Virgil Osborne of Charlotte, North Carolina had his 6th Hole-in-One Friday, September 22, 2023, at Sunset Hills Golf Course, Charlotte, North Carolina. The feat was accomplished on hole #12, 172 yards, using Mizuno 5 hybrid club and Top-Flite ball. His playing partners were Don Beamer, Kevin Welch and Mike Boyd.
Please be on the lookout for the Valspar 2024 Hospitality Offerings Booklet. On page 35, you’ll find included among the contents Women of Color Golf (WOCG) brightening up the pages! In an email this week, sent by the Founder and Executive Director, Clemmie Perry, to Women Of Color Golf Advisory Board and Leaderboard Members, Perry shared the exciting news, saying, “My heart is full because Women of Color is prominently featured in the promotional materials for the Valspar Championship’s ‘Executive Women’s Day’ conference promotional materials.”
Perry went on to emphasize the significance of this recognition, stating, “This is a remarkable testament to the value we bring to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the world of golf.” Perry founded Women of Color Golf in 2014, and since then, the organization has introduced golf to over 2,500 minority women and girls in the Tampa and St. Petersburg, Florida, Bay area, and Washington, D.C. They have been actively involved in conducting golf clinics, organizing recreational golf events, fostering business networking, and offering mentoring opportunities to promote diversity and inclusion within the sport of golf in the U.S. and internationally.
Perry continued, “I am immensely proud and grateful for the contributions each of you has made to Women of Color Golf and our mission to enhance representation in content, marketing, and corporate leadership.”
Along with other significant progress, WOCG Leaderboard Member, Dr. Sandra Braham, was recently appointed as the first Black Woman – for the “The Copperheads” and she holds the distinction of being the only Black woman to chair the St. Pete Area Chamber of Commerce Board in the past 125 years.
Learn more about Women Of Color Golf at https://www.womenofcolorgolf.org
Stephanie Frances Williams dedicated five years of unwavering service as the President of the Pitch and Putt Golf Club of Baltimore. Sadly, she transitioned to her celestial home in January of this year. Stephanie’s vibrant spirit and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Her love for the game of golf extended beyond her role in the Pitch and Putt Golf Club. Stephanie was an active member of three golf organizations: Forest Park Ladies, Bogey Free, and Diamond Ridge Ladies. Golf was not just a pastime for her; it was a family affair. Together with her husband of 43 years, John, and sometimes joined by their daughter, Shanae, they created countless joyful memories on golf courses throughout the region.
The Pitch and Putt Golf Club of Baltimore paid tribute to Stephanie’s legacy by commemorating her visionary leadership by proudly unveiling a brick monument bearing a commemorative plaque at the Carroll Park Golf Course, a testament to the enduring journey of African American golfers in Baltimore City. The club, which traces its origins back to 1938 at the Carroll Park Golf Course, continues to uphold Stephanie’s mission and the rich history she cherished.
In honor of Stephanie Williams’ indelible contributions, the Pitch & Putt Club organized a Memorial Golf Tournament. This event, held on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the Forest Park Golf Course located at 2900 Hillside Avenue in Baltimore, MD, was a fitting tribute to their dear friend, a gifted teacher, and an avid golfer. The Memorial Tournament commenced with an 8 a.m. shotgun start, followed by a hearty lunch and the awarding of prizes. It was a day filled with fond reminiscences and heartfelt appreciation for Stephanie’s enduring friendship and can-do spirit.
To learn more about the Pitch & Putt Golf Club visit https://pitchputtgolfclub.com
Opinion article by Dave Cook
I write this article with a sad and broken heart. I traveled all over the country for 24 years as a major Diverse Supplier for The PGA of America. When I started working golf, the only Black workers were cutting grass, cleaning the bathrooms, and washing dishes. I started selling drinks and pretzels in 1994 for the PGA as a Minority Partner with Restaurant Associates. Joe Polidora, Executive Vice President, Disney Operations, noticed my work with my all-Black crew and said he thought I could operate a major stand at the 1999 Ryder Cup in Brookline. This is considered one of the greatest Ryder Cups ever. They had my stand budgeted to earn $120, 000 but I earned $190,000. From that tournament until around 2015, I could be found at the busiest Concession on course at the PGA Championships and Ryder Cup. For five years my crew operated and staffed all Concessions at the Senior PGA Championships.
I took all kinds of abuse and racism but being at a tournament and seeing Tiger Woods gave me the strength to go on. Being the only visible Black company and having 40-60 Black workers made me feel proud. Pete Mc Daniel from Golf Digest brought Tiger Woods’ mom and dad by my stand and they were proud to know a Black company was finally in operation at a tournament.
The PGA of America constantly put me out front as their Main Minority Supplier to Minority Groups. In 1996 A Civil Rights Group shut down the PGA Tournament in Louisville, KY, but in 2000, The PGA of America showcased me to the Louisville newspapers and even introduced me to the man who led the 1996 boycott. Seeing me gave the public a feeling that all was well with Diversity. A new company took over and The PGA of America approved them cutting my percentage payment by 30 percent. It hurt but I still felt I was on a mission for the Black business and golfing community.
The most hurtful thing done by The PGA of America was during the height of the George Floyd Riots when everyone began putting pressure on white businesses, The PGA of America contacted me on Saturday, July 4, in a panic wanting me to approve an article about my role and how we have a great partnership with my company, and how good they had been to me. I was shocked, on a Saturday, the 4th of July? Charles Dillahunt, an African American who was then working as Strategic Adjunct to the Chief Executives for PGA of America, said I would be on the front page and this was huge and it would be live on Tuesday, 3 days later. The article ran and it made the PGA of America look like they were not like the other white companies when it came to Diversity.
A few months later Ben Rubin called me personally and said, “Dave we are changing food suppliers but you are part of the deal. We told them you have been with us for years and are one of our long-standing Diverse Partners, and, to reach out to you.” The Company was Delaware North. When my name was given to them a Delaware North Executive, Ken Gaber, said “I know Dave Cook. I worked with him on the Wells Fargo and he is great and very experienced.”
At the first Delaware North PGA Championship in Kiawah Island, SC, in 2021, which was my 3rd PGA at Kiawah, I gave the very helpful Concessions info. I took a crew of 36 experienced Black workers and one white employee. We literally ran that tournament. I was told that my stands would do $120,000. I told them no way. We literally strongly debated how much I would do. My locations earned $706,000.00. Yes, $706,000.00, because I’m good. And I’m the smartest and one of the most experienced in golf concessions! period!
I made PGA of America and Delaware North a lot of money. Delaware North refused to pay what I earned because they felt it was too much (I guess to pay a Black man). I protested and Ben Rubin helped settle the issue. He had them pay me more but still $61,000.00 less than I should have received. My attitude was we are coming out of COVID, this is a new company and I want to show my loyalty and cooperation so, my company took a $61,000.00 hit.
After all of this, the PGA of America and I wanted to make life easier for Ben Rubin and the PGA of America. In September 2021, I worked my 5th Ryder Cup in Whistling Straits, Haven, Wisconsin, ( my 5th tournament at Whistling Straits). I took a crew of 48 experienced Black workers with me. I was given the main stands by Levy who was working its last Tournament For the PGA of America at The Ryder Cup. My locations were budgeted to do $600,000.00. My stands did $974,000.00 because of the experience of myself, David Cook, and my crew. No other food concession company in this country has worked 5 Ryder Cups. I have! Ryder Cups are a very different crowd flow-wise and you have got to know your stuff. I made PGA of America $974,000.00 in 5 days at the Ryder Cup.
I never heard from Delaware North regarding Tulsa PGA although I had been reaching out. About 6 weeks before the tournament, Delaware North informed me that their model did not include my crew and services (I guess too many Black people successfully running things made them look bad). In Kiawah, I ran that tournament, and because of the thick sand and it being my third tournament there, I even told them the routes on the course to keep from getting golf carts stuck and all the shortcuts.
One thing that I noticed about Delaware North was that there were NO Black people in management there. That was strange for 2021 in America. The Delaware North Executive who denied me my total pay acted like he did not like my experience and knowledge and how everyone knew and respected me.
I asked Sandy Cross, now Chief People Officer at The PGA of America, and Ben Rubin what was going on and what about our long partnership and the money I had made Delaware North and PGA of America. Their answer was that this was the business model for Delaware North and it didn’t fit me and my crew. (Again, I believe they meant too many Black people successfully running things). My knowledge and experience made Delaware North’s Executives in charge very nervous.
I was crushed because Delaware North was the 3rd company brought in as a Tier 1 Foodservice Supplier and each time they were told that I was the PGA of America Diverse Partner. But all of a sudden the PGA negotiated a new contract that allowed Tier 1 to not include me.
It was insulting not working Tulsa and having the Black diverse presence on the course. Tulsa riots and burning down the Black Wall Street was one of the greatest atrocities committed against Blacks and Delaware North and PGA of America decided to bar 40-50 Black workers at the tournament in Tulsa. A Civil Rights group suggested we contact The NAACP and boycott but my love and loyalty to the PGA of America would not let me do it.
America there is a problem with me and my company being treated this way. I have official settlement sheets if the money that I made needs to be verified.
I am a disabled Vietnam-era sergeant. This should not be happening in America.
In Tulsa, The PGA of America embraced the 100 Black Men Of New York to show their Black connection. The 100 Black Men were online smiling and thanking PGA of America. I said if they only knew what really happened to a Black group that the PGA did not stand up for at that tournament.
Lastly,
This Magazine, African American Golfer’s Digest, which has been serving over 80,000 readers with each issue, has been at the forefront in covering Black golf participation for the last 20 years, including the PGA of America, the USGA, and the PGA Tour. I have learned that the PGA of America did not even spend one cent to buy an ad in this issue to congratulate the Magazine and respect this publication that serves the Black Community. They declined to spend one cent to buy an advertisement to say “Thank You” and “Good job the publisher Debert Cook,” a very reputable Black female, and the first and only Black Woman to wholly own a golf magazine. And, The PGA of America rarely ever advertises with the publication in any capacity. This is ridiculous! Especially considering the millions of dollars that the PGA of America spends on overall advertising. NO Heart or Respect!
PGA of America stop using smoke and mirrors with Black people and put your money where your mouth is.
Sadly, after 24 years, the PGA of America never sent me a Thank You Letter, Award Certificate, or Recognition, as I’ve seen them do with white suppliers (people) over the years. Not even a Thank you from Mr. Haig or Mr. Waugh. Mr. Haig, you saw me all those many early mornings preparing my team for the tournament. My heart is broken.
My plans are to retire from golf in 2025. The 2025 PGA Championship is in my hometown of Charlotte, NC. The PGA of America and Delaware North should rest in dignity and let me retire with my 6th and last Ryder Cup in Bethpage and, 25th PGA Championship in my hometown at Quail Hollow, NC, where I grew up caddying. I worked the Presidents Cup there last year and two major TV stories were done on me.
There is a bestseller book about 100 people who are considered the best in their areas of sports. “The Sport Business Handbook”. The book is supposedly the most influential Sports Book written in 50 years. Chapter 7 was written by me, Jack Nicklaus, and Cal Ripken Jr. The book says I am one of the best Golf Concessionaires in the Country!!
Get the Book……. Why am I not working or consulting? America and Golf this is not right. My company has worked these tournaments:
Why is this Black Man and Company of around 50 experienced golf employees sitting at home? I have in writing from March 2022 the PGA of America touting what a great job I have done. It’s 2023, and sadly, as in 1994, most Black employees at a golf tournament are washing dishes, cooking, cleaning, and serving as hourly employees.
I’m standing by ready to go back to work. Come on Execs at PGA of America and Delaware North let’s right this mistake and together make these the greatest tournaments/years ever.
PGA of America Contact and Address:
PGA of America
1916 PGA Parkway
Frisco, Texas 75033
-John Linder, President
-Nathan Charnes, Secretary
-Rhonda Aime, CFO
-Seth Waugh, CEO
-Kerry Haig, Chief Championships Officer
-Sandy Cross, Chief People Officer
-Ben Rubin, Director, Championship Operations
Delaware North Contacts & Address:
Delaware North
250 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
-Jerry M. Jacobs, Chairman
-Jeff Wilkinson, Chief Information Officer
-Robert Wilson, Patina Group (Golf)
-Heather Jacobs, Human Resources
This is 2023 in America. Why is this happening?
Dave Cook
Americana Capital Catering
Telephone: (704) 299-7696
email: [email protected]
It is with heavy hearts that we remember the life of Reginald Haysbert, a 75-year-old resident of Owings Mill, whose life was tragically cut short in a pedestrian crash on the night of September 6, 2023. The incident occurred near the intersection of Painters Mill Road and Owings Choice Court, 21117, shortly after 11:00 p.m.
According to investigators from the Baltimore County Police Department Crash Team, Mr. Haysbert was struck by a vehicle believed to be a dark-colored or black 2013-2015 Honda Accord, traveling southbound on Painters Mill Road. Following the collision, medics swiftly transported Mr. Haysbert to a nearby hospital, but tragically, his injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Honda involved in the accident fled the scene.
In the wake of this heart-wrenching incident, the Baltimore County Police Department Crash Team is tirelessly working to piece together the events leading up to the crash. They are actively seeking any information or witnesses that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. If you possess any knowledge that may assist investigators, please do not hesitate to contact them at 410-307-2020. For those who wish to provide anonymous tips, you can utilize the Baltimore County Police Department iWATCH program or reach out to Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-756-2587.
Haysbert was a member of Black Diamond Golf Club since 2017. He was remembered as a doting friend who would go out of his way to help others. A celebration of life was held on Friday, September 29 at Dreamlife Worship Center, 4111 Deer Park Road, Randallstown, MD 21133. Family Hour: 11:00am, Memorial Service 12:00pm.
Michael Karanga touched down in Kenya on a Friday morning and wasted no time heading straight to the golf tee.
Karanga, on a hot streak, emerged victorious at the Kabete Open, which unfolded at the par 72 Vet Lab Sports Club in Nairobi on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Karanga brought with him a wealth of experience gained from his recent participation in the Egypt Amateur Golf Championships.
In the third and final round of the competition, which marked the 19th leg of this year’s Kenya Amateur Golf Championships (KAGC) series, Karanga impressed by carding a remarkable two-under-par 70. This Kiambu-based golfer, who had secured a respectable 6th-place finish at the North African Championships, acknowledged the valuable role that the Egypt Amateur tournament played in refining his skills for the home event.
“Competing in Egypt was a challenging experience, and returning home gave me an advantage. The more I engage in such tough contests, the more I develop the skills necessary for the next game,” Karanga explained.
Karanga, who made history as the first Kenyan to break into the top 100 amateur players worldwide, began his campaign with a joint second-place finish at one-under-par 71, alongside Ruiru’s Bernard Omondi, trailing behind Ugandan Godfrey Nsubuga. He then extended his lead to four strokes after the second round on Saturday.
During Saturday’s play, he started strongly with a birdie at the par-four first hole, maintaining six consecutive pars until the eighth hole, where he narrowly missed a putt for par. He did drop a shot at the 10th hole after a full swing but quickly recovered with birdies at the 12th, 14th, 15th, and 16th to card a 68.
On the final day of the tournament, Karanga began with a birdie on the 7th hole and a bogey on the third, recording all pars for a level-par 36 on the front nine. His second nine was nothing short of impressive, with two birdies on the 11th and 14th holes and all pars for a score of two-under-par 34, securing his victory.
Having already secured a ticket to the Magical Kenya Open by winning both the Kenya Amateur Stroke Play and Kenya Amateur Matchplay, Karanga remains the golfer to watch.
You can view the final Kabete Open Leaderboard by following this link: https://bit.ly/45eFSyX
Golf has undergone seismic changes over the past 18 months. The emergence of LIV Golf has shaken the foundations of the sport and caused the game’s traditional powerbrokers to dig deep to ensure the PGA Tour remains the pre-eminent force in golf.
Money has clearly been a driving factor behind many of the changes that have taken place. But another huge influence behind the upheaval has been what feels like an age-old question for golf: how does the sport appeal to a younger audience and engage fans?
There never seems to be a shortage of young golfing talent coming through the pipeline with hopes of eventually graduating to the PGA Tour. However, persuading and encouraging new audiences to watch the sport and engage with golf in a variety of ways remains a constant challenge.
One means of trying to connect with a potential new golf fanbase has been through gambling and promotional opportunities, whether that is via your traditional betting markets or the creation of online casino games. Online slot games such as The Argyle Open and Lucky Shot provide a means for people to engage with golf. Online gambling platforms use marketing tools such as promotions like free spins in a bid to attract new customers and golf fans are more likely to play golf-related titles if they also pick up an offer along the way. While there are several golf-themed casino games currently on the market, a constant evolution of the titles and their design is essential in maintaining the interest and engagement of fans.
The slow-paced nature of golf is often pointed toward as a reason for the sport’s troubles in attracting and subsequently retaining, a new breed of fans. But where this does hold benefit is in betting in-play during tournaments. Prior to a tournament starting, there is always a huge array of betting markets to assess, including outright, top-20 finish, player to make the cut, etc., but betting in-running shows how the engagement of an audience across a four-day 72-hole tournament can be maintained. Bettors have the opportunity to place a wager after every good or bad shot or trade their position on a market, throughout the tournament.
Video games, and their format, are another means of how golf is trying to appeal to a new prospective audience. Golf video games have come a long way since the first installment of PGA Tour Golf in 1990 and there is a sense they are enjoying a revival in the past few years. When Tiger Woods’ long-standing partnership with EA Sports came to an end in the early 2010s, and the subsequent Rory McIlroy-named version failed to make a splash, it appeared the future of golf video games was bleak.
But the PGA Tour 2K franchise, which includes a partnership with Woods, has breathed fresh life into the genre and has even persuaded gaming giant EA Sports to jump back into the sport after it released its first golf video game since 2015 earlier this year. There is a certain cross-over between the two games, particularly in relation to some of the courses you can play but they also have features that are successful in other 2K and EA Sports video games. The ability to play in career mode to work your way up through the ranks or the chance to create your own golfer provides an immersive experience that maintains fan engagement.
Bringing the sport of golf off the course is something that the game’s leading figures are increasingly understanding as being vital to attracting new fans. The Woods and McIlroy-backed venture, TGL, is going to be a fascinating experiment to watch in terms of its ability to attract and engage a new audience.
Scheduled to start in early 2024, the league has been created in partnership with the PGA Tour and is billed as ‘offering a fresh approach to the sport with a focus on technology, innovation, and fan engagement’.
With a primetime slot booked for Monday nights, it is going to be intriguing to see how the two-hour team golf competition will hook in the audience. What may work in its favor is that US audiences are at least accustomed to primetime TV sports on a Monday night through the NFL.
A purpose-built venue in Palm Beach will hold 2,000 fans but the prospects for the long-term success of the venture will hinge on how well the virtual course translates as a viewing experience for those at home. There is a clear intention, as well, to appeal to those who spend time scrolling through their social media feeds due to plans to roll out highlights and snippets of those ‘wow’ moments.
It will also be an opportunity for golf to create greater personalities out of the sport’s leading players. Injecting an element of fun into the spirit of competition will also help the sport and the players to form closer connections to the fans at home.
All the ingredients seem to be there for the TGL to be a hit. Many of the PGA Tour’s leading players have signed up, those teams that have already signed up and represent cities across the States have high-profile sports and celebrity backers, and the format should retain attention. With each night being a two-hour hit, and with the prospect of a final at the end of the competition, there is something for new fans to engage with and a team to root for, too.
The team element itself is one way in which LIV Golf has tried to appeal to a new audience. As an essentially individual sport, it has always been hard for golf to position itself as a sport that can give fans a team cause to get behind. Aside from the biannual Ryder Cup, for all its fervor, passion, and at times, hostility, team golf has never truly taken off.
The jury is probably still out as to how successful the team format has been with LIV Golf, and the enterprise in general, but it is undeniable that it has attempted to shake things up and make the ‘product’ of golf more attractive to a younger audience. From using shotgun starts and relaxing the dress code, LIV Golf has tried to tap into a new fanbase.
The PGA Tour has certainly taken huge financial steps to address the dual challenge posed by LIV Golf and the quest to bring on board the younger generation. The player impact program rewards players for how well they generate coverage for the Tour and engaging with new and younger fans is a key element behind this.
And, again, while money may well be an influencing factor, the PGA Tour’s determination to have the top players competing more regularly makes huge sense. Old and new golf fans want to see the best players out on the course as much as possible. Just like new fans attracted to the MLS following Inter Miami’s signing of Lionel Messi would not be happy if he only plays occasionally, new golf fans will not stay loyal to the sport if the likes of McIlroy or Jon Rahm turn up once every three weeks.
The turmoil in the world of golf of late may certainly have distressed traditionalists, but the sport has arguably never been in a stronger position to attract and engage a new audience on and off the course.
Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods share a close friendship today, even co-owning a business together. However, let’s rewind to 2010 when the relationship between these two iconic golfers was frosty at best.
The lead-up to the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor was dominated by discussions about Woods. The 15-time major winner had only recently returned to the golfing scene following a prolonged hiatus triggered by a public scandal surrounding his personal life in 2009. What added fuel to the fire was the state of Woods’ game.
The world’s number one golfer had failed to secure a victory in an event for the first time since turning professional in 1997, and he did not automatically qualify for Team USA. Despite making a comeback with a respectable T4 finish at the Masters, the rest of his season took a downward spiral.
Even US team captain Corey Pavin found himself in a heated verbal exchange with a journalist who published quotes about Woods being a shoo-in for the team. Nevertheless, Woods was eventually chosen for the team, a decision that brought joy to McIlroy’s heart.
“I would love to face him,” McIlroy declared before the 2010 Ryder Cup. Considering that Woods had been McIlroy’s childhood idol, one might interpret this statement as an admirer yearning to fulfill a lifelong dream by competing against his hero. However, McIlroy left no room for ambiguity.
He went on to say, “Unless his game rapidly improves in the next month or so, I think anyone in the European team would fancy his chances against him.” It was a bold statement that could be likened to poking a bear, something that history has shown to be a risky endeavor when it comes to Woods, as Stephen Ames could attest.
In a manner reminiscent of Michael Jordan’s legendary competitiveness, Woods took McIlroy’s comments personally. When asked about his reaction to McIlroy’s words, Woods tersely replied, “Me too.” Pressed further to elaborate, Woods simply said, “No.”
Regrettably, the anticipated showdown between McIlroy and Woods never materialized in Newport. Nevertheless, both players could claim moral victories in their own right.
Michael Bloomberg has once again expressed his opposition to remote work, this time alleging that some employees are indulging in leisure activities like golf when they should be at their desks. In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, the former New York City mayor and billionaire businessman emphasized that employees are being paid for a full week of work and questioned whether all tasks could effectively be accomplished from home. He humorously pointed out the rise in golf course attendance over the past three years, finding it both amusing and lamentable.
A study conducted by Stanford University researchers in March revealed a substantial increase in golfing during weekdays and mid-afternoons, suggesting that remote work had contributed to this trend. The researchers, Nick Bloom and Alex Finan, hypothesized that employees were using golf as a break while working from home. When CBS’s Mo Rocca mentioned Minneapolis mayor Jacob Frey’s estimate that no more than 75% of remote workers would return to the office, Bloomberg dismissed this assertion, asserting that remote work via Zoom was insufficient and that in-person interactions were irreplaceable.
The productivity of remote work remains a subject of disagreement between employees and their managers. According to a Stanford University survey conducted the previous year, employees reported feeling 7.4% more productive when working from home, while managers believed productivity decreased by 3.5% in remote settings.
This is not the first time Bloomberg has raised concerns about remote work. In August, he authored an opinion piece for The Washington Post, arguing that federal employees had been working remotely for too long. He noted that over 80% of employees at his media company adhered to a three-day office attendance policy and planned to increase it to four days in the fall. Bloomberg emphasized the benefits of in-person work, especially for mentoring and nurturing junior staff members, highlighting its importance for professional development and the organization’s future.
Following the publication of Bloomberg’s article, reports indicated that President Biden intensified efforts to bring federal employees back to the office. Several major employers, including Meta, Amazon, and Goldman Sachs, have also discontinued remote work policies, prompting resistance from employees who seek new opportunities or refuse to comply with the return-to-office directives.
Abbie Shipp, a professor of management at the Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian University, described the ongoing conflict as regrettable, emphasizing the missed opportunity to experiment with alternative work arrangements tailored to individual and organizational needs.
Are you tired of waiting for the perfect weather to hit the golf course? Wish you could work on your putting skills without leaving the comfort of your home? Look no further because Tether Golf is here to revolutionize your golfing experience. Imagine a game that combines the thrill of golf with the simplicity of hook and ring, all while hanging on your wall. Tether Golf is not just a game; it’s an addictive, head-to-head battle that will keep you entertained for hours.
The Game
Tether Golf takes the classic game of golf and adapts it for your yard or man cave. The objective is simple: putt or toss the tethered golf ball into the hole, all while aiming to be the first player to win five “holes” in this match play format. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete novice, Tether Golf offers a fun and challenging experience that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s suitable for solo play or group gatherings, making it the perfect addition to any game room.
Features
Tether Golf comes with built-in scorecards and tee markers, ensuring you can keep track of your progress and compete with friends and family. The game is designed with safety in mind and includes an added breakaway connector on the ball assembly, making it safe for players of all ages.
One of the best things about Tether Golf is its convenience. Setting up the game takes almost no time or space, and it can be enjoyed all year round. Whether it’s raining outside, too dark to play a full round, or you simply want to work on your putting skills at your convenience, Tether Golf has got you covered. With immediate feedback on your shots, you can refine your preparation, form, line, and weight, helping you become a better golfer.
But Tether Golf isn’t limited to golf enthusiasts alone. If golfing isn’t your cup of tea, simply shorten the cord a bit and use your hand to swing the ball into the ring. It’s a versatile game that can be tailored to your preferences.
The Tether Golf Set is priced at $59.95 and includes everything you need to get started: a backboard, a metal target ring, an adjustable tethered golf ball, target ring screws, backboard screws, and drywall anchors. (Please note that the putter is not included.) You can find the game rules and additional information on their website at https://tethergolf.com/
Fore Life, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that uses the game of golf and its character-building skills to empower vulnerable youth to help them survive and succeed. Founded by Paula Pearson-Tucker, an LPGA Teaching and Club Professional and head golf professional for the City of Lauderhill (1999- present). She serves as Executive Director of the organization along with Co-Founder Football Hall of Fame, Lawrence “L.T.” Taylor.
To give all youth exposed to Fore Life the opportunity to realize their full potential. To assure that Fore Life youth are empowered with decision-making skills and are challenged with appropriate experiences that make them less vulnerable to the perils of today’s society. The most recent initiative, Golf Instead of Guns is a unique national program that includes mentoring and golf programming in communities where juvenile crime and gun violence are prevalent.
For more information visit https://forelifeinc.org/
A devastating fire at a golf ball factory in Taiwan, responsible for producing approximately 20% of the world’s golf ball supply, has resulted in the tragic loss of nine lives, including four firefighters, and left over 100 people injured, as reported by the AP.
The fire erupted on Friday at Launch Technologies Co., a company that may not be widely recognized in the United States but is a contract manufacturer for several renowned brands in the golf industry, including Topgolf, Callaway, TaylorMade, and Bridgestone, according to the AP.
The report indicates that the fire rapidly spread and was followed by a powerful explosion, leading to the collapse of a section of the factory building, trapping factory workers inside. Subsequently, another explosion occurred, causing further devastation.
One significant contributing factor to the severity of the fire, as highlighted by the AP, is the materials used in golf ball production, which include highly flammable and explosive organic peroxides.
During a press conference following the incident, the mayor of Pingtung County revealed that Launch Technologies had a stockpile of 3,000 tons of organic peroxides on-site, far exceeding the 100-ton limit for hazardous materials imposed by Taiwanese law. Reports suggest that these organic peroxides were stored on the factory’s first floor instead of in a separate warehouse, as required by regulations.
Launch Technologies has already incurred fines totaling $75,000 for various violations related to the fire. These violations include a 20-minute delay in reporting the emergency to authorities, failure to designate a responsible point of contact for the fire commander, and failure to provide a comprehensive inventory of hazardous materials to responding firefighters.
This incident is not the first time that Launch Technologies has faced fines. Reports indicate that as far back as 2011, the company was ordered to compensate workers for overtime work that exceeded legal limits and occurred under harmful conditions. Furthermore, Launch Technologies faced fines in 2018 for other health and safety violations and in 2020 for air pollution-related issues.
The consequences of this fire are expected to have a long-lasting impact on golf ball manufacturing in Taiwan and are likely to lead to stricter regulations regarding the storage of hazardous materials.
Launch Technologies also supplies golf balls to several smaller brands, including OnCore. For these companies, swiftly finding alternative suppliers could present significant logistical challenges, especially given that their product plans are often made months or even years in advance.
In response to the incident, Callaway issued a statement expressing awareness of the fire and the company’s commitment to working with Launch Technologies and local authorities to gather more information. Callaway also extended their thoughts to the first responders, employees, and families affected by the tragedy.