The Q | Questions, Answers and Insight for Everyone in the Business of Golf

Golf Courses

One Hole at a Time

One of the oft-repeated problems affecting participation is the time it takes to play. A number of companies have introduced systems that allow golfers to pay by the hole. It’s a way for golfers to potentially squeeze in some golf when they have a window. For facilities, it’s a chance to boost incremental revenue. So, are these “solutions” gaining traction?

By Adam Schupak

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General Interest

R&A’s Golf Around the World Report

There are almost 39,000 golf courses worldwide, with a global reach into 209 of the world’s 249 countries, according to the “Golf Around the World” report published by the R&A and based on NGF research.

By National Golf Foundation

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General Interest

The PGA Merchandise Show – in Pictures

A visual look at the PGA Merchandise Show, the golf industry's annual "Major of Golf Business." The four-day event attracts more than 40,000 industry professionals from around the world to discover the newest trends and technology from more than 1,000 exhibiting golf companies and brands.

By National Golf Foundation

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Q&A

Mike McCarley – President, GOLF, NBC Sports Group

Mike McCarley, who oversees all of NBC Sports’ golf-related businesses and content, talks about golf ratings, the impact of Tiger Woods’ return on television and the game overall, the future of streaming golf coverage, and the public appetite for the sport.

By National Golf Foundation

Golfers

NGF Research Snapshot: Professional Golf Instruction

The NGF’s latest research snapshot looks at how many golfers take instruction and how avidity plays a role.

By National Golf Foundation

General Interest, Rounds Played

Weather to Play

Last year’s weather picture wasn’t a pretty one, particularly for golf. Rounds-played in the U.S. were down, year-over-year, in 10 of the first 11 months in 2018, affected in large part by colder weather and heavier precipitation than normal during the busiest months for golf.

By Tom Mackin

Rounds Played

December 2018 National Rounds Played

Rounds of golf for December 2018 were down 7.7% nationally compared to the previous December. For the full year, play was down 4.8% overall from 2017.

By National Rounds Played Coalition