Tuesday, June 13, 2023

RBC Canadian Open Winner Plays Graphite Design Tour AD to Victory

Pro’s Choice Golf Shafts, Inc. announced today that the winner of the RBC Canadian Open tournament held at Oakdale Golf and Country Club in Toronto, Ontario, Canada was playing a Graphite Design Tour AD DI Hybrid 95 X flex hybrid shaft in his Titleist TSR2 21° Hybrid.  The champion eagled the 4th playoff hole to claim his 3rd PGA Tour victory and become the first Canadian to win the RBC Canadian Open since 1954.

“Congratulations to the RBC Canadian Open champion on his historic win this past weekend in Canada.  The champions ability and his trusty hybrid were two key elements that aided him during the playoff holes to earn the win” stated Bill McPherson, Vice President of Sales, Pro’s Choice Golf Shafts, Inc.

An Above Par Father’s Day at Omni Hotels & Resorts

Father's Day is a great way to show the dad in your life how much you care—about him and his golf game. Located in some of the country’s most beautiful destinations, Omni Hotels & Resorts has a portfolio of 26 above-par golf courses designed by renowned architects and offer challenges for golfers at all levels of play. Schedule tee time or plan a golf vacation in prime locations on legendary greens to enjoy the resorts championship golf resorts. Select properties listed below with un’FORE’getable Father’s Day offers.

As the proud Official Hotel Partner of the PGA TOUR®, Omni Hotels & Resorts is excited to offer an exclusive golf package at 12 select resort destinations across the country with the PGA Tour Golf Package.

Monday, June 12, 2023

Los Angeles Country Club North Course Review: An Overview (2023 U.S. Open)

It's important where players win their U.S. Open Championship.  Great courses produce great drama and even greater champions.  Cathedrals of the game matter.  Ghosts of the past matter.

And when Los Angeles Country Club opens its curtains to the world this week for the 123rd U.S. Open, it will be a legacy defining moment.

USGA Announces Tee Times for 123rd U.S. Open Championship

The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced tee times for the first two rounds of the 2023 U.S. Open Championship, Thursday (June 15) and Friday (June 16), at 7,423-yard, par-70 The Los Angeles (Calif.) Country Club (North Course).

The U.S. Open is a 72-hole, stroke-play competition. A field of 156 players will play 18 holes of stroke play on June 15 and 16, after which the field will be reduced to the low 60 scores and ties. Those players making the cut will play 18 holes on June 17 and 18. If there is a tie upon the completion of 72 holes, a two-hole aggregate playoff will immediately follow. If this playoff results in a tie, the tied players will immediately continue to play off hole-by-hole until the winner is determined.

The Centennial Collection from FootJoy

For 100 years, FootJoy has been synonymous with golf-specific design and performance innovation.  The brand was born from a company-wide naming competition in 1923, where an associate in the Brockton, MA stitching room submitted a name for a new line of shoes the company was developing – FOOTJOY.

The brand continues to lead and innovate in golf wearables and will celebrate 100 years in the making with the Centennial Collection. This collection is FJ’s take on an unmatched legacy of performance innovation and style, featuring a limited edition Premiere Series Wilcox for Men, a Women’s Premiere Series Shield Tip and an apparel collection that includes timeless and sophisticated polos, cardigans, hoodies and sweaters.

COBRA Golf Unveils Limited Edition US Open Golf Bag

With the arrival of the 2023 US Open, COBRA Golf has unveiled a Limited-Edition US Open Staff and Stand Bag.  Like all COBRA Golf bags, those made for the US Open are crafted with premium materials for an elevated, Tour-caliber look and feel.

This year the US Open will be hosted by the storied Los Angeles Country Club from June 15th to June 18th.  The club has previously held the Walker Cup but the 2023 US Open will be the first major played at LACC and the first US Open contested in the Los Angeles area in 75 years. To celebrate the momentous event, Cobra will release a new Americana inspired bag that layers in the iconic landmarks and street culture of Los Angeles, adorned with palm trees and stars to reference to key locations like Beverly Hills and Sunset Blvd.

Sunday, June 11, 2023

2023 U.S. Open Championship Notes and Insights

The Los Angeles Country Club is hosting a U.S. Open for the first time. It is the seventh venue to make its U.S. Open debut over the last 50 years, joining Atlanta Athletic Club (1976), Pinehurst (1999), Bethpage (2002), Torrey Pines (2008), Chambers Bay (2015) and Erin Hills (2017).

This will mark the 15th U.S. Open, and 20th major played in the state of California. The only foreign players to win a U.S. Open in California are Northern Ireland’s Graeme McDowell (in 2010 at Pebble Beach) and Jon Rahm (in 2021 at Torrey Pines). The only other foreign player to win a major in California is Australia’s Steve Elkington, who won the 1995 PGA Championship at Riviera.

123rd U.S. Open Championship – Fact Sheet

The Los Angeles Country Club’s North Course will be set up at 7,423 yards and will play to a par of 35-35–70.

The yardage for each round of the championship will vary due to course setup and conditions.

Saturday, June 10, 2023

PXG Launches Summer 2023 Apparel Capsule Collection

PXG has launched a PXG Apparel Summer 2023 Capsule that contains both trendy and timeless pieces that fit effortlessness into every golfer’s summer wardrobe. With the limited collection, PXG focuses on core, golf-centric pieces, introducing new technical fabrications that deliver contemporary silhouettes and boast a timely and timeless color palette of sunshine yellow and navy.

The PXG Apparel Summer 2023 Capsule features 11 classic course-ready styles with PXG signature details – six for men and five for women. The men’s capsule features 4 core polos, one with brand-new bonded fabrication technology that allows for extreme breathability and comfort. Two new silhouettes with a classic appeal also make their debut, a layerable, four-way stretch golf vest and a new slim golf short, adding flare as well as function to a golfer’s summer game.

PING Slam PLD Limited Zing 2 Drops Tuesday June 13th

The PLD Limited Zing 2 putter, the third of four precision-milled PING putters celebrating the brand winning all four major championships in 1988, will be available for purchase on pingpld.com, beginning at 2 pm ET on Tuesday, June 13.

Known as the “PING Slam”, the celebration recognizes a historic achievement that had never happened before 1988 and hasn’t happened since for any putter brand. Precision-milled versions of the four winning models (Pal, Pal 2, Zing 2 and Anser), respectively, are available each Tuesday of this year’s four major championship weeks, giving collectors a rare opportunity to own a part of PING’s storied putter history.

Macklemomre Teams with Adidas in New Apparel Collection

Adiidas and Macklemore’s Bogey Boys are reimagining timeless styles from the 70s and 80s that established new trends for fashion, lifestyle and sports. Today, adidas and Bogey Boys are introducing the adidas x Bogey Boys collection featuring crisp designs and high-quality performance materials that combine vintage styles from golf and tennis with a modern feel, all for easy on- and off-course wear. The limited-edition capsule featuring apparel and footwear for men and women will be available at select locations beginning Wednesday, June 14.

“As the original sports brand, we’ve been designing product for sports like golf and tennis for more than 50 years,” said Dylan Moore, senior creative director, adidas Golf. “As we continue our mission to be the most progressive golf brand in the world, this heritage gives us the luxury of revisiting our extensive archives for inspiration. Those now-retro designs were inspiring to us, and we know that golfers are once again looking for products that present classic, clean, and bold aesthetics with an attitude. Macklemore and the Bogey Boys team were the perfect partners for this because of their love for vintage apparel and eye-catching designs.”

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

The PGAPappas Podcast - Episode 2: Leigh Steinberg Talks the PGA and DP World Tour Merger with PIF and LIV Golf

Yesterday's bombshell news of the PGA Tour and DP World Tour merging with the PIF (Public Investment Fund) and LIV Golf is making a potential golf super league look more and more probable.  The PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf will all exist under one umbrella and professional golf may never be the same again.

My guest for Episode 2 is superstar sports agent Leigh Steinberg, and his insights into the proposed merger and issues surrounding it are profound and penetrating.  Leigh and I talk about the winners and losers in the deal, what PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan has done wrong and what opportunities exist for him to do right, as well as sportswashing, player and fan vested interests, and a whole lot more.

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

PGA Tour, DP World Tour and PIF Announce Newly Formed Commercial Entity to Unify Golf

The PGA TOUR, DP World Tour and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) today announced a landmark agreement to unify the game of golf, on a global basis. The parties have signed an agreement that combines PIF’s golf-related commercial businesses and rights (including LIV Golf) with the commercial businesses and rights of the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour into a new, collectively owned, for-profit entity to ensure that all stakeholders benefit from a model that delivers maximum excitement and competition among the game’s best players.

In addition, PIF will make a capital investment into the new entity to facilitate its growth and success. The new entity (name TBD) will implement a plan to grow these combined commercial businesses, drive greater fan engagement and accelerate growth initiatives already underway. With LIV Golf in the midst of its second, groundbreaking season, the PGA TOUR, DP World Tour and PIF will work together to best feature and grow team golf going forward.

Celebrate Father's Day with Gifts He's Guaranteed to Love from Linksoul

With Father's Day just around the corner, Linksoul invites you to discover an exceptional collection of gifts that will make every dad feel truly appreciated. As a brand deeply rooted in a philosophy that values family, community, and the pursuit of soulful experiences, Linksoul offers a range of products designed to cater to dads of all types and passions.

When Dad Hits the Course. For the golf-loving fathers, Linksoul presents the perfect collection of polos and shorts that combine performance and style on and off the course. This Father's Day, give your dad the gift of comfort and sophistication with our selection of golf polos and Boardwalker shorts. Introducing the Rincon Polo, Delray Polo, and Solid Boardwalker Shorts.

Need a Fittervention? Club Champion Offering Exclusive Gift Card Bonuses

The first step is admitting there is a problem…with off-the-shelf clubs. It’s time for a Fittervention and Club Champion is here to help. Just in time for Father’s Day, Club Champion is kicking off their Fittervention campaign by offering a 20% bonus card on gift card purchases made June 9-18, 2023. A Fittervention is the perfect gift for a golf-obsessed dad!

“Many times, it’s not you, it’s the clubs,” said Club Champion founder, Nick Sherburne. “Sometimes you need an intervention — or a Fittervention, in this case — to see what custom clubs can really do for your game.”

Odds of Winning 2024 Masters Ticket Lottery

The 2024 Masters ticket lottery is open, and would-be patrons have two weeks left to apply ahead of the June 20 deadline.

So what exactly are the golf odds of winning Masters tournament tickets through the lottery? After doing some research, Bookies.com put together a complete guide of the process of deciding the odds and found the odds of winning the Masters lottery for a single-day tournament ticket to be 0.55%.

Uneekor EYE XO2 Discount for Father's Day and US Open

Uneekor, makers of the world’s most obsessively and meticulously engineered golf simulator technologies, is pleased to announce a special Father's Day promotion for their most powerful launch monitor, the EYE XO2. Customers can now receive a discount using the promo code "EYEXO2SPRING" at checkout for $2000 off now through June 30, 2023.

The EYE XO2 is the ultimate overhead golf launch monitor. With the addition of a third camera, advanced infrared sensor technology, and nearly double the hitting zone, it accurately measures ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and more to provide golfers with comprehensive data and feedback about their ball flight and swing. The EYE XO2 also includes the addition of the new Trouble Mat which simulates rough and bunker lies just like they are on the course.

USGA Welcomes 20 Pathways Interns to 2023 U.S. Open Championship

Demonstrating a commitment to foster a welcoming and inclusive golf industry by providing more work opportunities, the United States Golf Association (USGA) has hired 20 students from underrepresented communities for its 10-day Pathways Internship Program, held during U.S. Open Championship week in Los Angeles.

Launched in 2022 as the Lee Elder Internship, the career training program returns as part of the USGA’s four-pillar U.S. Open community engagement strategy that aims to utilize USGA resources and expertise to propel a healthier future for the game. Supported by foundational sponsor Deloitte, as well as Cisco, Sentry Insurance, NBC Sports, Peter Millar and host community partners The Los Angeles Country Club and Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission (LASEC), the program aims to expose students to various career offerings in golf.

USGA, Cisco Announce Partnership Extension

Cisco and the United States Golf Association (USGA) have announced a multiyear extension of their partnership, which began in 2018 and established the global technology leader as the Official Technology Partner of the USGA and its championships. Through the new term, the two organizations will leverage Cisco’s industry-leading solutions, innovation and expertise to strengthen the USGA’s technological infrastructure at their championships and foster continued innovation and inclusion in golf.

Over the past five years, Cisco and the USGA have implemented several innovations benefiting fans, media and event organizers, including debuting the first-ever “Connected Course” at the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links. That USGA championship marked the first launch of course-wide Wi-Fi. Cisco played a key role in the USGA’s ability to seamlessly and securely deploy virtual connectivity solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing Webex by Cisco to the forefront of both fan engagement and media operations. Additionally, Cisco powered the use of 4D technology as part of the broadcast experience of USGA championships, giving fans watching at home a new perspective on their favorite players’ swings.

New Par-3 Layout Under Construction Next to Tiger Woods Designed Payne's Valley Golf Course

One of America’s most in-demand golf destinations just got even more appealing with news that it is adding another golf course, this one a dramatic par-3 18-hole layout under construction adjacent to Payne’s Valley, the astounding championship course designed by Tiger Woods and Beau Welling that is drawing players from around the globe.

Construction is still in its early stages and no timetable for completion was shared.

Original Penguin Launches Chi Chi Rodriguez Collection

Original Penguin by Munsingwear, a division of Perry Ellis International, is pleased to announce the launch of the Chi Chi Rodriguez 2023 Summer Collection. Introducing a retro yet modern look, combined with the classic Original Penguin heritage and style, the Chi Chi collection brings his trademark swagger on and off the course.

“The Chi Chi Rodriguez collection fully incorporates what it means to be an original,” stated Oscar Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International. “El Toreador is a true icon in the game and one of the most popular golfers of all time. This collection perfectly reflects his distinct style, from his hallmark fedora to his signature “sword dance” celebration. We are excited to bring this collection of products to market, merging Chi Chi’s original style with Penguin’s trademark performance.”

Give Dad a Premium Duca del Cosma Shoes and Glove Pairing this Father's Day

Luxury Italian golf shoe brand Duca del Cosma is offering a premium leather golf glove with every pair of golf shoes purchased from its latest range to coincide with Father’s Day next week.

Several glove models can even be paired up with a selection of the latest SS23 golf shoes to deliver a super stylish feel-good factor on the golf course.

PING Signs William Mouw to Multi-Year Agreement

William Mouw, a three-time All-American at Pepperdine University, has turned pro and joined PING’s global tour staff, company CEO & President John K. Solheim announced today. The 22-year-old Mouw, who makes his professional debut at this week’s Korn Ferry BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD Synnex, was previously under contract with PING through an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreement.

“William’s record is extremely impressive, going back to his victory at the Junior World Championships as a 14-year-old and his recent success at Pepperdine that included an NCAA team title in 2021,” Solheim said. “Since then, he’s continually added to his long list of accomplishments. I really like his approach to the game. He plays with a lot of confidence and has a well-rounded game. He has a strong faith, and his outgoing personality is very engaging.  He’ll be fun to watch, and we’re excited to have him join our staff and represent PING.”

Galvin Green Sales Soar in New York

Sales of the latest Galvin Green premium hi-tech apparel collection have been soaring across the PGA Met Section in New York since the brand introduced its full range of garments to some of the country’s most prestigious golf clubs and stores earlier this year.

“We presented leading golf outlets in the Met Section and the New York area to the strongest ever range of Galvin Green garments across all layers – from award-winning outerwear in various colorways to some of the most exceptional shirt designs on the market – and the results have been pretty spectacular,” said Lou Delfino, General Manager in North America.

Monday, June 5, 2023

PXG Announces New Summer Sweepstakes with Darius Rucker

Together with GRAMMY award-winning artist and PXG® Ambassador Darius Rucker, PXG is thrilled to kick off the summer with an exclusive giveaway. The PXG Summer Swingstakes with Darius Rucker contest is officially calling all golfers to sign-up for a chance to win a golf outing with Darius, concert tickets, and a custom fitted PXG GEN6 full bag. The contest is available in four PXG Fitting & Retail Studio markets: Paramus, Boston, Chicago, and Minneapolis.

To enter the Summer Swingstakes, golfers and music lovers are encouraged to stop by select PXG stores – PXG Paramus, PXG Boston, PXG Chicago North, PXG Chicago West, and PXG Minneapolis – to complete their entry. Enthusiasts can also enter on social media by following @PXG, tagging their concert buddy, and hash tagging a participating PXG store location on the official announcement post.

PXG Pro Tips with Actor, Comedian, and Golf Club Junkie Rob Riggle: LPGA Edition

PXG recognizes that more women than ever are trying, enjoying, and succeeding in golf, and the company is doing its part to continue this momentum and ensure everyone feels welcome. During Women’s Golf Month, PXG is featuring its talented LPGA Tour players, celebrating its employees, and making a mark in the community through several key initiatives aimed at growing the game.

Premiering today, PXG pairs comedy icon and golf addict Rob Riggle with LPGA Tour Professionals, including Celine Boutier, Austin Ernst, and Christina Kim, for some core stimulating, performance-powering tips and tricks. Spanning the fundamentals to the game’s finer points, the nine-episode series, PXG Pro Tips with Rob Riggle: LPGA Edition, is available on PXG’s website and YouTube.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Now on Tour: New Titleist T-Series Irons (T100, T150, T200, and T350)

The next generation of the PGA TOUR’s most played irons – Titleist T-Series – will debut this week at the Memorial Tournament.

Titleist irons have been the longstanding top choice of the best players in the world. In each of the last nine seasons (and 18 of the last 19), more players on the PGA TOUR have had Titleist irons in their bags than any other brand.

USGA Announces that Jupiter Hills Club will Host Two USGA Championships

The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced that Jupiter Hills Club, in Tequesta, Fla., will be the host site for two USGA championships: the 2027 U.S. Mid-Amateur and the 2032 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur. This will be the third and fourth USGA championships held at the club.

“The USGA is pleased to return to Jupiter Hills Club and continue a partnership that enthusiastically supports amateur competition on many levels,” said Mark Hill, USGA managing director, championships. “We know that the club’s courses will challenge the best male and female mid-amateurs from around the world and that South Florida will embrace these two championships.”

Emiliano Grillo Captures Charles Schwab Challenge Sporting PUMA Golf Footwear and Apparel

 PUMA GOLF athlete Emiliano Grillo fought off the competition on Sunday with a final round 68 and eight-under-par total to win the Charles Schwab Challenge, his second career victory on the PGA Tour. Grillo’s first win in over seven years came in dramatic fashion, as he outlasted Adam Schenk in a playoff to grab the prestigious title.

The 30-year-old Argentinian cruised around the famed Colonial Country Club in style, sporting PUMA PROADAPT DELTA Mids for solid footing and comfort, as well as PUMA DEALER TAILORED pants and a MATTR RISING polo shirt for style and performance. MATTR (Materials, Technology, & Research) is a performance fabric designed to provide the highest level of comfort in a wide variety of conditions. A technical, moisture-wicking and fast-drying material, MATTR performance no doubt played a hand in keeping Emi cool and calm on his way to victory.

Adidas Signs Top Amateur Golfer Rose Zhang

The most decorated athlete in amateur women’s golf history will now be wearing the 3-Stripes as she begins her professional career. Today, adidas announced the signing of Rose Zhang to a multi-year contract that will see her wearing adidas apparel, footwear and accessories while on the course.

Zhang’s accolades as an amateur are unmatched. Beyond capturing every women’s amateur major championship – U.S. Girls’ Junior (2021), U.S. Women’s Amateur (2020) and Augusta National Women’s Amateur (2023) – Zhang finished her sophomore season by becoming the first woman to ever win back-to-back NCAA individual titles. In May of last year, Zhang became the first student-athlete to sign a Name, Image and Likeness endorsement agreement with adidas.

The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village - Aon Risk Reward

Since being redesigned two years ago, the 15th hole at Muirfield Village Golf Club has been one of the most balanced risk-versus-reward par 5s all season on the PGA TOUR. Players have been almost split down the middle when it comes to the second shot decision: 52 percent go for the green, while 48 percent lay up. And while hitting the green in two has enormous value (eight-tenths of a stroke), a well-positioned layup can be beneficial, too. Laying up into the fairway can gain two-tenths of a stroke over players who go for it and miss with their approach.

At the end of the regular season, the most consistent player across each tour, with the lowest average score under par, on the Aon Risk Reward Challenge holes captures the $1 million prize.

PING Signs Reigning U.S. Amateur Champion Sam Bennett to Tour Staff

Sam Bennett, the reigning U.S. Amateur champion and three-time All-American at Texas A&M, has turned pro and joined PING’s global tour staff, company CEO & President John K. Solheim announced today. The 23-year-old Bennett, who makes his PGA Tour debut as a professional at this week’s Memorial Tournament, was previously under contract with PING through an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreement.

“We’re excited to have Sam transition to our professional tour staff,” Solheim said. “His performance in winning last year’s U.S. Amateur received a lot of attention but it was his remarkable play at the Masters that skyrocketed his popularity and made him one of the biggest stories of that week. He’s an amazing talent who plays with a lot of confidence and passion, which should serve him well as he begins his professional career. We’re looking forward to having Sam represent the PING brand.”

Sunday, May 28, 2023

FootJoy 2023 StaSoft Golf Glove Review

FootJoy has been the most worn golf glove on professional tours since 1983.  You put on a FootJoy glove and you know you're getting quality, reliability, comfort, and absolute, unparalleled performance.

And this year FootJoy updated their 2023 StaSof golf glove to improve on every aspect of the glove.  I kid you not.

Reynolds Lake Oconee Offers the Ultimate Gift for Day this Father's Day

Looking to score an ace this year with your Father’s Day gift? Search no more as Reynolds Lake Oconee, the highly acclaimed golf community located between Augusta and Atlanta, offers dad a wide-ranging golf experience that he’ll not soon forget.

For starters, to ensure his equipment matches his passion for the game, dad will start with a comprehensive club-fitting and building experience with a visit to The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Since opening in 2007, The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee is the country’s only TaylorMade fitting venue where recreational golfers have access to the same expertise and technology used by TaylorMade’s athletes and club pros.

True Spec Charlotte Opening at Intown Golf Club

True Spec Golf, the global leader in custom club fitting and club building, announced that they have partnered with Intown Golf Club to open True Spec Charlotte, True Spec’s third location in North Carolina.

Located in the SouthPark area of the Queen City, True Spec Charlotte will open at the new, highly anticipated private social club for golfers, Intown Golf Club, on June 1st. It is the latest in a series of partnerships that brings True Spec’s bespoke fittings and best-in-class customer service to prominent clubs and resorts across the country. True Spec Charlotte is now the third location in the state, joining True Spec Pine Needles and True Spec Raleigh.

Rose Zhang Granted Special Exemption into 78th U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links

Rose Zhang, of Irvine, Calif., has been granted a special exemption into the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open Championship, which will be conducted July 6-9 at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links. The 20-year-old, who was previously exempt prior to turning professional, is set to make her fifth consecutive appearance in the championship.

“Competing in the U.S. Women’s Open is always a special experience, and being granted an exemption into the first at Pebble Beach is truly an honor,” said Zhang. “This is a big moment for our sport, and I’m very appreciative of the USGA for the opportunity to be part of it.”

Rose Zhang's First Event as a Pro - Mizuho Americas Open

On the heels of becoming the first female golfer to ever win back-to-back NCAA Individual Championships, the #1 ranked amateur in the world, Rose Zhang, has announced that she will be turning professional and has accepted a sponsor exemption in the Mizuho Americas Open, where she will make her professional debut from May 31 - June 4 at the iconic Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, NJ.

The three-time McCormack Medal winner left the amateur ranks having held the top position in the Women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking for a record 141 consecutive weeks, dating back to September 2020. Zhang, who received the 2022 and 2023 Annika Award as the nation’s top female collegiate golfer, set the NCAA scoring average record at 68.70 this season, surpassing the previous record that she set last year by nearly a full stroke. She established herself as a champion at the biggest events in the sport, including victories at the 2020 U.S. Women’s Amateur, 2021 U.S. Girls’ Junior and 2023 Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Her 12 titles in NCAA competition, earned in just 20 collegiate starts, are the most in Stanford history, besting Tiger Woods, Patrick Rodgers, and Maverick McNealy by one.

USGA Expands Funding for P.J. Boatwright Jr. Internship Program, Connecting More People to Careers In Golf

This week, the USGA welcomed its largest class of P.J. Boatwright Jr. interns to the annual Boatwright Summit as the organization kicks off the 32nd year of the career development initiative that provides on-the-job training across the USGA’s network of 58 Allied Golf Associations (AGAs).

As part of the organization’s commitment to foster a more inclusive game and connect more individuals to careers in golf, the USGA funds the program, in part through philanthropic contributions, and works closely with AGAs on intern recruitment and training. In 2023, the USGA is delivering a program-high $2.09 million to pay each intern, provide travel costs to the annual summit and support AGA operations to manage staffing locally.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

These Bears Are Golden: Du/Zheng Take Title at Kiawah Island Club

Aaron Du and Sampson Zheng did not get the opportunity to play for an NCAA title this coming weekend in Arizona, so a USGA national championship is a mighty good substitute.

The two 21-year-old rising seniors at the University of California-Berkeley, whose team missed qualifying for NCAAs by three strokes exactly a week ago in Norman, Okla., capped off a remarkable five days at Kiawah Island Club on Wednesday by winning the 8th U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship with a 2-and-1 victory over Drew Kittleson and Drew Stoltz in the 18-hole final at Cassique.

PING Proving Grounds Podcast Debuts May 25th

The PING Proving Grounds, a new podcast created to provide golfers behind-the-scenes insights into the company’s approach to designing the highest-performing equipment available, debuts tomorrow, PING CEO & President John K. Solheim announced today.

Hosted by golf broadcaster and journalist Shane Bacon and Marty Jertson, PING’s Vice President of Fitting & Performance, the podcast takes a deep dive into PING’s celebrated history and immeasurable contributions to golf equipment, custom fitting, and the game of golf in general. The pair will examine everything from golf club development to the tools, technologies and data that continue to improve the custom-fitting landscape. They’ll bring on expert guests, including PING tour professionals and brand ambassadors, to examine a variety of golf science and performance topics that are relatable to everyday golfers of all skill levels.

Stanford Sophomore Rose Zhang Wins 2023 Annika Award

Stanford sophomore and the world’s top-ranked female amateur golfer, Rose Zhang, was announced today as the back-to-back winner of the prestigious ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel, recognizing the most outstanding female NCAA Division I college golfer for the 2022-23 season. The announcement was made today by Hall-of-Famer Annika Sorenstam and Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel.

Zhang, the top-ranked player in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, Golfstat and Golfweek college rankings, captured the 2023 NCAA Women’s Golf Championships Individual Championship on Monday by one shot at 10-under par. With the victory, she became the first Division I women’s golfer to win multiple individual national championships, and is the first player since Maria Fassi (2018-19) to win back-to-back ANNIKA Award titles.

Garsen Putter Grips Achieve 68th and 69th Tour Victories

Garsen Golf congratulates Grayson Murray and Carlota Ciganda on their victories on Sunday while both using Garsen putter grips. Grayson put a Garsen Quad Tour pistol in play the week before leading to a one stroke victory at the Korn Ferry Tour AdventHealth Championship. Carlota finished at -2 to secure her win at the Ladies European Tour Aramco Team Series-Florida Tournament using a Garsen Quad Tour grip. In addition to 3 PGA Tour, 1 LPGA and 1 LET victory this year, Garsen now has a total of 69 tour wins.

The Quad Tour is the most traditional line of Garsen grips. The overriding structure of this grip includes a trapezoid design that is wider on the front of the grip than the bottom and slightly narrower than most traditional putting grips.

Contextualizing the U.S. Golf Economy

You may have heard that golf is now a $102 billion industry in the U.S. – 20% larger than it was in 2016, the last time there was a proper quantitative review of the game’s economic contributions.

$102 billion certainly sounds like a lot, but numbers like this aren’t all that easy to grasp. So, here’s some (hopefully) helpful context. $102 billion is five times the revenue of the NFL.­­i It’s roughly the global income of UPS, which delivered an average of 24.3 million packages per day in 2022.ii It’s 25% more money than Tesla, P&G and The Walt Disney Company made last year, 120% more than Nike brought in, and 220% more than Netflix.

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, True Blue Golf Club Unveil Leading Fall Golf Package

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Golf Club, two of America’s top 100 resort courses, have unveiled their always anticipated Golftoberfest package, an offer that provides traveling players with maximum value during the Myrtle Beach area’s peak fall season.

The package, which runs from October 1-31, is a three-night, four-round deal that allows golfers to play the pair of Mike Strantz designs in any combination they choose. Award-winning golf is complemented by villa accommodations that include 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom units at True Blue Resort.

Founders Group International Partners With Nicklaus Design For Restoration of Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club

Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club, a Jack Nicklaus signature design renowned for its beauty and challenge, closed May 22 for a greens and bunkers restoration and a clubhouse redesign, Founders Group International announced.

FGI contracted with Nicklaus Design and their Design Associate, Troy Vincent will be spearheading the four-month project. Pawleys, which features six back nine holes that play along a stunning tidal marsh, will reopen in late-September, allowing golfers to enjoy one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular courses during the heart of the fall season.

2nd U.S. Adaptive Open Set to Welcome a Global Field to Pinehurst in July

The field for the 2nd U.S. Adaptive Open – a national championship that showcases the world’s best golfers with disabilities on Pinehurst Resort & Country Club’s Course No. 6 from July 10-12 – has been set, the USGA announced today.

The USGA received 285 entries for the 2023 U.S. Adaptive Open, and the 96-player final field includes competitors from 28 states and 11 countries. The championship’s youngest competitor is 15-year-old Russell Aide from Canada, and Linda Port, of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., is the championship's oldest player at 75 years old. Of the 96 players in the field, 66 played last year, and 30 will be making their championship debut.

Top 2 Seeds Advance to Semifinals at Kiawah Island Club

The sting of not qualifying for the upcoming NCAA Division I Championships may be starting to finally wear off for Aaron Du and Sampson Zheng. Sure, the disappointment of their University of California-Berkeley team coming up three strokes short in last week’s regional in Norman, Okla., will always linger subconsciously, but what’s transpired over the last four days at Kiawah Island Club has at least given the two 21-year-old juniors a second wind of positive energy.

Du and Zhen, both natives of the People’s Republic of China who came to the United States as teenagers to attend high school in Florida, registered a pair of impressive victories on Tuesday at breezy Kiawah Island Club’s Cassique to reach the semifinals of the 8th U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship.

Monday, May 22, 2023

USGA Announces 33 Additional Players Exempt for 123rd U.S. Open Championship

The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced that 33 additional golfers, including major champions Jason Day and Patrick Reed, have earned full exemptions into the 2023 U.S. Open Championship, to be contested June 15-18 at The Los Angeles (Calif.) Country Club’s North Course. These exemptions bring the number of fully exempt players to 84.

Exemptions were awarded to 25 players who earned a place in the top 60 of the Official World Golf Ranking® (OWGR®) as of May 22, who were not otherwise exempt. Day, who will compete in his 11th U.S. Open and is a two-time runner-up, won the 2015 PGA Championship. He is ranked No. 22. Reed, who won the 2018 Masters Tournament, is ranked No. 44. It will be Reed’s 10th U.S. Open.

Club Champion and TXG Launch Fathers of Fitting International Podcast

Club Champion, the globe’s top club fitter, has added a new podcast to their roster! Fathers of Fitting features the founders of the top fitting brands in the world — Club Champion, TXG, Golf Principles, and PureForm — as they are now all housed under the Club Champion umbrella. Founders Nick Sherburne, Ian Fraser, Jason MacNiven, and Paul Jenner come together to talk fitting, equipment, and all things golf. The new show is available in video form on YouTube and audio-only on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and a variety of other podcast platforms.

“This show is a fun take on the golf industry and it is decidedly different from our other content,” said Cassandra Bausch, Club Champion’s Director of Marketing and the host of the podcast. “We put four of the most unique personalities in the industry in one place, so you can imagine the potential with a more open format.”

Medalists Roll Into Final 16 at Breezy Kiawah Island Club

For the 32 sides who survived the stroke-play portion of the 8th U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship at Kiawah Island Club, the start of the Round of 32 on Monday at breezy Cassique brought about a chance for a reboot. The great scoring from the weekend – which saw several championship scoring records matched – was now in the rearview mirror.

Now it’s all about beating an opponent, not an entire field, and living by the old cliché of survive and advance.