Troon And Affiliated Facilities Launch October Fundraising For Breast Cancer Research

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon® and Troon-affiliated golf facilities worldwide are dedicating October to raising funds for breast cancer research and awareness. Throughout the month, these facilities will display pink-checkered flags on their 18th greens and host various fundraising events supporting PLAY for P.I.N.K.® and other breast cancer charities.

The initiative includes golf clinics, putting challenges, and special playing opportunities at participating Troon-affiliated facilities. To facilitate donations, Troon has introduced a QR code and a dedicated donation page. This QR code will be prominently displayed at Troon-affiliated facilities globally, allowing members and guests to contribute directly to PLAY for P.I.N.K. through their preferred location.

PLAY for P.I.N.K. (Prevention, Immediate diagnosis, New technology, Knowledge) is a grassroots organization that supports a nationwide network of volunteers raising funds for breast cancer research through sporting and lifestyle events. The organization donates 100% of its proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), funding the world's leading researchers.

Since its inception, PLAY for P.I.N.K. has raised over $92 million for breast cancer research. In 2024, the organization made a record-breaking $6.25 million donation to BCRF, bringing its cumulative giving to more than $85 million.

Troon's commitment to supporting breast cancer research aligns with its broader community engagement efforts. By partnering with organizations like PLAY for P.I.N.K., Troon continues to leverage its global network to make a meaningful impact in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information on PLAY for P.I.N.K. and to find a participating Troon-affiliated facility near you, visit www.playforpink.org.

Colorado Golf Association and Colorado Golf Foundation Invest Nearly $120,000 to Expand Golf Opportunities for More Than 39,000 Young Coloradans

Grant program supports youth caddie programs, junior player development and community partnerships working to grow the game across Colorado

(GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo.) – The Colorado Golf Association (CGA) and the Colorado Golf Foundation (CGF) have awarded $119,750 in grants to programs and organizations that are expected to positively impact more than 39,000 young people throughout Colorado in 2026. The annual investment reflects their ongoing commitment to making golf more accessible while creating opportunities that extend well beyond the golf course.

The grants support a diverse network of organizations dedicated to youth development, player education, caddie programs and community engagement, helping introduce new participants to golf while fostering leadership, confidence and lifelong connections to the game.

"Golf has the power to positively influence lives far beyond the fairways," said Ed Mate, CEO of the Colorado Golf Association. "Through our grantmaking program, we're proud to invest in organizations that are creating opportunities for young people to learn valuable life skills, build confidence and discover all that this game can offer."

More than two-thirds of this year's grant funding, $83,250, was awarded to community organizations throughout Colorado, while the remaining $36,500 supports CGA programs that directly serve junior golfers and youth caddies. Collectively, the grants are projected to reach more than 39,000 participants, demonstrating meaningful statewide impact through strategic partnerships.

Among the organizations and initiatives receiving support in 2026 are:
●CGA Caddie Summit Club Grants, which strengthen youth caddie programs and create additional opportunities for young people to develop leadership, work ethic and life skills through caddying.
● CGA Junior Player Development, expanding opportunities for aspiring competitive golfers through instruction, player development and tournament preparation.
● First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains, First Tee – Green Valley Ranch, First Tee Southern Colorado and First Tee Four Corners, which use golf as a vehicle to teach character, resilience and personal growth while introducing thousands of young people to the game.
● Colorado PGA REACH, whose programs make golf more accessible while positively impacting youth, military veterans and diverse communities.
● Gold Crown Foundation, which provides sports-based youth development programming that encourages healthy lifestyles, leadership and academic success.
● Pikes Peak Golf Links, which expands access to golf and youth programming in southern Colorado.
● Sapphire Golf Tour Junior Clinic, introducing young golfers from diverse backgrounds to the game through instructional clinics and community engagement.

The investments reflect a commitment to ensuring golf welcomes participants from every background. Among the projected youth served through this year's grants, 37% are girls, nearly half are under the age of 12 and the programs collectively reach communities representing a broad range of racial and ethnic backgrounds across Colorado.

Community partnerships continue to represent the largest area of impact, accounting for approximately 65% of all youth served through its grantmaking efforts in 2026.

"Every grant represents an investment in the future of golf and, more importantly, in the future of Colorado's young people," added Mate. "Whether a child picks up a golf club for the first time, develops into a competitive player or discovers new opportunities through caddying, these partnerships help ensure golf remains a game that changes lives for generations to come."

For more information about CGA and CGF charitable programs, visit coloradogolf.org.

Western Golf Association Raises $1.2M for Caddies at 2025 Green Coat Gala

The Western Golf Association (WGA) hosted its 14th annual Green Coat Gala presented by Peter Millar on Friday, Nov. 7, raising over $1.2 million to help send deserving caddies to college through the Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF). 

More than 315 supporters attended the black-tie affair at The Peninsula Chicago. All proceeds support the Evans Scholarship, a prestigious full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies. 

The evening featured special guests Jim “Bones” Mackay and John Wood—both longtime PGA TOUR caddies turned broadcasters. 

“It’s incredible how far the profession of caddying has come,” said Mackay. “I’m just blown away by what it has done in the lives of thousands of young people through the Western Golf Association. It’s an absolute honor to be here tonight.”

Steve Sands, veteran on-air personality and tower announcer for NBC and Golf Channel, held a fireside chat with Mackay and Wood, where they touched on their caddying careers, memorable moments and how the caddie-golfer partnership has evolved.

The evening also included the induction of Evans Scholar alumnus and business executive Frank Polizzi into the Caddie Hall of Fame, recognizing his use of caddying as a steppingstone to professional success and his dedication to supporting youth caddies.

A native of Chicago, Polizzi caddied at Oak Park Country Club in River Grove, Illinois, and earned the Evans Scholarship to the University of Illinois. He is the founder of Mass Marketing Insurance Group. A longtime supporter of youth caddying, Polizzi has funded the Eastern Caddie Academy since its inception in 2018 and has committed significant time and resources in support of the Evans Scholars Program at the University of Illinois, where the chapter’s two Scholarship Houses are named in his honor. 

Guests also heard from featured Evans Scholar Lilly Varner. She recently graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in political science. Varner caddied at Rose City Golf Course in Portland as part of the EAGLE Caddie Program. She shared the story of her family’s experience with housing instability and how caddying and the Evans Scholarship put her on a new path. 

“Caddying opened the door to a new community I didn’t realize I needed,” said Varner. “School distracted me from the reality of being homeless, but the golf course gave me not only a way to earn money to take some of the burden off my mom—but also hope and excitement for the future. I am forever grateful to my Evans community for offering the stability and security I needed.” 

Currently, a record 1,260 Evans Scholars are enrolled at 27 universities across the country, and more than 12,575 caddies have graduated as Evans Scholars since the program was founded by famed Chicago amateur golfer Charles “Chick” Evans Jr.

“For deserving caddies across the country, like Lilly, the opportunities that a college education can provide are more critical than ever,” said WGA Chairman Steve Colnitis. “Because of our generous supporters, the success of this year’s Gala will allow us to reach more young people with the life-changing opportunity of the Evans Scholarship.”

The 2025 Green Coat Gala event co-chairs were Tim and Stacey Cavanagh, Mike and Sharyl Mackey, Terry and Eileen McCann, and Mick and Karen O’Rourke.

Jordan Spieth, Invited Raise $250,000 for Charity at Second Edition of Crush It! Cup

Golf Superstar Continues to Bring Positive Impact Through The Jordan Spieth Family Foundation Team Featuring Hasentree And Brookhaven Junior Golfers Crowned Champion for Second Year in a Row

Invited, the largest owner and operator of membership clubs in North America, and Jordan Spieth, three-time major winner and Invited partner and brand ambassador, hosted the second edition of Crush It! Cup youth golf tournament and fundraiser at Gleneagles Country Club in Plano, TX on November 17, 2025.

Crush It! Cup featured 40 top juniors from Invited Clubs nationwide who earned their spot in the tournament by participating in a summer-long Golf Marathon Fundraiser to raise funds for the Jordan Spieth Family Foundation.

Together with Invited and its partners, Crush It! Cup raised more than $250,000 for the Jordan Spieth Family Foundation. Hundreds of young athletes across all Invited golf clubs participated in the fundraiser.

During Crush It! Cup, Spieth played a hole with each junior golfer. A team of Kiara Harper (Brookhaven, TX), brothers Rowen and Caden Swider (The Hasentree Club in Wake Forest, NC) and Joey Agnelli (The Haven, Boylston, MA) won the event. Swider brothers and Kiara Harper were a part of the winning team during the inaugural Crush It! Cup event in 2024.

Invited is a special partner for Spieth since he was introduced to the game and started his journey in golf at Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas, Invited’ first club.

Created by Invited in 2020, Crush It! is an esteemed and nationally recognized junior golf program, which over the years has provided opportunities for thousands of junior golfers to participate in golf instruction and learn skills that transfer on and off the course. The Crush It! Junior Golf Marathon saw fundraising efforts at 57 of Invited Golf and Country Clubs in 18 states. In addition to Crush It! Cup, more than 40 junior golfers participated in the Drive, Chip and Putt competition.

Numerous companies supported Crush It! Cup this year including Energy Transfer, LivPur, Producer Mezcal, Mini Melts, Fast Signs, Forged Fabrics, Jersey Mike’s and Pepsi.

“Today was a special day I was privileged to share with an incredible group of young athletes who represent the best of what golf has to offer. Their commitment to using the game as a positive force in our world is truly inspirational. I am honored to have the support of Invited who have created this one-of-a-kind event that helps further build the youth golf platform and am grateful for the charitable impact we’re able to create together,” said Jordan Spieth.

Spieth joined Invited in 2022 as a strategic advisor, brand ambassador, and a partner on a series of charitable and community initiatives, benefitting youth organizations, pediatric cancer research,

American veterans and military families. Invited is a lifestyle hospitality brand founded in 1957 on the traditions and values of acceptance.

PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week Honors Veterans at Congressional Country Club

20 Veterans receive specialized golf and wellness training to become national PGA HOPE Ambassadors

Twenty Military Veterans received specialized golf and wellness training October 9 - 13 at the 6th annual PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week, presented by ConnocoPhillips and T-Mobile. Held at Congressional Country Club near our nation’s capital, these Veterans will now serve as Ambassadors of PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, and return to their home PGA Sections to work with other Veterans and help foster the game of golf.

The immersive five-day event, hosted by the 501(c)(3) Foundation of the PGA of America, included advanced golf instruction from PGA of America Golf Professionals and wellness training from the Cohen Veterans Network, focusing on topics such as stress management and mental health, as well as public speaking and social media best practices.

“PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week provides our Veterans the opportunity to excel in their rehabilitation journey, and, in turn, empowers them to thrive from the health and social benefits golf provides,” said PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA. “We are honored that these Veterans are willing to represent PGA HOPE as Ambassadors in their communities, charged with growing PGA HOPE to their fellow Veterans. Most importantly, we are grateful for the service they have provided to our country.”

Participating PGA HOPE Veterans
Roland Abare; Navy; PGA HOPE Northeastern New York; Cohoes, N.Y.
Troy Abel; Air Force/Air National Guard; PGA HOPE Midwest; Topeka, Kan.
Chris Aranda; Army; PGA HOPE Carolinas; Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Daniel Ferrere Sr.; Army; PGA HOPE Tennessee; Soddy Daisy, Tenn.
Pat Forrestal; Marine Corps; PGA HOPE Georgia; Atlanta, Ga.
Todd Frey; Navy; PGA HOPE South Florida; Punta Gorda, Fla.
Paul Garcia; Air Force (Active Duty); PGA HOPE Colorado; Commerce City, Colo.
Manny Gonzales III; Marine Corps; PGA HOPE Sun Country; Albuquerque, N.M.
Tim Hubbard; Army; PGA HOPE Indiana; Zionsville, Ind.
Dusty Hull; Army/National Guard; PGA HOPE Michigan; Lansing, Mich.
John Hupp; Army; PGA HOPE Pacific Northwest; Corvallis, Ore.
Matt Jackson; Army; PGA HOPE Southwest; Surprise, Ariz.
Brandon Johnson; Air Force; PGA HOPE Southern Ohio; Xenia, Ohio
Anthony Laske; Army; PGA HOPE Wisconsin; Shorewood, Wis.
Don Moore; Army; PGA HOPE North Florida; Jacksonville, Fla.
DJ Naigan; Navy; PGA HOPE Southern California; San Diego, Calif.
Adam Napier; Army; PGA HOPE Gulf States; Louisville, Miss.
Bob O’Neill; Army; PGA HOPE Kentucky; Corbin, Ky.
Jason Strejcek; Navy; PGA HOPE Northern Ohio; Strongsville, Ohio
George Vasiloff; Air Force; PGA HOPE Philadelphia; Enola, Penn.

Squad Leaders:
Franko Poynter; Navy; PGA HOPE Indiana; New Palestine, Ind.
Christopher Garner; Coast Guard; PGA HOPE Tennessee; Memphis, Tenn.

Participating Veterans are graduates of their local PGA HOPE programs, which introduce and teach golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The six-to eight-week curriculum is led by PGA of America Golf Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency and is currently hosted at more than 650 locations throughout the United States. With more than 4,400 trained PGA of America Golf Professionals, PGA HOPE will serve 17,000 Veterans in 2025.

Special guests during the week included Captain Charlie Plumb, who provided a keynote address detailing his experience as a six-year prisoner in the Vietnam War after his plane was shot down on his 75th mission, five days before the end of his tour. A fireside chat also took place featuring 2019 World Series Champion “Mr. National” Ryan Zimmerman, who spent his entire 17-year career with the Washington Nationals, which was moderated by award-winning reporter and PGA of America REACH Foundation Trustee Bret Baier.

PGA HOPE is celebrating 10 years of impact, which includes a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Veterans Affairs enabling direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy. The program is changing and saving the lives of America’s heroes, and since inception, more than 50,000 Veterans have been served.

PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week culminated with golf at Congressional Country Club on Monday, Oct. 13, featuring Veterans playing alongside corporate sponsors, PGA of America Golf Professionals and dignitaries. A frequent host of major championships through the years, Congressional is scheduled to host five PGA of America championships through 2037, including the 2037 Ryder Cup, 2030 PGA Championship, 2027 KPMG Women's PGA Championship, 2033 Senior PGA Championship and 2029 PGA Professional Championship.

PGA HOPE is open to public support and fundraising. Every $330 raised allows a Veteran or active duty military member to participate in PGA HOPE at no personal expense.

Troon-Affiliated Golf Facilities Raising Awareness, Funds for Breast Cancer Throughout October

Troon and Troon-affiliated facilities around the world are raising funds for breast cancer research and awareness throughout the month of October. Troon-affiliated golf properties will fly pink-checkered flags on their 18th greens to help raise awareness about breast cancer and will have various fundraising events to support PLAY for P.I.N.K. and other breast cancer charity organizations. 

Throughout the month of October, Troon-affiliated facilities will host golf clinics, putting challenges and fun playing opportunities. In addition, Troon has made it easier than ever to donate to PLAY for P.I.N.K. and breast cancer research by creating a QR code and a donation-landing page. The QR code will be displayed at Troon-affiliated facilities around the globe, as members and guests can scan the QR code, then direct their PLAY for P.I.N.K. donation through their favorite Troon-affiliated facility.

PLAY for P.I.N.K. (Prevention, Immediate diagnosis, New technology, Knowledge) supports a nationwide network of volunteers who raise money for breast cancer research through sporting and lifestyle events to speed advances in prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship. PLAY for P.I.N.K. donates 100 percent of its proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

For more information on Play for P.I.N.K., visit www.playforpink.org.

Owner of Kapalua Golf Pledges $750,000 to Support Maui Nonprofits

Earlier this month, the PGA announced that The Sentry, the first stop on the PGA tour, will not be played at The Plantation Course at Kapalua for the first time since 1999. The decision was made after the course’s conditions deteriorated due to a lack of irrigation water. The tournament brings an estimated $48 million in economic activity to Maui each year and hundreds of thousands of dollars in charitable donations to Maui nonprofit organizations.

Kapalua Golf owner, Mr. Tadashi Yanai, expressing his commitment to support the Maui community, pledged a total donation of $750,000 to various Maui nonprofits, including Scouting America –Aloha Council, Hale Makua Health Services, J. Walter Cameron Center, Ka Lima O Maui, Lahainaluna High School Foundation and Lahaina Junior Golf.

“Mr. Yanai has always been steadfast in his commitment to Maui,” said Governor Josh Green. “After the 2023 Maui wildfires, he led the first privately funded housing project for displaced workers and now he is stepping up again with this generous $750,000 pledge. These funds will keep vital services and programs moving forward, from healthcare to youth development. His leadership reminds us that Maui’s strength lies in the generosity and resilience of its people. We will continue working with him, Mayor Bissen and our community partners to ensure Maui’s recovery and future remain strong.”

In addition, the funds will help support The Boys & Girls Club of Maui – Lahaina, Aloha Puʻu Kukui Watershed, Hawaiʻi State Junior Golf Association/First Tee of Hawaiʻi, Hua Momona Farms, Kapalua Maui Charities, Maui Junior Golf, University of Hawaiʻi — Maui College, Maui United Way and Maui Striker Soccer Club, among others that are historically supported by The Sentry PGA Golf Tournament.

“We are deeply grateful to Mr. Yanai for this extraordinary show of generosity at a time when Maui needs it most,” said Maui Mayor Richard Bissen. “While the loss of The Sentry in 2026 is difficult, his pledge ensures that critical programs in health, education, youth sports, and community resilience will continue to thrive.”

Through this donation, Kapalua Golf / TY Management reaffirms their commitment to the Maui community.

“On behalf of Lahaina Junior Golf Association (LJGA), we extend our heartfelt mahalo to Mr. Yanai for his compassion towards our Maui community,” said LJGA President Joel Navarro. “Your generosity, specifically to LJGA, is an investment in the lives of our junior golfers and their families, many of whom continue to rebuild and find hope through the game of golf. We are also able to continue to provide opportunities that nurture education and camaraderie; values that extend far beyond the golf course and into their daily lives.”

Although The Sentry PGA tournament will not be played at Kapalua in 2026, Kapalua Golf is working hard to plan and prepare to host the tournament again in 2027.

BallenIsles Country Club Leaders Play 454 Holes of Golf to Raise $20K for the First Tee – Palm Beaches

Members of the BallenIsles Country Club leadership team played a combined 454 holes of golf over nine hours on Monday, September 15 to raise more than $20,000 for the First Tee – Palm Beaches. General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Walls, Director of Golf Jeff Fitzherbert, Head Professional Chris Hayes, Assistant Professional David Flinn, Marketing Manager Laren Fender and Senior Communications Coordinator Brooke Harrison participated in the 10th Annual 100 Hole Challenge Golf Marathon held at Jupiter Country Club to raise funds for the First Tee – Palm Beaches through BallenIsles’ member donations and pledges.

First Tee – Palm Beaches is a major youth development program at golf courses throughout Palm Beach County and is one of 15 First Tee chapters in the state of Florida. Founded in 1988, the Palm Beaches chapter encompasses over 80,000 elementary school students, providing opportunities for students to learn the Nine Core Values of the First Tee Life Skills Experience. Additionally, the program serves children with special needs and disabilities, veterans disabilities and people with paralysis. The First Tee also provides life skills and life enhancement opportunities to all young people through the game of golf.

2025 marked the sixth time Walls and Fitzherbert participated in the Annual Golf Marathon, and the first time for Hayes, Flinn, Fender and Harrison. Fender and Harrison joined the group and played the first 30 holes. Collectively, BallenIsles Country Club has raised over $115,000 for the First Tee through the Golf Marathon. Last year, Walls and Fitzherbert played for five hours to complete their combined 280 holes of golf at the Palm Beach Par 3 and raised $17,000 for the First Tee of the Palm Beaches through member donations and pledges. Previous donations include $21,500 in 2023, $23,995 in 2022, $17,500 in a rain-shortened 2021 event, and $15,000 in 2020.

“I’m exhausted and don’t want to play any more golf,” joked Walls. “But, our BallenIsles team, 454 holes and all, are super proud of our members for supporting such a great cause once again. It was rewarding today to get to meet a successful businessman who was a recipient of a First Tee scholarship years ago. It is a wonderful program that continues to provide in our local community, to our future golfers, but more importantly, future leaders. Great job once again to the First Tee and Marathon Golf players.”  

While the 2025 100 Hole Challenge is complete, the BallenIsles team hopes to continue to collect donations for the First Tee – Palm Beaches through the end of the year as the fundraiser website is still accepting contributions. For more information on the First Tee – Palm Beaches and their 100 Hole Challenge Golf Marathon, visit Children’s Golf Foundation.

For more information on BallenIsles Country Club, visit www.BallenIsles.org.

Boca West Country Club Celebrates 15th Habitat for Humanity Home, Welcomes Ramsey Family

From left: Barry Roberts, Danny Schulman, Jennifer Thomason, Ke’yanna Ramsey, Jeanine Banks, Teri Cox, Linda Singer, Bill Berkowitz

Boca West Country Club proudly dedicated its 15th Habitat for Humanity home on Friday, August 25, in South Bay, marking another milestone in the Club’s long-standing commitment to community service. Members of the Club’s Board of Directors joined the celebration, cutting the ribbon alongside the new homeowner, Ke’yanna Ramsey, and her family.

As a major sponsor, Boca West contributed not only financial support but also countless volunteer hours to bring the project to life. For Ke’yanna, a South Bay native and single mother of two, the home represents a fresh start and the foundation for a brighter future.

“Becoming a homeowner still feels surreal,” she shared at the dedication. “I am grateful and overjoyed.”

Ke’yanna has worked tirelessly to provide stability for her children while pursuing her dream of making a difference. Though she once hoped to be a chef, she is now preparing to become a teacher so she can inspire others. Her journey with Habitat has been about more than building walls—it’s about creating a lasting legacy for her family and giving back to her community.

The new home is the 15th sponsored by Boca West Country Club in partnership with Habitat for Humanity South Palm Beach County over the past 14 years.

“Our board members were absolutely thrilled to celebrate this dedication with Ke’yanna and her family,” said Matthew Linderman, CCM, President, COO, and General Manager of Boca West Country Club. “Giving back to the community is so important to our members, and we are proud to invest in programs that change lives.”

Since its founding in 1991, Habitat for Humanity South Palm Beach County has empowered families in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and Delray Beach to achieve affordable homeownership. Each partner family contributes sweat equity and repays the home’s cost through a zero-interest mortgage, fostering pride and long-term success.

For more information, visit habitatsouthpalmbeach.org.

Troon Raising Awareness, Funds for Ovarian Cancer Research Throughout September

Troon and Troon-affiliated facilities across the U.S. will be raising funds for ovarian cancer research and awareness throughout the month of September, which is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Troon-affiliated golf properties will fly teal checkered flags on their 18th greens to help raise awareness about ovarian cancer and will have various fundraising activities to support Teal Wings of Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for ovarian cancer.

Throughout September Troon facilities will prominently display QR codes in golf shops and clubhouses for guests and members to donate directly to Teal Wings of Hope. Courses will also host regular par-three challenges will all proceeds benefiting Teal Wings of Hope.

Teal Wings of Hope was founded in 2024 by Troon Board Member and Honours Golf Founder Bob Barrett and his family to honor the life and legacy of Barbara "Babs" Barrett, who bravely battled ovarian cancer. Throughout her courageous journey, Babs remained committed to her enduring wish: to help develop early detection screenings for ovarian cancer that could save the lives of others. In keeping with her wish, Teal Wings of Hope was created as a foundation dedicated to raising funds for ovarian cancer research and providing critical support for patients. The organization stands as a lasting tribute to Babs’ strength, compassion, and unwavering hope.

"We are deeply grateful to Troon and their facilities nationwide for shining a spotlight on ovarian cancer. Every teal flag and every donation brings us closer to life-saving breakthroughs in early detection and patient support. Together, we are turning awareness into action,” said MaryAnn Hasabnis, President of Teal Wings of Hope and daughter of Bob and Babs Barrett.

According to the National Cancer Institute, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States. Research is so important because there is currently no reliable early detection test to screen for ovarian cancer. Additionally, symptoms can be vague and easily attributed to other causes, which increases the likelihood that women will experience a misdiagnosis or late diagnosis. Less than half of the women diagnosed this year will be alive in five years.

About Teal Wings of Hope

Teal Wings of Hope is committed to raising awareness, championing advocacy, and boldly investing in groundbreaking research—especially through its partnership with UAB Medicine’s Gynecologic Oncology Department. With a clear mission to support patient care, drive innovation, and fund cutting-edge science, the organization is working toward a future where early detection is the norm and survival rates for ovarian cancer are dramatically improved.

PGA of America REACH Foundation Announces PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars for 2025-26

15 Students from nine schools each earn $8,000 Scholarships

The PGA of America REACH Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the Association, has awarded scholarships for the 2025-26 academic school year to 15 students at nine colleges through the PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program. With the generous support of the Lundgrens, the $8,000 scholarships were presented to talented and motivated students who are working toward PGA of America Membership through one of the 16 accredited PGA Golf Management University Programs across the nation.

PGA WORKS is a workforce strategic initiative designed to provide equal opportunity to a robust pool of talent from a wide range of backgrounds, including populations historically underrepresented in the game and business of golf, who are prepared to ascend to key employment positions in the business of golf.

Scholarship recipients must be pursuing bachelor’s degrees in a golf-industry-compatible major, with the ultimate goal of obtaining PGA of America Membership. Since its inception in 2018, a total of 108 PGA WORKS Golf Management University scholarships have been awarded, totaling $864,000.

"We are immensely grateful for our partnership with the Lundgrens and the ongoing success of the PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program,” said PGA of America President and Master Professional Don Rea Jr., PGA Owner/Operator of Augusta Ranch Golf Club (Arizona). “These scholarships not only support the academic and career aspirations of talented students but also strengthen the future of our game and Association. By investing in these future PGA of America Members, we are investing in the future of golf, ensuring it thrives and evolves."

Scholarship recipients were selected based on academic record, leadership demonstrated through participation in school and community activities, honors and work experience, a statement of goals and aspirations, unique personal or family circumstances, an outside appraisal, active participation in the game of golf and playing ability.

To ensure success and perpetuity of the program, as well as objectivity in the selection process, the PGA of America REACH Foundation retained Scholarship America as a third-party administrator. Scholarship America is the nation's largest designer and manager of scholarships, tuition assistance and other education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations and individuals to help students achieve their college dreams.

2025-2026 PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program Recipients

Isabella Boyle, Sioux City, Iowa, University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2027

Jordyn Cline, Mahwah, N.J., University of Nevada - Las Vegas, Class of 2026

Peyton Cusick, Ballwin, Mo., University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2027

Alexander Henbest, Manahawkin, N.J., University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2028

Reagan Hubbard, Ellicott City, Md., Penn State University, Class of 2028

Michael Hui, Staten Island, N.Y., Coastal Carolina University, Class of 2028

Mason McKenna, Olathe, Kan., University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2026

Willow Merry, Michie, Tenn., Mississippi State University, Class of 2026

Nikolas Pitiris, Nicosia, Cyprus, New Mexico State University, Class of 2026

Reagan Plank, Owasso, Okla., University of Central Oklahoma, Class of 2029

Sydney Raines, Oakland, Calif., University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Class of 2028

Luke Roque, Tacoma, Wash., University of Idaho, Class of 2027

Atirath Roy, New Delhi, India, University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2026

Scarlet Sturch, Durant, Okla., University of Central Oklahoma, Class of 2027

Chase Triebenbach, Osakis, Minn., University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Class of 2028

ORCA Golf Creates ‘PAWS Collection’ Golf Bags

Portion of Proceeds to be Donated to Humane Society of Broward County

(BOCA RATON, Fla.) – ORCA Golf is lending a helping “paw” with its newest premium bag design—a must-have for the golfer who is an animal lover. The “PAWS Collection” features both a golf bag and a travel bag, tastefully adorned with paw prints.

In celebration of the new collection, ORCA Golf — a fast-growing, women-owned golf bag design company — is donating 10 percent of every purchase to the Humane Society of Broward County, a nonprofit charitable organization. Founded in 1944, the facility can house more than 300 dogs and cats while they await adoption.

The PAWS design uses the company’s iconic Dorsal One Stand, which is built for functionality, durability, and efficiency. At just 4.9 pounds, it is ORCA Golf’s lightest carry bag making it a great option for golfers who love to walk the course or use a pushcart. Two color patterns are offered: white with black paw prints, and black with multi-color paw prints.

The Saddle Bag is one of ORCA Golf’s most popular bags for sports and travel. Like the golf bag, it is made from a high-quality synthetic leather material that is as durable and versatile as it is stylish. It weighs only 3 pounds and is being offered in black and aqua grey. All three of the bag’s pockets can be embroidered with a logo if desired.

The Dorsal One Stand individually is priced at $395. The golf bag and the travel bag can be purchased together as a set for a special price of $540.

“We rely on generous donations from our community,” said Kathy Tricomi, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer at the Humane Society of Broward County. “Thanks to philanthropic companies such as ORCA Golf, we can continue to provide the essential care and compassion for the animals residing at our shelter until they find their forever homes.”

ORCA Golf’s co-founders, Deb Bennett, and Erica Bennett, said they share an affinity for animals and have a keen appreciation for the importance of a facility such as the Humane Society of Broward County.

“Their mission is to bring animals and people together and they accomplish that goal every day with an amazing amount of love, compassion, and dedication,” Erica Bennett said. “We are thrilled that with the PAWS Collection bags, we can do our small part to give back and support such a deserving organization.”

Beyond their support for worthy community organizations, the ORCA Golf founders are committed to paving the way for future generations and making the golf community more inclusive, empowered, and sustainable.

For additional information, visit ORCA Golf at orca-golf.com/ or the Humane Society of Broward County at humanebroward.com.

GolfForever Honors the Military with Promotion Benefiting Folds of Honor and Veteran Golfers Association

 Industry-leading golf fitness brand donating a portion of sales between Armed Forces Day and Labor Day.

(Aspen, CO) – GolfForever, the leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, is kicking off an expanded focus on honoring our nation’s armed services personnel and their families with a limited-time sales promotion on the popular GolfForever Swing Trainer. From Armed Forces Day (May 20, 2023) through Memorial Day (May 29, 2023), $10 from every Swing Trainer sold on GolfForever.com will be donated to Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA). Those proceeds will be shared equally between the two organizations. All purchasers will also receive a free 30-day subscription to the 4.8 App Store-rated GolfForever golf fitness training app.

The influential and impactful Folds of Honor foundation is the renowned nonprofit organization founded by Lt Col Dan Rooney that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Beginning in 2022, Folds of Honor also expanded its mission to include first responders. VGA, founded in 2014 by retired Army Capt. Joshua Peyton, is an acclaimed national organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Veterans and their family members through the camaraderie and sportsmanship of golf. GolfForever forged partnerships with both organizations in 2022 and this sales promotion marks the first of many strategic and promotional efforts the golf fitness brand will activate in 2023.

“We greatly value our relationships with Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association and we are constantly looking for ways to support their efforts and honor their members. This initial promotion is one of many initiatives our GolfForever team will use to bring awareness to these vital organizations,” says GolfForever VP of Communications and Strategic Partnerships, Jon Levy. “It has been a pleasure to work closely with both groups, and we are honored to play a small role in championing their advocacy for the military and their families.”

GolfForever is the first golf-specific training program to embrace the approach of home exercise equipment paired with streaming instruction that customizes each golfer’s exercise routines specifically for them, based on a proprietary strength and flexibility test. The GolfForever Swing Trainer, highlighted by its asymmetrical resistance training bar that can be anchored easily at home, the gym or the course, is a three-in-one training tool that additionally creates premium resistance bands with handles and a D3 swing weight-optimized heavy warmup club. All three uses, combined with guided instruction from fitness and medical experts that specialize in golf, directly benefit the strength, mobility and movement patterns in your golf swing.

GolfForever has experienced massive growth since releasing its marquee physical product now used by over 200 tour pros, including bringing on 2021-22 PGA Tour Player of the Year and World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler – a daily GolfForever user – as well as 2023 Ryder Cup Captain Zach Johnson and four-time PGA Tour winner Ryan Palmer, launching a pilot program with Invited, and landing in leading golf retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy and PGA Tour Superstore.

Retailing for $199.99, the Swing Trainer includes a 44.5-inch training bar; two power-grade, soft, sweat-resistant 15-inch rubber grips with five specialized training zone demarcations; two easy-to-attach polymer carabiners; light- and medium-resistance latex training cords with nylon safety sleeves; a universal nylon door anchor; two quick-interchangeable weighted balls for warming up and speed training; two interchangeable hand grips that transform the training cords into universal exercise resistance bands used in the GolfForever app’s warmups and workouts; and 30 days of full access to the GolfForever app for free.

For more information and to support Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association with the purchase of a GolfForever Swing Trainer, visit GolfForever.com.

On Course Foundation Kicks Off Annual Fundraising Campaign During Military Appreciation Month

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – On Course Foundation kicked off its annual fundraising campaign during Military Appreciation Month (May), prompting wounded, injured and sick veterans to use golf as a vehicle for physical and mental recovery, and harvest newfound confidence into careers in golf.

Corporate and individual contributions are earmarked to expand On Course Foundation’s impact across America.  The organization currently conducts free educational programs in 15 regional markets for Service men and women develop golf business and golf playing skills.

Apollo Global Management, Barclays, Charles Schwab, CSX, Callaway, Clubessential and Summit Golf Brands are among the On Course Foundation sponsors saluting the military, the game of golf and vastly improving lives which otherwise would have spiraled downward.

“Golf is a powerful tool during the rehab process and for a lifetime,” says John Simpson, Founder and Chairman of On Course Foundation.  “There are countless psychological and physical difficulties in assimilating back into society, and golf eases transformations into productive family, professional, social, financial and athletic lives.” 

Thousands of On Course Foundation members have benefitted from the organization’s golf education and career services.  Exhibiting profound changes of character, they are placed in full-and part-time jobs with, , Invited, Marriott Golf, TaylorMade Golf, Topgolf Callaway Brands, and TPC Network , as well as at golf courses, country clubs and resorts coast to coast.

Many On Course Foundation “members” never picked up a golf club before introduction to the organization.  Through sheer determination, they often achieve single-digit handicaps and qualify for the annual Simpson Cup pitting U.K. and U.S. team in Ryder Cup-style matches.  The 2023 edition will be played August 28-31 at Royal Lytham and St. Annes Golf Club.  

A poignant video about On Course Foundation and the Simpson Cup, produced by Charles Schwab, is here.

In 1999, Congress designed May as Military Appreciation Month, a time to pause to remember the sacrifice and service of past and present members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, Space Force and National Guard.  May also marks Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day.  There are more than 4.5 million wounded, injured and sick Service people in the U.S.

More information: oncoursefoundationusa.org, info@oncoursefoundationusa.org, 407.529.2674

Bloodline Golf Offers a Limited-Edition Putter to Support Els for Autism Foundation During World Autism Month

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – Bloodline Golf is pleased to announce that it is offering a limited-edition putter and headcover to support the Els for Autism Foundation during World Autism Month in April. The limited-edition Vale putter features blue sight lines and accent colors to match the blue color associated with autism awareness.

There are several ways for golfers to support the Els for Autism Foundation through this new partnership. The limited-edition Vale putter is listed at the special price of $279. The limited-edition Vale putter head and Els for Autism headcover is listed at the special price of $159. For every limited-edition putter or putter head and headcover purchased, Bloodline will donate $30.00 to the Els for Autism Foundation. For every purchase of the limited-edition Els for Autism headcover, Bloodline will donate the entire $25.00 to the foundation.

“Ernie has been part of the Bloodline family since he first played the original R1-J blade putter in mid-2017 and became our first ambassador and high-profile investor in 2018,” said Brad Adams, Bloodline CEO. “We offered a limited edition putter last year and the program was so successful that we’re pleased to support this worthwhile cause again this year.”

Els and his wife, Leizl established the Els for Autism Foundation in 2009 to help people and families affected by autism spectrum disorder. Their son, Ben, is impacted by autism spectrum disorder, which affects 1 in 54 children in the United States.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that is caused by differences in how the brain functions. People with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in different ways. Signs of ASD begin during early childhood and usually last throughout a person’s life.

World Autism Month, which was first held in 1972, emphasizes the need for public awareness to promote acceptance, celebrate the differences, and be more inclusive towards autistic individuals around us.

Bloodline has developed a putter line which includes a high-performance carbon fiber shaft that contributes to the putter's unique capability to stand up by itself on the green. In designing its putters, the company created an ultralight shaft that does not compromise on feel or flex characteristics and also includes an oversized gripping section built directly into the shaft. This pioneering construction enables Bloodline putters to have an extremely low balance point that helps give more feel and release during the stroke.

The Vale putter features:

- High-Performance Polymer (HPP) head shape and construction

- Tungsten-infused face insert

- Ultra-light carbon fiber shaft and EVA grip with an ultra-sensitive feeling wrap

- Patented head, sole, and balance point design features

All Bloodline putters feature interchangeable/adjustable components. The ability to interchange a variety of shaft/hosel combinations and lengths and lies enables golfers of all levels and putting styles to easily get the proper fit.

To order a limited-edition Bloodline Vale putter to support the Els for Autism Foundation, visit bloodline.golf/products/els-for-autism-vale-putter-hpp

Jack Nicklaus Once Again Surprises Military Veterans with a Golf Lesson in Honor of Veterans Day and the PGA National Day of HOPE

(JUPITER, Fla.) – Imagine being invited to play a round of golf at Jack Nicklaus’ Florida home club and getting a surprise lesson from none other than the 18-time major champion himself.

For the third straight year, Nicklaus gave some hometown military heroes who participate in the South Florida PGA Section PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program a memory for a lifetime at The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, Florida. 

In celebration of both Veterans Day and the PGA National Day of HOPE, Nicklaus thanked the playing group of Veterans for their service and shared instructional tips, before inviting them out as his guests for a day on the championship golf course that he designed and is played regularly by up to 30 PGA TOUR pros who are members. 

As the military pillar of PGA REACH, PGA HOPE is designed to introduce golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. PGA REACH and PGA HOPE aspire to create a physically and emotionally healthier Veteran community through a six- to eight-week curriculum led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. 

U.S. Army Veteran First Lt. (Ret.) Robert Truckenmiller received a Purple Heart after being shot in the Vietnam War. Other than hearing from other Veterans from time to time, he said that when he got a call from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) inviting him to take part in the PGA HOPE program, it was the first real “welcome home” feeling he ever received for his service. 

“The PGA of America reaches out to Veterans, they reach out to all different people,” explained Nicklaus, who is the only sportsman and just the fourth person in history to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005), the Congressional Gold Medal (2015) and the Lincoln Medal (2018). “It is a great organization. PGA HOPE is impactful on its own, but they also collaborate with other organizations, such as partnering with Folds of Honor for Patriot Golf Days. I have great admiration and respect for the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country’s freedom, and try to get behind efforts to help our Veterans, as well as their families. For me to do my little part—even to a small group—I am delighted to do so, especially for the PGA HOPE program.”

PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the VA, which enables Recreational Therapists to refer Veterans to PGA HOPE as a form of therapy.

Truckenmiller was quite surprised when Nicklaus stepped out on the driving range. 

“I’m a little bit awestruck,” said Truckenmiller. “He’s probably the best golfer ever, and he was most gracious. He helped me with my putting, on lining my ball up, and to stop moving my head. He told me to stare at it when I hit it.

“I lost my wife of 54 years three months ago. This is a remedy for some of the loneliness.”

U.S. Air Force Sgt. (Ret.) Pamela Carter, of Wellington, Florida, lost her brother, Bruce, in the Vietnam War. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously, and the VA Medical Center in Miami is named after him. When Nicklaus approached Pamela and gave her a lesson, she quickly reached in her pocket and handed him a challenge coin with her brother’s photo on it.

“I was just shocked he was here,” said Carter. “I stumbled on PGA HOPE and signed up for it. Meeting true war heroes who are now being respected puts a new spin on it. PGA HOPE reaches out and makes us feel welcome.”

U.S. Army/Air Force Reserves Sgt. (Ret.) Homer Watts Jr. had the thrill of a lifetime. 

“Oh my goodness,” Watts said. “He’s a legend. It was a total shock. I was very surprised. PGA HOPE is such an amazing program. It gets people out of the hospital and into other activities. You meet great instructors who take their time with you. It’s almost like family. Actually, it’s just like family.”

Joining them for instruction and the round of golf was 2022 South Florida PGA Section Patriot Award recipient Jerry Impellittiere, PGA Director of Instruction at Monarch Country Club in Palm City. Impellittiere originally learned the game from PGA Professionals at West Point Golf Course and now pays it forward by teaching two PGA HOPE Programs.

He is known as “The Collector,” as he collects donated golf clubs to give to Veterans for them to learn and play the game. Ironically, Impellittiere once played in a grouping with Nicklaus and Dave Stockton at the B.C. Open, two players renowned for their putting.

“I didn’t make the cut, but I led the PGA TOUR in putting stats that year,” said Impellittiere. 

Nicklaus has a long-held fondness for the nation’s military and the incredible sacrifices made by service members.

“These people have earned the help of all Americans,” said Nicklaus. “I enjoy doing this. I want to be a part of it, especially if it makes a difference. I am very honored.”

This year, PGA HOPE aims to impact the lives of over 7,500 Veterans through its transformational program led by PGA Professionals, and has set a goal of 36,000 annually by 2026.

In its sixth year, PGA National Day of HOPE is a month-long campaign running through Veterans Day. The campaign celebrates our nation’s heroes who protect our freedom, while raising awareness and support for PGA HOPE.  

GOLFFOREVER Partners with Folds of Honor

Leading golf fitness brand supports military families with promotions, video training, live events

(Aspen, Colorado) — GOLFFOREVER, the industry-leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the influential and impactful Folds of Honor foundation; the renowned nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Beginning in 2022, Folds of Honor expanded its mission to include first responders.

GOLFFOREVER will publicize and support Folds of Honor in several ways beginning this fall, while building toward Folds of Honor-branded products in 2023. The top golf fitness brand will also produce motivational and exercise series with Folds of Honor Founder and CEO Lt Col Dan Rooney that will be incorporated into the GOLFFOREVER app and future Folds of Honor programs.

Founded in 2007 by Lt Col Rooney, the only F-16 fighter pilot to also be a PGA Professional, Folds of Honor has awarded about 44,000 scholarships to military spouses and children, totaling about $200 million in all 50 states. Among the students served, 41 percent are minorities. It is rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and Platinum on GuideStar.

“GOLFFOREVER is humbled and excited to champion the vital work of Folds of Honor and Lt Col Dan Rooney,” says GOLFFOREVER managing director Jon Levy. “Supporting our military, and now first responders, is a core value of our business and has been personally for (Founder and CEO) Dr. Jeremy James in his practice for years. We’re ready to do our part to significantly impact this organization and can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get started.”

“Every Folds of Honor story is a message of sheer inspiration, and I couldn’t be prouder to align with an organization like this,” added James. “We’re honored that Lt Col Rooney has embraced this partnership and is willing to work proactively with our team to help impact even more families. It’s the start of a great and impactful partnership ahead.”

The GOLFFOREVER web site now features an exclusive Folds of Honor GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer package (at golfforever.com/folds-of-honor/) priced at $219.99, with 20 percent of every sale going directly to Folds of Honor. Customers who purchase the package will receive a special Folds of Honor T-Shirt.

GOLFFOREVER will be participating in Folds of Honor events to share the benefits of the GOLFFOREVER Training System, starting with the Folds of Honor Cup on November Feb. 13., 2023 at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando. Future plans also include an exercise and motivational series featuring Lt Col Rooney, who is a longtime fitness and wellness advocate himself.

“We are grateful to GOLFFOREVER for helping provide a life-changing education for military and first responder dependents,” said Lt Col Rooney. “GOLFFOREVER is committed to improving peoples’ lives through better fitness and longevity. We are pleased to align with this forward-thinking and dynamic brand as we partner to better the lives of families across the nation.”

GOLFFOREVER is the first golf-specific home training program to embrace the approach of home exercise equipment paired with streaming instruction, customizing each golfer’s exercise routines specifically for them, based on a proprietary strength and flexibility test. Over the past year, the company has experienced massive growth since launching its groundbreaking Swing Trainer and solidifying key partnerships with golf industry institutions and leading golf retailers. It brought on World No. 1 golfer and reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler as an official brand ambassador and has made a significant impact on tour with more than 100 PGA Tour, PGA Tour Champions and LPGA Tour pros using the GOLFFOREVER Training System. With its 4.9 App Store-rated app – the engine delivering users personalized daily workout and recovery plans from top PGA Tour doctors and trainers – and other training and recovery products launching soon, GOLFFOREVER is poised to accelerate its growth trajectory further.

Learn more at GolfForever.com and foldsofhonor.org.

Whiskers Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month

(DELRAY BEACH, Fla.) – Whiskers – maker of men’s and women’s premium, golf-specific shoelaces – has established a “Pretty in Pink” philanthropic program during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For the fourth consecutive year, the company is donating profits from October sales of its women’s and men’s pink shoelaces to charities engaged in breast cancer research and education.  The pink laces are carried in select pro shops and available here.

Whiskers’ pink laces adorn the shoes of scores of LPGA and even PGA Tour players, including major winners, and caddies during tournaments in 2022.  They are also popular among amateur golfers and merchandisers for their golf shops, and as first tee prizes and member appreciation gifts.

“There are more than 3.8 million cases of breast cancer in the U.S.,” says Kyle Groth, CEO of Whiskers.  “We are grateful to the men and women who purchase pink Whiskers laces, so we can help drive people to early detection measures.” 

Whiskers’ altruism is also typified in its “Stand for Ukraine” program from March to August 2022.  Proceeds from sales of Whiskers blue and yellow laces – colors of the country’s flag – benefitted Save the Children Ukraine and the Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund, two highly respected non-profits focused on humanitarian relief initiatives in the embattled country.

Golfers match Whiskers laces’ colors and patterns to their shirts, hats, belts and shoes.  Re-lacing golf shoes often takes less than three minutes and Whiskers’ Tour representative is on-site at tournaments to seamlessly assist.  Whiskers’ Made-in-the-U.S.A. products are fit for classic shoes like FootJoy and athletic styles from adidas, ECCO, Nike and other brands.

Whiskers boasts more than 70 colors and patterns, including relatively new turquoise, mint green, Vegas gold, guava and lavender, as well as neon laces in blue, green, orange, pink and yellow hues.  They join popular solid laces in navy, Carolina blue, pink and red.  Navy-light blue, orange-white, berry-black, green-blue and purple-pink are top-selling patterns.

In addition to golf laces, Whiskers designs and manufactures laces specifically for dress and casual shoes, sneakers and boots.  They coordinate in style and color with trendy footwear and apparel brands, are crafted with ultra-durable poly-nylon tech weave and high-grade aglets, and come in multiple styles, shapes and lengths.

Whiskers is re-imagining a category that’s been long overlooked for decades yet is now an essential part of premium wardrobes.  Personalizing and dressing up shoes in fashionable and fun ways mirrors today’s “individualism” frenzy.

About Whiskers: www.whiskerslaces.com, www.whiskersgolf.com, hello@whiskerslaces.com, 561-665-7493.

Rory McIlroy, NBC Sports Next Give Back with Second $1M Donation to Youth on Course

NBC Sports Next’s Better Together Initiative Continues to Create More Access for Underserved Groups and Diverse Start-Ups 

(PALM BEACH, Fla.) – While thanking the generous community of golfers who have chosen to “round up” their purchases through NBC Sports Next's GolfNow tee-time service, Rory McIlroy today presented a second check for $1 million to Youth on Course, helping the organization continue its mission to create more affordable and equal access to golf.

The check presentation represented the second $1 million donation facilitated by NBC Sports Next to YOC – the first taking place with the help of McIlroy in September 2021. Accepting the check was Youth on Course CEO Adam Heieck, who joined McIlroy to cheer on donors beginning their marathon round of golf at the Palm Beach Par 3 golf course in Florida, one of 10 “Premier 100 Hole Hike” fund-raising locations across the U.S. These annual charity events challenge participants to raise $10,000 or more to support YOC. 

McIlroy also was on hand to host an instruction clinic, which included 16 local YOC members and host Martin Hall. The Rory Pop-Up Clinic from the event will be available to stream on GolfPass, beginning Monday, Oct. 17. McIlroy is co-founder of GolfPass. 

The day’s activities also were being captured by Vox Media Studios, producers behind the highly anticipated Netflix documentary series that will follow the lives and stories of top professional golfers through an entire competitive season.

“We’re incredibly honored to have the support of NBC Sports Next and grateful to the millions of GolfNow users who have chosen to round up over the past two years,” Heieck said. “These contributions are helping to increase our impact and creating transformative change in the lives of our members.” 

The $2 million total contribution marked another major milestone in the 21 months since NBC Sports Next and Youth on Course announced a major partnership with the goal of helping to ensure the vitality of golf for kids across the U.S. through the innovative technology of GolfNow and unmatched content provided by GolfPass. Through NBC Sports Next’s Better Together initiative, the donated funds resulted from generous GolfNow golfers who elected to help expand YOC’s national footprint when booking a round of golf. 

A key element of the partnership includes the GolfNow “Round-Up” campaign, which offers anyone booking a tee time online via GolfNow or the GolfNow app to round up the total cost of the reservation to an even-dollar figure. 

Since the “Round-Up” campaign began, there have been nearly 6 million contributions, raising the $2 million from an average contribution of $0.36. The contribution represents enough money to subsidize approximately 285,000 rounds of golf for YOC members.

“We’re extremely proud of our partnership with Youth on Course and doubly so of the millions of GolfNow golfers who have generously contributed to our efforts to create more access to our great sport,” said Jerramy Hainline, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Golf, NBC Sports Next. “This round-up campaign is a great example of the many supplemental ways we are innovating with our industry-leading technology.” 

Other key elements of the NBC Sports Next-Youth on Course partnership have included:

- A 2022 GolfPass sweepstakes providing the winner and guest the opportunity to win a trip to Indio, Calif., to participate in a 100 Hole Hike event, alongside celebrity instructors Devan Bonebrake and Nathalie Sheehan.

- Development by GolfNow of a custom YOC booking engine, providing YOC members to book their rounds of golf through the YOC app.

- Complimentary GolfPass video subscription for all YOC members, giving more than 130,000 young people access to hundreds of hours of high-quality instruction and entertainment programming on demand.

- $80,000 in scholarship awards from GolfNow and GolfPass, which have been given to outstanding YOC members pursuing a college education.

Troon Launches 2023 Troon Card Program

Proceeds From October Troon Card Sales To Assist With Hurricane Ian Relief Efforts 

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services, has launched its 2023 Troon Card frequent player program with more than 150 Troon-affiliated courses participating. Troon Cards are now on sale at www.TroonCard.com and can be used November 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023, providing Cardholders with preferred rates of up to 50 percent off the standard rate at participating Troon-managed and brand-affiliated courses. Troon Cards are available as a TwoSome Card (for two golfers to play and save), or a FourSome Card (for four golfers to enjoy preferred pricing), and are offered for specific states and regions of the country. A portion of the proceeds for every Troon Card sold in the month of October will be donated to the American Red Cross in support of Hurricane Ian relief efforts.

The popular and specially priced Patriot Troon Card has returned in 2023 as a way of honoring and thanking first responders as well as active duty, veterans, reserve and U.S. military retirees. The Inspire Troon Card also returns in 2023 and is for healthcare professionals and teachers. Both the Patriot and Inspire Troon Card offer the same incredible benefits as a National Troon TwoSome Card, including up to 50 percent off the standard rate for the Cardholder and a guest at ALL participating Troon-managed and brand-affiliated courses around the world. A portion of all proceeds from Patriot and Inspire Troon Card sales will be donated to charitable organizations that support military (Folds of Honor Foundation), first responders (Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation), healthcare professionals (Direct Relief) and teachers (Donors Choose). Those interested in purchasing a Patriot Troon Card or an Inspire Troon Card will be required to register (free of charge) through the Sheer ID employment verification program.

The golf industry’s leading frequent player program is in its 25th year and has grown to include more than 150 Troon-affiliated courses worldwide. State and region-specific Troon Cards available in 2023 include: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kansas/Missouri, New York, Midwest U.S., Northeast U.S., Southeast U.S., and West Coast U.S. In addition, the National Troon Card offers Cardholders preferred rates at all participating Troon facilities, including properties across the continental United States, Hawaii, and international facilities. Plus, some state-specific cards also include “bonus states” so Cardholders can tee it up in neighboring states. All Troon Cards offer Troon Card rates at Troon’s international locations.

Troon Cardholders can reserve tee times within three days of their desired date of play and enjoy up to 50 percent off golf fees. For those who cannot wait until three days out to book their tee time, with Troon Card’s Best Rate Guarantee, Troon Cardholders can book any online rate four-plus days in advance and still receive 15 percent off their golf fees at check in. The benefits of being a Troon Cardholder go beyond savings on golf. Troon Cardholders can improve their golf games by participating in complimentary clinics, play more golf with exclusive replay rates and explore the world of Troon with customized experience packages. Troon Cardholders can treat their friends, and themselves, to “2 for 1” golf offers and can celebrate their birthday in style with “birthday round” discounts. A new benefit added for 2023 affords Troon Cardholders special Avis Rental Car discounts of up to 35 percent off.

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

2023 Troon Cards are valid November 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023 with “early bird” pricing available through December 9, 2022. To view the entire list of participating courses, see Troon Card rates or to purchase a Troon Card online, go to www.TroonCard.com or visit any participating facility.