President’s Message Summer 2019
I am very fortunate in that I frequently get to speak with a lot of golf course owners and operators across the country. This allows me to sort of keep my thumb on the pulse of the golf industry, hearing from the folks really in the trenches about how their year is going, what the “vibe” is and I feel it gives me a real front-seat perspective on our industry as a whole. I am happy to report that, while most areas of the entire country (and even Canada) have experienced unusual weather that has proven to be detrimental versus “normal” weather patterns, the overall consensus is that support and demand for golf is strong – perhaps stronger than it has been in the last decade. When the weather is good – and it has now been so for a couple of months, reaching more normal patterns – golfers are showing up, do not seem quite as price-conscious as in the past, and I can sense a definite upward trend in the outlook and overall confidence when talking to golf business operators. Call me the eternal optimist, but I think this is a good time to be a golf course owner/operator in the great state of North Carolina! There are a lot of reasons for this, not the least of which is the fact that this year North Carolina is hosting three important national championships, drawing attention from all over the map.
Golf Golf Already the USGA staged the 2nd US Senior Women’s Open at Pine Needles, showcased to a national television audience. Coming up in August is the US Amateur at Pinehurst, also nationally televised. Later that month, Old Chatham GC in the Durham area hosts the US Senior Amateur. Your industry organizations, including the National Golf Course Owners Association and the North Carolina Golf Course Owners Association, have worked hard to represent our industry in legislative matters. That hard work and effort is paying off. National Golf Day took place in Washington, DC on May 1, and a record number of Congressional meetings were staged to showcase the many positives or our industry, while dispelling common myths that can be a hindrance. I attended with our Executive Director David Norman, and it was a great event! Key elected officials that are tasked with passing laws and rules that govern our everyday operations are better informed about the issues that affect our business, and your association has been your direct voice in advancing a positive message while working together with these leaders to craft sensible laws that do not needlessly hamper our business. Business In the North Carolina state legislature, we are endorsing a proposal to create a North Carolina Golf Council. The bill’s steward is Jon Hardister (R – Guilford County), the Majority Whip. And our friend Senator Rick Gunn (R - Alamance,Guilford) will be supporting it. The Council would be charged with the promotion and cultivation of the game of golf in North Carolina. It will focus on fostering the economic development, tourism, recreation and community involvement that the sport can bring. On June 4th, Women’s Golf Day was celebrated globally. It is designed to engage current women golfers and to recruit more. Our good friend Suzy Whaley, the first woman President of the PGA of America, is a great example of the amazing contributions women are making in golf, even though we still occasionally (unfortunately) struggle with the image that golf is a “men’s only” sport. Nothing could be further from the truth, and there is a growing awareness among the general public that golf is a sport and business that embraces diversity. Positive things are happening within the National Golf Course Owners Association as well – David Pillsbury of ClubCorp and Cathy Harbin (another great friend and golf course owner) of Pine Ridge GC have joined the national NGCOA board. If you ever visit Paris, be sure to stop by Cathy’s golf course – she will be happy to show you around. (Just make sure you are in the right Paris – the one in Texas, NOT France!) Looking ahead, in August the NGCOA will present a Technology Forum as part of the PGA Fashion & Demo Show in Las Vegas. This further leverages the new relationship with the PGA of America, which includes an alliance between our conference and the PGA Merchandise Show next January. Finally, please save the date for our Annual Meeting at Pine Needles Lodge in Southern Pines on October 8-9. It promises to be a splendid event you won’t want to miss! Inside our newsletter, you will find some information on some of the NGCOA member services, including Smart Buy and Women’s Golf Day. If you have read this far by now you should understand the incredible value having an industry association working on your behalf truly is – and we need you to be a part of the effort. If you aren’t a member yet, click here for our membership brochure. And join TODAY!! Now a word about our Corporate Partners. We now have 20 companies supporting our organization, and their support allows us to serve you better. John Deere distributors Revels Tractor and Greenville Turf & Tractor combined north carolina north to be our first Diamond Partners. I was pleased to support the association with my family company Seven Jars Distillery also at the Diamond Level. Please visit our Partner listing in this newsletter and support the companies that support you! I am honored to serve as your President, and I am pleased to serve on a board with some of the sharpest minds in the region (check them out on our board page). They are here to grow the game and serve our member clubs, and they do it pro bono! So please join us as a member, and help us grow the game and share operating successes for the betterment of our industry in the region!
A publication of the North Carolina Golf Course Owners Del Ratcliffe Association Chapter North Carolina GCOA President 2019 North Carolina GCOA Board of Directors President Vice President Secretary/Treasurer Del Ratcliffe, PGA Open Open Ratcliffe Golf Services, Inc. 800 Radio Road Charlotte, NC 28216 Mobile: (704) 236-3921 [email protected]
Directors
Scott Knox Kelly Miller Mark Stewart Tim Tilma Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club Pine Needles/Mid-Pines Tobacco Road Sandpiper Bay Golf & CC 7332 Kidville Rd 1005 Midland Road 442 Tobacco Road 800 N. Sandpiper Bay Drive S.W. Denver, NC 28037 Southern Pines, NC 28387 Sanford, NC 27332 Sunset Beach, NC 28468 Bus: (704) 257-0116 Bus: (910) 692-7111 Bus: (919) 775-1940 Bus: (910) 579-9120 x7 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Staff & Counsel
Executive Director Chapter Executive General Counsel NGCOA CEO David Norman Tyler Eastham Open Jay Karen North Carolina GCOA North Carolina GCOA NGCOA 1900 Manakin Road, Suite C 1900 Manakin Road, Suite C 291 Seven Farms Drive, 2nd Floor Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 Charleston, SC 29492 Bus: (804) 708-9760 Bus: (804) 708-9760 Bus: (800) 933-4262 Mobile: (804) 399-7802 Mobile: (757) 329-3577 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Tobacco Road Golf Course • Hole #13 • Sanford, NC
Visit us at www.ncgolf.org North Carolina GCOA Industry Partners Please patronize these vendors who support our association. Diamond Partners • Greenville Turf & Tractor (John Deere distributor) Bob Maraugas • 843-742-9583 • [email protected] • www.greenvilleturf.com • Revels Turf & Tractor (John Deere distributor) Larry Adcock • 919-795-0300 • [email protected] • www.revelstractor.com • Seven Jars Distillery (distilled spirits & wine) Del Ratcliffe • 704-919-0278 • [email protected] • www.sevenjars.com
Gold Partners • Trinet (HR services) Marco Fuster • 434-242-0759 • [email protected] • www.trinet.com Troy Vermillion • 720-261-7760 • [email protected] • www.trinet.com
Silver Partners • Club Car (golf cars and utility vehicles) Russ Lord • 704-264-9450 • [email protected] • www.clubcar.com • Chronogolf (golf course management software) Kurt Albertson • 602-770-8763 • [email protected] • www.chronogolf.com • Cybergolf (websites & electronic marketing services) Dan Murnan • 877-640-7170 • [email protected] • www.cybergolf.com • Entegra Procurement Services (purchasing program) Jim Bailey • 813-335-9095 • [email protected] • www.intlclubsuppliers.com • Ron Garl Design (golf course architect) Ron Garl • 863-688-8383 • [email protected] • www.rongarl.com • Textron Golf (turf equipment, golf carts & utility vehicles) Mike Lehman • 706-792-5773 • [email protected] • www.textrongolf.com • VGM Club (purchasing program) James Hockman • 843-267-3520 • [email protected] • www.vgmclub.com
Bronze Partners • Allegra Marketing Print Mail (printing & marketing services) John Fergusson • 804-355-8621 • [email protected] • www.allegrarichmond.com • Club Prophet Systems (golf management software) Torrey Schultz • 800-793-1872 x7018 • [email protected] • www.clubprophetsystems.com • Hilda W. Allen Real Estate (golf course realtor) Hilda Allen • 229-896-1493 • [email protected] • http://www.hildawallen.com/ • Modern Turf (sod and turf supplies/services) Hank Kerfoot • 803-713-8873 • [email protected] • www.modernturf.com • ORCA Report (benchmarking technology) Mike Loustalot • 480-236-4497 • [email protected] • orcareport.com • Richard Mandell Golf Architecture (golf course architect) Rich Mandell • 910-255-3111 • [email protected] • www.golf-architecture.com
Annual Meeting Partners • 1-2-1 Marketing (golf marketing solutions) Mike Riggs • 407-883-8066 • [email protected] • www.1-2-1marketing.com • Priswing (dynamic pricing solutions) Arnaud Zunz • 929-289 9870 • [email protected] • www.priswing.com • Teesnap (golf course management software) Kevin Naylor • 248-935-6971 • [email protected] • www.teesnap.com Golf Industry Comes Together for 12th Annual National Golf Day Event Brings Stories of Positive Economic and Community Impact to Washington D.C
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Golf industry leaders participated in a record-high 244 meetings with members of Congress representing 41 states to discuss the game’s economic, social and environmental contributions to the United States during today’s 12th annual National Golf Day on Capitol Hill. Coordinated by a coalition of the game’s leading associations and industry partners under the banner of WE ARE GOLF, National Golf Day brings together more than 300 industry leaders from across the U.S. to support the game’s $84.1 billion economy, nearly $4 billion annual charitable impact, close to 15,000 diverse businesses and two million jobs impacted. National Golf Day, May 1, 2019: Record-High 244 Meetings with Members of Congress from 41 States Showcase the Game’s Value & Importance Across U.S. “The game of golf is growing and evolving, and it is important that we come together collectively in National Golf Day, May 1, 2019: Record-High 244 Meetings with Members of Congress from 41 States Showcase the Game’s Value & Importance Across U.S. Washington to share stories of impact the game is having on business and communities across the United States,” said importance to American society, including business, recreation, Greg McLaughlin, CEO of World Golf Foundation, the organization that hospitality and tourism. Anything that brings people together is great, coordinates WE ARE GOLF activities. “From athletes from every corner of and golf brings people together.” the world competing each week on the PGA TOUR and LPGA, to global On Tuesday, April 30, the third-annual Community Service Project featured more than 200 participants demonstrating the industry’s commitment to collaboration on beautifying and preserving historical Record-High 244 Meetings with landmarks between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. Members of Congress from 41 States Golf industry leaders, coordinated by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, volunteered to lay sod, rake, edge, overseed, Showcase the Game’s Value & aerate, mow, mulch, brush walkways and spruce gravel pathways across 17 projects along the National Mall. The four hours of work saved the U.S. Importance Across U.S. National Park Service nearly four months of labor costs. Numerous golf courses and industry businesses are celebrating and companies investing billions of dollars in and around the sport, to recognizing National Golf Day in their own communities through activities healthy participation in traditional and emerging ways, the game of golf and special offers. Included is Topgolf, which is offering complimentary is a strong and vibrant part of American culture.” group golf instruction lessons at 50 locations across the U.S. “We are here to educate our elected officials that the golf industry is To join the social media conversation, use #NationalGolfDay and tag @ made up of many small businesses that contribute to our national wearegolf on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to support the industry as economy,” said Jay Karen, CEO of National Golf Course Owners well as share why golf is more than a game to you. Association and Chair of the WE ARE GOLF Board. “The importance of fair For more information about National Golf Day, click here. and good taxation policies is paramount to the success of our About World Golf Foundation businesses.” The mission of the World Golf Foundation is to unite the golf industry in support of “Sports have always been an important part of American culture, and initiatives that enhance the growth of and provide access to the game of golf in my hometown of Augusta, Georgia, golf is at the heart of our town’s worldwide, while preserving golf’s traditional values and passing them on to others. traditions and identity,” said Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA). “On National Golf Its board is comprised of European Tour, LPGA, The Masters, PGA of America, PGA Day, we renew our commitment to ensure Americans not only play the TOUR, R&A and USGA. World Golf Foundation oversees the collaborative industry initiative, We Are Golf, as well as World Golf Hall of Fame. game for decades to come, but also ensure golf’s economic, social and More information: www.wearegolf.org. charitable impacts are effectively communicated and protected.” “So many golf courses in the US, including courses in my district, are public facilities operating as small, locally owned businesses,” said Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA). “National Golf Day highlights the industry’s Annual Golf Business Conference to be Co-Located with PGA Merchandise Show Beginning in 2020 by Jay Karen The National Golf Course Owners Association, the PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions have announced a multi-year, strategic alliance to co-locate the annual Golf Business Conference with the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, beginning in 2020. The Golf Business Conference, hosted by NGCOA for over thirty years, is the industry’s largest meeting specifically for golf course owners and Friday. Vendors of all kinds will have many options to see course owners and operators. The event typically has nearly forty operators. classes and workshops on the most critical areas of “PGA Golf Exhibitions is pleased to work with the NGCOA on this valuable golf course operations, a casual golf outing for Jay Karen opportunity to further collaborate with owners and operators during PGA Show attendees and sponsors to network, and an awards Week,” said PGA Golf Exhibitions Event Vice President Marc Simon. “We look banquet to recognize some of the most significant contributors to the golf forward to the opportunity to welcome even more NGCOA members to connect industry. With PGA Golf Exhibitions’ operational assistance, the conference will face-to-face with leaders from all aspects of the industry to drive forward the be held at the Orange County Convention Center Monday through Wednesday, business of golf and grow the sport.” Jan. 20-22, 2020. Information about the Golf Business Conference and details “The PGA of America is excited that the new proximity of the NGCOA’s Golf of this year’s program can be found at golfbusinessconference.com. Business Conference--beginning with next year’s PGA Merchandise Show--will “We are pleased to bring the Golf Business Conference to Orlando, a popular create special collaboration opportunities for PGA Members to discover, learn destination among golf course operators and vendor partners, during PGA Show and share best practices with golf course owners and operators,” said PGA Week, one of the biggest weeks of the year for the golf industry,” said NGCOA President Suzy Whaley, PGA/LPGA. “For example, the alignment will lead to Chief Executive Officer, Jay Karen, CAE. “NGCOA members will experience enhanced opportunities for PGA Professionals to access career-specific significant value in the new site and location for our event programming and education topics that are important to course owners, as well as opportunities we look forward to working with PGA Golf Exhibitions and the PGA of America to for owners to learn about the programs and initiatives that are important to our enhance the conference.” nearly 29,000 PGA Professionals.” During the Golf Business Conference, the NGCOA will continue to offer a The NGCOA will remain a partner of the Golf Industry Show (GIS) along with variety of sponsorship opportunities for vendors. For vendors exhibiting at the the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) GCBAA, PGA Merchandise Show, the 2020 Golf Business Conference schedule will allow ASGCA, NGF and USGA. NGCOA will continue to host its semi-annual gathering course owners and operators ample time to explore the PGA Show Floor on of the Top Agronomic Officers at the GIS Wednesday before the conference concludes, as well as all day Thursday and
SAVE THE DATE! Upcoming Allied Association Events August 11 – 12 Carolinas CMAA Summer Education, Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC
August 13-15 BB&T Carolinas Open, Greensboro CC Farm Course, Greensboro, NC
October 8-9 North Carolina GCOA Annual Meeting & Awards, Pine Needles Lodge, Southern Pines, NC
October 13-14, 2019 CGA Reunion Pro-Am, Eagle Point Golf Club, Wilmington, NC
November 18-20 Carolinas GCSA Conference and Show, Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach, SC Booth Sales Now Open Chronogolf by Lightspeed: Taking on the Industry
Today we are so excited to tell the world that we are joining the ranks of world-class technology company Lightspeed POS Inc. (TSX:LSPD). With its robust point of sale (POS) platform powering retailers and restaurateurs globally in over 49,000 customer locations worldwide, Lightspeed is a natural partner, and we wholeheartedly believe this This acquisition is about truly aligning with an industry leader to take acquisition will further our objective to provide the best and most our product to the next level. As we more deeply integrate complete software solution in the golf industry. into Lightspeed Retail, Lightspeed Restaurant, Lightspeed To Our Valued Customers: We’re Only Getting Better eCom, Lightspeed Accounting, and Lightspeed Payments, our management solution becomes even more ideally positioned to We cannot thank you enough for the trust you have placed in us over service the community of golf courses worldwide. the years. Our goal has always been to provide the best service and technology in the industry, and that will never change. Moving Demo the Chronogolf product today! forward, we are 100% committed to offering the same outstanding Kurt Albertson customer support, remaining open to your input, and delivering 602-770-8763 [email protected] cutting edge features. Everyone you know from our amazing team is staying on board, and your Chronogolf experience is only going to get better.
Pillsbury and Harbin Join NGCOA Board; Barton Hired as Director of Programs The National Golf Course Owners Association is pleased to announce industry Golf, Golf Academy and leaders David Pillsbury and Cathy Harbin as new members of the NGCOA Board Programming for of Directors, and David Barton as the association’s new Director of Programs. ClubCorp. This “The experience and passion for industry success that David and Cathy bring excellence in golf to NGCOA’s Board of Directors is second to none,” said Jay Karen, NGCOA CEO. leadership led her to be “The association, and in turn, our owner and operator members, will benefit named by Golf Inc. from their vision and leadership. We’re also very fortunate to have hired Dave magazine as one of the Barton, who brings years of golf course management, partner relations and Most Admired Golf military experience to our team.” Course Operators, Golf David Pillsbury is CEO of ClubCorp, the largest owner operator of private golf News magazine as David Pillsbury Cathy Harbin and country clubs in the country, and manager of more than 200 golf and Woman of the Year, and country clubs, business, sports and alumni clubs across the globe. He has held United Athletes Foundation as Athlete of the Year. numerous leadership roles in the golf industry over the past 30 years, including Dave Barton, PGA, will fill the newly-created position of Director of Programs. Co-CEO at American Golf Corporation, General Manager of Nike Golf, President In this role, Dave will direct and execute NGCOA’s strategically-important of PGA TOUR Golf Course Properties Tournament Players Clubs, President of PGA initiatives, including legacy programs, such as Smart Buy and NGCOA’s TOUR Championship Management, and Executive Vice President of PGA TOUR research projects, and new initiatives to be launched later this year. A retired Tournament Business Affairs. U.S. Naval officer, flight instructor, helo pilot, enlisted aircrew, and rescue Cathy Harbin is the owner of Pine Ridge Golf Course and President of swimmer, Dave’s most recent role was with Raspberry Golf Management (RGM) OnCourse Operations. She has held a Class A PGA of America membership since where he served as Pennsylvania Regional Manager. While in Northern Virginia, 1992 and a PGA Master Professional status since 2000, and is also a member he was also a multi-year instructor with the Salute Military Golf Association, a of the LPGA and CMAA. In addition to 20 years of experience in golf course national non-profit providing golf instruction to post 9/11 wounded war operations, she served as Executive Director of Golf 20/20, and lead the veterans. successful launch of Get Golf Ready, and served as Vice President of Public NGCOA Technology Forum Heads Programming Enhancements for PGA Fashion & Demo Experience Technology Forum and new networking events added; PGA Demo Experience at Topgolf moved to Wednesday evening
Reed Exhibitions and the PGA of America announce a new schedule of events and new programming for the PGA Fashion & Demo Experience, Aug. 13-14, 2019, at the Venetian Hotel and Topgolf Las Vegas. Event enhancements include complimentary technology panel sessions presented in partnership with the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) and the PGA of America and new professional networking events at the close of each day, including the popular PGA Demo Experience at Topgolf Las Vegas, now on Wednesday evening, Aug. Vegas, will provide participating industry leaders with an enjoyable, 14. Merchandise sourcing, equipment and technology testing, a live efficient schedule to immediately enrich their careers and business.” fashion show and comprehensive education conference return to build a PGA/LPGA Professionals, golf retailers and industry professionals may multifaceted business gathering. pre-register for the PGA Vegas Fashion & Demo Experience at www. “We are pleased to work with the PGA of America, the NGCOA, Topgolf PGALasVegas.com. and our exhibiting companies to offer these enhancements to drive industry business through additional buyer and exhibitor networking About the PGA Fashion & Demo Experience opportunities and enhanced sourcing and education programs,” said PGA The PGA Fashion & Demo Experience, Aug. 13-14, 2019, in Las Vegas, is Golf Exhibitions Event Vice President Marc Simon. “The compact an annual merchandise sourcing, product testing, industry networking and schedule and event programming, focusing on fashion, technology, professional education event, exclusively for golf industry professionals. innovation and demo experiences, in the tremendous setting of Las Event details and registration are available at PGALasVegas.com.
2019 PGA FASHION & DEMO EXPERIENCE – EVENT SCHEDULE MONDAY, AUG. 12 • WELCOME RECEPTION – VENETIAN HOTEL, 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
TUESDAY, AUG. 13 • SHOW FLOOR EXHIBITS – VENETIAN HOTEL, SHOW FLOOR OPEN 8:30 A.M. – 6 P.M. • EDUCATION CONFERENCE – VENETIAN HOTEL, 7:30 A.M. – 12:15 P.M. • TECHNOLOGY FORUM, PRESENTED BY THE NGCOA – SHOW FLOOR STAGE, 1 P.M. AND 4 P.M. • FASHION SHOW & NETWORKING EVENT – TAO/VENETIAN, 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 14 • SHOW FLOOR EXHIBITS – VENETIAN HOTEL, SHOW FLOOR OPEN 8:30 A.M. – 3 P.M. • EDUCATION CONFERENCE – VENETIAN HOTEL, 7:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. • TECHNOLOGY FORUM, PRESENTED BY THE PGA OF AMERICA – SHOW FLOOR STAGE, 11 A.M. • PGA DEMO EXPERIENCE & CLOSING RECEPTION – TOPGOLF LAS VEGAS, 4 P.M. – 8 P.M.
Golf Club Suppliers in North Carolina – Become a NC GCOA Partner Today! Click here for program information NGF’s 2019 Participation Report by National Golf Foundation On-Course Participation Climbs for First Time in 14 Years as Off-Course Jumps Almost 10% The ways in which people are participation sport. According to the playing golf and engaging with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric game continue to evolve. To reflect Association, 2018 was the third- this, the NGF several years ago wettest year nationally dating back expanded its definition of to 1895. participation, part of an ongoing effort to more accurately measure The Face of Golf golf’s overall consumer When looking at golf’s participant base — both on and off the golf base as a whole, the average golfer course. NGF Members: Click Here to is a 46-year-old male with a Download the 2019 Participation household income of more than Report $100,000 who plays approximately Participation in traditional There were 12 million people who hit golf balls at standalone driving ranges last year. 18 rounds per year. Yet the game is green-grass golf has held steady in becoming increasingly diverse. recent years, finding a new support Women represent almost level of approximately 24 million. In one-quarter of participants, 5.7 2018, the number of people ages million in total. This includes 6-and-up who played at least one almost one million (900,000) girls round of golf on a golf course between the ages of 6 and 17. increased incrementally to 24.2 Females also represent a million. While this rise from 23.8 disproportionally higher percentage million in 2017 falls within the margin of error for the NGF’s of beginners (31%), juniors (36%) national surveys, it is the first and off-course participants (44%) measured increase in 14 years. than they do in the overall golf Off-course participation, population (23%). There were 2.5 meanwhile, increased by almost million junior golfers in the U.S. in 10% in 2018, with an estimated 23 Golfers at Mansion Ridge Golf Club in New York. (Photo courtesy of Troon Golf) 2018, down slightly from the past million people hitting golf balls with two years but remaining in the clubs at golf-entertainment venues like Topgolf and Drive Shack, at stand- recent 2.5 million to 3 million range. More than one-third of today’s juniors alone ranges, and using indoor simulators. Despite the increasing popularity are girls compared to 15% in 2000. of golf entertainment facilities, the majority of off-course participation (12 Additionally, almost one-quarter of juniors are now non-Caucasian while million) still occurs at golf ranges, whether its on-course golfers honing their just 6% were minority participants 20 years ago. Non-Caucasians continue skills or beginners learning the game. to represent between 4 million and 5 million golfers overall, with an When combining those who played on a golf course with the 9.3 million others who played exclusively off-course, golf’s overall participant base has estimated 4.3 million on-course participants in 2018, the same as the climbed to 33.5 million. This is a gain of 1.4 million participants from 2017, prior year. At 18% of all golfers, this is less than the one-third, non- a 4% increase mostly driven by off-course gains. Caucasian makeup of the overall U.S. population. For the traditional game, perhaps the most critical metric is the stable The most significant recent on-course growth can be found in the pool of roughly 20 million dedicated golfers. This group, estimated at 19.5 65-and-over category. An estimated 4.2 million “Baby Boomers” played million Americans in 2018, accounts for 95% of all rounds-played and golf in 2018, up from 3.6 million in 2017. It’s also noteworthy that 15% of spending, and therefore is vital to golf businesses and those who make a beginners in 2018 were over the age of 50, the largest percentage in 10 living in the industry. Dedicated golfers represent 81% of those who play. years and a sign that more Boomers may become committed golfers. The industry continues to see encouraging signs when it comes to As for young adults – one of the most coveted demographics for the newcomers and interest in playing among non-golfers. An estimated 2.6 industry’s future growth – this participant base remains stable at 6.1 million beginners played on a golf course for the first time in 2018, a figure at million. Those in the 18-to-34 age group represent 25% of traditional or near historical highs. There are also 14.7 million non-golfers who say golfers and, even more significantly, 44% of off-course only participants. they’re “very” interested in playing golf. Almost half of this latent demand pool is comprised of former golfers with some experience, but who haven’t Looking ahead, the challenge for golf remains the same as recent years: played on a course within the past year. The rest are people who have never providing more playing opportunities for those who express an interest in played before on a course. the game – potentially through non-traditional formats and offerings – While the total on-course participation count rose slightly, rounds- and successfully converting more beginners into committed participants. played declined 4.8% year-over-year to an estimated 434 million rounds Beginners, Engagement, Junior Golf, Latent Demand, Off-course in 2018. This drop was attributable in part to weather conditions Participation, Participation, Women unfavorable for golf, which is the nation’s top outdoor, pay-to-play PALM HARBOR, FL., June 5, 2019 - lnnisbrook A Salamander Resort hosted “We are extremely honored to work with lnnisbrook and the Salamander over 100 ladies from the surrounding Tampa Bay area in recognition and Resorts team to promote Women’s Golf Day, and to help bring a culturally celebration of Women’s Golf Day, June 4, 2019. Women’s Golf Day is Aboutdiverse group of lnnisbrool·\women to the golf course, for a a 4-hour Salamander golf experience. Golf & Spa Resort celebrated in over 52 countries worldwide, creating an international Golf is more than a game. Through golf we strengthen our community community dedicated to engaging, empowering and supporting women Operatedrelations, create by broader Salamander social network’s Hotels and empower & Resorts women and girls owned by Sheila C. Johnson, lnnisbrool-< is through golf. Created by women and men, this special day is designed for situatedwith confidence on to900 learn wooded new things.” acres of rolling hills in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area on Flori women to enjoy golf and learn the skills that last a lifetime, bringing so da'sAbout Gulf lnnisbrook: Coast aand Salamander is located Golf just & Spa 30 Resortminutes from Tampa International Airport. The resort many benefits to women both personally and professionally. features 72 holes of championship golt spacious guest suites and rooms, four restaurants The resort also proudly partnered with Clemmie C. Perry, the Executive Operated by Salamander Hotels & Resorts and owned by Sheila C. and three bars, the lnnisbrool-< Golf Institute, l l tennis courts, the luxury Salamander Spa Director of the Women of Color Golf organization who were instrumental in Johnson, lnnisbrook is situated on 900 wooded acres of rolling hills in the the promotion of the event. withSt. Petersburg/Clearwater 72 treatment roomsarea on Flori andda’s state-of-the-artGulf Coast and is located Fitness just Center, six heated swimming pool Women’s Golf Day at lnnisbrook was a 4-hour event that began with an complexes,30 minutes from Tampaa nature International preserve, Airport. andThe resort three features conference 72 holes halls with l 00,000 square feet of introduction to golf with the resort’s Director of Instruction, Dawn Mercer, indoorof championship and outdoorgolf, spacious meeting guest suites space. and rooms, lnnisbrool-< four restaurants hosts the annual Valspar Championship and the resort’s team of golf professionals. Participants were given atand its three famed bars, the Copperhead lnnisbrook Golf Institute, Course. 11 tennis courts, the luxury Salamander Spa, six heated swimming pool complexes, a nature preserve, professional instruction in all areas of the game including full swing, For additional information call 727.942.2000 or visit www.innisbrool- Salamander Hotels & Resorts is a privately owned and operated company based in Middleburg, VAJust outside Washington, D.C. Founded by entrepreneur Sheila Johnson in 2005, the company has a luxury portfolio featuring two distinct collections. The Signature Collection includes the stunning Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, a 340-acre equestrian-inspired property near Washington, D.C.; The Henderson, a 170-room grand beach resort in Destin, FL; and Hotel Bennett a l 79-room luxury hotel in Charleston, SC The Golf Collection includes the famed lnnisbrool-< Resort in Tampa Bay, which hosts an annual PGA TOUR stop on its Copperhead Course; and the recently renovated oceanfront Hammocl-< Beach Resort near St. Augustine, FL, home to layouts by Nicl- YouthOnCourse.org | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter More information: 831.625.4653. Youth on Course provides caddie opportunities for kids Alfredsson Claims US Senior Women’s Open Title Pine Needles Plays Host On May 19th, Helen Alfredsson won the U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Pine Needles by two strokes. She shot an even-par 72 at Pine Needles on Sunday to finish at 1-over 285 and earn her first USGA title. The 54-year-old Swede earned $180,000 in prize money for this victory along with a 10-year exemption into the event and an invitation to the 2019 U.S. Women’s Open in Charleston, SC. She began the final round tied with Trish Johnson, who finished third last year at Chicago Golf Club and slipped with consecutive bogeys on Nos. 13 and 14. Alfredsson closed her round with 13 consecutive pars. Johnson and Juli Inkster finished two strokes back. Defending Champion Laura Davies finished tied for ninth. This year’s event was doubly special because of the venue at which it is being held. Pine Needles has become synonymous with women’s golf at the highest level, largely because of the influence of its late owner, Peggy Kirk Bell. Helen Alfredsson A championship-caliber player in her own right who bought the resort with greater significance. Bell was inducted this summer as a member of the her husband Warren in 1954, Bell’s efforts were instrumental in bringing World Golf Hall of Fame’s Class of 2019. three U.S. Women’s Opens to the Donald Ross-designed course with a fourth “Most of these players are the ones that played here in the Opens when scheduled to return in 2022. Mrs. Bell was still alive, so for them it’s a chance to come back and honor Although she died in 2016 at the age of 95, her presence still looms large her memory,” said Donna Andrews, who in addition to being a former throughout the lush resort. touring pro with six LPGA wins to her credit, is also on staff at Pine “You can still picture her watching over everything,” said Liselotte Neumann, Needles as its lead golf instructor. “You’ll hear a lot of players talking the 1989 Women’s Open winner. “She is the reason we are all here.” about her and all that she’s done for women’s golf.” This week’s event was already going to be an unofficial tribute to Bell’s contributions to the game. But because of the timing, it has taken on even McConnell Golf Courses Gain N.C.Honors In 2019, as they do year in and Another Ross design, The Country Club of Asheville, enjoyed one of the year out, McConnell Golf courses state rankings’ biggest jumps of the year — 11 spots, up to No. 48 — dominated North Carolina’s state following a recent McConnell Golf renovation spearheaded by Ross-specialist rankings. Richard Mandell of Pinehurst. Raleigh-based McConnell Golf In Raleigh, the Hale Irwin-designed Country Club at Wakefield Plantation, owns golf courses designed by annual home of the Web.com Tour’s Rex Hospital Open, stood at No. 77 in the the industry’s greatest legends, state — truly demonstrating how strong the golf is in North Carolina. including Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Finally, McConnell Golf’s Brook Valley Country Club in Greenville entered Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman and the state rankings this year at No. 96. others. Members of the Panel also voted on the top dozen courses in six regions of In North Carolina’s prestigious the state and ranked the top five courses per region in three specialty Top 100 for 2019, McConnell Golf’s Old North State Club in New London, N.C., categories. Brook Valley was also voted as the No. 5 “Most Fun Course to designed by Fazio, is ranked No. 7 in the Tar Heel State and No. 1 in the Play” in the state’s eastern region. Piedmont Triad. Meanwhile, Sedgefield Country Club’s Ross Course in In the specialty category “Best Practice Facilities,” Raleigh Country Club Greensboro, home of the PGA Tour’s Wyndham Championship, jumped to No. ranked No. 1 in the Triangle, while Old North State Club was No. 3 in the 11 in the state and No. 2 in the Triad. Piedmont Triad. McConnell Golf’s Ross-designed Raleigh Country Club held fast at No. 20 The North Carolina Golf Panel is comprised of golf media including some in the state (No. 2 in the Triangle), while the Fazio-designed gem at Treyburn of the top daily newspapers in the state, as well as golf club professionals, Country Club in Durham moved up three spots to No. 31 among North noted amateurs, college golf coaches and business leaders. Carolina’s finest. McConnell’s popular The Cardinal by Pete Dye in Greensboro checked in at No. 54 in the state. NC Golf Panel’s TOP 25 North Carolina Courses (click for full list) Rep. Jon Hardister Files Legislation to Create NC Golf Council Late in March, Rep. Jon Hardister (R- Guilford, “I was thrilled to see this legislation,” said Mike Barber, President of the Majority Whip) introduced HB 418 - Create NC First Tee of the Triad. “Hats off to Rep. Hardister and the other legislators Golf Council. Reps. Jamie Boles (R-Moore), Holly who have invested in a key portion of the economy in North Carolina. I believe Grange (R-New Hanover) and Howard Hunter North Carolina can be and is the golf capital of the world. This is a huge (D-Hertford) joined Hardister as primary sponsors economic generator for our State.” of the bill. “The formation of the Golf Council is a great idea,” said Mark Brazil, This legislation aims to create a council that Tournament Director of the Wyndham Championship. “As it relates to what is charged with the promotion and cultivation of golf can do for economic development and tourism, we are easily one of the the game of golf in North Carolina. It will focus top-five states in the country. I look forward to working with the Golf Council on fostering the economic development, tourism, and everyone in the sport to see how we can help one another and elevate Rep. Jon Hardister recreation and community involvement that the the landscape of golf in our great state. A special thanks to Rep. Hardister sport can bring. The legislation also aims to for his vision and good work in developing the Golf Council.” promote the values that are instilled through golf, such as patience, “As allied leaders in the $4 billion golf industry, which provides 70,000 etiquette, integrity and respect. jobs for North Carolinians, we enthusiastically support the formation of an The council would be comprised of two members appointed by the House; official Golf Council. We welcome the opportunity to work with the Council to two appointed by the Senate; and three, including the chairman, appointed promote and expand the economic, environmental and social contributions by the governor. Members of the commission must have a reasonable golf has made for over a century,” said Tim Kreger, Executive Director of understanding of the game of golf. The council would be situated in the N.C. Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association. Department of Commerce. Here is a link to the bill: Studies have estimated that the annual impact on North Carolina’s https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2019/hb418 economy is approximately $4 billion. “Golf creates thousands of jobs and generates billions of dollars in Contact: revenue,” Hardister said. “This council would show our commitment to the Rep. Jon Hardister game of golf as a major part of our State’s economy. It would also help to [email protected] enhance the social, educational and cultural impact that the game has in North Carolina.” Old Chatham Golf Club to Host 2019 US Senior Amateur AUGUST 24-29, 2019 Old Chatham Golf Club in Durham hosts the 2019 U.S. Senior Amateur on August 24-29. “It has been part of our mission to support amateur golf since our founding in 2001, and on behalf of our membership, we are excited to welcome these distinguished competitors,” club president Allen Wilson said in a statement released by the USGA on Monday. The club, cut out of 400 acres of protected pine woodlands on the northeast shore of Jordan Lake, was founded 16 years ago by a group of North Carolina businessmen including former USGA president Jim Hyler and former University of North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith. The club has previously hosted several USGA amateur qualifiers and the 2009 N.C. Amateur. Course designer Old Chatham Golf Club is a 7,234 yard, 18-hole championship course set in 400 acres of protected Rees Jones completed a course renovation project in woodlands in a section of the Triangle’s rolling hills northeast of Jordan Lake. 2012 that replaced 45,000 acres of expensive, NEWS AND OBSERVER FILE PHOTO RALEIGH water-intensive turfgrass with native fescue. Golfer Registration Now Open for 2019 World’s Largest Golf Outing Ninth Annual Nationwide Public Event to Benefit Military Charities World’s Largest Golf Outing (WLGO) – the single largest charity golf Need a place to play? Golf course registration is also open nationwide to tournament to be held on Monday, August 5 – is now open for golfers to any public or private facility. There is no sign-up fee to participate in the register. WLGO. Golf courses can host an event or sign up a team to play at any The World’s Largest Golf Outing has officially opened golfer registration to participating locations. individual and team players. WLGO is an annual national golf fundraiser Donations can be made at https://www.worldslargestgolfouting.com/ conceived by Peter Hill, Billy Casper Golf’s chief executive officer. Since the donate or by calling 703.940.3600. Come together to make a difference! WLGO’s inception in 2011, more than 62,000 men, women, juniors and seniors have played in 34 states to raise $4.1 million for military charities. About Billy Casper Golf Fisher House Foundation is this year’s selected charity for the fourth One of the largest privately-owned golf course management companies in consecutive year. For over 25 years, Fisher House has provided a “home away the U.S., Billy Casper Golf owns and operates over 150 properties in 29 from home” for families of patients receiving medical care at major military states. Headquartered in Reston, Va. with regional offices across America, and VA medical centers. The 82 Fisher Houses across the United States, BCG has 30 years of results-driven expertise. The company specializes in United Kingdom and Germany offer free, temporary lodging to military and full-service course management as well as assistance in specific segments veterans’ families during medical crises and the healing process. of the golf business, including course and property maintenance, staffing “Billy Casper Golf’s continuous support for Fisher House while and training, career growth, clubhouse operations, food and beverage, simultaneously growing the game of golf is truly inspiring,” says Dave Coker, merchandising, golf instruction, marketing and public relations, special president of Fisher House Foundation. “We could not be more excited for events and financial management. another fantastic year with the WLGO and we appreciate every golfer who BCG continues to evolve the golf experience through customized solutions signs up to be a part of this worthy cause.” and innovative programs like the annual World’s Largest Golf Outing, a Golfer registration is now open nationwide at participating public and national golf fundraiser conceived by BCG Chairman and CEO, Peter Hill. private facilities. Donations are included in the registration fees. No USGA More information: www.billycaspergolf.com, 703.761.1444 handicap is needed and players can sign up to play as a single, twosome or foursome. In each Golf Business Podcast episode, NGCOA will bring you, from the John Deere Studio, three segments of original, curated, informative content to help your golf course business thrive and grow: • Inside Golf Business — leading golf course owners, operators and industry experts will discuss the latest issues facing the industry; • Owner to Owner — top owners will discuss what’s on everyone’s radar; and • House Chat — NGCOA CEO Jay Karen, the staff and other industry experts share current news from within the association. This podcast is supported by Yamaha Golf Cars, the Official Golf Car Partner of NGCOA. Click here to access the Podcast library SAVE THE DATE! October 8-9, 2019 North Carolina GCOA Annual Meeting Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club Join owners and professionals at Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club for a two day event of education, networking and golf. The event is open to all North Carolina owners, operators (whether or not NGCOA members at present) and their guests and/or CMAA members, Carolinas PGA professionals, 1005 Midland Rd CGCSA members, club reps, and vendors. Southern Pines, NC 28387 GOLF VIP RECEPTION EDUCATION AWARDS Pinehurst Resort Hosts 2019 US Amateur in August Championship Match to be Contested on Two Courses History will be made this summer when Pinehurst Resort & Country Club hosts the 36-hole match-play final of the 119th U.S. Amateur Championship on two courses. When the 2019 championship begins on Monday, Aug. 12, Pinehurst’s Course No. 2 and Course No. 4 will host the stroke-play rounds, which will be played over two days and 36 holes to trim the field from 312 players to 64 for match play. The first five rounds of match play – through the semifinals – will be played on Course No. 2 on Aug. 14-17. The championship match, scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 18, will open with the morning round on No. 4, which was recently redesigned by Gil Hanse. The afternoon round will be played on Course No. 2, a classic Donald Ross design that was restored by Bill Course No. 4 (Hole 6 pictured) will be the site of the morning 18 holes of the 2019 U.S. Amateur Coore and Ben Crenshaw in 2011. It will be the first championship match. (Courtesy of Pinehurst Resort) time the 36-hole U.S. Amateur Championship final is contested over two courses. It will also mark the second groundbreaking collaboration between the No. 2 most recently hosted the championship in 2008, when Danny Lee of USGA and Pinehurst in five years. In 2014, Pinehurst hosted the U.S. Open New Zealand earned the title with a 5-and-4 victory over Drew Kittleson. (won by Martin Kaymer) and U.S. Women’s Open (won by Michelle Wie) in Many of the game’s greatest players have claimed the Havemeyer Trophy consecutive weeks on Course No. 2 – the only time the same course hosted in the 118-year history of the championship, including Bob Jones, Arnold those two championships in back-to-back weeks. The 2019 U.S. Amateur Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. will be the 10th USGA championship contested at the resort. “The U.S. Amateur embodies the spirit and sportsmanship of the “We are thrilled that competitors will have the opportunity to play the game, and we’re honored to host this prestigious championship for the 2019 U.S. Amateur on No. 2, one of the most revered tests in the game, and third time,” says Tom Pashley, president of Pinehurst Resort, which will No. 4, which will present players with a new set of challenges,” says John also host its fourth U.S. Open in 2024. “These two courses complement Bodenhamer, USGA senior managing director, Championships. “Pinehurst each other aesthetically and strategically, and it will be fun to see how is one of the world’s leading championship venues and we are very excited the players react and approach both courses on the day they vie for a to watch the entire event unfold over these two wonderful courses.” national championship.” Pinehurst No. 2 first hosted the U.S. Amateur in 1962, when Labron Tickets are available at the USGA website. Harris claimed the trophy over Downing Gray, 1 up. The resort’s Course Congratulations to Hyler, Farren and Cobb 2019 Carolinas Hall of Famers In April, many of the great names of golf gathered at Pinehurst Resort to celebrate this year’s inductees into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame. This crop of leaders includes renowned course architect George Cobb, Sr., Pinehurst Director of Golf Course Maintenance Bob Farren, and a former USGA President and Masters Competition Chairman Jim Hyler. Click on the links for detailed bio’s: Jim Hyler Bob Farren George Cobb, Sr. L-R: Jim Hyler, Bob Farren, George Cobb, Sr. IN THE ROUGH,IN THE ROUGH, IT’S NOT IT’S NOT HOW WIDEHOW YOU WIDE YOU CAN MOW.CAN MOW. IT’S HOW WELLIT’S HOW WELL YOU CAN YOU CAN MOW WIDE.MOW WIDE. With the new John Deere 9009A TerrainCutWith™ theRough new Mower John Deere, you can 9009A now TerrainCut mow more™ Roughrough Mowerin less time, you can now mow more rough in less time without sacrifi cing cut quality. 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