The industry debate over how much a club should budget to maintain its golf course seems never-ending, and that’s understandable. The course consumes a significant portion of the cash required to run a club and it is also one of the most visible and member-impacting
As clubs consider updating their facilities and renovating elements of their clubs, and especially their golf courses, it’s important to understand the lifecycle of key golf course components. Knowing when items need to be updated and how long new renovations can be expected to last
Golf is an integral part of the private club community and the lifeblood of country clubs across the nation. Some people have called it an elitist sport; others felt that it was too inaccessible to new players to warrant their involvement; many simply don’t know
Arnold Palmer: 1960s “Athlete of the Decade” (Associated Press poll), one of “The 25 Coolest Athletes of All Time” (GQ, Feb. 2011), successful businessman and golf legend. In addition to an impressive 92 overall victories, including seven Major championships, four Masters, and PGA Player of
What does a golf course or club contribute to its community? I am often asked this question, especially nowadays, as some golf courses struggle in the sputtering economy, and owners consider alternative land uses that might cause some courses to close and others to be
Golf course architects are working with their clients to design and renovate courses that are shorter and less expensive to construct and maintain, so said several American Society of Golf Course Architect (ASGCA) members during a recent panel led by ASGCA President Erik Larsen. “Extreme
Would you like to increase the number of rounds played at your club? How about increase member retention and revenue? A national program supported by a broad golf industry coalition launched in 2009 with the goal to grow the game of golf by bringing in
It takes a certain kind of club—and membership—to host major championship events. Championships confer a special prestige on a club and its membership. They announce to the world, “This is a first-class organization, worthy of hosting a world-class event.” And, during some national and international
Acres of grass, majestic trees, tranquil bodies of water. If it weren’t for the flags and tee markers, you might think you were in a national park and not on a golf course. Golf courses offer not just a beautiful place to engage in a
Much has been made in recent years of the supposed demise of golf. If the game could talk, it would very likely echo Mark Twain’s famous words “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” Sure, the total number of players and rounds are down