Thursday, December 15, 2011

PING Brings New ‘Skins Game’ Feature to iPING App for iPhone & iPod touch

(PHOENIX) - PING announced a major update to its popular iPING App for iPhone and iPod touch that adds a gaming feature. The iPING App now includes the iPING Skins Game that allows users to test the consistency of their putting stroke against friends. iPING Skins Game utilizes Game Center’s turn-based technology and alerts users to their next turn via the new Notification Center in iOS 5.

The update is available now for current users, and new users can download the iPING App from the App Store on iPhone or iPod touch. 



“With every feature we add, the iPING App becomes more valuable for the user,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman and CEO. “The new iPING Skins Game feature is exciting because it promotes friendly competition, which will grow and strengthen our global PING community. Of course, the real benefit of winning is that your putting stroke is consistent, which is the key to making more putts on the golf course.”



The iPING Skins Game feature allows players to compete from anywhere in the world or side-by-side. To initiate a game, a player chooses a three-, six-, or nine-hole match and can invite up to three friends to join, or let the Auto-Match feature locate playing partners. The game format follows a traditional skins competition where holes have point values, which increase throughout the match, and ties on a hole carry over until someone wins a hole (and the skins) outright. The person with the most points at the end of the match wins. 



On each hole, a competitor rolls five 10-foot putts to establish his or her Consistency Score, reflected in a number similar to a golf handicap. The player with the best Consistency Score wins that hole and plays first on the next hole.

iPING Skins Game also has a Party Mode for contestants in the same location. Party Mode uses AirPlay to show a live leader board on your HD television using your existing wireless network and an Apple TV. 



iPING Skins Game is a new feature of the iPING App, available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. 

Both the iPING App and iPING Skins Game work in conjunction with a PING Cradle, which holds the mobile device and clips onto the putter shaft just below the grip.

Cradles are available at Apple Retail Stores in the United States, via the Apple Online Store, and from PING authorized golf shops. PING Cradles are available for the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (4th generation).

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Players Towel Dominates Golf in 2011

Players Towel Collected 20 Tour Wins, Including Two Majors

(Phoenix, AZ) – Players Towel, featuring a unique waffled microfiber technology, was the dominant high performance golf towel on the 2011 PGA, LPGA and European Tours. With 20 wins, including 2 Majors in 2011, the Players Towel has now accumulated 30 wins and 5 Majors since its introduction in 2009. Including Ryder Cup, President’s Cup and Solheim Cup participation, there is no doubt that the world’s best golfers prefer the Players Towel. It truly is the “Players Choice.”

Players Towel was proudly named the official towel of the 2011 U.S. and European Solheim Cup teams.

“The Players Towel has clearly demonstrated that it is the leading performance golf towel and the ultimate in absorption and protection from moisture and debris,” said U.S. Captain Rosie Jones.

Players Towel equipped PGA Tour Winners in 2011 included Bo Van Pelt who offered one of the clutch performances of the year, firing a final round 64 to win the CIMB Asia Pacific Classic going away.

"I put one in my bag last year and I made over 3 million bucks! Results may vary," said Van Pelt.

Perhaps Players Towel’s greatest honor was its support of the Morgan Pressel Foundation – a foundation that has raised over $2 million towards the fight against breast cancer.

“I would like to thank Patrick and the Players Towel for their support in making this year’s outing such a huge success,” said Morgan. “Their custom logoed towels were the perfect gift as the participants received the exact same towel that I use on tour. The Players Towel is more than just a towel, it’s a valuable piece of my equipment.”

“As we reflect back on a very exciting professional golf season we would like to congratulate all the winners, veterans and rookies alike, who relied on the Players Towel for a very successful year,” said Patrick Le Vine, founder of Players Towel. “We head into 2012 with great anticipation as we launch an even better product, filled with more customization options. As our competitors continually introduce versions of our product, our commitment remains to the athlete and in providing the ultimate in form and function.”

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Win a SkyCaddie SGXw

SkyCaddie, the #1 rangefinder in golf, has begun an exciting sweepstakes on Facebook - the SkyCaddie SGXw Holiday Sweepstakes - giving participants the chance to win a new SkyCaddie SGXw simply by “Liking” SkyCaddie on Facebook.

The SGXw offers a breadth of game-changing features, including wireless capabilities, providing 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. Participants can simply “Like” SkyCaddie on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/SkyCaddie until the sweepstakes ends on December 31, 2011.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

SkyGolf Unveils New Wi-Fi-Enabled SkyCaddie SGXw, Offering Golfers Unmatched Accuracy with Convenience of Wireless Connectivity

Award-Winning SGX Now Wireless with Easy Access to the Most Up-To-Date Course Maps in the Game - Same Reliable, Complete Information Tour Professionals Receive from Caddies and Their Yardage Books

(RIDGELAND, Miss.) - SkyGolf, maker of SkyCaddie, the #1 Rangefinder in Golf, today unveiled the next generation SkyCaddie – the new Wi-Fi-enabled SkyCaddie SGXw.  With its new wireless capabilities, the new SkyCaddie SGXw provides 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 “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 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 (Available January 2012) - 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 “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

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Cutter & Buck Named Exclusive Apparel Partner for PGA Magazine 'Merchandiser of Year' Conference

(SEATTLE) — Cutter & Buck has been named the exclusive apparel sponsor of PGA Magazine’s “Merchandisers of the Year Conference.”  This prestigious gathering of PGA professionals will take place in Orlando, Fla., prior to January’s PGA Merchandise Show, and engages the expertise of golf’s best merchandisers in identifying best practices in merchandising that can be shared with the 28,000 other member professionals of the PGA of America.

“We’re pleased to welcome one of golf’s iconic brands to this important industry gathering. Cutter & Buck has been a longtime supporter of the PGA Golf Professional and is a great fit for this key conference,” said Kirk Pagenkopf, president and publisher, PGA Magazine.

Cutter & Buck designs and markets upscale sportswear and outerwear for men and women under the Cutter & Buck and ANNIKA brands. All Cutter & Buck products feature distinctive, comfortable designs, high-quality materials and rich detailing. The company sells its products through golf pro shops and resorts, specialty retail shops, corporate sales and online at cutterbuck.com.

The Seattle-based apparel manufacturer 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.

“The goal of the annual Merchandiser of the Year conference is to bring together golf’s top merchandisers to share and discuss challenges, opportunities and best practices within the retailing side of the industry,” said Anne Broholm, global director of sales for Cutter & Buck.  “This aligns perfectly with our goals and provides for personal interaction with our customer base.”

Nearly 150 PGA Merchandiser of the Year award winners, Association of Golf Merchandiser members, PGA of America representatives and various industry professionals will be in attendance.

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

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Cobra Puma Golf Launches New Product, Sends Message to "Enjoy Golf" At The 2012 PGA Merchandise Show

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) - COBRA PUMA GOLF has announced that they will bring "joy" to the PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 26-28, 2012, in Orlando, Fla. through innovative and stylish new equipment, apparel, accessories and footwear. In addition to showcasing brand new products, COBRA PUMA GOLF will be making a juicy announcement during the show and bringing back the COBRA PUMA GOLF Experience to the PGA Merchandise Show Outdoor Demo Day.

"The PGA Merchandise Show is the ideal platform to generate excitement around our products and Enjoy Golf platform with PGA Professionals, merchandisers and buyers from around the world," said Bob Philion, President of COBRA PUMA GOLF. "The innovation and style we're bringing to our products in 2012 will change the way the industry sees COBRA PUMA GOLF and sets us up for an exciting year."

During the PGA Merchandise Show Outdoor Demo Day, scheduled for Jan. 25, 2012, at Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge in Orlando, COBRA PUMA GOLF will bring back the popular COBRA PUMA GOLF Experience that first debuted at the 2011 PGA Show Outdoor Demo Day. Here, COBRA Golf will showcase its new high performance drivers, fairways, hybrids, irons and wedges offering PGA Professionals and retailers the opportunity to experience COBRA Golf's latest innovations, technology and compelling designs. In addition to testing out the new line of products, attendees can take part in games, competitions, win prizes, hang out with professional golfers and enjoy snacks and refreshments.

COBRA PUMA GOLF will also host a fashion show at the PGA Forum Stage in the Orange County Convention Center, highlighting the latest trends and technology in apparel, footwear and accessories. Throughout the 2012 PGA Merchandise Show, COBRA PUMA GOLF will showcase their entire line of new products in an exciting, new two-story exhibit in the equipment hall at Booth #1143, with COBRA PUMA GOLF Tour players making personal appearances. At the Indoor Equipment Test Center (ETC), COBRA Golf will offer product testing opportunities, contests and fun at hitting bays.

"COBRA Golf and PUMA Golf are two strong brands that help to build an exciting atmosphere at the PGA Merchandise Show Outdoor Demo Day and among the exhibits on the Show Floor," said PGA Golf Exhibitions Vice President John McGeary. "More than 40,000 PGA Professionals, retailers, media and industry leaders who come to the Show will be able to experience their full range of innovative products while connecting with company leadership in a fun and productive setting."

To schedule a one-on-one interview, please contact Kristine Owens at COBRA PUMA GOLF.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

aboutGolf Congratulates Luke Donald on Being Named 2011 PGA TOUR Player of the Year

(MAUMEE, OHIO) - aboutGolf congratulates Luke Donald, aboutGolf simulator owner, on being named PGA TOUR 2011 Player of the Year, as well as 2011 Vardon Trophy winner and first golfer ever to earn both the PGA TOUR and European Tour money titles.

"aboutGolf is proud to have Luke Donald as a loyal customer and we are excited to celebrate his latest successes," says Bob Ryan, Chairman and CEO, aboutGolf.

Luke Donald purchased an aboutGolf PGA TOUR simulator, which was installed in his home in 2009.

"The aboutGolf simulator is the ultimate indoor environment for golf. Practice and play in the aboutGolf system will improve any golf game...including mine," says Donald.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com