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.

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.

After building Patron into the world’s biggest ultra-premium tequila brand, Ed Brown is hoping for similar success in the golf business as CEO of ClearSports, a company best known for its high-end, members-only golf ball.

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.

The founder and CEO of GOLFTEC, Joe Assell offers insights on building a successful golf business and advice to entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion into a career in the golf industry. Assell writes about hurdles, confidence, validation and his business philosophy.