Accessories

Golf Bag Wine Bottle Holder

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff


The Golf Bag Wine Bottle Holder is a stylish and unique gift for golf and wine enthusiasts alike. Handcrafted from welded iron, this industrial-chic holder is shaped like a golf bag, adding a touch of personality to any bar or kitchen. Designed to fit a standard Bordeaux-sized bottle, it showcases a blend of craftsmanship and rugged charm, with each piece featuring its own distinct imperfections. Whether as a conversation-starting display piece or a thoughtful gift, this wine holder is a must-have for those who appreciate both golf and fine wine. Price: $35. Available at IWA Wine.

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Clothing

G/FORE G/18 Golf Shoe

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
G/FORE G/18 Golf Shoes – Snow/Knockout Pink

Luxury lifestyle brand and golf footwear innovator, G/FORE is thrilled to expand their most recent success, the innovative G/18 Golf Shoe, to female players.

Building on the newest shoe’s growing popularity and heightened demand for its counterpart, the women’s iteration launched on February 2nd to an enthusiastic response from lovers of the brand. Available in multiple colorways, the distinctive golf shoe is stacked with design benefits that work together to maintain comfort for all eighteen holes—inspiring the name.

Boasting breakthrough performance technology, the Women’s G/18 retails at $250 and makes navigating the greens easy. The unique sole provides three levels of exceptional grip with rounded edges and a crash pad heel to tackle any terrain. It also features a traction covered toe wrap for extra stability during the swing phase. Designed with a wide build, the shoe supports natural footing with an engineered heel-to-toe rocker and raised sidewalls for even more balance. Add the cushioned foam interior and washable 3D molded insoles—a brand signature—and the G/18 provides a massage to the feet that lasts.

For more information on G/FORE and to shop 2025 apparel, footwear, and accessories, visit www.gfore.com.

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Auto Review

2025 Acura MDX

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

I had anticipated a comfortable ride, but the 2025 Acura MDX exceeded my expectations when I sat behind the wheel. The MDX is not just another vehicle but an invitation to adventure in a luxurious ride that doesn’t compromise power or performance.

This year, the MDX’s exterior has been refreshed with a new front grille and updated wheel design, giving it a more sophisticated look. Stepping inside, you’re greeted with a refined interior boasting upgraded materials and subtle design tweaks. The new 12.3-inch infotainment display stands out, boasting Acura’s unique True Touchpad Interface and a more user-friendly software update.

Let’s not forget the sound system! Acura swapped out the previous ELS stereo for a Bang & Olufsen system; the difference is night and day. The base model comes with 19 speakers, while the Type S boasts an impressive 31 speakers.

2025 Acura MDX Interior

Models/Price: The 2025 Acura MDX is available in multiple models, starting at $52,250 for the base and topping out at $76,300 MSRP for the Type S with Advance package, representing the lineup’s pinnacle.

Power/Performance: But the MDX is not just about looks and sound. It’s a powerhouse. The standard model has a 290-horsepower six-cylinder engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional. However, I tested the S ADV trim, where the fun begins. Under the hood lies a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine churning out a robust 355 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with the sophisticated Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, this SUV delivers exhilarating performance on and off the road.

Fuel Economy: With such power comes a slight hit to fuel economy. The base MDX model is rated at 19 city/26 highway mpg, while the Type S averages 17 city/21 highway mpg. However, considering the performance you get, it’s a fair trade-off.

The 2025 Acura MDX is a fantastic SUV that perfectly blends luxury, power, and practicality. If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV that can do it all, I highly recommend taking the MDX for a test drive. You won’t be disappointed.

Visit Decisive Media Network for a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, where you can find updated car-buying tips and reviews on new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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SliderWomen's Round

Avis Brown-Riley Shares Her Golf Trailblazing Journey On The Miss Honey B Show

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

This week, the Miss Honey B Show featured a compelling conversation with Avis Brown-Riley, where she shares her experiences growing up in a golfing family and her remarkable journey as a professional golfer and author.

Avis Brown-Riley is a trailblazing African American golfer who has achieved numerous milestones in the sport. She was the first and only African American woman to win the prestigious Junior World Golf Championship and the San Diego Women’s City Amateur Championship. Additionally, she made history as the first African American to win the National Minority Collegiate Golf Championship and to participate in the Wickes Andy Williams San Diego Open.

Despite facing significant challenges, including a battle with breast cancer, Brown-Riley persevered and continued her contributions to the game. She became one of the few African American women inducted into the African American Golfer’s Hall of Fame and recently became the first African American to qualify and play in the U.S. Women’s Senior Open

In addition to her golfing achievements, Brown-Riley is an author. Her book Building of a Champion details her journey through triumphs and hardships, emphasizing perseverance and faith. Through her story, she inspires others to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams .

The Miss Honey B Show, hosted by Bridgette Clarke, is a talk show that features engaging interviews with notable guests across various industries, including entertainment, sports, and business. The show focuses on uplifting stories, insightful discussions, and personal journeys, offering a platform for inspiring conversations. It is produced by Action Shot Productions and is available on YouTube. To watch episodes and learn more, visit the official YouTube channel: The Miss Honey B Show.

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Entertainment

Naked Acts, The Critically-Acclaimed 1996 Independent Film by Bridgett M. Davis

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Milestone Films, Kino Lorber and Julie Dash present a new 4K restoration of Naked Acts, the landmark 1996 independent film by Bridgett M. Davis.

Milestone and Kino Lorber will release Naked Acts on Blu-ray and DVD February 18, 2025. The SRP for the Blu-ray is $29.95 and the SRP for the DVD is $19.95.

Celebrated as a key film in the canon of independent cinema by African Americans in the 1990s, Bridgett M. Davis’s Naked Acts was included in the seminal anthology “The 50 Most Influential https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/best-black-movies-21st-century/” by S. Torriano Berry.

Beautiful aspiring actor Cicely (Jake-ann Jones) has just landed her first major role, but there’s a big problem: it requires a nude scene. Her mother was a Blaxploitation star known for her sex appeal, while Cicely is a survivor of sexual assault with life-long body image issues, all of which has left her with a strong aversion to disrobing in public. Now, with the support of her boyfriend Joel (Ron Cephas Jones, star of This Is Us), she attempts to get past her fear.

“The film deftly touches on body image, how Black women are portrayed in media, generational trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and mommy issues.”— Kaitlyn Greenidge, Harper’s Bazaar

Bonus features include an archival audio commentary by director Bridgett M. Davis and star Jake-ann Jones (2000); “Creative Detours” and “Last Wish”, two short films from 1992 by Bridgett M. Davis; Film Scholar Maya Cade Interviews Bridgett M. Davis; Naked Acts at BAM Premiere (2024), and the trailer. Also included on the Blu-ray edition is archival 1990s interview footage with Bridgett M. Davis.

The Blu-ray and DVD release of Naked Acts comes just ahead of the publication of Bridgett M. Davis’s new book Love, Rita, which Kirkus Reviews calls “A powerful tribute to sisterhood and the complex fragility of Black lives.”

Digitally Restored and Remastered in 4K by Lightbox Film Center. In Collaboration with Milestone Film From the 16mm A/B Rolls Preserved at the Indiana University Black Film Center & Archive. With Support from Ron and Suzanne Naples. Restoration and Release with Creative Consultation by Maya S. Cade. Cover art design by Lauren Caddick.

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SliderTournaments

Kieron van Wyk Becomes First Amateur to Win an APGA Tour Event at Season-Opening Farmers Insurance® Invitational

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE
Kieron van Wyk has secured his spot as the first-ever amateur winner of the APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational.

LA JOLLA, Calif. – In his first tournament on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour, 23-year-old Kieron van Wyk made history.

The College of Charleston senior captured the APGA Tour’s season-opening Farmers Insurance Invitational on Sunday at Torrey Pines Golf Course (South), becoming the first amateur golfer to win an APGA event since the tour started in 2010.

A native of South Africa, van Wyk made par on the 18th hole in regulation, then birded the same hole twice in a three-man, sudden-death playoff that went two holes.

“I’m proud of myself and how I did,” van Wyck said. “I played well yesterday, and I just struggled a little bit mentally on the greens.  I knew I had the game to compete and win out here coming off a good season I had last semester. Yeah, I’m proud of myself. Only good things can come from this.”

Having never set foot on Torrey Pines prior to this week, van Wyk made the most of his first visit to the west coast, shooting 3-over-par 75 Saturday on the North Course and then carding a 1-under-par 71 Sunday on the more difficult South Course. Despite a bogey on the 17th after he pulled his driver off the tee, he rebounded with a par on the 18th and then watched as Luis Gagne and Chase Johnson both birdied the 18th to enter into the playoff.

Johnson was eliminated after the first playoff hole, and on the second playoff hole, van Wyk flushed his driver down the middle, then went straight at the flag with a 7-iron from 187 yards, and chipped from the fringe off the back of the green to within two feet for a tap-in birdie that sealed his victory.

Because van Wyk is an amateur, he will not take home the $30,000 winner’s check from the Farmers Insurance Invitational’s $100,000 purse. Gagne and Johnson will split the first- and second-place payouts, each earning $22,500.

“He seems very mature for his age,” said Gagne, a 27-year-old Costa Rica native who played collegiately at LSU and played in the 2018, 2019 and 2021 U.S. Opens, the latter which took place at Torrey Pines’ South Course. “He’s got a lot of (club) speed. He’s very calm, cool and composed. I think he’ll do great things if he keeps progressing. Kids now they can hit it so far. Playing on No. 18, definitely I felt like it was a disadvantage because I really have to hit a good drive off the tee to get there in two, and he’s hitting an iron in, which is pretty nuts. He’s very talented. I’m happy that he won. He played great.”

Van Wyk already has a bright future ahead of him in golf. He earned his spot in the APGA Farmers Insurance Invitational as the top player in the 2024-2025 Bridgestone APGA Collegiate Ranking as of October 30, 2024. By virtue of winning the White Sands Bahamas Men’s NCAA Golf Invitational last fall, he secured an exemption into the PGA TOUR’s Puerto Rico Open this March.

Last season marked the third consecutive year that van Wyk was named First Team All-Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). He was the individual conference champion in 2022, making him the first Black golfer in CAA history to win medalist honors at the league tournament.   

The support of the APGA Tour and its players are part of an ongoing effort from Farmers Insurance to advance its commitment to grow the game of golf. The national insurer supports the APGA Tour and APGA Foundation to help provide assistance for players at all stages of their journey. 

“I think the APGA is doing really good stuff,” van Wyk said. “I think as a young professional or soon-to-be professional, you need as many opportunities as you can. It’s tough out here to play as a pro. You need those opportunities to get yourself going and familiarize yourself with the environments and everything that it has to offer. I’m truly grateful for all that they do and the opportunity that they’ve given me this week.”

Added Gagne: “On the APGA, this (event) is top notch. It’s either this one or the Cisco (Invitational at Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach). These two are the best events we have all year. So I’m very thankful for Farmers and all their support for helping us get out here. It means a lot for us to have purses like this to allow us to keep trying to chase our dreams. It’s something to be proud of.”

This year’s event marks the sixth staging of the Farmers Insurance Invitational, which takes place in conjunction with the PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. For the past several years, Farmers® has also provided an APGA Tour player with an exemption into the Farmers Insurance Open, with Willie Mack III receiving a spot in the 2025 field.

About the APGA Tour

The APGA Tour was established in 2010 as a non-profit organization with the mission to bring greater diversity to the game of golf. The APGA Tour Board of Directors works to accomplish this by hosting and operating professional golf tournaments, player development programs, mentoring programs and by introducing the game to inner city young people. In addition to conducting 18 tournaments awarding over $1 million in prize and bonus money in 2024, the APGA has organized a Player Development Program to aid young minority golfers as they work to chase their goals in professional golf.

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Largest PGA Show in 15 years attracts more than 33,000 industry professionals to drive booming golf business in 2025

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE
ORLANDO, FL – January 23: (L-R) PGA Professional, Brian Crowell, President of 34 Group, Thurman Thomas, Ron Jaworski Golf, Ron Jaworski, NFL Alumni Association President, Bart Oates and NFL Alumni Association CEO, Beasley Reece pose for a photo at the Forum Stage during the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show on January 23, 2020 at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Hailey Garrett/PGA of America)

ORLANDO, Florida (January 27, 2025) – More than 33,000 golf industry professionals from 94 countries and 50 U.S. states came together to meet with more than 1,100 participating brands at the 72nd PGA Show in Orlando, Florida, Jan. 21-24, 2025. With the continued growth of the recreational game, the PGA Show reached its largest size since 2009, pointing to a highly optimistic outlook for the $102 billion golf industry in 2025.

While the PGA Show began in the trunks of cars during a 1954 golf tournament, it has grown into golf’s longest running and largest global business gathering. Held for the 39th year in 1.1 million square feet the Orange County Convention Center, the 2025 PGA Show expanded in multiple categories – by number of attendees, number of exhibitors, net booth space and total event space, making it the largest PGA Show in 15 years. The PGA Show is organized by the PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions.

ORLANDO, FL – January 22: Thousands of attendees eagerly await entry into the 77th Annual PGA Show for the Opening Ceremonies at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)

“Every year the PGA Show leaves us energized and inspired, setting a positive tone for the new golf season,” said PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA Master Professional and Owner/Operator of Augusta Ranch Golf Club (Arizona). “With more than 33,000 in attendance, including over 6,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals, this is our ‘Member’s Major.’ The Show offered a wealth of business opportunities, but equally important were the mentoring, networking and career development moments. I love seeing our younger professionals at their first PGA Show walking side-by-side with their seasoned mentors. The true essence of this week are the relationships and collaboration within our industry to advance the game of golf and leave it better than we found it.”

ORLANDO, FL – January 22: An overview of the Opening Ceremony during the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show on January 22, 2020 at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Hailey Garrett/PGA of America)

Among the tens of thousands of attendees were more than 7,300 PGA of America Golf Professionals, LPGA and international PGA Professionals, representing widespread professional positions in the global industry and driving grassroots participation in the game by millions worldwide. More than 1,300 VIP buyers representing 840 golf facilities and retailers sourced new products and services, bringing approximately $885 million in purchasing power and nearly $2.2 billion in retail sales to the event.

ORLANDO, FL – January 23: Trevor Anderson instructs The Game Plan: Five Key Phases of the Goolf Performance Session at the Golf, Fitness, Wellness and Instruction stage during the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show on January 23, 2020 at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)

Additionally, more than 1,100 media, including some 200 content creators and social media influencers from 22 countries reported from the trade-only PGA Show, offering an exclusive inside look to the game’s newest innovations for millions of consumers around the world. Industry professional attendance came from 94 countries and all 50 U.S. states with Canada, the United Kingdom, China, Japan and Mexico topping the list of international attendees and Texas, New York, Georgia, California and North Carolina representing top states, outside of the host state of Florida.

ORLANDO, FL – January 22: An overview during the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show on January 22, 2020 at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/PGA of America)

The game’s most recognizable brands and veteran manufacturers, along with nearly 400 exhibitors new to the PGA Show, created an unparalleled marketplace to showcase the latest innovations that will enhance the golf experience and drive the business of the sport. Thousands of products and services were introduced among some 10 miles of Show aisles including products such as Titleist 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls; Cobra DS-ADAPT family of drivers and metalwoods; PING G440 line of drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, and Irons; Bridgestone 220 MB, 221 CB and 222 CB+ Forged irons and BRM2 Forged wedges; Blue Tees Playmaker+ GPS Watch and Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder; Club Car new Onward LSV; Sunday Golf’s new kids golf bag line; ICON EV new E40FX model; Johnnie-O’s first women’s line; Flag & Anthem Ryder Cup Capsule; Duca del Casma first-ever apparel collection; Ellesworth + Ivey Custom Sweaters and Sweatshirts; A. Putnam Royal Gardens Collection and many more.

ORLANDO, FL – January 22: Attendees at Cobra Speedzone during the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show on January 22, 2020 at Orlando County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/PGA of America)

“We had a feeling heading into the PGA Show that this year’s event was going to be special, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response from attending golf industry professionals and exhibiting brands – many who called it the ‘best show ever’,” said PGA Golf Exhibitions Vice President Marc Simon. “The largest PGA Show in 15 years, combined with really strong industry attendance, is a tremendous start to the new year for the golf industry. Our global golf community relishes the opportunity to connect in person and we leave the PGA Show with renewed friendships, new business opportunities and a recharged outlook moving into 2025.”

While the PGA Show is an unmatched marketplace for discovering the latest golf innovations, PGA Show Week also offered industry professionals many special events and widespread educational programming to recharge and renew their passion for the business of the game.

PGA Show Week began on January 21 when thousands of PGA of America Golf Professionals overcame grey skies and intermittent rainy weather to test the latest equipment and technology from more than 70 top golf companies during PGA Show Demo Day, the world’s largest professional outdoor demo day, at the expansive circular range and 42-acre practice facility at Orange County National Golf Center. The immersive day-long event, produced in partnership by the PGA Show and PGA Magazine, also featured extensive product education, coaching workshops, golf fitness presentations, a club fitting genius bar, programming on golf range strategies, demonstrations by PGA & LPGA TOUR professionals and opportunities to meet one-on-one with industry leaders in numerous categories.

The following day on January 22, PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA, and CEO Derek Sprague, PGA, officially opened the doors to more than 1,100 companies and brands, from emerging ventures and veteran manufacturers to the games’ most recognizable brands, to create the world’s largest business-to-business golf event. Golf’s top companies and market-leading brands, along with nearly 400 new to the PGA Show, introduced thousands of new products and services to drive golf retail in 2025.

In addition to the busy marketplace across the expanse of the Show Floor, PGA Show days were full of professional learning opportunities during exhibitor and industry presentations at six Show Floor stages. The PGA Industry Stage presented by CapTech offered a full schedule of diverse programming from the PGA of America in collaboration with leading golf organizations, expert business leaders and top coaches. The Golf Fitness, Health & Wellness stage featured complimentary education sessions presented by TPI and the Golf Fitness Association of America, with supporting sponsor Life Fitness. The Inventors Spotlight stage offered entrepreneur and inventor education sessions and product pitch panels each Show day. PGA of America Golf Professionals, college students and second-career professionals connected with employers right on the Show Floor in the Career Zone featuring company recruiting activations, networking events and a stage for golf career programming. The Clubhouse stage featured a full schedule of industry programming by golf development and racquet sports experts. And finally, the new RETREAT Hall featured evening events including the Industry Welcome Reception and Fashion Show and the Winter Jam concert which featured headliner THIRD EYE BLIND.

PGA Show evenings brought exciting industry networking events. The first Show Day, Jan. 22, featured a late-afternoon announcement of the Class of 2025 PGA of America National Awards honorees, headlined by PGA of America Golf Professionals Scott Paris, Jason Baile and Tony LaFrenere earning PGA of America Golf Professional of the Year, PGA of America Teacher & Coach of the Year and PGA of America Golf Executive of the Year, respectively. In all, 13 Award recipients were recognized on the PGA of America Industry Stage presented by CapTech, and followed by a Member Reception in the PGA of America Hub.

Day 1 finished with an Industry Welcome Reception sponsored by Johnnie-O and a runway Fashion Show, located at the new RETREAT Stage. The last Show evening, Jan. 23, ended with thousands of industry professionals enjoying the PGA Show Winter Jam, supported by adidas and Corebridge Financial, and featuring award-winning 90s rock band THIRD EYE BLIND. The after-hours concert experience attracted thousands of industry professionals to an exciting night of live music while unwinding with peers after a busy three days at the PGA Show. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the PGA of America Reach Foundation’s flagship military rehabilitative golf program, began celebration of its 10-year anniversary with a dedicated day Thursday, and was the concert’s charitable partner with Veterans, Active Military, PGA HOPE certified PGA of America Golf Professionals, Ambassadors and graduates attending as special guests.

A dynamic 2025 PGA Show Floor featured interactive destinations to personally engage attendees with company products and services including: The PGA of America Hub where Members accessed Association and partner benefits and programming; the Equipment Test Center, which featured 44 testing bays and a 3,750 square-foot putting green; the Innovation District featured the New Product Zone for a one-stop shopping of the newest golf merchandise and the Inventors Spotlight exhibitor pavilion for patented products not yet available at retail; the Golf Fitness, Health & Wellness area; an Adaptive Golf Center; Career Zone, Golf Travel Pavilion, The Clubhouse with two Pickleball Courts for racquet demonstrations, and THE | RETREAT, a new premium brand and event experience space in Hall E, also home to the Industry Welcome Reception & Fashion Show and PGA Show Winter Jam concert.

PGA Show Week had a full schedule of special events to bring industry peers together. In addition to the PGA Show Winter Jam and the Industry Welcome Reception & Fashion Show held in the evenings, industry professionals could attend a variety of special events and various award recognition programs by the PGA of America, LPGA, PGA of Canada, National Golf Course Owners Association and the Association of Golf Merchandisers. Networking receptions and happy hours at a variety of Show Floor pavilions and exhibits, and multiple exhibitor events on the Show Floor and throughout Orlando in the evenings were also available.

Many exhibiting companies hosted renowned PGA Coaches, PGA and LPGA touring professionals and celebrities at the PGA Show. Some of the 2025 PGA Show special appearances included: Brad Faxon, Jim Furyk, Lexi Thompson, Blair O’Neal, Kyle Berkshire, Stacy Lewis, Matt Fitzpatrick, Brooke Henderson, Jim Nantz, Lydia Ko, Annika Sorenstam, Derek Jeter, Former NFL players – Josh Dobbs, Marcus Jones, Tyrell Adams and more.

The 72nd PGA Show featured a comprehensive schedule of education sessions across a wide range of professional development topics presented by the industry’s foremost experts. PGA Show Education offered more than 70 sessions on Teaching & Coaching, Executive Management and Golf Operations, led by expert PGA of America Golf Professionals, PGA Master Professionals and top PGA Coaches, with additional sessions focused on technology solutions, food & beverage operations, retail strategies, marketing practices, facility branding, public relations and more. Additionally, several golf organization education programs were co-located with the 2025 PGA Show including the PGA of America Teaching & Coaching Summit, the National Golf Course Owners Association Golf Business Conference and the AGM Golf Retail Conference. PGA Professionals had the opportunity to earn up to 40 PDR credits through participation in the PGA Show Education, additional PGA Show Week educational programming and various PGA Show and PGA of America programs. 

Awards Announced
The 2025 PGA Show also shined a spotlight on new products and talented inventors in the New Product Zone and Inventor’s Spotlight Pavilion. Innovations in the New Product Zone, a one-stop pavilion of the newest golf merchandise, were judged by a panel of award-winning PGA of America Golf Professionals and golf buyers. The judging panel selected three overall “Best New Product” Award winners – Pinned Golf portable GPS golf tablet, Heathlander golf shoes and knitwear, and Volle Golf/GreenUp biodegradable golf tees made from coffee.

The Inventors Spotlight pavilion, organized in partnership with the United Inventors Association (UIA), showcased new golf products developed by independent inventors within more than 50 pavilion exhibits. Products were reviewed by UIA experts and top inventions were presented with one of four awards: Most Innovative to UpSwing Golf, Best Marketing to PuttBuddies, Best Product Pitch to VannyVee Sports, and the Overall Award to Tübr Storage.

The Wednesday night live Fashion Show offered attendees the opportunity to vote for the “People’s Choice Awards” in three categories. Among the standout brands presenting were A. PUTNAM for People’s Choice Best Dressed Women’s Brand. The People’s Choice Best Men’s Brand went to Rhone and Bubble Lifestyle won the People’s Choice Best Dressed Outfit.

PGA Golf Exhibitions will next hold the mid-season PGA Buying Summit, July 28-30, in Frisco, Texas and the PGA Show will return to Orlando, Jan. 20-23, 2026. Event details can be found at PGAShow.com and PGABuyingSummit.com.  

About PGA Golf Exhibitions
The PGA Show and PGA Buying Summit – Frisco are organized by PGA Golf Exhibitions (part of RX) and the PGA of America. Since its inception in 1954, the PGA Show has grown into the largest annual business event for the global golf industry. Both the PGA Show and the mid-season PGA Buying Summit drive the business of golf by providing opportunities to showcase and source innovative products, develop professional networks, learn new business strategies, and connect with peers and golf leaders. Learn more at PGAShow.com and follow us on “X”, Instagram and  Facebook.

About the PGA of America
The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals who love the game, are expert coaches, operators and business leaders, and work daily to drive interest, inclusion and participation in the sport. The PGA of America owns and operates numerous championships and events, including major championships for men, women, seniors and the Ryder Cup, one of the world’s foremost sporting events. For more information, visit PGA.com and follow us on X, Instagram and Facebook.

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News

2025 African American Golf EXPO and PGA Show a Big Hit in Orlando

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
AAGD Reporter Jerry Roebuck at the 2025 PGA Show

These shows offered up a great time for doing business and networking. Held from January 20-25 at Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum and the 77th Session of the PGA Show, were held in cognizant. Each provided the more than 33,000 attendees with ample opportunity to peruse the exhibitor booths, sit in on informative sessions —such as the Diversity & Inclusion Roundtable— and meet face-to-face with top industry professionals and businesses.

Clearview Golf Course Owner Renee Powell (PGA/LPGA) and Jim Beatty
5th Anniversary Celebration Cake (Red Velvet!)

“Both of these expositions were so educational and shed light on just how much this game is growing,” said African American Golfer’s Digest Publisher, Debert Cook who had flown 10-hours from her home in Ghana (West Africa) to attend the week’s events. “I am immensely proud of my Executive Editor, James Beatty, Founder of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, for the excellent seminars that showcased some of the best leaders, owners and operators in the business. He brilliantly balanced time for registrants to do business with the various exhibitors and precious time for attendees to meet and network with top executives in this industry.”

This was the fifth year for the African American Golf EXPO & Forum that has previously been held over the years in several other major including Atlanta (GA), Charlotte (NC), Louisville (KY) and Palm Beach County (FL) —but Orlando was definitely a BIG HIT with this year’s attendees. The 77th session of the PGA Show attracted 33,000 people, its biggest audience ever since 2019. Both shows are held annually and you can learn more about the African American Golf EXPO & Forum at https://aagolfexpo.com/ and the PGA Show at https://www.pgashow.com/en-us.html

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Registration Almost Full For TaylorMade Junior Open presented by PGA TOUR Superstore

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

TaylorMade Junior Open, A Premier Gateway to Elite Championships

The TaylorMade Junior Open is set to take place at The Courses at Watters Creek in Plano, Texas, on April 5-6, 2025. This prestigious tournament is ranked by several prominent golf organizations, including the AJGA PBE, GolfWeek, Junior Golf Scoreboard, and Global Junior Golf, making it a must-attend event for aspiring junior golfers.

Participants will compete on the renowned Traditions course, showcasing their skills and vying for coveted spots in prestigious qualifying events. This tournament serves as a gateway to several elite junior golf championships:

• Uswing Mojing Junior World Championship: Champions from each age division will qualify for the Uswing Mojing Junior World Event (formerly the IMG Academy Junior World) in California.

• Future Champions Golf Junior World Championship: Age division champions will secure their spots in the FCG Junior World Event, also held in California.

• Optimist International Championship: Participants can earn qualification to the Optimist International Championship, hosted in Florida, through the TEXHOMA regional event.

• Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship: Regional event qualifiers will have the chance to compete in this prestigious national championship.

The TaylorMade Junior Open promises a high level of competition and a platform for young golfers to elevate their game while gaining exposure in the junior golf circuit.

For registration and additional details, contact Justin Hogue, Junior Golf Championships, via email at [email protected] or by phone at (214) 499-6841. You can also follow updates on Instagram at @JustinHogueGolf.

This event not only offers an opportunity to compete but also serves as a stepping stone for junior golfers aiming to achieve success at the national and international levels. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this incredible golfing experience!

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Renegade Golf Showcases at the 2025 PGA Show

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Renegade Golf is a Black owned company serving the golf industry with golf balls, bags, apparel and accessories, is on a mission to make golf more inclusive, affordable and accessible. Founded in 2019 by Kenneth Duncan and Drew McLeod, Renegade’s customers defy the status quo and pride themselves in individuality.

At this year’s PGA Show in Orlando, Fla., January 20-23 at Orange County Convention Center, Renegade Golf displayed their product line at booth #1209. This was the largest PGA Show in 15 years and attracts more than 33,000 industry professionals to drive booming golf business. Show attendees were able to touch and feel Renegade’s high-performance clothing and innovative golf balls designed for players of all skill levels.

Renegade Golf is committed to making golf more inclusive while driving exceptional performance on the course. And, they are do so by delivering unmatched quality, including products like the Renegade Mbu Tr3, engineered for higher swing speeds, and The Blueprint foundation two-piece ball for game improvement, says Co-founder Kenneth Duncan. Renegade is first ever Black-owned golf equipment company to achieve conformance to the Rules of Golf established by the United States Golf Association (USGA) for its Renegade Mbu premium line of golf balls. Based in Atlanta, Ga., Renegade’s items are proudly sold in major retailers like PGA Tour Superstore and Walmart. Learn more at https://renegade.golf

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Teeing Up Change: Register for the Sisters Across America Women’s Only Golf Invitational Webinar

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

Sisters Across America invites everyone to join the General Registration Webinar for the 2025 Women’s Only Golf Invitational. This virtual event will take place on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST via Zoom.

Since 2006, Sisters Across America, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been dedicated to supporting and mentoring young, minority women aspiring to play on the LPGA Tour, combining a love for golf with a mission to make a difference. The webinar will provide an opportunity to learn about the Invitational and complete the general registration process.

Webinar Details:
Topic: Sisters Across America Invitational Registration Meeting
• Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM EST (6:00 PM CST)
• Zoom Link: Join Here
• Meeting ID: 875 7255 0918
• Passcode: 429637

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One tap mobile
+13017158592,,87572550918#,,,,*429637# US (Washington DC)
+13052241968,,87572550918#,,,,*429637# US
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Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kc70KLTZqR

Participants can also join via one-tap mobile or find their local number through the provided link. Join Sisters Across America in celebrating the game of golf while contributing to a meaningful cause. Learn more at https://www.sistersacrossamerica.com

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How Can Black Golfers Thrive in the Marketplace? A Thought-Provoking Moment at the Diversity & Inclusion Roundtable

by John Perry
written by John Perry

During the the 7th Annual Diversity & Inclusion Roundtable on Wednesday, January 22 during the 77th PGA Show held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, a thought-provoking moment prevailed when African American Golfer’s Digest contributing reporting Mr. Byron Perry (Tulsa, OK) stood up and asked a very pertinent question about obstacles facing Black golfers and Black golf businesses.

Mr. Perry wanted to know how do “we” get included in the mass marketplace of golf. Billy Jones, leader of Gold Links, an upstart branding and social media influencer company responded to Perry’s question from the stage along with some of his members, some of whom includes retired NBA player JR Smith, rapper Ja Rule, as well as social media influencer Roger Steele.

Watch the video to hear the response. What are your thoughts to his response? Leave your comments below.

The Diversity Roundtable and Reception is an event designed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and networking among professionals committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). It typically features panel discussions, keynote speakers, or breakout sessions that explore strategies for promoting inclusivity across various sectors. The reception provides an opportunity for attendees to connect, share ideas, and build relationships in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The Diversity  Roundtable has been hosted by Reed Exhibitions since 2018 and is planned and managed by a group of dedicated individuals including Jim Beatty ,Founder of the African American Golf EXPO & Forum.

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