NGF COVID-19 Update: Golfer Anxiety About Return to Retail Lessens as Stores Reopen

As the percentage of golf retail stores open to foot traffic continues to increase, a growing number of golfers indicate their concern for visiting physical store locations is subsiding, according to the National Golf Foundation’s latest industry-wide surveys. 

 

Approximately 80% of off-course golf retail stores are open to customers, up from 61% two weeks ago. All but 4% of the 6.5 million square feet of total off-course golf specialty space had been closed to in-store traffic in early April, even as more than 40% of courses remained open for play. 

Tour Edge Announced Limited Edition “Straight From the Tour Van” Exotics EXS Pro Forged Irons, EXS Blade Irons/Blade Wedges

Tour Edge officially introduces the Exotics EXS Pro Forged Irons, EXS Blade Irons and EXS Blade Wedges featuring forged designs with CNC milling. 

 

The tour-inspired irons feature the very latest in golf club design innovation for the highest levels of ultra-premium performance from the company that has earned 22 victories and over 150 different players using their equipment on the PGA Tours. 

Volvik Offers ViMAX Soft Special

Volvik USA (volvik.com), a rapidly-growing, premium high-performance golf ball company, is offering a special on its ViMAX Soft golf balls. Now through July 6, a bundle of two dozen balls can be purchased for $35. High-visibility matte color options include green, red, orange and yellow. 

 

“This is a good opportunity for golfers to try the Volvik ViMAX Soft golf ball, which provides superior distance along with soft feel,” said Wes Whittingham, vice president of sales for Volvik USA. “Players will notice improved focus with the super-visibility matte colors that enhance concentration.” 

Bag Boy Unveils Patriotic Limited Edition USA Bags

Bag Boy is excited to announce they have released two new USA Limited Edition bags. The cart bag and the hybrid bag both have an allover patriotic print and feature Top-Lok technology. 

 

“USA-themed golf products always go over very well with our customers,” said Perry Hilbert, Sales Manager at Bag Boy. “These bags are perfect for the upcoming July 4th holiday.” 

USGA Welcomes Class of 2020 P.J. Boatwright Interns

The USGA continues its commitment to cultivating future leaders in the golf industry by funding more than 125 paid internships in 2020 through the P.J. Boatwright Internship Program. 

 

Since the program’s inception in 1991, the USGA has invested nearly $30 million to provide college students and other qualified applicants with hands-on experience as staff members at the USGA’s network of Allied Golf Associations (AGAs). The value of the internship funding in 2020 totals $1.7 million. 

2020 John Deere Classic Canceled Due To Area Restrictions and Related Concerns

Citing ongoing local and state-related challenges related to gathering restrictions, the John Deere Classic, title sponsor John Deere and the PGA TOUR announced today that the 2020 tournament, scheduled for July 9-12, has been canceled. It is set to return to the PGA TOUR schedule in 2021 with its 50th playing. 

 

As a result of this decision, the PGA TOUR announced that it will fill the week vacated by the John Deere Classic with a new tournament. The TOUR will provide details in the near future on the venue and location. 

PGA TOUR 2K21 Tees Off Worldwide on August 21

2K crushed a long drive this week with the announcement that PGA TOUR® 2K21, its forthcoming, officially licensed golf simulation video game, is currently scheduled for worldwide release on Friday, August 21, 2020 for the PlayStation®4 system, the Xbox One family of devices, including the Xbox One X and Windows PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch™ system*and Stadia. 

 

Featuring decorated PGA TOUR pro Justin Thomas as the cover athlete, PGA TOUR 2K21 heralds the return of the great golf video game that fans have been missing. Developed by HB Studios, the studio behind The Golf Club 2019 Featuring PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR 2K21 marks the evolution of The Golf Club franchise and will include 15 licensed PGA TOUR courses, each of which was scanned using cutting-edge technology to bring the fairways, greens, bunkers, trees, lakes and ponds to life. Players can also trick out their own greens and fairways with thousands of custom options in the Course Designer. Fans can reserve their tee time now by pre-ordering PGA TOUR 2K21 at participating retailers. 

NGF COVID-19 Update: Golf Retail Store Openings Jump to 75-Percent

The percentage of off-course golf specialty stores open to foot traffic jumped from 61% to 75% last week in the National Golf Foundation’s latest industry-wide surveys. On-course pro shops are following close behind with 63% now open, up from 52% the prior week. 

 

Even with some occupancy limitations not unlike restaurants, this reopening for business comes just in time for an important equipment buying period – mid-May to mid-June. NGF’s ongoing customer research shows personal financial outlooks are inching optimistically upward, while golf equipment-related searches on Google have begun to resemble “normal” for this time of year. 

Club Champion Reopening Nationwide In Phases With Promotion

Custom club fitter and builder Club Champion is in the midst of a phased store reopening program as retailers are being allowed to resume operations. To ensure golfers are ready for the season, the company is offering a free, Tour-level custom club fitting with an equipment purchase of $500 or more for a limited time only. 

 

Like other retailers, Club Champion experienced significant closures as state and local mandates required residents to stay home during the COVID-19 pandemic. At one time in April, all but five stores were closed, including their Chicagoland operations facility. Though able to continue assembling custom clubs from remote locations, Club Champion’s fitting services were limited by stay-at-home mandates and inventory restrictions due to manufacturer closures. Now, the company is hoping as many as 55 of their 74 locations will be open by Memorial Day. Locations remaining closed will reopen per local retail guidelines; however, booking future appointments is encouraged. 

NGF COVID-19 Update: Golf Course Openings Top 90-Percent as Retail Continues Comeback

The National Golf Foundation’s seventh week of nationwide surveys found that 91% of U.S. golf courses were open last week amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, with all 50 states now allowing golf to be played. 

 

Since the last week of April, a dozen states have lifted statewide bans on golf while others – most notably California and Florida – have eased significant local restrictions. There are still some local government orders keeping golf closed in metro areas like New York City, Washington D.C. and Chicago, but the latest projection from NGF researchers indicate 95% of courses will be open for at least some level of play by next week. In early April, only 44% of courses were open and as many as 19 states had noteworthy limitations on golf operations last month. 

Travis Mathew Launches New Omni Channel Customer Experience - Cuater Golf Belt Giveaway

You may have noticed the Travis Mathew website was down for a few days.  Well that's because they were working on the launch of an all-new, omni-channel shopping experience.  And the resulting multi-brand website is just loaded with new features, content, and incredible perks. 

 

And to celebrate the exciting improvements, I'm giving away two Cuater by Travis Mathew golf belts.  The VooDoo (Black) and The Central (Grey), are both stretch, rope weaves for a flexible fit.  We'll get to how you can enter to win these below, but first let's hit on some of the great benefits and more connected shopping experience you'll have at Travis Mathew, both on-line and in store. 

Ready to Roll with Club Champion Giveaway: Putter Fitting, Full Bag Fitting, and Custom Putter of Your Choice

All 50 states have re-opened golf courses this week, and that's cause to rejoice as responsible golfers around the world are again ready to roll. 

 

And to help you start your season the right way, I'm hooking up three people with free fittings at Club Champion.  Two winners will receive a Full Putter Fitting.  And one Grand Prize Winner will receive a Complete Bag Fitting (driver, woods, irons, wedges, and putter), and also choose Any Custom Putter you want. 

Bridgestone Golf Releases Limited Edition e12 Soft Patriot Pack Golf Balls to Celebrate 15 Year Relationship with Tee it Up for the Troops

Bridgestone Golf, the #1 Ball-Fitter in Golf, unveiled today its new Limited Edition e12 SOFT Patriot Pack supporting Tee It Up for the Troops.  The Patriot Pack features a dozen of the award-winning e12 SOFT white golf balls and a bonus sleeve of the popular e12 SOFT Matte Red, all housed in a red, white and blue themed package that any American patriot would be proud to display.  A portion of proceeds from sales will benefit Tee It Up for the Troops. 

 

Tee It Up for the Troops is a national non-profit organization that has donated greater than $11 million to programs that deliver critical services to help veterans from all eras heal and transition from the battlefront to the home front.  Through its REUNION Outreach Program and other partnering veteran service organizations, Tee It Up for the Troops provides support for six critical areas of need for veterans and their families: Golf and Sports Rehabilitation, Suicide Prevention, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries, Employment, Housing/Homelessness, and Family/Caregiver Support. Hosting more than 50 charity events held in over 40 states annually, Tee It Up for the Troops considers it a privilege to honor, remember, respect, and support all those who serve(d) in the United States Armed Forces. 

Mamma Mia: Duca del Cosma Offering Special Mother's Day Deals

Italians adore their mothers. Which is why Italian golf fashion brand Duca del Cosma, a recent arrival in the U.S. golf market, is offering a generous 20% discount on any purchases from its SS20 line of shoes for women golfers to coincide with Mother’s Day this weekend. 

 

The attractive offer on the distinctive premium leather shoes is valid until Sunday, 10 May and  activated with a special code: MOM20. 

NGF COVID-19 Update: Golf Courses Now 79% Open and Retail Is Following

The National Golf Foundation’s sixth week of nationwide surveys found that 79% of U.S. golf courses were open for play last week amid the coronavirus pandemic, a significant jump from 58% the previous week. 

 

The biggest change was in the Mid-Atlantic U.S census region, where Pennsylvania and New Jersey – which have more than 1,000 courses between them – both permitted play to resume. In total, seven states allowed golf courses to reopen on May 1 and 2, while an increasing number of California counties continued to lift restrictions on golf and additional courses opened over the past week in states such as New York, Florida, Wisconsin and Michigan. 

Ben Hogan Golf Introduces Two New Long Iron Alternatives

Ben Hogan Golf Equipment Company has introduced two long iron alternative products, the UiHi Utility Irons and the VKTR+ Hybrids, designed for serious golfers who may not be comfortable hitting lower-lofted irons.  Both products, which are offered in 18, 22 and 26 degree lofts to replace traditional 3/4/5 irons, join the new ICON blades and the Award-Winning PTx PRO irons in creating a highly anticipated Player’s Combo Set offering that has been long demanded by Ben Hogan Golf customers. 

 

The UiHi utility club was engineered to be incredibly easy-to-hit with the same kind of controlled swing golfers would take with shorter irons. The UiHi’s hollow head dimensions are larger to instill confidence and make the club appear to be more highly-lofted. UiHi’s two-piece forged construction features a deep cavity and a low-and-rearward center of gravity that helps get shots airborne quickly, while it is extremely forgiving. 

Club Champion Opens Four New Stores

Custom club fitter Club Champion announces the opening of four new fitting studios, located in Greenville, SC; Providence, RI; Westminster, CO; and Winston-Salem, NC. The Providence store is the first Club Champion studio in Rhode Island. 

 

Club Champion fits, sells and builds custom golf clubs using brands like Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist, Cobra, Fujikura, Golf Pride and many more. The company delivers a Tour-quality fitting that produces longer, more accurate shots with a nearly 100% satisfaction rate for golfers of any ability level. 

PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package (Wave 5): All Together Now with Golf Pride Grips

You've heard it a lot over the last few months of the pandemic.  We're all in this together.  Taking care of ourselves, giving comfort to others.  Pretty much taking care of the things we can control.  And in this fast-evolving situation with many moving parts, we're doing a pretty good job of it all. 

 

Comfort and control is equally essential with your golf grips.  And your hands working together are what synchronize the various moving parts of your golf swing.  So that's why Wave 5 of my PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package will include two full sets of new grips from Golf Pride. 

Puma Celebrated National Tie-Dye Day with New Pieces Inspired by Iconic Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco

Today, on National Tie Dye Day, PUMA Golf is celebrating the nostalgia of Tie Dye with a new, colorful collection featuring products inspired by the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood in San Francisco, the heart of free-spirited bohemian culture since the 1960s and the unofficial birthplace of tie dye. 

 

The Love/Haight Collection features unique, hand-tie-dyed polos and sweaters, along with shoes and caps that feature on-trend tie dye patterns and colorways. 

NGF COVID-19 Update: 2,500+ Courses Reopen for Play in One Week

The National Golf Foundation’s fifth week of nationwide surveys found that approximately 58% of U.S. golf courses were open for play last week amid the coronavirus pandemic. As state and county restrictions continue to be relaxed, this number could rise to 75% or higher by mid-May. 

 

The changes last week were driven by two regions. The Mid-Atlantic U.S census region, which includes New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania and their combined 1,900 golf courses, went from having less than 1-in-20 courses open for play to almost 1-in-4 as more of New York’s 850+ courses continue to reopen. And the Great Lakes states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois also approved golf courses to reopen with enhanced safety practices in place, including walking-only play. 

Galvin Green Strengthens its Green Credentials

Leading golf apparel brand Galvin Green has intensified its drive to supply the most sustainable products in the sector with the introduction of a new line of long-lasting INSULA™ warm layer garments made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. 

 

The latest version of the stylish and comfortable DWIGHT sweater is made 100% from Recycled Polyester derived from plastic bottles. The durable, stretchy half-zip garment delivers outstanding thermal insulation, as well as breathability and easy care across six color choices (S-3XL). Other INSULA™ garments made from the same recycled material are the men’s DAMIE full-zip and DRAKE half-zip sweaters, plus the women’s DAVINA full-zip jacket and DIANE hoodie. 

PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package (Wave 4): You Decide with Duca del Cosma

Hopefully we're getting close to quarantines and stay-at-home orders lifting or at least being softened.  But it's been tough having our freedoms and choices curtailed for sure.  So let's see if we can do something about that. 

 

You all were really excited about Wave 3 of my PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package.  So we're going to keep with Duca del Cosma for this Fourth Wave.  And for this one you can choose any pair of new Duca golf shoes from their new 2020 Spring/Summer Collection.  Yup. Any. Pair. You. Want. 

The Bryson DeChambeau Story (SIK Golf)

It's no coincidence Byrson DeChambeau has used a SIK Golf putter in every one of his five PGA Tour victories, and this upstart putter company has gathered double digit professional wins on Tour since coming into existence. 

 

SIK Golf uses Descending Loft Technology (DLT) to achieve a truer, faster roll than would be possible without, and DeChambeau recently got together with SIK to talk about this tech, why it works for him, and why he believes it will work for everyone. 

The Sea Pines Resort Supporting Community and Employees

The Sea Pines Resort has created a special package to raise funds for resort employees whose jobs were impacted by the coronavirus outbreak and for the Heritage Classic Foundation. 

 

The Heritage Classic Foundation relies on ticket sales from the RBC Heritage tournament to fund most of its giving programs. In normal years, the event annually raises $3 million dollars, which is distributed to charities throughout the Lowcountry as well as to the Foundation. 

Club Champion Celebrates Tenth Anniversary

One decade down, many to go!  Club Champion officially turns 10 years old in April of 2020. The nation's No. 1 club fitter and builder entered its tenth year in business riding the high of clocking over 100,000 appointments the year prior, among many other achievements. 

 

In the last four years alone, the innovative custom club fitter has grown from a regional three-studio fitting business to a trusted club fitting expert with over 70 locations nationwide. The Tour-level experience offered at Club Champion includes over 45,000 hittable head and shaft combinations, the industry.s most highly trained fitters and builders, and cutting edge technology throughout both the fitting and building processes. 

National Golf Foundation Special COVID-19 Impact Update

The National Golf Foundation’s latest nationwide poll of golf facilities indicates that approximately 44-percent of courses are still allowing play amid the coronavirus pandemic, with significant regional differences. 

 

The nationally-representative survey encompassing all types of U.S. facilities, daily fee public, private, municipal, resort and residential communities, indicates courses that have suspended golf operations tend to be concentrated in urban areas, not unlike the virus itself.  The golf course tracker is the centerpiece of a special NGF COVID-19 webpage that provides information and key data points on the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the golf business. 

PUMA Golf Celebrated Spring with New Experience Collection

PUMA Golf has introduced its Experience Collection, taking inspiration from the flora that surrounds the most talked about three-hole stretch in all of golf.  

 

The head-to-toe collection is instantly recognizable as a homage to what has traditionally been golf’s first major, its host course and an annual rite of spring, yet fashionable enough to wear year-round. 

Volvik Introduces Marvel Avenger Assorted Character 5-Ball Pack

Volvik, known the world over for the outstanding performance characteristics and vibrant color options of its golf balls, has introduced a Marvel Avenger Assorted Character 5-Ball Pack, part of its partnership with Marvel Worldwide.  The new pack features Thor, Black Panther, Captain America, Ironman and The Hulk. 

 

"We found that the Volvik 4-Ball Sets featuring Marvel characters were highly popular, so we are pleased to offer the new Marvel Avenger Assorted Character 5-Ball Pack for golfers of all ages," said Don Shin, president of Volvik USA.  "Volvik plays a vital role in growing the game by offering high-quality, attractive golf balls for players of every skill level, and the new 5-Ball Assorted Pack is part of that initiative." 

Miura Golf Donating 20-Percent of Golf Bag Sales in April to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

With golfers across the country pitching in to support their local communities, Miura Golf announced today that, during the month of April, the company will donate 20-percent of every Miura signature branded Vessel golf bag sold to Nicklaus Children's Hospital, the world-renowned pediatric medical institution based in Miami, Florida. 

 

Social distancing measures on the golf course have led to a rise in demand for the limited-supply Vessel bags, which are primarily designed for carrying.  The iconic Miura signature branded Vessel bags are available in three styles, the classic Stand Bag made from premium materials for durability, a "Lite" version of the Stand Bag for the avid course-walker, and handcrafted Tour Bags.  The bags come in black or white, and all sport the Miura insignia. 

True Spec Donating 20-Percent of Stand Bag Sales in April to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

With golfers across the country pitching in to support their local communities, True Spec Golf has announced that, during the month of April, the company will donate 20-percent of every signature branded stand golf bag sold to Nicklaus Children's Hospital, the world-renowned pediatric medical institution based in Miami, Florida. 

 

Social distancing measures on the golf course have led to a rise in demand for the limited-supply stand bags, which are primarily designed for carrying.  The worldwide leader in custom club fitting has collaborated with the game’s top manufacturers to produce premium, versatile stand bags branded with the True Spec logo. 

Streamsong Red Added to 2020 Greens Enhancement Project

Streamsong Resort plans to add Streamsong Red to the regrassing project beginning this month.  The course will join Streamsong Blue in receiving a revolutionary new Ultradwarf Bermudagrass known as Mach 1.  Both courses plan to debut their new greens in October of this year. 

 

The regrassing project was initially slated to occur in phases, with Streamsong Blue beginning in April and grow-in extending through September, followed by Streamsong Red in 2021.  Given the uncertainties and restrictions associated with COVID-19, the Streamsong management team has decided to use this time as effectively as possible and complete both regrassing projects at once ensuring all three nationally-ranked courses are available for play beginning fall 2020. 

PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package (Wave 3): Two Feet Apart with Duca del Cosma

We all know about social distancing now.  Staying six feet apart from other people lessens your chance of getting sick during this outbreak. 

 

But on the golf course it's those two feet apart that can have a big effect on your game's health.  And the new Duca del Cosma Eldorado and Masters golf shoes are two of the best this year for comfort, traction, and truly unique style. 

The Masters Return of the Roar Giveaway: Tiger Woods Signed 2019 Masters Flag and One Dozen Bridgestone TIGER Edition Tour B XS Golf Balls

Tiger Woods improbable and epic 15th major championship title last year at Augusta National was the greatest Masters Tournament in history. 

 

And to celebrate the "Return of the Roar," I'm giving away a Signed Tiger Woods 2019 Masters pin flag, and one dozen Bridgestone Golf "Tiger Edition" Tour B XS golf balls. 

PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package (Wave 2): Stay Safe with Tour Edge EXS 220

Staying safe during this pandemic is the most important thing we can all do, for ourselves and others.  Washing our hands frequently, not touching our faces, and practicing social distancing has become a new way of life. 

 

I'll continue doing my part for all of you with my PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Packages, and this week we have a second wave that will help you stay safe in another way.  I'm calling it Stay Safe with Tour Edge EXS 220. 

Club Champion Introduces Gift Card Promotion

 In an effort to bolster excitement and hope for the 2020 golf season, the nation's #1 club fitter and builder has introduced a new gift card promotion. The promotion offers a $50 bonus card to anyone who purchases $100 - $500 in Club Champion gift cards. 

 

Purchases over $500 will be entitled to a bonus card in the amount of 10-percent of their gift card purchase (i.e. a $1,000 gift card would earn a $100 bonus card). This is a limited-time offer and the bonus card expires June 30, 2021. 

Duca Del Cosma Golf Shoes Launch into U.S. Market

I've been singing the praises of Duca del Cosma golf shoes for a few years now.  And at the PGA Show last December I told you Duca is coming to the U.S. market. 

 

And now it's official.  The golf fashion brand launches with a vibrant new range of shoes for men and women golfers, supported by an experienced team led by former Reebok and Ashworth regional sales manager Steve Gray. 

Sun Mountain Expands Waterproof Golf Bag Collection

In 2007, after playing one too many tournaments in the rain, the innovators at Sun Mountain applied their rainwear expertise to building a waterproof golf bag.  For 2020, that H2NO collection of waterproof golf bags includes a cart bag and two carry bags, each constructed with waterproof fabric, taped seams, and waterproof zippers. 

 

Sun Mountain's waterproof golf carry bag options include the H2NO Lite 14-way and the H2NO Superlight.  H2NO Lite 14-way offers a 10.5" diameter top with 14 individual club dividers, the E-Z Lite Dual Strap System shoulder straps and six pockets including a hydration sleeve, velour-lined valuables pocket, and full-length clothing pocket. 

Ben Hogan Golf Equipment Company introduces ICON Irons: Traditional Forged Muscle Back Blades

Nearly seven decades after Ben Hogan, the man renowned for the greatest swing in golf, founded his equipment brand, Ben Hogan Golf Equipment Company has launched the ICON Irons, a set of forged muscle back blades featuring many of Mr. Hogan's design philosophies. 

 

Developed for better players accomplished at working the ball, the ICON Irons combine traditional styling with modern performance.  Better yet, given the company's innovative Direct-To-Consumer business model which minimizes operational costs and completely eliminates retail mark-up, ICON irons will be sold at www.BenHoganGolf.com and www.BenHoganGolf.eu for  $770 (chrome) and $800 (black) for a 7-piece set. 

Adidas Offers a Glimpse into the Future for More Sustainable Golf Apparel and Footwear

The next stop showcasing adidas' journey to END PLASTIC WASTE is the golf course.  And Adidas athletes who competed in THE PLAYERS Championship earlier this month wore select apparel and footwear made from upcycled plastic waste, a first in the sport. 

 

This environment-friendly capsule of apparel and footwear for both men and women is made from Adidas' new PRIMEBLUE material made in part with Parley Ocean Plastic. Upcycled plastic waste is intercepted on remote islands, beaches, coastal communities and shorelines, preventing it from polluting our ocean, and then then turned into high-performance polyester yarn used in apparel and footwear. 

Bridgestone Unveils New 2020 Tiger Woods Edition Golf Balls

On the heels of the most-talked about golf ball launch at the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show, Bridgestone Golf, the #1 Ball-Fitter in Golf, has unveiled its highly anticipated new version of the popular TOUR B XS - Tiger Woods edition balls.  

 

The new TOUR B XS-TW balls, a strong collaboration between Tiger and Bridgestone, deliver a game-changing combination of driver distance and greenside control unlike anything ever before, thanks to Bridgestone's new REACTIV Urethane cover.  From a performance perspective, the TOUR B XS-TW edition balls are identical to the standard TOUR B XS model that Woods currently is using in all professional competitions. 

PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package: Bridgestone Golf New Tour B Balls for Everyone

These are trying times we're all facing now.  We're staying at home more than usual, taking precautions to ensure we all remain healthy, and really hoping for the best while everything plays out. 

 

Eventually we'll get back to our regular routines, and that means getting on the course again frequently.  So to help you guys get through this all, and hit the ground running when it's passed, I'm introducing the PGAPappas Golf Stimulus Package. 

Sea Pines Resort Director of Golf John Farrell to be Inducted in Lowcountry Golf Hall of Fame

John Farrell, Director of Golf at The Sea Pines Resort, has been named to the Lowcountry Golf Hall of Fame and will be inducted in an awards ceremony at Berkeley Hall on May 8. 

 

Over a 30-year-long career, Farrell has been honored many times, including five-time PGA Golf Professional of the Year of the Hilton Head Chapter of the Carolina's PGA Section; two-time Carolina PGA Section Merchandiser of the Year; and Presidents Plaque Award winner. T oday, as Director of Golf and host golf professional of the PGA Tour's RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, he oversees Atlantic Dunes, Heron Point, and Harbour Town Golf Links, plus on-course food and beverage, as well as tennis, at The Sea Pines Resort. 

Daphne’s Headcovers Celebrates its 40th Year in Golf

Daphne's Headcovers, the original animal headcover company, announced that it is celebrating its 40th year creating and supplying the top quality Headcovers to the world. 

 

In the 40th year since the first headcover was sold, Daphne's Headcovers are now available in more than 80 countries internationally.  Their products are carried in the bags of hundreds of TOUR professionals including Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson, John Daly, Jessica Korda, Nellie Korda, Lydia Ko, Brittany Lincicome, and more. 

Club Champion Expands to More Than 45,000 Hittable Combinations

To better serve its customers, the nation’s #1 club fitter is now offering clubs from Ben Hogan Golf Equipment and Sacks Parente along with expanded offerings fromVega, Miura and PXG.  These new additions, along with new releases and existing offerings, brings the total number of hittable head and shaft combinations to more than 45,000. 

 

Already the #1 fitter in the country for top golf brands, Club Champion has now upped the ante to include hundreds of additional combinations. "It was a no-brainer to us to bring in brands like Ben Hogan and to work closely with others like PXG," said Nick Sherburne, Club Champion founder. "We pride ourselves on finding the perfect match for each golfer, and these new and revamped partnerships allow us to stand by that promise." 

Win a Round of Golf with Charles Howell III in Reynolds Lake Oconee Sweepstakes

Think your game compares with the pros?  Someone will find out by winning the "3 for 4" sweepstakes offered by Reynolds Lake Oconee with a prize package that includes 3 unique activities for 4 guests over 3 nights and 4 days.  

 

The experiences include playing a round of golf with long-time PGA Tour professional and three-time champion, Charles Howell III; fishing on Lake Oconee with avid sportsman and PGA Tour professional Blake Adams; and a sporting clays experience with professional shooting expert, Justin Jones. 

PUMA Golf and Rickie Fowler Team Up with Arnie's Army to Pay Homage to The King at The Arnold Palmer Invitational

To honor one of golf's greats, COBRA PUMA Golf athlete Rickie Fowler will once again don a limited-edition collection of gear at the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard. 

 

Throughout the week, Fowler will wear accessories and use gear that was inspired by the life of his friend and mentor, Arnold Palmer, including a new API COBRA x Vessel Stand Bag, special headwear, and a pair of IGNITE PROADAPT PALMER shoes.