Golf News Sept 3, 2024

Golf News Sept 3, 2024

In the news this week are items from Club Champion, MGI Golf, Sandy Par, Five Iron Golf, PXG ,1MORE and V1 Sports.

I’ve done reviews on products from most of these, and am in the process of testing an MGI Golf Caddy.

• Club Champion Review
• Sandy Par Review
• Five Iron Golf Review
• PXG Driver Review
• 1More Review

And now onto the publicist’s content:

Club Champion Lands on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies a Second Time

The international club fitter has more than 140 locations worldwide

Willowbrook, IL – Club Champion has been named to the Inc. 5000 list, celebrating the fastest-growing private companies in America. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s independent, entrepreneurial businesses.

“One of the greatest joys of my job is going through the Inc. 5000 list,” says new editor-in-cheif Mike Hofman. “To see all of the intriguing and surprising ways that companies are transforming sectors, from health care and AI to apparel and pet food, is fascinating for me as a journalist and storyteller. Congratulations to this year’s honorees, as well, for growing their businesses fast despite the economic disruption we all faced over the past three years, from supply chain woes to inflation to changes in the workforce.”

This is Club Champion’s second consecutive year on the list, landing at number 4440 this year. Club Champion has more than 140 studios nationwide, and fits, sells, and builds custom golf clubs using brands like Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist, Cobra, Fujikura, Golf Pride, and many more. The company delivers a Tour-level fitting that produces longer, more accurate shots with a nearly 100% satisfaction rate for golfers of any ability level. 

Ranked by Golf Digest as one of the 100 Best Club Fitters twelve years running, Club Champion has a unique coupling system used to combine any head and shaft together, so golfers hit the precise combination to be custom built for them. They are the only fitter in the country to offer 65,000 interchangeable head and shaft combinations at all locations. 

“We’re happy to be a part of the Inc. 5000 list for the second year in a row and appreciate the recognition,” said Club Champion founder, Nick Sherburne. “We’ve got a roadmap to 160 locations in the short-term and a hope for continued growth and innovation from there.” 

For complete results of the Inc. 5000, go to inc.com/inc5000. For more information on Club Champion’s offerings or to schedule a fitting, please visit clubchampion.com.

MGI Golf Expands Electric Caddy Line with the Cutting-Edge Ai 500

A game-changing innovation to MGI Golf’s best selling electric golf caddies, combining advanced GPS integration, seamless connectivity, and modern design

Las Vegas, Nev. (September 3, 2024) – MGI Golf, global leader in technology for the walking golfer and maker of America’s No. 1 electric golf caddy, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation – the all-new MGI Ai 500. As the latest addition to MGI’s line of electric caddies, the Ai 500 promises to elevate the golf experience with its exceptional features and performance.

The Ai 500 is equipped with an integrated high-performance GPS system that connects to more than 40,000 golf courses worldwide, delivering fast and accurate distances to every corner of the course through the 4-inch full-color, all-weather touchscreen. The MGI Sureshot App further enhances the user experience by providing interactive maps and scoring capabilities and can be used as a handheld device. Additionally, the Ai 500’s Bluetooth connectivity keeps golfers informed by displaying notifications for SMS, emails, and incoming calls directly on the screen.

“With the Ai 500, we are pushing the boundaries of what golfers can expect from their equipment,” said Miranda Turner, CEO of MGI Golf Inc. “Our mission is to transcend traditional golf caddy expectations. The Ai 500 is engineered to enhance every round with precise navigation, reliable performance, and unmatched convenience, setting a new benchmark in the world of golf.”

Beyond its advanced technology features, the Ai 500 is designed with user convenience in mind.  Operating without a remote, the new model offers intuitive control through its easy-to-navigate interface. Weighing just 31.3 lbs, it features a single-action easy fold mechanism for effortless storage, a fourth foldable rear wheel for enhanced stability, and a controlled distance function for precise management on the course. The electronic parking brake and swivel-locking front wheel ensure superior maneuverability across varied terrains, while the Click & Go lithium battery system simplifies power management for seamless rounds on the course.

The MGI Ai 500 retails for $1,449 and comes with an umbrella holder and drink holder, both designed to be compatible with the electric caddy. Backed by decades of experience, a legacy of innovation, and best-in-class manufacturing, all electric caddy models include a comprehensive three-year warranty.

The new Ai 500 will be offered through the MGI Fleet Program, providing clubs an opportunity to enhance their member experiences while generating additional revenue. By leveraging MGI’s reputation for product reliability and user-friendliness, clubs can streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and optimize course maintenance. These benefits, coupled with the innovative features of the Ai 500, offer clubs a distinct competitive edge in the market.

For more information, visit mgigolf.com.

Sandy Par Continues to Cut Their Own Fairways in Golf

August 29, 2024 (Orange County, CA) – Golf lifestyle apparel and accessory brand, Sandy Par, keeps growing in specialty retailers, with International Distribution partners and endemic golf channels. After only being in the market for 16 months, Sandy Par’s unique approach to premium golf products has now gained the attention of Zumiez, a leading multi-national chain specialty retailer .

“I am beyond excited to partner with Zumiez to grow Sandy Par. Being a core skateboarder in the streets and an experienced golfer on the greens for my entire life, I understand the importance of embracing art, music and diverse cultures. I’ve never been a fan of the “Sea of the Same” in golf apparel, so I would never buy, or wear, traditional golf-branded apparel. With Sandy Par, I am scratching my own itch by making premium products I can wear that represent my style on and off the golf course. It’s humbling to see fans, friends and retailers we’ve been able to partner with that share the same values in our short timeline.” Brian Jones, founder and owner, Sandy Par.

Over the last four years, golfing has seen significant growth by attracting a new audience of participants. The exclusive perception of golf has fallen fast and this new wave of golfers that breath inclusivity into the lifestyle sport continues to attract new audiences. This trend is global as Sandy Par has also recently partnered with Canadian Lifestyle Distribution Company, Grand Trading. “Sandy Par has created a unique brand with premium products, applying skate sensibilities to golf – that immediately makes golf a whole lot cooler.” says, Ryan Stutt, president, Grand Trading. “We know what Brian and the team have developed will resonate with Canadian customers. We’re excited to bring Sandy Par to Canada.”

The growth of Sandy Par has not been limited to lifestyle specialty retailers, over the past few months Sandy Par has continued to make strides in the traditional golf market with their patented Original Sandy Par Towel that holds 2 U.S. Patents and Sandy Par’s custom headwear that features their exclusive premium terry cloth sweatbands. Available at over 40 golf courses and country clubs nationwide, and counting, Sandy Par’s most recent partnership in traditional golf retail has been with Arcis Golf Management and Tijeras Creek Golf Course in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. where you can find a range of Sandy Par golf products.

Five Iron Golf Launches the World’s Largest Indoor Golf League

From Australia to Atlanta, Players Will Compete Globally for the First Time Ever, with $500,000 in Prizes and a Grand Prize Trip to Dubai on the Line

[NEW YORK] – [August 20, 2024] – Five Iron Golf, the global leader in golf and entertainment, renowned for revolutionizing the indoor golf experience, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Fall 2024 League season. For the first time ever, this dynamic league will unite players from Five Iron’s global franchises across three continents, including the largest location to date in Dubai, set to open this August.

To kick off the excitement, Five Iron Golf has released a sizzle reel showcasing the energy, competition, and global reach of this season’s league. The video captures the essence of what makes Five Iron Golf the ultimate destination for both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike. Watch the video here.

The Fall League kicks off on September 16 and runs through early November, offering teams of two eight weeks of guaranteed play on Trackman simulators. Thousands of players will compete in nine-hole rounds with rotating formats, including Scramble, Best Ball, and Greensomes. Tee times are available on Monday and Tuesday nights, catering to avid players, fierce competitors, and those looking for a post-work nine that meets happy hour. Participants will face challenges from iconic courses such as Pinehurst No. 2, Royal Melbourne, and St. Andrews, ensuring a varied and engaging experience. The competition is further enhanced with weekly drink specials and closest-to-the-pin contests, adding to the excitement and providing additional opportunities to win prizes and enjoy a weeknight outing.

Prize Highlights:

• International Grand Prize: A four-night stay at The Westin Dubai, with rounds at Dubai Golf’s Faldo Course, Fire Course, and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
• Global Competition Entry: Winners gain entry into the World Golf Competition, which includes play on exclusive courses worldwide, luxury travel and accommodations, and a chance to compete for a share of a $500,000 prize pool (valued at $4,000 per person).
• Exclusive Rewards and VIP Experiences: Custom Black Alpha Travel Cover Mid by Ogio, complimentary one-month membership at any Five Iron Golf location, a four-day, six-round trip to Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic for national winners, and a two-hour open bar party for local winners and up to 20 guests.

This season introduces handicap scoring to level the playing field and enhance competitiveness. Players without a handicap can establish one for free by playing a complimentary round between September 9-10, using Trackman technology to lock in their scores for the Net Leaderboard. 

Individuals interested in joining are welcome to sign up and will be paired with another player. Greens fees range from $30 to $40 per player per week for those who register before August 26, making the league both accessible and affordable. Additionally, the first 100 players to sign up in the U.S. will receive a complimentary Rhoback hoodie.

“We are proud to see our league, which started with one location and a small group of participants in New York City, grow into the largest indoor golf league in the U.S. Now expanding internationally, this season brings new competition and excitement,” said Jared Solomon, co-founder and CEO. “We are always looking to give our golfers access to incredible opportunities while maintaining the convenience of playing in their city, after work. Competing on a global stage, culminating in Dubai, our most expansive location yet, underscores our commitment to top-tier golf experiences.”

The grand prize winners will experience Five Iron Golf Dubai, opening this August, the brand’s largest venue to date, marking a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion. Strategically located at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, the flagship venue spans 32,038 square feet and features 17 state-of-the-art simulators powered by Trackman Golf, including six bays equipped with TruGolf Multisport. Additional amenities include four bars, an outdoor beach-themed bunker bar with a nine-hole mini-golf course, a VIP members-only lounge, an indoor putting green, a sauna, gym, and locker room.

As Five Iron Golf continues to expand, upcoming league seasons include Winter 1 (2024), starting on November 18, Winter 2 (2025), starting on February 10, and Spring 2025, starting on April 14. For questions or to sign up for future seasons, email [email protected]. Learn more or sign up for the Fall 2024 Season League at FiveIronGolf.com/Leagues.

New PXG Allan Putter Feels Like Magic, but It’s Physics

Game-Changing Zero Torque Balance Design Simplifies Putting for All Stroke Styles and Abilities, While New Pick Up Pocket Makes Retrieving a Golf Ball Easy and Fun

Scottsdale, AZ (August 22, 2024) – The new PXG® Allan^TM Putter is a marvel of modern engineering, putting the laws of physics in motion with the introduction of Zero Torque Balance^TM Technology. This game-changing design, supported by an innovative multi-material, S COR™ filled, hollow body construction and Precision Weighting Technology, delivers unmatched stability with the eye-catching look and feel of a modern PXG mallet putter.

The new PXG Allan Putter’s patented Zero Torque Balance Technology eliminates the torsional forces that normally work against a player’s grip during a putting stroke with traditional putters. As a result, golfers can more easily maintain a square face through impact. Even better, the technology works the same and is amazingly effective for players of all abilities and all stroke types. It doesn’t matter whether a golfer has a strong arc, slight arc, or a straight back straight thru stoke path, the Allan Putter and PXG’s Zero Torque Balanced Technology helps players deliver the club face square more consistently.  

The Allan Putter also introduces an innovative letter S-hosel that orients the shaft axis just above the center of gravity (CG). This design creates a designated toe-up balance point, enhancing stability and eliminating twisting of the face relative to the path of the stroke.  Simply put, the physics of the design makes it easier to make putts!

While designed with five (5) degrees of measured loft, the Allan Putter plays like standard three (3) degrees with an integrated two (2) degrees forward press. The forward press puts the hands of a golfer into a natural position relative to the face of the putter to counteract the onset hosel.

The thin-walled hollow body of the Allan Putter repositions mass to the putter’s extreme perimeter, yielding a high MOI relative to the clubhead size. Proprietary S COR™ Technology, an extremely lightweight polymer, is injection molded into an interior cavity—the material bonds to the face to dampen sound and any harsh vibrations through impact. The structural support provided by the S COR material enables PXG to deliver golf’s thinnest putter face, 0.055 inch. This system is advantageous to golfers because it dramatically enhances the forgiveness of the clubhead. 

The Allan Putter also features a Pyramid Face Pattern. The aggressively milled pattern creates the soft sound of an insert putter while maintaining the responsive feel of a solid, milled putter. The pyramid density supports consistent interaction with a golf ball’s dimples for improved launch and roll characteristics, while the pyramid geometry delivers a satisfying sound.

Precision Weighting Technology located in the sole supports additional player customization. Club fitters and golfers can use the weighting to produce the preferred overall clubhead weight. 

To enhance the playing experience, the Allan Putter also features a new Pick Up Pocket^TM that allows golfers to retrieve a golf ball easily on the green. 

“If you are tired of dropping coin after a bad round of missed putts, you need to try the PXG Allan Putter,” said PXG Founder & CEO Bob Parsons. “It is so fun and easy to hit; it feels like magic. In fact, I am so impressed with how well the technology works that I named the putter for my little brother Allan. He was a hell of a golfer, and I know he would have loved it.”

For more information or to book a putter fitting, visit www.PXG.com or call 844.PLAY.PXG.

New 1MORE Headphones

1MORE has some amazing new additions to their wireless headphones lineup, featuring their SonoFlow HQ51 and Sport S70 Open Earbuds. Both will release in September, with the SonoFlow HQ51 releasing September 2, 2024 and Sport S70 releasing September 9, 2024.

SonoFlow HQ51 (September 2, 2024 Release)

• Hi-Res Audio Excellence: Experience unparalleled sound with dual Hi-Res gold certification. The 1MORE SonoFlow Pro noise cancelling headphones use LDAC technology to deliver three times the data of standard Bluetooth, offering rich, detailed audio that brings your music to life
• Hi-Res Audio Excellence: Experience unparalleled sound with dual Hi-Res gold certification. The 1MORE SonoFlow Pro noise cancelling headphones use LDAC technology to deliver three times the data of standard Bluetooth, offering rich, detailed audio that brings your music to life
• Immersive Sound with 40mm Drivers: These over ear bluetooth headphones feature 40mm diamond-like drivers that produce clear, balanced sound with a frequency response up to 40kHz, ensuring you hear every detail, from the deepest bass to the highest treble
• All-Day Comfort and Fit: Designed with ultra-lightweight materials and soft protein leather ear cushions, SonoFlow Pro over the ear headphones offer an adjustable fit that stays comfortable, even during long listening sessions, making them ideal for work or travel, or just relaxing
• Advanced QuietMax Noise Cancellation: Block out distractions with QuietMax dual-feed technology, which reduces external noise by more than 42dB. These noise cancelling headphones are ideal for noisy environments like subways, airports, or busy streets
• Long-Lasting Battery with Quick Charge: Keep the music going with up to 100 hours of playtime in standard mode and 65 hours with ANC on. A quick 5-minute charge gives you an extra 10 hours of playtime, ensuring your over ear bluetooth headphones are always ready when you are
• Precision-Tuned by Grammy-Winning Engineer: Enjoy studio-quality sound wherever you go. These bluetooth headphones over the ear are tuned by Grammy-winning engineer Luca Bignardi to deliver a natural, balanced listening experience, ensuring your music sounds just as the artist intended
• Crystal Clear Calls with Intelligent Voice Recognition: Whether in a busy office or on the go, 1MORE over the ear headphones ensure your voice is heard clearly. The advanced microphone and AI noise reduction algorithm make every call crisp and clear, no matter the environment
• Wired and Wireless Flexibility: These over the ear headphones include a 3.5mm audio cable, offering seamless switching between wired and wireless modes. Perfect for audiophiles, content creators, or saving battery, these noise cancelling headphones provide the versatility you need.

Sport S70 (September 9, 2024 Release)

• Ultimate Comfort for Every Ear: 1MORE’s open-ear headphones combine 10 years of research with lightweight aerospace-grade titanium and soft skin-friendly liquid silicone, they provide a comfortable and secure fit for any ear shape, each earbud weighs just 8.7 grams
• Deep Bass, Rich Sound: The advanced DSP algorithm in these open ear earbuds wireless bluetooth enhances bass in real-time. Enjoy powerful, immersive audio whether you’re listening to high-energy tracks or soothing sounds
• Master-Tuned Sound: Tuned by Grammy-winning Luca Bignardi, these open ear earbuds wireless bluetooth deliver crystal-clear audio. The dual magnetic drivers and DiamondFlex diaphragms enhance bass and clarity, perfect for calls or music
• Built for Action: These IPX5-rated open ear headphones resist sweat and splashes, making them perfect for workouts or outdoor adventures. Enjoy great sound in any condition with these durable open ear headphones wireless bluetooth
• Bluetooth Multipoint Connectivity: With multipoint connectivity, you can seamlessly connect to two devices simultaneously via Bluetooth, switch between your phone, your laptop or other devices, allowing you go from Zoom meetings to your Spotify playlist without missing a beat
• Long Battery, Quick Charge: Get up to 40 hours of playtime with these open ear headphones wireless bluetooth, and a 5-minute quick charge gives you 2 hours of playback. Perfect for busy days, workouts, or relaxing
• Crystal-Clear Calls: With four AI ENC microphones, these out of ear earbuds provide exceptional call clarity by reducing background noise. Your voice comes through loud and clear, no matter where you are

V1 Sports Launches Brand New V1 COACH App

App Designed to Save Coaches Time and Grow Their Business

(NOVI, MI) – V1 Sports, the pioneer in swing video analysis solutions for coaches and athletes, has introduced its latest coaching app, V1 COACH. The brand new iOS and Android app adds new AI features to golf’s leading swing video analysis tools, which are designed to save coaches time and energy in managing their business, allowing them to focus more on developing strong player relationships and delivering world-class instruction.

Drawing on insights gathered from thousands of coaches, including numerous featured on GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers list, V1 Sports recognized a significant opportunity to enrich the coach-player relationship not through the introduction of new swing video analysis tools, but ones that elevate a coach’s business, specifically:

• AI-Powered Lesson Follow Up – Using AI, V1 COACH automatically sends personalized follow ups to students in the V1 GOLF app. Internal data shows that V1 Sports coaches who use the lesson delivery function with their students via V1 GOLF app are twice as likely to see students return for subsequent lessons.
• New Athlete Management System with Chat – Organize everything under an athlete profile with the ability  to chat in-app with athletes to centralize all communications in one place.
• Automated Engagement – Coaches can now create automated player communications, including lesson reminders, making it easier to stay top of mind with their players and manage their business.
• Digital Pro Shop – Create a custom pro shop within their athletes’ V1 GOLF app for athletes to purchase lessons and buy merchandise. 

“Almost 30 years ago, V1 Sports created the online video lesson, winning thousands of the best golf instructors across the world as clients,” said Alex Prasad, CEO of V1 Sports. “As we set about to reinvent our product, the V1 Sports team spent hundreds of hours with our customers, with the goal of delivering a solution that addressed their biggest challenges. Overwhelmingly, we heard that, though they know it is vital to the health and growth of their business, they simply do not have the bandwidth to follow up and stay in touch with their golfers. They told us that they didn’t want more new tools, but rather solutions that saved them time, kept them top of mind with their customers and that made their lives easier. Given the resounding positive response we’ve had from the hundreds of instructors that are already using V1 COACH on a daily basis, I feel that we’ve hit the mark.”

V1 COACH also features enhanced remote lesson delivery capabilities, fostering accelerated improvement which ultimately leads to customer retention. In addition to improved online lesson delivery, V1 COACH offers higher video quality, faster processing speeds and improved voice-over-video lessons feature to send to students for future viewing in their V1 GOLF app.

For more information on V1 Sports and V1 COACH, please visit https://v1sports.com/v1-coach-app/

ABOUT V1 Sports 

Founded in 1995, V1 Sports is the pioneer in producing swing video analysis learning and instruction solutions. More than 10,000 of the best coaches, instructors and training facilities, and over four million athletes, have used the company’s products, including V1 PRO Studio which creates a world class video capture environment with multiple high-definition, high-frame cameras for optimal analysis. Today, the V1 Sports platform – V1 COACH, V1 GOLF, and V1 BASEBALL – connects coaches and athletes through video, ground pressure analysis from the V1 Pressure Mat and on-course performance data for measurable improvement. Headquartered in Michigan, V1 Sports employees are dedicated to creating transformative solutions for coaches and athletes to improve quicker and enjoy the game more.