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My Take: The importance of revitalizing golf for the future through diverse and innovative facilities
In recent years, golf has been experiencing a significant upward trend. A considerable part of that trend has come from non-traditional, off-course options, which have driven record numbers of new folks to the game. As a veteran of the industry with over 30 years of experience and having spent the past 15 years as a member of the PGA of America, I am excited and encouraged by this development. Despite this ever-increasing positive upward trend, with more and more new people having a golf club in their hands, there has been a downside. Many who have found their way to the game through non-traditional means have yet to cross over into trying it in its traditional form.
Fortunately, there have been signs of an additional emerging trend in golf, which could be a game-changer overall and a means to bridge that gap between non-traditional and tried-and-true. This trend includes the rise of alternative on-course options such as pitch-and-putt, par-three, and putting courses, as well as technology-driven experiences like Toptracer ranges. These amenities are reshaping the golfing landscape worldwide. I feel strongly that this evolution is crucial for the sport’s future, bridging that gap between traditional golf and the expanding off-course facility boom.
With a massive increase in off-course golf participants over the past few years—many of whom have never visited a traditional golf facility—these expanded on-course options will appeal to a broader audience.
Orange County National Golf Club’s “Tooth” 9 Hole Course. Orlando, FL.
Expanding the Golfing Experience
Traditional 18-hole golf courses demand time, skill, and often a considerable financial commitment, which can deter newcomers. In response, more golf facilities are incorporating shorter, less demanding, and more accessible forms of the game. Pitch and putt, par-three, and putting courses provide an ideal introduction to golf, offering a fun and less intimidating environment for novices.
These innovative alternatives are instrumental in attracting newcomers and are also refreshing for seasoned players seeking a casual round. Family-friendly by design, they foster a communal atmosphere that traditional golf sometimes lacks. They cater much more to today’s fast-paced lifestyle, allowing people to engage with the game without dedicating an entire day.
Check out my PGA.com article on some of the best short courses in the game!
“The Barn” at Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, Haines City, FL
The Rise of Tech-Enhanced Ranges
Technology-driven golf experiences are surging in popularity as well. Facilities like those equipped with Toptracer technology, which provides real-time data and analytics on each shot and fun challenges such as closest to the pin, long drive, and other fun forms of play, have redefined the driving range experience. These high-tech ranges captivate players with engaging, game-like formats that appeal to both competitive golfers and casual participants. They also provide opportunities for booms in food and beverage revenue as many facilities that bring in this tech also fit their range with covered sitting areas complete with televisions, fire pits, music, and expanded quick-serve dining.
TopGolf, Drive Shack, and similar venues have harnessed this technology to offer golf-related entertainment in a dynamic setting. These venues have been remarkably successful in attracting diverse demographics, including younger audiences and those with little prior exposure to golf. Their emphasis on social interaction and non-traditional golfing environments has led to a surge in overall golf participation.
Bringing that TopGolf-like experience to the golf course has proven massively successful in recent years, and more and more courses worldwide.
Bridging the Gap to Traditional Courses
While off-course golf experiences have dramatically increased participation, converting these enthusiasts into traditional golf course players remains challenging. This gap represents a significant opportunity for golf facilities to innovate and grow the sport’s base.
By integrating elements like Toptracer ranges or short courses within traditional golf facilities, courses can seamlessly transition from casual participation to more traditional forms of the game. These additions can serve as stepping stones, offering an accessible entry point while gradually introducing newcomers to the intricacies of full-course play. They also provide existing golfers a platform to refine specific aspects of their game.
Tee it Up Driving Range in Oviedo, FL, has a Toptracer range, an 18-hole putting course, and more.
Enhancing Viability and Inclusivity
Incorporating these additional and expanded options at a golf facility promotes inclusivity within the game, breaking down barriers associated with its traditional image. By appealing to a diverse audience, golf can modernize its appeal and ensure its relevance in today’s society. Forward-thinking courses that embrace these innovations can create a welcoming, inclusive environment that celebrates golf as a sport for all.
The need for alternative on-course golf options and high-tech ranges is both a response to cultural shifts and a proactive strategy to safeguard the future of the sport. By lowering entry barriers and enhancing the appeal of golf, these initiatives not only enrich the game’s experience but also strengthen its community and economic foundations. As more facilities embrace these innovations, golf is poised to thrive as a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic sport. Embracing these changes is essential for fostering a new generation of golfers who will carry the tradition and the game forward.
Editor’s note: “My Take” will be an ongoing weekly series where Brendon shares his thoughts and opinions on various aspects of the game and industry. These are Brendon’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of GolfWRX, its staff, and its affiliates.
Reader, please support me by checking out my three weekly columns on RG.org. On Mondays, I present “The Starter,” which recaps the week gone by in golf. On Wednesdays, I give you “Fairway Focus,” which previews the week to come in golf. And on Fridays, I dish up the “Friday Fore-cast,” a look at what’s on tap for the upcoming weekend.
In our forums, one user is wondering how many birdies other players have had in a round while still failing to break par. @Lalan45, unfortunately, asked the question after a unique experience of their own.
They wrote:
“Today I managed 8 birdies but still shot even par, could have been a round to remember! What’s the most birdies you’ve made in a round and still didn’t break par?”
Our members in the forum shared their own experiences with successful rounds that still resulted in a score over par. Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.
- kwcsports: “I’ve had 5 a few times, still shot 80+ haha.”
- jda: “I played a course for the first time, had 8 birdies, 9 doubles and an eagle. The infamous no-par round. I kept the scorecard. Every shot had a creek that I did not know about, or I was within 8-10 feet for a birdie look. To this day, I have no idea if I should be really jacked up or mad about that performance.”
- jvincent: “I think my record is either 5 or 6. Probably shot 75.”
- Instron4204: “3 birdies and shot a 92…man I suck!”
In our forums, one user is asking for thoughts on the best stock shafts offered in 2026. Stock shafts are the shafts included with a club when it’s purchased from retailers or OEMs.
@DTorres asked:
The last couple years has seen a lot of updates and additions to no upcharge stock shafts, which do you think is the best offering in 2026?
Im a bit of a shaft nerd and recently during my Members Testing with the Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond I found the updated Project X Denali Frost Black to be a fantastic stock shaft. I absolutely did not mesh well with the original Denali. Just curious what other people think are the current best Stock shaft offerings out with new models and stock Ventus options and LinQ options popping up here and there.
We were given the option for any stock shafts for our members review. I went with the 70g Black Frost 6.5 because it’s a shaft I don’t have, it’s an updated version of the original Denali and hear little about. I typically use a Diamana WB, GD VF or a HOF Raptor. I’m not saying it was neck and neck with any of those but it was a pleasant surprise I’m not accustomed to in stock shaft offerings.
Our members in the forum have been offering up their own thoughts on the best stock shafts available in 2026. Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.
- rsballer10: “IMO – MCA Ka’ili White Darkwave, Tensei 1k Black/white, UST Lin-Q White. People are free to spend their money however they see fit, but for me personally the shaft catalogs these days have enough options that I don’t see the value of a $400 upcharge. I have never had a problem finding a no upcharge shaft that fits the bend profile and weight that I need. Whether the paint job is good enough or not is above my pay scale.”
- bcflyguy1: “Project X Titan Black. I’ve had one in 60TX in my Quantum TD Max for several weeks now. Have to give Titlieist their flowers for finding a way to make it available as a featured option; very shrewd bit of business and one that I suspect will be duplicated by the other companies. TT/PX have a certified banger on their hands with Titan.”
- CTG77: “Undoubtedly, it’s the Tensei 1K RIP shafts from Titleist. The Tensei line gives about 98% of the performance of a Ventus VeloCore+ shaft at a tiny fraction of the cost if you’re looking for a blue or red profile. The white is not an exact match for Ventus Black, but it’s closer to it than the non-VeloCore+ Ventus shafts that come from Callaway or formerly came from TaylorMade.”
A reminder from your friends at GolfWRX: Father’s Day is June 21. And as we do every year, we’re rounding up the best gifts for dad.
As we say every year, there’s no better golf-related Father’s Day gift than a round of golf with pops. Be it a country club or your favorite muni, take the time to get together to play 18 if you can.
Let’s get to the gifts.
Ghost Golf Qualifier Diamond Polo
We like the new polos that Ghost is offering, as the fabric and fit are so good. These new Qualifier Collection polos breathe well, are lightweight, stretch with your swing, and of course look great. You can wear them on the course, in the office, or just out at a casual event and they will fit right in.
STR8-Strip Grip Tape Remover
If your dad is an equipment aficionado and tinkers with his clubs, this tool works wonders. Removing grip tape has never been easier, just put a little head on the tape and the STR8-Strip peals it right off the shaft without any damage.
Why Golf: Putting Thing
When it comes to practice, it is good to have a purpose. This “Putting Thing” sure does it. We know from personal experience how challenging it can be and how rewarding it is on the practice green. This also provides some competition for your kiddo to see who will unload the dishwasher or do the next chore around the house.
OluKai Lae‘ahi Men’s Breathable Slip-On Shoes
Riding to and from the course in style and comfort is always a good thing. If you’re in a hurry, it’s a nice feature to slide into your shoes and get to the tee time. For the post-game shoe, at your locker or while putting your clubs away in the car. Nice to slide into a shoe that looks good anywhere. Pair that with meeting the family for dinner, no need to change!
Therabody Theragun Relief
A little wellness goes a long way. Keeping loose is a good way to go when it comes to the weekend game or treatment during the week. If there is a little ache or pain, the Theragun is there to help out. Help loosen up the back for a pre-game warm-up or cool-down.
World Cup golf apparel
Something for the soccer dads. Embrace the World Cup fever this summer on the course with custom gear to support the nation of your choice.
FootJoy Pro SL spikeless golf shoes
Give the old man a break and save his feet with the Footjoy Pro SL Men’s Spikeless Golf Shoes for some added comfort on the course.
Bushnell Wingman 2 GPS speaker
Combine all the hits as well as some game improvement with the Wingman 2 Golf GPS Speaker by getting audible distance readings from 38,000+ courses worldwide through the Wingman 2 remote or speaker.
Personalized Titleist Pro V1 golf balls
The No. 1 ball in golf is a safe bet, and the Pro V1 fits the largest chunk of the bell curve if you don’t know what ball pops plays. Add personalization for a, well, personal touch!
- GolfWRX may earn a commission for purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
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M
Nov 23, 2024 at 10:02 am
It’s so overcrowded out there right now. We need more courses
Bob
Nov 22, 2024 at 5:27 pm
What do you know about currency printed from nothing and who it benefits? Inflation is theft.
Explore that question first because it will answer all your other questions.