Golf Industry Leaders To Discuss Impact Of Technology At PGA Conference In Orlando

Contact Jamie Roggero
561-624-8446
jroggero@pgahq.com

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (December 19, 2002) - Leaders from the entire spectrum of the golf industry will gather for a first-of-its-kind panel discussion on the state of the business of golf and its future, during The PGA of America's first Business of Golf Conference, Wednesday, Jan. 22, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

The conference will focus on the wide impact that technological advances in the equipment sector have had on the golf industry and will include top executives of some of golf's leading equipment companies, television networks and the organizations representing professional golf and major tournaments in the game. It will take place from 1-4:30 p.m., at the Orange County Convention Center, site of the 50th PGA Merchandise Show, which begins the following day and runs until Jan. 26.

"As we celebrate a half century of the PGA Merchandise Show, it's helpful to look at the evolution of the game and discuss its growth," PGA President M.G. Orender said. "This conference is the perfect opportunity to gain a better understanding of where the game and industry of golf are headed."

The first of two sessions will address television's perspective of golf as programming and a business, the effect of public investment in the game and the role golf's major championships have in the promotion of the game and in highlighting the advances in player performance and golf equipment. Panelists include CBS Sports President Sean McManus, NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol, USGA Executive Director David Fay, Augusta National General Manager Jim Armstrong and Royal and Ancient Secretary Peter Dawson. The second session will address technology and its effect on the performance for professionals and every day players, plus its effect on golf course design. Panelists will include Callaway Golf Chairman Ron Drapeau, TaylorMade Golf President Mark King and noted golf course architect Tom Fazio.

"The PGA Merchandise Show brings together every segment of our industry. Over the last several years each of us has seen an impact on our respective businesses caused by technological advances in many areas," said PGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Awtrey. "This marks a unique opportunity for those at the Show to hear first hand from some of the game's top executives on their component of the business as well as the sport as a whole."

The PGA Merchandise Show is the world's largest golf trade show and is the biggest business gathering of PGA Professionals each year. The Show will provide Business of Golf Conference participants an important forum to share industry perspectives with PGA members and other golf business insiders. For more information on the PGA Merchandise Show, including information on registration for the Business of Golf Conference, visit www.pgaexpo.com. PGA Professionals should check www.PGALinks.com for information on registration for the conference. Registration will open Jan. 6, 2003.