark Thaxton, Global Director of Sports Marketing Operations for Nike Golf. “He’s a powerful player with an impressive short game. We are excited to add him to our stable of athletes.”

Chappell's Nike Golf Arsenal
* Driver: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 9.5
* Fairway Wood: Nike VR Pro Limited Edition 3-wood/15-degree
* Irons: Nike VR Pro Combo (3-5); VR Pro Blades (6-9)
* Hybrids: Nike VR_S 18-degree
* Wedges: Nike VR Pro DS 48, 54 and 60-degree
* Putter: Nike Method 003 Prototype
* Ball: Nike 20XI
* Apparel: Nike Golf Sport and Nike Golf Performance
* Footwear: Nike Lunar Control

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Jack Nicklaus Joins the Allen Edmonds Team

2012-01-11T12:36:00.000-05:00

Nicklaus will collaborate broadly with the American shoe manufacturer

(Port Washington, WI) - Allen Edmonds, the Great American Shoe Company, is partnering with Jack Nicklaus, the great American golf icon, to promote the Allen Edmonds brand both domestically and globally.

Allen Edmonds introduced its "Honors Collection" classic golf shoes in 2011, entering the golf market for the first time in several years. Its partnership with Mr. Nicklaus will go beyond golf to include a "Clubhouse Collection" of dress shoes focused on style and comfort.

"Jack Nicklaus is esteemed worldwide not just for his record-setting career in golf, but also for his superior sportsmanship, his personal values, his intense preparation and his attention to detail-all traits that we greatly admire and seek to emulate at Allen Edmonds," said Paul Grangaard, president and CEO of Allen Edmonds. "It is a great honor for us to be working with him. I know our employees and loyal customers will be proud of this important partnership."

The Golden Bear is globally recognized as the greatest golfer in the game's history, having accumulated 120 professional victories, including a record 18 major championships. His legacy on the course has extended off the course and to his businesses, which include an industry-leading course design company and an iconic brand that has been licensed to products ranging from golf equipment to apparel to wine.

Nicklaus and Allen Edmonds - American Excellence
"Allen Edmonds is an excellent partner for me and my businesses," Nicklaus said. "I have always pursued the highest standards in my game and in the people with whom I do business. Allen Edmonds follows those same principles. The Jack Nicklaus and Allen Edmonds teams share great American traits for the pursuit of excellence, and I am confident that this will be a successful and rewarding partnership for both of us."

It is estimated that Nicklaus has walked close to 11,000 holes of major championship golf, having crossed the 10,000-hole mark at the 1997 US Open at Congressional Country Club. Still, the Golden Bear displayed remarkable longevity and was able to play in a record 154 consecutive majors for which he was eligible.

"In amassing an unparalleled career over parts of six decades, one can only imagine the wear and tear on Jack's body, and we know that foot health has been paramount to him," Grangaard said. "Because of that, he values the 212-step craftsmanship, superior construction and comfort of Allen Edmonds' golf and street shoes. He will be a terrific advocate for our shoes and advisor in the development of future products."

"I am excited to be working with the Allen Edmonds team to design a shoe line that will focus on comfort and performance, "Nicklaus added. "Perhaps if I had shoes built by Allen Edmonds throughout my career I may have avoided the discomfort that eventually led to my need for a hip replacement. As we build our relationship, I am excited to help Allen Edmonds develop more shoes to fit the various needs of golfers at all skill levels and ages."

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Poulter and Cobra Puma Golf, What a Pair

2012-01-11T11:53:00.000-05:00

Golf Style Icon, Ian Poulter, Signs with COBRA PUMA GOLF to Wear Footwear and Belts on Tour

(CARLSBAD, CA) – Professional golfer, Ian Poulter, who has 15 career wins and most recently won the 2011 JBWere Australian Masters, has signed with COBRA PUMA GOLF to wear brand new styles of footwear and belts. Poulter has been a COBRA Golf ambassador for over five years and will now represent the COBRA PUMA GOLF brand on course.

“We are excited to have a world-class golfer with such an engaging personality and sense of style join the ranks of PUMA Golf,” said Bob Philion, President of COBRA PUMA GOLF. “Ian’s worldwide presence on multiple Tours will help drive home COBRA PUMA GOLF’s core message to enjoy golf through innovative, performance products with a stylish edge that sets them apart.”

Poulter, who is currently ranked 16th in the Official World Golf Ranking, will wear a new PUMA Golf shoe, the Neo Classic Pro-Type. While this style is not yet available to consumers, Ian will be wearing it on Tour and come mid-Summer, a limited release of the style will be available for the public to purchase. Taking design cues from the runways, the upper is full grain leather with brogue details in the formstripe. The outsole is PUMA Golf’s S2C Pro (Swing Speed Chassis Pro). This outsole was designed with the professional golfer in mind, providing the perfect blend of control, leverage and balance. The S2Quill Technology in the outsole combines directionally molded S2Quill Spikes and replaceable S2Quill Spikes for ultimate grip on the course.

“I am thrilled to be working with COBRA PUMA GOLF, who truly understands the importance of fusing style with performance,” said Ian Poulter. “I really like the style and performance of the Neo Classic Pro-Type and we’re working on developing future models as well. I’m getting the style I love in shoes that perform and stay comfortable throughout my round.”

To welcome Ian to the team, COBRA PUMA GOLF will be hosting a Poulter PUMA Party in Orlando Jan. 12. For more information on the party, visit the PUMA Golf website or Facebook page: www.puma.com/golf and www.facebook.com/pumagolf.

Ian will wear the Neo Classic Pro-Type on Tour as well as a selection of PUMA Golf belts. He will work with the PUMA Golf Design Team to bring new footwear styles to the course and to consumers across the world.

Ian will continue to play COBRA Golf equipment and currently plays the ZL Encore Driver, AMP 3 Wood, Baffler Rail 2/H and the S3 Pro 4-6 CB and 7-P MB Irons.

For more information on COBRA PUMA GOLF, visit us at www.cobragolf.com and www.puma.com/golf. Stay up to date with the latest products, events and Tour athletes at Facebook.com/cobra, facebook.com/pumagolf and on Twitter handles - @cobragolf and @pumagolf.

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PING’s 2012 roster a blend of stars and acclaimed rookies

2012-01-11T08:17:00.000-05:00

(PHOENIX) – The world’s No. 2-ranked player, a perennial distance champion, “The Mechanic”, and the European Tour’s top rookie are among more than 90 players on the PING Worldwide Tour Staff announced today by John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO.

The list includes many longtime staff players: No. 2 Lee Westwood; long-hitting Bubba Watson; Hunter Mahan; Mark Wilson; and Miguel Angel Jimeñez, a.k.a. “The Mechanic,” who begins his 25th year with PING. Also on the roster are major winners Angel Cabrera and Louis Oosthuizen. In addition, the club maker signed a number of highly touted rookies, notably Tom Lewis, Harris English, and Andy Sullivan.

“All of us at PING are proud to be associated with such a variety of outstanding players,” Solheim said. “It’s gratifying to have enjoyed such long histories with veterans like Lee Westwood, Bubba Watson, and Miguel Angel Jimeñez, who recently renewed his contract. At the same time, we’re looking forward to working with proven young talent like Tom Lewis and Harris English, who hold such promise. That’s a credit to PING technology, which inspires deep loyalty, and to our scouting system, which has a track record of identifying golfers at a young age who know how to win.”

The 20-year-old Lewis was low amateur at last year’s Open Championship, and the Englishman won in only his third pro start on the European Tour, which named him Rookie of the Year. His countryman and Walker Cup teammate Andy Sullivan signed with PING after a stellar amateur career in Europe. He came through European Tour Q school. Lewis and Sullivan belong to a 12-player PING men’s contingent in Europe.

Among the 23-player PGA Tour staff for 2012 is rookie Harris English, who signed with PING after an acclaimed college career at the University of Georgia. He won on the Nationwide Tour last summer as an amateur, and earned his tour card via Q school.

Mark Calcavecchia on the Champions Tour has been with PING since the 1980s. He finished second in the Charles Schwab Cup points race in his first full season on the 50-plus circuit. He had a victory last season, while longtime PING Pro Bob Gilder claimed his 10th title on the Champions Tour, where PING will have six players.

On the LPGA, 14 women will represent the PING brand, including Spaniard Azahara Muñoz, whose biggest prize in 2011 was winning a key singles match late on the final day to help secure Europe’s Solheim Cup victory. I.K. Kim, Angela Stanford and Maria Hjorth continue with PING, along with retired star Lorena Ochoa, who serves as PING’s global ambassador.

PING’s Tour Pro staff includes players from 20 countries competing on every major tour around the world.

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STX Golf Announces Face Insert Expansion as Company Moves to Attract Another Segment of Market

2012-01-11T08:06:00.002-05:00

(BALTIMORE, MD) - STX Golf, world-renowned as an industry pioneer in putter innovation, and for its patented Soft Face Insert Technology, announced the company's new 2012 STX putter line-up will include new proprietary inserts that are manufactured in the United States and are developed specifically for "feel."

STX Golf coined for "Changing the Face of Putting" literally with their interchangeable technology developed and patented the first soft face insert in 1980. These USGA approved polymer blended inserts increase "dwell time" which provides better control, less skidding, and a truer roll. The performance characteristics of the STX soft face inserts are undeniable and the soft feel is unique. However, there is portion of the golfing community that prefers the firmness and auditory responses from stainless steel.

To address and attract these golfers, STX Golf's team of engineers developed two totally new proprietary face inserts based on "Feel." The first model is a stainless steel face insert with a Deep Diamond mill pattern that will provide golfers with a solid feel upon ball contact and provides the standard metal sound associated with most modern stainless steel putters. The second insert is made with a highly engineered thermoset insert. It too is denser than the STX soft face inserts but is more malleable than the steel and promotes the highest coefficient of friction to maximize forward spin and feel.

According to STX Director of Golf Steve Henneman, "We are truly excited to launch both of these new face inserts. They are completely new, innovative, and proprietary properties that should help the company reach a new golfing audience."

Both of these STX face inserts will be available on the new X-Form Series of Putters. A line of stainless steel putters that are 100% machine milled and embody the artistry and performance STX has long been known for. The X-Form Series features the X1, X2, and X3 blade styled putters. The X4 is an ultra modern mallet. The company will be officially launching the entirely new line at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Jim McLean and TrackMan University Seminars

2012-01-11T08:01:00.000-05:00

(Miami, FL and Vedbaek, Denmark) - Jim McLean and TrackMan University announced a strategic collaboration where the two parties will deliver education seminars across the United States in 2012.

McLean is a long time TrackMan owner and one of the top golf instructors in the world, named 1994 PGA of America Teacher of The Year, and currently ranked No.3 by Golf Digest, among many other distinctions. McLean was one of the first golf instructors to declare that Face Angle was far more important than Club Path in determining Launch Direction. TrackMan has since then proven McLean's theory to be true. TrackMan, among other discoveries, has further proven that Club Path and Face Angle - as a rule of thumb - determine Launch Direction on a ratio of 1 to 4.

TrackMan University is providing education and certification programs for golf industry professionals (instructors, fitters, coaches and players) who want to enhance their knowledge about the measured data parameters (swing and ball flight analysis) and the underlying theory about the ball flight laws.

TrackMan University currently offers two programs: The TrackMan Certified Operator and The TrackMan Certified Professional (Level 1 to 3).

The first Jim McLean and TrackMan University seminar is scheduled for March 19 at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. The seminar package includes a one-year TrackMan University Membership and one day seminar with Jim McLean and TrackMan. During the one-day seminar, attendees will learn about McLean's experience with TrackMan and how he integrates the TrackMan data in teaching his students the various swing principles to improve. TrackMan Vice-President Matt Frelich, a PGA Professional, will support McLean by presenting TrackMan University curriculum Level 1 & 2.

By attending the seminar, attendees become TrackMan University members and will be able to log in at TrackMan University (www.trackmanuniversity.com) for achievement of TrackMan Certified Professional Level I & II status, including the possibility to achieve future TrackMan Certified Professional Level 3 Master status.

Future 2012 seminar dates include July 30 at Jim McLean Texas Golf Center in Ft. Worth, Texas, and Nov. 12 at SunRidge Canyon in Scottsdale, Ariz. The seminars are $675 per participant. Current TrackMan University members $250.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Blending Art and Science, Nike Golf Introduces the Method Concept Putter

2012-01-10T18:23:00.000-05:00

Nike Method Concept putter has the appearance of a blade with the stability and roll of a mallet

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) – The Nike Golf Method putter franchise is expanding its boundaries in a Nike way with the introduction of a new mid-Mallet putter, the Nike Method Concept. Inspired by the notion of the Concept car, Nike designers have created an iconic shape that blends art with science without sacrificing the game-changing performance that Nike Method technology delivers – a smoother stroke and a truer roll with far less skid.

The art is in the profound shape. This radical shape has the appearance of a blade, yet plays like a mallet. This bold red front and the strong black back design radiates Nike and will appeal to those who are curious and are looking for ways to bring a new level of confidence to the putting green.

The science is in the multi-material technology and the distinctive two body parts. The face of the putter is light, weighing only 90 grams. The body is heavy, weighing 200 grams. This innovative combination of the two sections results in a very high MOI-to-head ratio putter with a small mallet footprint. While the Nike Method Concept has a small mallet footprint, it provides the stability of the largest mallets in the game.

The lightweight aluminum face and a high-mass stainless steel body position the center of gravity farther back in the head and lower to the sole, delivering a truer roll. As with the successful Nike Method putter franchise, the Method Concept also features Nike’s polymetal groove technology that generates a faster forward roll at impact for increased accuracy.

“We are giving consumers something new and something better,” said David Franklin, Master Model Maker, Nike Golf. “There’s a reason the shape is the way it is. It allows us to infuse vital science and powerful technology that delivers a very high MOI in a relatively small package.”

The Nike Method Franchise has more than 35 worldwide wins on the professional tours, including three major championships.

“Method technology has such a good feel and it rolls the ball beautifully,” said Nike Golf athlete and 2011 Masters Champion, Charl Schwartzel. “Those two aspects in putting are very important.”

Availability: February 17, 2012
MAP: $199.00, RH/LH: 32”, 33”, 34”
MAP: $229.00, RH 41”, 43” Mid-Length

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in fiamme – Fine Italian Golf Apparel – Sets New Minimums for Custom-design, Private-label Options

2012-01-10T17:37:00.000-05:00

(Phoenix) – in fiamme (www.infiamme.net), the world’s finest Italian golf apparel, announces a new minimum-quantity level for its custom-design and private-label options. Country clubs, resorts and fine clothiers now may order in fiamme custom or private-label pieces with minimums as low as 36 pieces.

“This option, unusual from an industry perspective, will appeal to many retailers that would like to have our custom-designed, hand-sewn apparel made exclusively for their clientele,” said Art Kimbrough, vice president of business development forin fiamme. “It could be a differentiator to some clubs.

“Our unique designs, boutique product, customization and low-quantity minimums are not typical in the industry.”

The new policy will extend in fiamme's exceptional fabrication, craftsmanship, coloration and custom designs to a greater number of shops throughout the U.S., providing their members and guests with the finest in lifestyle fashion.

More information will be available at the PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28 in Orlando, Fla., where in fiamme will exhibit its custom Italian golf apparel in booth #5253 and in the apparel zone of the New Product Center.

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adidas Golf Introduces POWERBAND 4.0 Footwear

2012-01-10T17:31:00.001-05:00

Aggressive, next-generation design delivers maximum performance and power to support high-speed golf swings

(CARLSBAD, CALIF.) – adidas Golf, an industry leader in footwear innovation and performance technologies, is launching the next generation of its most powerful footwear – the POWERBAND 4.0, catering to those seeking enhanced stability, leverage, and balance control.

The POWERBAND franchise has always been about eliminating power leaks and for its ability to help golfers of all levels better transfer their power from back-swing back to the ball at impact. The key is an energy-harnessing foundation called a POWERBAND CHASSIS, which provides extraordinary lateral stability from the ground up to allow for faster, more aggressive golf swings and a stretch resistant synthetic overlay for added stability and durability . The POWERBAND 4.0 allows athletes to gain greater control, agility and leverage at the ground level encouraging speed and stability throughout the golf swing.

“There’s no better way to support golf’s growing power game than by advancing golf’s most powerful shoe,” said Bill Price, Sr. Director of Global Footwear. “The POWERBAND 4.0 provokes confidence because it delivers the support and stability aggressive golfers need - and does so at a tour-proven level.”

Complementing the POWERBAND CHASSIS is adidas Golf’s FitFOAM insole for ever-lasting cushioning and a TPU forefoot with 8-spike configuration with THINTECH low-profile technology for improved traction and stability. The upper features full-grain leather with detailed synthetic overlays for added stability and durability.

POWERBAND 4.0 is offered in medium and wide widths, carries a ClimaProof two-year waterproof warranty, and is available in a choice of three colorways: White / Black / Metallic Silver, Black / Black / White, and White / Slime / Black.

Available now with an MSRP of $150.

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Sligo Wear Adds Rising Canadian Star to Pro Staff on PGA Tour

2012-01-10T12:10:00.000-05:00

(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) - Sligo Wear, known for its trend-setting styles, has signed Canada’s Graham DeLaet to a multi-year endorsement contract that will see the PGA Tour player dressed in Sligo Wear’s distinctive, cutting-edge apparel, starting this week at the Sony Open in Hawaii.

DeLaet, a native of Weyburn, Sask., is on the comeback trail this year after missing virtually the entire 2011 PGA Tour season following back surgery. The 29-year-old enjoyed a successful rookie season on Tour in 2010, showing promise by earning $950,000 despite suffering from a bulging disc.

“We are very excited to have Graham represent Sligo Wear ” said Shawn Aucoin, Director of Sales and Marketing for the rising global brand. “Graham is a dynamic young golf professional and his determination and desire will be exemplified again this season on the PGA Tour. He is arguably the best of the new generation of Canadian golf professionals, which makes all of us here at home particularly proud to add a countryman to the Sligo Wear team.”

DeLaet joins three-time PGA Tour winner Brian Gay, Nationwide Tour winner Justin Hicks and prominent American golf instructor Jeff Ritter on the Sligo Wear professional staff.

Sligo Wear’s reputation for introducing technologically advanced materials and vibrant colors is reinforced by its eclectic 2012 collection that includes distinctively designed golf shirts, short- and long-sleeved wind shirts and jackets, as well as sweaters in three styles – v-neck, quarter-zip and cardigans – and technical solid and patterned pants and shorts.

Follow the company on Twitter @SLIGOWEAR or on Facebook at Sligo-Wear-Inc.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

PING re-signs Mahan to multi-year agreement

2012-01-10T07:15:00.000-05:00

(PHOENIX) – Hunter Mahan has signed a multi-year agreement to continue playing PING golf equipment, according to John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO.

In 2011, Mahan posted a career-best 10 top-10s while making 22 of 25 cuts and earning more than $3.5 million. His 4-1 record in his third Presidents Cup in November was instrumental to the Americans’ victory. His three Tour wins include the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational. He has also played on two U.S. Ryder Cup teams.

“Hunter has been an accomplished player for so long, it’s hard to believe he’s only 29,” Solheim said. “He has incredible talent, and his easygoing nature gives him a great connection with golf fans. Hunter has been a loyal PING player his entire career and we’re proud to continue our affiliation with him, now entering its 10th year.”

As part of the agreement, Mahan will wear a PING hat, carry a PING staff bag and play PING equipment. Financial terms and the length of the agreement were not disclosed.

He is currently playing a G20 driver and 3-wood, S56 irons, Anser forged wedges, and an Anser Milled putter. He is 19th in the most recent Official World Golf Ranking.

Mahan makes his home in Texas and was a star at Oklahoma State University, where he was part of PING’s College Program, which introduced him to PING equipment.

“From the time I first picked up a PING club more than 10 years ago, they’ve felt good in my hands,” he said. “The technology fits my game. They look good at address, the drivers are long and accurate and the irons allow me to attack pins. Confidence is really important to my success, and with PING I know I have the best equipment in the industry. I’m thrilled to continue my relationship with a company that has stood by me since day one.”

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Sundog Eyewear congratulates Louis Oosthuizen

2012-01-09T16:21:00.001-05:00

(EAST LONDON, South Africa) - Sundog Eyewear is pleased to congratulate Louis Oosthuizen on his dramatic second straight Africa Open victory.

At the European Tour’s season-opening event in the 2012 Race to Dubai, Oosthuizen successfully defended his 2011 title with a 35-foot birdie putt on the 71st hole to finish at 27 under par to defeat countrymen Tjaart van der Walt by two shots and Retief Goosen by three.

Oosthuizen is one of the game’s finest players with seven International victories including the 2010 Open Championship.

Defending his Africa Open title at the East London Golf Club, Oosthuizen wore his Sundog Eyewear of choice, the Draw Mela-Lens model.

“Mela” is an abbreviation for Melanin, a naturally produced pigment that acts as a sunscreen protecting the skin from High Energy Visible light or “blue” light. In partnership with BNL Sun Lenses, an Essilor company, Sundog Eyewear has created the Sundog Mela-Lens lines utilizing synthetic melanin to produce state-of-the-art melanin lens technology. Mela-Lens absorbs light seamlessly over a broad spectral range providing superior blue light filtration with minimal color distortion, and 100 percent UVA/B protection. Mela-Lens features the Eternity Hard Coat for superior abrasion resistance.

Oosthuizen’s fellow Genuine Performers wearing Sundog Eyewear Mela-Lens sunglasses include Paula Creamer, Pablo Larrazábal, and Mike Weir.

The 2012 Sundog Eyewear line features 12 new models and the Paula Creamer Collection; Mike Weir’s Weir Golf Signature Series; Mela-Lens Polarized and Mela-Lens Photochromic models; and the complete Core Golf line.

To view Sundog Eyewear 2012 visit www.sundogeyewear.com.

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Rife Putters Receives Sixth Golf Digest Hot List Award in Seven Years

2012-01-09T07:33:00.000-05:00

(SANFORD, FL) - The February 2012 issue of Golf Digest has hit the newsstands and its official ... RIFE Putters has made the prestigious Golf Digest Hot List for the 6th time in the past seven years. Four of RIFE's Island Series putters, the Abaco, Aruba, Cayman Brac and Trinidad have all been honored in the "Blade" category.

The Golf Digest Hot List is derived from in-depth club testing that is administered by a Hot List Panel consisting of 38 Players, Scientists, Retailers, and Judges, who this year reviewed hundreds of products and came up with what they refer to as the equipment that is most intriguing, and most significant for 2012.

Each product was rated and given points in several different categories including, Performance, Innovation, Look/Sound/Feel, and Demand. RIFE's Island Series putters received high marks in all categories tested including 4 out of 5 stars for Performance, Innovation and Demand. According to Golf Digest Magazine, "Center-shafted blades are not usually for the masses. This one (the Trinidad) drew unanimous raves for its roll from our testers."

All of these Island Series putters will be available in either a Standard Silver Finish or in RIFE's brand new Tropical Finish for 2012. This Tropical Finish is created by using a vacuum "Ti" plating process" on the head of the putter. A broad spectrum of colors emanate from this deep rich gunmetal like finish creating a "rainbow effect" depending upon how the light hits it. The new finish has other benefits aside from its eye-catching appearance. The finish prevents oxidization, increases hardness and makes the putter very wear-resistant.

"It's a huge honor to have our putters make the Hot List," said Robby Hipp, Director of Development for RIFE Putters. "This year we integrated our patented RollGrooveTM Technology Face and Alignment Notch System into some more traditional putter designs like the Trinidad, the Aruba and the Cayman Brac. Receiving six Golf Digest Hot List Awards in seven years is a pretty good indication that we're on the right track."

For more information on RIFE Putters or their product lineup for 2012 visit their website at www.RifePutters.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Ogio Introduces Whites Stripes Collection of Golf, Travel and Tournament Bags

2012-01-09T07:24:00.000-05:00

New non-permeable White Stripes fabric can be easily wiped of any dirt or grime

(SALT LAKE CITY) - OGIO, the company known for introducing fashions that spark adrenaline, has released the new White Stripes Collection of Golf, Travel and Tournament bags featuring face coatings that make the bags non-permeable and easy to clean.

The White Stripes Collection turns the traditional bag inside out and features exclusive White Stripes PVC fabric on the outside, which repels water and allows for the bag to be easily wiped clean of dirt accumulated on the course or in the trunk. An innovation in fashion and materials, the White Stripes fabric boasts an aggressive style that will raise adrenaline levels that also is easy to maintain while featuring the acclaimed quality and durability for which OGIO is known.

"We created the White Stripes Collection so that golfers and travelers can have a stylish white bag that will stay clean while facing the elements." said Tom Gocke, Global VP of OGIO Golf. "Many people have avoided using white bags on the golf course or while traveling for fear that they'll quickly look dirty and won't retain their color. We believe that White Stripes fabric will put those fears to rest."

"These golf and travel bags are perfect for the golfer who doesn't want to sacrifice fashion for functionality," said Perry Ponti, GM of golfdiscount.com. "OGIO's one of a kind coating keeps your bag looking like new no matter what conditions the golf or travel bag encounters."

The White Stripes fabric collection is available in the following models: Syncro II, Duke, Grom XX, Ozone XX, Vapor, Duchess, Featherlite, Straight Jacket, Layover, Terminal, Convoy, Rage and Shoester. Check it out at www.OGIO.com and premium golf retailers.

For more information about OGIO, visit www.OGIO.com or visit on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OGIOinternational.

Contact: AmericanGolferblog@gmail.com

Golf Pride Unveils New Swing Grips for 2012 Lineup

2012-01-08T20:17:00.000-05:00

(SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.) - Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation announced a number of upcoming additions to the Golf Pride line of grips in 2012. Golf Pride is set to release the New Decade MultiCompound Whiteout, Tour Velvet 360, Tour 25, Tour Velvet BCT Cord White, Z-Grip Cord, and Tour Wrap 2G White Midsize in February 2012.

"Golf Pride has long been a leader in new grip technology, from the invention of the slip-on grip to the introduction of the hybrid category of grips," said Dan Koehler, director of sales and marketing for Eaton's Golf Grip Division. "The 2012 lineup offers a grip for every player's needs, ability and club selection. Golf Pride pushes the limits in molded rubber grips to offer the ultimate feel, feedback, performance and consistency to help golfers play their best."

The development of the New Decade MultiCompound was a significant breakthrough in golf grip technology and will soon be available in a new Whiteout design. Created for TOUR players and avid golfers alike, the Whiteout adds a new white material to the upper hand area while maintaining the performance characteristics that make the MultiCompound golf's hottest grip. This high performance hybrid grip provides comfort and responsiveness to the lower hand, while BCT cord provides moisture management and traction to the upper hand, giving the player the confidence to make a solid shot swing after swing. The Whiteout will be available in red, blue and black.

In addition to the Whiteout, Golf Pride is unveiling two new specialty replacement grips, the Tour Velvet 360 and the Tour 25. Tour Velvet 360 is designed for adjustable drivers, fairway woods and hybrid clubs. It features the popular feel of the Tour Velvet non-slip surface pattern in a 360 degree design that will allow for a consistent appearance regardless of shaft orientation or adjustments. The Tour 25 is Golf Pride's lightest rubber swing grip at only 25 grams, half the weight of a conventional rubber grip. This lightweight model is the perfect replacement grip for drivers and fairway woods that use a light grip as a component.

Golf Pride will also introduce two new cord grips in 2012. The Z-Grip Cord will be Golf Pride's firmest cord grip available. Combining dual layers of texturing for feedback and control, the Z-Grip features a deep "Z" shaped texture pattern that winds vertically around the grip for control, while a significant cord texture throughout provides moisture management. This design pattern is complemented with a white end cap and distinctive white body paint. The Tour Velvet BCT, the most widely used cord grip on TOUR, will soon be available in a new white material with tightly-woven black cotton fibers for excellent traction and all-weather control.

Rounding out the 2012 line up, the popular Tour Wrap 2G will soon be available in Midsize White. This one-piece, simulated wrap grip features enhanced tackiness and an even softer material for a great feel. For more information on new grips, including grip specifications, descriptions and pictures, go to www.golfpride.com.

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Saddle Creek Resort Announces 'Two-for-One Stay and Play Package' for January, February

2012-01-07T08:11:00.001-05:00

(COPPEROPOLIS, Calif.) - Saddle Creek Resort - the Castle & Cooke golf community in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Calaveras County - today announces a "Two-for-One Stay and Play Package," starting at $223 per person, through Feb. 29.

Located two hours from the Bay Area and 1.5 hours from Sacramento, Saddle Creek Resort is home to 18 holes of championship golf with several tee boxes offering vistas of nearby Yosemite National Park.

The package includes two nights accommodations (double occupancy); two rounds of world-class golf; complimentary breakfast and cart fees; unlimited range balls; and access to the resort's Sports Club, which houses a junior Olympic-size lap pool, workout equipment, tennis and bocce ball courts and a horse shoe pit.

"Our package offers the perfect opportunity to experience one of Northern California's best golf resorts at an incredible value," says Bob Higgins, Saddle Creek General Manager. "The course is in excellent condition and our bungalows provide an ideal getaway for couples or golf groups of all playing abilities."

Situated along the first and ninth holes, the bungalows are equipped with a full kitchen and dining area, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a living room with cozy fireplace and satellite TV. Saddle Creek Resort's miles of hiking and biking trails are steps away from the cottages.

Not to be missed, Saddle Creek Resort is widely recognized for its award-winning cuisine at the Copper Grille - located in the clubhouse and featuring more than 500 wines including the highly-praised local Petit Syrah.

Packages are exclusive of taxes, gratuities, and other charges unless otherwise noted, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Advance reservations required. Offer valid for groups of eight or fewer.

For more information or to make reservations: 209.785.7415, www.SaddleCreek.com.

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French Lick Golf Among Golfweek's Best Casino Courses

2012-01-06T22:08:00.000-05:00

Both Pete Dye and Donald Ross courses listed among the top casino list

(French Lick, IN) - The award winning golf courses designed by Pete Dye and Donald Ross at French Lick Resort in southern Indiana have been selected among Golfweek Magazine's Best Casino Courses in 2011. The annual listing of top 50 casino courses appeared recently in the December 9 issue of the magazine.

The Dye course, which opened in 2009, moved up in the ranking to No. 4, and the 93- year old Ross course checks in at No. 12, according to the Magazine's course raters. The two courses were also the only courses from Indiana to make the list.

Golfweek's 800 course evaluators for the "America's Best" listing submit ballots grading courses all over the country on a 10-point scale to determine the country's finest golf courses. Raters take into account factors such as routing of the course, feature shaping, greens, variety and memorable holes, conditioning, maintenance, and landscape management.

The Dye course is joined among the top four by such great tracks as Shadow Creek Golf Course (Las Vegas, Nev.), Fallen Oak (Saucier, Miss.), and We-Ko-Pa Golf Club's Saguaro (Fountain Hills, Ariz.).

"We are very honored to have both courses make Golfweek's top casino courses list this year," said Dave Harner, director of golf at French Lick Resort. "For both the Pete Dye and Donald Ross courses to make the list again is a testament to the quality and unique combination of golf that we offer at French Lick Resort."

The nationally acclaimed Pete Dye course is regarded as one of the most breathtaking and exciting 18 holes of golf in the country. The course was carefully carved on a dramatic hilltop offering a variety of elevation changes, rugged and dramatic terrain, narrow fairways and challenging bunkers. There are spectacular views from every hole, some that stretch for over 40 miles.

The Dye course features many distinct design features, including stretches of holes on each nine that are vintage Dye. The course, which stretches over 8,100 yards from the professional tees, welcomes all levels of players with five sets of tees, and yardages beginning at 5,100 yards from the forward tees.

Complementing the new Pete Dye course at French Lick Resort is the historic Donald Ross course. The Ross course brings a rich history to the French Lick Resort. The course was site of the 1924 PGA Championship won by the legendary Walter Hagen and hosted other golf greats and celebrities such as Gene Sarazen, Chick Evans, and Bing Crosby. The course is a parkland gem, which meanders up and down the rolling hills a few miles from the main resort.

French Lick is the only resort in the world that combines the classic history of Donald Ross and the modern day design of the legendary Pete Dye. This combination is a spectacular opportunity for golfers to experience two of the best golf course designers with great gaming.

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Players Towel Named Official Towel of the Sony Open in Hawaii

2012-01-06T14:32:00.000-05:00

(Phoenix, AZ) – Players Towel, featuring high performance microfiber waffle technology, has been named the official towel of the 2012-2013 Sony Open in Hawaii.

“We are proud that the Players Towel has been named the official towel of the Sony Open in Hawaii,” said Patrick Le Vine, founder of the Players Towel. “The Sony Open is a great contributor to many local charities and we feel fortunate to be able support the tournament in its community involvement.”

As the world’s best players compete in the PGA Tour’s first full field event of the year, the Players Towel will build on its dominant 2011 season which included 18 wins on the PGA and LPGA tours, including two majors.

“The Players Towel has been the clear choice for the world’s best players and their caddies seeking the ultimate in a performance golf towel,” added Le Vine. “Our selection as the official towel for the Sony Open in Hawaii reinforces the Players Towel as the leader in its category and a brand recognized by both players and caddies alike as the ultimate in absorption and protection from moisture and debris.”

Players Towels are sold on line at www.playerstowel.com and at leading pro-shops and resorts around the world.

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U.S. Kids Golf Recognizes 2011 Class of Top 50 Teachers

2012-01-06T13:22:00.000-05:00

Sixteen instructors earn Master Kids Teacher status for longtime achievement

(ATLANTA) - Each year, U.S. Kids Golf recognizes the world's most outstanding youth golf instructors with its Top 50 Kids Teachers award. Individuals who demonstrate continued excellence may join the elite rank of a Master Kids Teacher.

In addition to the 50 instructors who were designated Top 50 Kids Teachers in 2011, 16 golf professionals have been named Master Kids Teachers by U.S. Kids Golf. The Master Kids Teacher designation recognizes professionals who have been selected to the U.S. Kids Golf list of the world's Top 50 Kids Teachers three or more times.

"This year's honorees represent a group of professionals who are dedicated to helping kids develop their skills and their love of the game," said Dan Van Horn, founder and president of U.S. Kids Golf. "We're pleased to recognize their talents and their commitment."

The 2011 Top 50 Kids Teachers and Master Kids Teachers will be recognized January 27 at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.

Golf professionals who focus much of their time and energy on developing young golfers in their communities are eligible for U.S. Kids Golf's America's Top 50 Kids Teachers designation. The teachers are judged according to several criteria, including percentage of time devoted to kids programs, creativity, communication and efforts to grow the game. The 2011 Top 50 list includes teachers who work at public, private, resort and municipal courses.

About U.S. Kids Golf
U.S. Kids Golf, LLC is based in Atlanta, Ga., and manufactures equipment and related golf products made especially for kids. In addition to more than 4,000 golf shops and retail locations in the U.S., the company's products also are available in over 75 countries worldwide.

The U.S. Kids Golf Foundation, a Georgia non-profit recognized as a 501(c)(3) charity, was created in 2001 and provides services that include competition and instruction. The Foundation organizes more than 400 golf tournaments for kids each year, including Local Tours in more than 40 cities, ten Qualifiers across the nation, six Regional Championships, a European Championship and the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and Teen World Championship, which are held each year in Pinehurst, N.C.

In partnership with the PGA of America, the Foundation also supports the U.S. Kids Golf Family Course program, which provides guidelines that help courses make the game easier to learn and more fun for kids and their families.

For more information, call 1-888-387-5437 or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

U.S. Kids Golf 2011 Top 50 Kids Teachers
Dale Balvin Arizona Junior Golf Scottsdale, Ariz.
Jim Bowling Princess Anne Country Club Virginia Beach, Va.
Mike Carbray Butterfield Country Club Oak Brook, Ill.
Jim Collins San Ramon Golf Club San Ramon, Calif.
Kay Cornelius Ocotillo Golf Resort Chandler, Ariz.
Chris Dewar The First Tee of Northern Nevada Reno, Nev.
Joseph DiChiara Mendham Golf & Tennis Mendham, N.J.
Michael Doctor Skaneateles Country Club Skaneateles, N.Y.
Mahlon Dow The Mattawang Golf Club Belle Mead, N.J.
Brendon Elliott Little Linksters Golf Deltona, Fla.
Brian Gara Vermont National Country Club South Burlington, Vt.
Kathy Gook British Columbia Golf Richmond, B.C.
Rick Grayson Rivercut Golf Course Springfield, Mo.
Denise Grider The Lakes at Castle Hill Lewisville, Texas
Harry Hammond Penn Oaks Golf Club West Chester, Pa.
Lucas Hana Green Bay Country Club Green Bay, Wisc.
Jimmy Headrick Lakewood Golf Club New Orleans, La.
James Hong Harbor Links Golf Course Port Washington, N.Y.
Craig Hunter Sand Point Country Club Seattle, Wash.
Lynne Hunter Kenwood Golf & Country Club Bethesda, Md.
Richard Hunter El Prado Golf Courses Chino, Calif.
Andrew Ingham Glen Ellen Country Club Millis, Mass.
Jon Janik Tashua Knolls Golf Course Trumbull, Conn.
Tommy Joyce Hidden Valley Country Club Salem, Va.
Charlie Lanzetta Rockland Golf Course Marshfield, Mass.
Dona Lerner The Preserve at Jordan Lake Cary, N.C.
Joey Ludeman Riviera Country Club Coral Gables, Fla.
Dan Martin Rustic Canyon Golf Course Moorpark, Calif.
Tony Martinez Keeton Park Dallas, Texas
John Mascari Canoe Brook Country Club Summit, N.J.
Cameron McCormick Brook Hollow Golf Club Dallas, Texas
David L. Moore Squirrel Run Golf Club Plymouth, Mass.
Valerie Moore Park Ridge Golf Course Lake Worth, Fla.
Kylee Naffziger Bridger Creek Golf Course Bozeman, Mont.
Julio Nutt Jim McLean Golf School at Doral Doral, Fla.
David Ondocsin Gleneagles Country Club Plano, Texas
Bradley Pluth Brad Pluth Golf Academy at Halla Greens Chaska, Minn.
Chris Rowe Whispering Pines Golf Club Trinity, Texas
Bill Scott Osprey Point Golf Course Boca Raton, Fla.
Trillium Sellers Chevy Chase Club Chevy Chase, Md.
Todd Smith Pro Kids Golf Academy San Diego, Calif.
Christopher Stahlnecker The Country Club of Rochester Rochester, N.Y.
Suzanne Strudwick Fairways & Greens Golf Center Knoxville, Tenn.
Kate Tempesta Kate Tempestas Urban Golf Academy New York, N.Y.
William Van Valer Stony Creek Golf Club Noblesville, Ind.
Deb Vangellow Sweetwater Country Club Sugar Land, Texas
Nicole Weller The Landings Club Savannah, Ga.
Suzy Whaley TPC River Highlands Farmington, Conn.
James Wilkes Lu Lu Country Club North Wales, Pa.
Craig Zimmerman RedTail Golf Center Beaverton, Ore.
Bill Abrams Balmoral Woods Country Club Crete, Ill.
Ty Andersen Highland Oaks Golf Course Dothan, Ala.
Bob Beach Braintree Municipal Golf Course Braintree, Mass.
Pam Bowers Desert Willow Golf Course Henderson, Nev.
Henry Brunton Eagles Nest Golf Club Stouffville, Ont.
Jackie Cannizzo Roswell Country Club Roswell, Ga.
Rebecca Dengler Ed Oliver Golf Club Wilmington, Del.
Christopher Jarrett La Fortune Park Golf Course Owasso, Okla.
Chris Knobloch Steel Canyon Golf Club Sandy Springs, Ga.
Nick Kumpis Santa Ana Country Club Santa Ana, Calif.
Harvey Lannak Westchester Country Club Rye, N.Y.
Dean Marks Grand Prairie Golf Course Lakamazoo, Mich.
Paula Olsen Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club San Clemente, Calif.
Thomas Smith Jr. Army Navy Golf Course Fairfax, Va.
Terry Sullivan Santa Teresa Golf Course San Jose, Calif.
Mike Warobick Mike Warobick Golf Academy Rockledge, Fla.

The Otter Company to Exhibit at 2012 PGA Merchandise Show, Debut Its All-New 2012 Outerwear Line

2012-01-06T13:14:00.000-05:00

(Birmingham, Mich.) - American apparel maker The Otter Company announced plans to exhibit at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28, at the Orange County Convention Center, in Orlando, Fla.

"We're pleased to join the industry to debut our all-new 2012 outerwear collection to golf's most influential retailers from around the world," said Martin Stebbins, the company's founder and President. "The PGA Merchandise Show is a well-know for innovative product introductions and we're taking this opportunity to demonstrate that The Otter Company has broken from the traditions that have bound weather-resistant active wear. Our 2012 outerwear collection features a series of styles and eco-sensitive fabrics - including cottons, wools and eco-sensitive man-made fabrics - without sacrificing performance, function, style or fit."

Designed to extend playing sessions and seasons shortened by poor weather, the new spring 2012 collection includes five groups; the signature Rain Sweater, the Storm Fleece line, the Francestown series, the Otter-Tech line and the Play-Through series.

ACTION-Aimed Performance Design is the unique characteristic of every garment from The Otter Company. It incorporates construction details allowing for the un-encumbered motion demanded by weekend and full-time athletes alike. The collection also features traditional colors with bold accents and pops of color.

The Otter Company ECO-Aimed Performance Fabrics include materials that are renewable, sourced from recycled materials, or manufactured according to a series of standards that consider human and environmental safety. ECO-Aimed Performance Fabrics combine technical function, a high-level of performance and sustainable practices.

The Otter Company spring 2012 line will be on display Jan. 26 through 28, in booth #5382 on the show floor within the New Products Center.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Hat Trick / R2B, Inc. Partners with Folds of Honor Foundation at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show

2012-01-06T11:18:00.000-05:00

(Portland, Maine) - Hat Trick announced its corporate partnership with the Folds of Honor Foundation and Patriot Golf Day to help raise awareness and financial support for the foundation. Hat Trick will donate a portion of the proceeds from the new Hat Trick Golf Product Line throughout 2012 to the FHF.

"As a Veteran with two children in college, it gives me great honor and a sense of duty to join forces with FHF," said Rick Beard, President of R2B, Inc. Beard added, "As we prepare to launch our new golf product line at the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show, we will also be helping to launch brighter futures for those military families that have given us all so much."

From Jan. 26 to 28, Patriot Golf Day (Folds of Honor Foundation) and Hat Trick will both be exhibiting during the PGA Merchandise Show at the Orange County Civic Center. Patriot Day Golf will be exhibiting in booth 1714 where they will be promoting the flagship fundraiser for the Folds of Honor Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides postsecondary education scholarships for children and spouses of military men and women disabled or killed while serving our Great Nation.

Hat Trick will be exhibiting in booth 3400 to promote the launch of its new golf product line to the industry. Hat Trick will be introducing several new, fun, and multifunctional golf accessories for both the retail and corporate branding markets, and will be offering some great show specials.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Bionic Launches New ReliefGrip Glove

2012-01-06T11:12:00.000-05:00

Designed for golfers with arthritis - The ReliefGrip helps reduce pain and improves grip strength

(Louisville, KY) - Bionic is always looking for ways to continuously improve its gloves - even if the glove was good to begin with. That's the case with the new ReliefGrip glove, specifically designed for golfers with arthritis.

The ReliefGrip was formerly known as the Silver Series glove. The glove has been revamped and updated for even more comfort and grip strength. One big change is the glove is now sold as a single - many customers wanted to be able to purchase a glove for their lead hand only, so the company responded by offering singles. Bionic is focusing on the grip with all of its newly launched gloves, including the StableGrip and PerformanceGrip golf gloves.

According to Cheryl Fink, marketing director for Bionic Gloves, "We're the hand experts. Nobody puts more technology in a glove than we do. And when you have arthritis, hand comfort and grip strength are even more important to your game. A relaxed grip not only helps with pain management, but it also leads to more accuracy and more distance in your golf game."

Some of the other unique features of the ReliefGrip glove:
* An additional row of finger pads combines with a thicker and taller Anatomical Pad System maximizing comfort and support
* A form-fitting LightPrene™material adds wrist support, especially at the base of the thumb where most golfers feel pain
* Designed specifically for golfers with arthritis
* Independent research has shown that Bionic Glove Technology lessens discomfort and fatigue for golfers with arthritis

All Bionic Gloves have additional features that are different from other gloves on the market:
* Patented pads provide protection, enhance comfort and lessen fatigue
* Triple row finger grip system promotes a lighter, more stable grip
* Top-grade cabretta leather is durable and washable (hand wash, warm water, air dry)
* Patented pre-rotated finger design complements the hand's natural closure and reduces fatigue
* Lycra motion and web zones provide better range of motion and keep the hand drier and more comfortable
* Strategically placed pad system provides increased durability in areas prone to wear and tear

Bionic gloves are available online at bionicgloves.com. The ReliefGrip glove comes in a full range of sizes for men and women and retails at $29.95. Left and right hand gloves are sold separately.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Get SPi Certified at PGA Show

2012-01-06T09:08:00.000-05:00

SeeMore has launched the SeeMore Putting system to golfers in the form of introducing the SeeMore Putter Institute (SPi), where golfers and instructors will be able to come together in person and online to share these fundamental ideas about how to improve putting performance, including the new discussion about belly putters.

SeeMore will be offering 20-minute “quick certification” sessions at booth #707. To schedule an appointment for your certifications, email ted@seemore.com.

SPi is a learning system based on the simple fundamentals of finding the proper grip, alignment, stance, and posture. This allows for a natural, free, and simple putting stroke on each and every putt. It is based on the technology built into the SeeMore putter itself, and on the refined teachings of SeeMore Global Ambassador Pat O’Brien – putting instructor to top PGA Tour and developing players. O’Brien has been teaching the SeeMore System around the world for more than 12 years, ever since he watched his good friend, the late Payne Stewart benefit from the SeeMore putting system to win 1999 US Open and lead the tour in putting statistics that year.

O’Brien set out to train the next generation of young players to become better putters through the use of this system, which he saw would benefit players of all levels. Since 2001, his students Zach Johnson and Vaughn Taylor have become widely known as two of the best putters on tour, with a major championship, nine PGA Tour victories, $32 million in earnings, and numerous Ryder Cup and President’s Cup appearances between them.

The SPi program teacher and fitter certification program is managed day to day by PGA member Ted Gallina, SeeMore’s Director of Instruction and Tour training. Becoming SPi Certified will help golf teachers formulate a complete teaching plan to help their existing students and recruit new students to become great putters using the SeeMore system that has won two major championships and set numerous putting records on the PGA Tour.

It is a complete game plan, which will give any golf instructor a new level of confidence in the proper teaching and fitting involved in putting instruction. Becoming certified to teach the system initially consists of online training, but also includes personal coaching. Ted can be reached directly at the following email addresses: Ted@SeeMore.com or PutterInstitute@SeeMore.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cutter & Buck's Fall '12 Ladies CB Golf Line Suitable for on, off the course

2012-01-06T08:50:00.000-05:00

ANNIKA Collection introduces sleeker, stylish offerings

(SEATTLE) — Cutter & Buck’s Fall 2012 Ladies’ CB Golf Line will provide women with enhanced innovative technical fabrics for ample protection against nature’s elements, while remaining fashionable on or off the course.

Moreover, Cutter & Buck’s popular ANNIKA line for women, named and designed for legendary golfer Annika Sorenstam, will feature a Fall line depicted by sleeker and more stylish offerings, including the CB DryTec Range Full Zip, a hybrid-style micro polar, plus a shiny, black woven ultra-lightweight CB WindTec Feather Vest with lush stand collar.

The Fall Ladies’ Collection will feature technical fabrics that blends impeccable fashion with standout styles made for both on and off the course. For women who love to brave the elements, the lightweight, packable, wind resistant CB WeatherTec Smooth Sailing Vest and the soft micro polar Hybrid Full Zip Fleece will be popular.

The vintage appeal of the Yvette Stripe Capri in move-with-you stretch fabric is predicted to be another fall favorite. The Plushy Vest with exaggerated luxe collar and faux fur, or the Solar Mock with warm heathered yarn and feminine gathers, provide additional Fall 2012 highlights.

The Fall line also will accent strong trends with collar details – oversized, scrunched and convertible – and feminine touches on the garments, such as ruches and gathers. Another trend is geared toward outerwear, both on and off the golf course, moving toward a lighter weight, almost “whisper weight,” according to Cutter & Buck officials.

Cutter & Buck will be an exhibitor at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28 in Orlando, Fla., and can be visited at booth #5657.

For additional information, contact Cutter & Buck at 800-713-7810 or visit its website at www.cutterbuck.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Industry Excitement Builds for Martin Golf Apparel

2012-01-05T14:18:00.000-05:00

(Dallas, TX) - Golf industry icon Rick Martin has returned to the golf business with his new company, Martin Golf Apparel. The company's first apparel collection is for spring 2012, and will be available only to PGA professionals. The spring 2012 apparel began delivering in November 2011 and has already been met with an enthusiastic reception.

Martin Golf Apparel - with the slogan "Timeless as the Game" - is being sold by an ultra-high account base, ideally the nation's top Private Golf Clubs. Martin Golf Apparel won't do any department store business. The company is taking a much understated approach to design as the garments are a lifetime quest for perfection from Martin.

Martin Golf is quickly gaining a lot of attention in the golf industry with it quality manufacturing and classic design.

Rick Martin Explains His Quest For Perfection.

Based on early reactions, the apparel business is just as excited to have him back. Here is what PGA Professionals and buyers are saying:

"I look forward to the apparel line of Martin Golf by Rick Martin," says Marni Montreal of R & O Design Services. There is a current need for a high quality cotton shirt company due to the fact that market has been focusing on synthetic fabrics over the last 3-4 years. The quality of the design and the craftsmanship that Rick Martin provides with the Martin Golf product is unmatched by any other company in the marketplace today. I look forward to the future lines of Martin Golf apparel and I am excited to buy and place it in the shops I buy for. Thank you for creating such a high quality cotton product in today's market and bringing back the level of sophistication that your company provides for the golf industry." Marni Montreal - Green Valley CC, Fairfield, California.

"Martin Golf has placed their emphasis on making the best knit in the market. The refusal to succumb to the pressure of competing with other brands that might have a larger market share but make an inferior product, is refreshing in today's golf industry. The 'Martin' name will be placed in the top echelon of country clubs in the country. Too many golf shops have become repetitive in the assortment they offer. Buyers cannot discern between a municipal course and that of a private facility anymore. It's all the same offering." Gregory A. Pennett - Big Canyon Country Club, Newport Beach, CA; Diamante Cabo San Lucas, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Hualalai Resort, Kona, Hawaii; Old Ranch Country Club, Seal Beach, CA.

"Retailers are saying the line is exactly what they expected from a trusted name like Rick Martin. They know the quality is there, they see the color is there and the simplicity of the line is refreshing." Pete Matthews - Wade Hampton GC, Cashiers, NC.

"With its emphasis on quality and fine fabrics, Martin offers a line that shops are proud to carry and they know that Martin garments are available only in the best private clubs in America." Dodd Miller - Lakewood CC, Dallas, TX.

"I am just one of the many pros who are very excited to bring Martin Golf into their golf shops next season. As I was being shown the line, I was already thinking about which one of our members would be buying the apparel in the spring and summer. "The Martin Golf Line meets the criteria for our membership in that it is traditional yet very stylish. I am excited about its appeal to all of our members." Matt Bunn - Hayden Lake Country Club, Hayden Lake, Idaho.

"At this point, everyone that has seen the new collection is excited that Martin Golf is off the ground and running and they look forward to Martin Golf's future and its growth going forward in the golf industry. The times - and the people - are right for this to become something special." Gordon Johnson - Houston Country Club, Houston, TX.

With the company's first launch already making waves in the industry, Martin Golf Apparel shares retailers hopes for nothing less than the high standards that have earned Rick Martin such a trusted name in the golf world.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Sligo Wear Unveils Eclectic, Colorful Fall 2012 Collection

2012-01-05T14:10:00.000-05:00

(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) - Sligo Wear, known for its trend setting styles, cutting edge materials and vibrant colors, further enhances this reputation with the introduction of its new Fall 2012 collection.

A wide array of golf shirts, offered in 100% technical polyester pique or polyester interlock, are available in stunning palettes covering the color wheel: Maroma Blue, Fire, Atomic Orange, Sunburst, Atlantic, Midori, Indigo, Sea Green and Smoke. Several sublimation prints are available in 100% technical polyester pique, a fabric that wicks moisture and contains UV, antimicrobial and two-way mechanical stretch.

Within the shirt line are four new featured prints: Maddox, Adesso, Stratford and Haiden. These and the other designs showcase exquisite detail including front pockets, accent stitching, collar and placket piping and even a faux tie (Wellington). Long-sleeve golf shirts are offered in polyester dry-tech jersey. The shirt line blends European styling with the technical fabrics today’s golfer demands.

Sligo Wear’s Fall Collection features short- and long-sleeved wind shirts and jackets, as well as sweaters in three styles – v-neck, quarter-zip and cardigans – in wool/polyester blends.

The company’s goal is to offer an alternative option to golfers with a brand that holds true to its mandate of providing trend-setting styles with cutting edge materials and quality craftsmanship.

This quality is reflected in pants and shorts that are offered in a range of solid colors, plaids and prints in water and wind-repellent fabrics. Featuring maximum movement, incredible colors that defy golf’s typical palettes to match up brilliantly with the tops bright hues.

The Fall 2012 line includes three styles of belts, with the prominent S or Sligo script buckle and a full range of accessories, t-shirts and thermal base layers for cold weather days.

Sligo Wear will be an exhibitor at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28 in Orlando, Fla., and can be visited at booth #6557.

The Fall 2012 collection will be available to retail outlets in July. Follow the company on Twitter @sligowear or on Facebook at Sligo-Wear-Inc.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

TaylorMade Introduces ATV Wedge

2012-01-05T14:02:00.000-05:00

No Bounce Number Necessary with Innovative Sole Design that Enables Multitude of Shots for Various Course Conditions

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – Born from years of research and development as well as extensive player testing, TaylorMade Golf is proud to introduce the ATV (All-Terrain Versatility), a wedge created to offer golfers a simple choice to handle the multitude of shots and course conditions. With its strategically designed sole geometries, the ATV is the most versatile wedge in golf.

“Prior to the introduction of the ATV, the wedge is a piece of equipment that traditionally forces a player to sacrifice a certain shot type,” said Brian Bazzel, product creation manager for irons, putters and wedges. “The ATV wedge is engineered to perform beautifully on a multitude of different types of shots, including chips, pitches, sand shots, full shots from fairway, out of the rough, off hardpan, flop shots and bump-and-runs.”

The ATV’s sole design was designed with every curve, angle and edge serving a purpose to make the club more versatile. Significant relief at the toe, heel and trailing edge reduces resistance and changes how the sole reacts with turf and sand, depending on how the club is positioned at address and how much the face is opened. Each ATV sole is slightly different, depending on the loft.

Bazzel added: “You won’t find a bounce number etched anywhere into the ATV clubhead because the sole takes on different bounces depending on how you position the club for the type of shot you’re hitting, including where your hands are positioned in relation to the clubhead and depending on whether the face is square or to what degree it’s open.”

New Groove Design
The ATV wedge incorporates a new groove design created by the company’s R&D department that generates nearly as much spin as its previous highest spinning groove ever, the Z, outlawed in high-level competitions starting last year when the USGA reformed its definition of acceptable groove design. In addition, the flat areas between the grooves of the ATV wedge clubface incorporate a micro-texture that helps hold the ball to impart backspin.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

RTJ II Issues Public-Golf Proclamation

2012-01-04T14:16:00.000-05:00

(PALO ALTO, Calif.) - The golf course architecture firm of Robert Trent Jones II (RTJ II)—designers of such storied public golf courses as Poppy Hills and Spanish Bay in California, Washington’s Chambers Bay, and hundreds of others in more than 40 countries around the world— has released its Public Golf Proclamation: 10 tenets supporting accessible and affordable public golf.

The Public Golf Proclamation follows by three years the company’s Green Proclamation, which affirmed RTJ II’s commitment to designing golf courses in an environmentally responsible manner, and called on others in the business to dedicate themselves to the environmental tenets listed in that document.

The Public Golf Proclamation complements efforts expended by the ASGCA, NGCOA, USGA, The PGA of America, and golf organizations, associations, and governing bodies worldwide to bring the game to more people in more places.

Chairman and Master Architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., said, “We will continue to design the best possible courses—from private to resort to municipal layouts— for our many and varied clients. But we believe that golf should also be easily affordable and accessible to everyone who wishes to play it.” Jones took this further, writing in a recent letter to the New York Times, “Golf architects are often called upon to design courses that support upscale real estate developments. But the game’s roots reach down into the Earth, not up into trophy homes. Golf first developed 500 years ago as an accessible and affordable sport that brought people together outdoors, rather than separating them. Many great golf courses serve the public and the environment. The future of our sport lies in embracing the Scottish tradition in which all people are equal as they stand over a white ball.”

With headquarters in Palo Alto, Calif., Robert Trent Jones II, Golf Course Architects (RTJ II) is the preeminent golf design firm worldwide. Trustees of a great tradition of golf course architecture, RTJ II is committed to working in harmony with nature to craft the best golf course on each unique site. The RTJ II design team has experience in every aspect of golf course development and the ability to provide support and expertise from conception through completion of any project. The firm has satellite offices throughout the world. For additional information contact the firm at 650-475-0329 or on the website at www.rtj2.com.

# # #

PUBLIC GOLF PROCLAMATION
Our Exclusive Commitment to Inclusiveness

From its earliest origins along the coasts of Scotland golf has fostered community, bringing together disparate peoples to enjoy both competition and camaraderie. In the modern era, golf courses throughout the world have been very successful when created in conjunction with resort and real estate developments and private clubs. At Robert Trent Jones II we will continue to design the best possible courses to meet the needs of our many and varied clients. But we believe that golf should also be easily affordable and accessible to everyone who wishes to play it.

As our founder, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., stated in a letter to the New York Times, “The future of our sport lies in embracing the Scottish tradition in which all people are equal as they stand over the ball.”

We applaud the global efforts of golf organizations, associations, and governing bodies, as well as our golf architecture colleagues worldwide, who have worked to promote public access to affordable, high-quality, environmentally responsible golf. In an effort to foster the communal spirit of the game we offer the following declaration to golfers and prospective golfers of every nation:

We aspire to:
* Work with municipalities and other government entities to create great golf courses for their citizens through insightful, integrated master plans specific to each community.
* Assist communities in creating programs and initiatives that make great public courses accessible and affordable to everyone.
* Advocate for the creation of golf facilities on degraded sites to return unproductive land to productive and sustainable public uses.
* Always protect and enhance the environment for the good of all.
* Design courses that require less earth moving, water, fertilizer, and other resources in an effort to keep investment and operating costs—and therefore green fees—reasonable.
* Create wider strategic routings and sets of shorter “family tees” to encourage children to take up golf and have fun playing it.
* Advocate for innovative practice facilities where young people and newcomers can learn to love golf, and support programs and organizations that introduce new players to the sport.
* Design facilities that encourage speed of play, including inventive layouts such as “Learning Courses,” par-three routings, 6-, 9-, and 12-hole loops, and others.
* Create public courses that are flexible, fun, and challenging to golfers of a wide range of abilities.
* Encourage golf course owners to support local businesses and take an active role in their communities.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com