CPG is launching new initiatives for the benefit of golf professionals internationally, designed to create better communities, opportunities, resources and experiences to, and through, the golf professional. The best way to understand how those initiatives can meet your needs is to ask you directly.

The short survey takes just a few minutes to complete and covers the needs, priorities and opportunities that matter most to you. Your feedback will help shape the support and services CPG develops next.

As a thank you for taking part, everyone who completes the survey before it closes on 29 June will be entered into a draw to win a prize worth up to €300 from Bushnell, Glenmuir, Imperial 1916 or PING. T&Cs apply.

TAKE THE SURVEY

The research is the first project in CPG’s long-term partnership with ION 54, announced in May, which will see the strategic global golf business lead the development and commercialisation of CPG Ventures. Before deciding what to build and where to invest, both organisations want those choices grounded in evidence rather than assumption – and that starts with hearing directly from the people who power the game.

The findings will help shape what CPG prioritises and develops over the coming years, so a few minutes of your time now will have a lasting influence on what is built for, and with, the global golf community.

HAVE YOUR SAY

The agreement establishes a structured programme of work, designed to transform CPG’s existing network into a scalable, revenue-generating global platform.

CPG consists of a global network of National PGAs and organisations representing the interests of golf professionals, providing a central platform for the people that power the game.

With a reach spanning more than 90 countries and a growing base of engaged professionals and amateurs, the organisation is uniquely positioned to connect the global golf workforce through its new Group structure that incorporates CPG as an association and CPG International Ventures as its commercial arm.

Furthermore, CPG is responsible for the Ryder Cup European Development Trust (RCEDT), a charity that exists to support the development of the game across Europe as the ‘Development Partner’ within Ryder Cup Europe.

ION 54 – launched in late 2025 by sports and entertainment agency 54 – will work with CPG to define and deliver a new commercial model, translating its community, reach and influence into a structured ecosystem of products, services and partnerships. The goal is to create a sustainable, inclusive, and internationally impactful future for its Member Countries, PGA Members, and the wider golf industry.

Ian Randell, Group CEO of CPG, said:
“Our role has always been to support and represent the organisations and people who power golf. This partnership allows us to take that further – creating a platform that facilitates communities, opportunities, resources and experiences across our global network.

“Working with ION 54 gives us the strategic and commercial capability to build something that reflects both the scale of our reach and the ambition we have for the future.”

Ed Edwards, CEO of ION 54, said:
“CPG sits at the centre of the global golf workforce, with a network and level of access that few organisations in the game can match.

“The opportunity is to structure that network in a way that creates meaningful value – for its Member Countries, for professionals, for partners and for the wider game, including amateurs. This partnership is about building that model with clarity and long-term intent.”

The programme will include the development of a five-year business plan, a new global brand platform and a multi-channel marketing strategy, alongside immediate commercial activation to unlock near and long-term revenue opportunities.

A core focus of the collaboration will be the development of CPG Ventures as a central commercial engine, bringing together CPG’s International Series tournaments, Learning Institute, commercial, travel and digital products along with a partner ecosystem into a unified, scalable offering.

The agreement includes a long-term collaboration model, with ION 54 acting as CPG’s preferred commercial and strategic partner, supporting both immediate delivery and the ongoing evolution of the platform.

It marks a significant step in CPG’s evolution, expanding from an international association to an enabled group providing valuable services and opportunities to its members, the international golf community and golf globally, and reinforces ION 54’s ability to bring strategic focus and commercial potential to any part of golf’s value chain.

As an international association of National PGAs and organisations representing the interests of golf professionals, CPG is committed to building a diverse and relevant partner portfolio that supports the evolving needs of the game. The continuation of its collaboration with Glenmuir further enhances its apparel offering, providing Members with access to a trusted and established brand within the golf clothing sector.

This renewed partnership reflects CPG’s strategic focus on offering choice to its Member Countries and their professionals. With multiple apparel partners positioned across different areas of the market, CPG ensures that organisations and individuals can access a range of products, services, and opportunities aligned to their specific needs.

Through the partnership, PGA Members within the CPG network will continue to benefit from an exclusive offer across the Glenmuir website, alongside access to glenmuirpro.com – a dedicated B2B platform designed to support PGA Professionals with high-quality apparel solutions for their retail and operational requirements.

View Exclusive CPG & Glenmuir 30% Discount Member Offer

Glenmuir’s longstanding presence within the professional game further reinforces the strength of the partnership. With a heritage rooted in craftsmanship and a continued role as an official licensee and supplier to the European Ryder Cup Team, including for the 2027 Ryder Cup, the brand brings both credibility and alignment to CPG’s wider position within the global golf landscape.

This alignment is particularly significant given CPG’s role as Development Partner in Ryder Cup Europe through the vehicle of the Ryder Cup European Development Trust [RCEDT], which is focused on supporting the growth of golf and golfers across Europe.

The renewal forms part of CPG’s ongoing commitment to its CORE pillars – Communities, Opportunities, Resources and Experiences – ensuring that its network continues to benefit from meaningful partnerships that deliver both practical value and long-term impact.

Find Out More at Glenmuir.com

CPG FESTIVAL OF GOLF
PORTO CARRAS GRAND RESORT, GREECE
13 – 16 OCTOBER 2026

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The Confederation of Professional Golf (CPG) has announced that the 2026 CPG Festival of Golf will return to Porto Carras Grand Resort in Greece from 13–16 October, uniting Member Countries PGA Members, and industry partners for a week that blends competition, collaboration and the continued development of the professional game.

As one of the standout moments in the CPG calendar, the Festival of Golf brings together Member Countries, PGA Members and industry partners from across the global game for a week of connection, collaboration and shared learning.

Blending a conference-style programme with on-course competition, the event features the 37th edition of the historic CPG International Team Championship [ITC], which continues with its refined format aimed at elevating both the competitive edge and the overall team experience with ITC competitors playing alongside Festival delegates and partners.

At its heart, the Festival of Golf is about bringing together the CPG membership to strengthen the community, connect leaders who share the same challenges and ambitions, to uncover new opportunities to strengthen and grow their organisations, learn from each other and external experts, and to leave with practical ideas and resources that can be actioned straight away.

All of this is wrapped into a genuinely memorable experience – from engaging sessions and meaningful conversations to time on the course and the chance to enjoy a world-class setting alongside peers from across the global game.

Alongside the Championship, the wider festival schedule will continue to offer an engaging and inclusive experience for attendees. Plans are in place to introduce new elements to the programme, including the addition of a coaching and education-focused component, aimed at delivering practical insight and added value for PGA Members.

“We are delighted to welcome the CPG Festival of Golf back to Porto Carras Grand Resort for a second consecutive year, further strengthening our partnership and shared vision for the future of golf in the region,” said Porto Carras Grand Resort CEO, Filoklis Kotsifis.

“At the same time, we are proud to share that significant investment works have already commenced across our golf facilities, as part of a broader commitment to elevate and continuously enhance the overall golfer experience – both on and off the course.

“We look forward to welcoming golfers, partners, and companies from across the globe, and to delivering an event that reflects the quality, ambition and unique character of Porto Carras.”

Porto Carras Grand Resort provides the perfect host venue, with significant ongoing investment into its golf facilities and a clear ambition to establish itself as a recognised international golf destination. This vision aligns closely with CPG’s commitment to supporting the growth of golf in developing regions and creating meaningful opportunities for its network, and in particular the long-term and enduring relationship with the PGA of Greece and its Members.

The event will be delivered in collaboration with regional stakeholders, including the PGA of Greece, and longstanding commercial partner AEGEAN Airlines.

Member Countries are encouraged to register representatives and teams, with invitations being sent to all Member Countries directly shortly.

The CPG Festival of Golf reflects the organisation’s CORE pillars of Communities, Opportunities, Resources and Experiences, providing a platform for Member Countries and individuals to connect, learn, and contribute to the continued development of their organisations, their people, and the game.

Find Out More About the CPG International Series @cp.golf/festival

CPG INTERNATIONAL SERIES GRAND FINAL
BOIS D’ARLON GOLF & RESORT, BELGIUM 🇧🇪
14-17 SEPTEMBER 2026

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The Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] and Bois d’Arlon Golf & Resort have entered into a new multi-year partnership that will see the Belgian venue become the home of the CPG International Series Grand Final, as well as a designated CPG Centre of Excellence.

The first edition of the Grand Final at Bois d’Arlon will take place from 14 to 17 September 2026, marking the beginning of a long-term collaboration between the two organisations.

Set within the Ardennes, Bois d’Arlon offers 27 holes of championship golf, extensive practice facilities, a 64-room hotel, and a purpose-built environment for hosting elite-level events set around the beautiful Château du Bois d’Arlon. The venue’s infrastructure and ambition make it a natural fit to host CPG’s flagship championship event and support wider activity aligned with player and coach development.

The 2026 Grand Final will feature a 36-hole championship, preceded by a pre-championship Pro-Am. In addition, the week will include a dedicated ‘Pro-Am’ learning experience with a focus on women and coaching, bringing together high-profile female players, coaches, and industry leaders as part of CPG’s commitment to inclusivity and development across the game.

In line with the principles of the CPG International Series, the event will provide a first-class, open, and inclusive playing experience, and is open to both male and female professionals, as well as elite amateurs.

The field will include winners from across the CPG International Series, leading players from the Order of Merit, and representatives from the Royal PGA of Belgium and PGA of Holland, battling it out for a prize fund of €30,000.

Ian Randell, Chief Executive of CPG, said: “Bois d’Arlon Golf & Resort is an extremely impressive facility in a wonderful location, making it the perfect setting for our Grand Final.

“We are extremely excited to enter into this partnership to host our championship and establish a welcoming home for both professionals and amateur golfers as a CPG Centre of Excellence. Our thanks go to Royal PGA of Belgium Chief Executive, Bernard de Bruyckere, for introducing this opportunity and to the team at Bois d’Arlon for bringing it to fruition.”

The partnership reflects CPG’s continued commitment to developing high-quality international events and creating rich experiences that support performance, learning, and collaboration across its global network.

Invitees and Qualifiers for the 2026 Grand Final will be notified shortly and provided with more information.

Find Out More About the CPG International Series @ cp.golf/InternationalSeries

The latest update sees multiple Viya venues perform exceptionally well across the board. Yas Acres Golf & Country Club has entered the Top 20 in the Middle East for the first time, debuting at #18 – a particularly notable achievement for this exceptional nine-hole course. The Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates and The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club have also moved up to positions #4 and #5 respectively, further strengthening the region’s reputation for world-class golf. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has also risen three places, now ranking #7.

“This recognition reflects the incredible depth and quality of golf we have across the UAE and wider region,” said Christopher May, Chief Executive Officer at Viya. “For Yas Links to remain the Middle East’s #1 course is something we are extremely proud of. It also highlights the strength of our wider portfolio in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and the continued investment and commitment to excellence across all Viya venues.”

Designed by Kyle Phillips and set along the coastline of the world-famous Yas Island, Yas Links Abu Dhabi is renowned for its traditional links-style layout, spectacular sea views, and championship-level conditioning. The course is home to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, a Rolex Series event and one of two playoff tournaments at the climax of the DP World Tour season, attracting many of the world’s leading players.

The latest ranking results further reinforce the Emirate’s growing reputation as a leading global golf destination and highlight the strength of the Viya portfolio, which continues to invest in innovation, sustainability, and exceptional guest experiences across its clubs and destinations.

To find out more about the facilities at Viya Golf’s Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks.

Following the recent significant upgrade of its state-of-the-art training facilities, the academy will now operate fully under the Tommy Fleetwood Academy brand, expanding the partnership between Viya and one of the sport’s most admired figures. The launch cements Yas Links Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre of excellence for golf performance and education in the region.

The opening of the Tommy Fleetwood Academy at Yas Links Abu Dhabi brings TFA’s proven player-development philosophy to the UAE capital for the first time. The new facility complements the existing TFA location at Jumeirah Golf Estates, creating a connected performance network across the Viya portfolio.

Tommy Fleetwood, Professional Golfer and Founder of the Tommy Fleetwood Academy, said: “The UAE has always felt like a second home for me and my family. We’ve built something truly special with the academy in Dubai, and it just keeps growing. To now be building in Abu Dhabi and giving something back to the region that has given us so much means a lot to us.”
Golfers at Yas Links will benefit from cutting-edge coaching technology and an elite-level performance environment, including two swing studios with advanced simulators, a dedicated indoor putting studio, and world-class training systems such as PLATFORM Golf, Trackman, Swing Catalyst, and Sam PuttLab.

The move follows a major upgrade completed earlier this year, which positioned the Yas Links’ practice facilities among the most advanced in the Middle East. The relaunch under the TFA brand now brings Fleetwood’s signature approach to player development to Abu Dhabi, combining elite insight, data-led performance tools, and a passion for growing the game at every level.

Karl Whitehead, Cluster Manager at Viya Golf, commented: “We’re thrilled to welcome the Tommy Fleetwood Academy to Yas Links. Abu Dhabi continues to play a leading role in growing the game, and this partnership elevates that vision even further. TFA brings world-class expertise, technology, and inspiration to golfers across the capital.”

Christopher May, Chief Executive Officer of Viya Golf, added: “Viya is committed to offering the best golf and leisure experiences across the UAE. The Tommy Fleetwood Academy represents excellence, professionalism, and a passion for player development – values we share across our venues. With the TFA now operating at both Yas Links and Jumeirah Golf Estates, we’re proud to offer golfers two of the finest coaching destinations in the region.”

Marc Arnold, Director of Instruction at Viya, said: “We’re proud to welcome the Tommy Fleetwood Golf Academy to Yas Links Abu Dhabi. This partnership reflects our commitment to world-class coaching and to growing the game across the UAE. Being associated with Tommy’s name and legacy is a privilege, and we’re excited about the impact this will have in further enhancing our programmes and inspiring more people to play.”

The launch of the Tommy Fleetwood Academy at Yas Links Abu Dhabi comes amid rising participation across the emirate, supported by expanded junior and ladies’ programmes and the club’s largest-ever team of PGA professionals.

As the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship showcases the venue on the global stage, the new academy underscores Viya’s mission to make golf more accessible, inclusive, and performance-driven throughout the Middle East.

To find out more about the facilities at Viya Golf’s Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks.

As part of the Viya Golf coaching team in Abu Dhabi, Peter brings a wealth of experience shaped by years of teaching golfers from all walks of life — from beginners finding their rhythm to tour-level players fine-tuning performance. His approach blends structure and simplicity, and his use of systems like AimPoint reflects his commitment to helping players understand, trust, and enjoy their own process.

In this conversation, Peter shares how he integrates performance systems into his coaching at Yas Acres, what he’s learned from teaching around the world, and how that experience helps him connect with an increasingly international community of golfers in the UAE.

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Q: As part of the academy at Yas Acres, how do you integrate AimPoint into your wider coaching programmes, and why do you feel it adds value for golfers of all levels?

Peter: At Yas Acres, AimPoint is an important part of our overall coaching philosophy. We integrate it within putting sessions, short-game coaching, and even on-course lessons. While it’s traditionally known as a green-reading system for putting, we also apply it to chipping, which gives players a better chance of holing more chip shots.

It provides a clear and measurable system for reading greens and understanding slopes, which fits perfectly with our broader performance coaching. We use TrackMan data for putting and structured practice plans to build consistency, so AimPoint complements that approach beautifully.

I believe it adds tremendous value for golfers of all levels because it takes away one of the game’s most challenging elements, reading greens. Putting accounts for around 40 percent of strokes in a round, even for pros and low handicappers, so AimPoint’s precision and repeatability under pressure help them save key shots. For mid- and high-handicap players, it’s a real confidence-builder. It removes guesswork, helps them learn quickly, and often delivers instant results.

We regularly see players reduce their putts per round by two or three on average, which means lower scores and, just as importantly, more enjoyment, regardless of age or skill level.

Q: Some golfers may see AimPoint as complex or reserved for professionals. How do you make it approachable for beginners or club golfers, and what changes do they tend to notice in their putting once they start using it?

Peter: It’s true that some people assume AimPoint is only for elite players, but the reality is that it’s very straightforward once you understand the basics. We break it down into simple, repeatable steps so it’s accessible to everyone from the start.

For beginners, it begins with learning to feel the slope with their feet, no complicated maths or charts involved. Within a session or two, most realise they can predict breaks with surprising accuracy.

The biggest difference they notice is confidence. They stop guessing and start trusting their reads. That naturally leads to better pace control, fewer three-putts, and a calmer, more focused mindset on the greens.

Q: From your international coaching background to your work at Yas Acres, what role do you see AimPoint playing in helping golfers not just improve their scores, but also enjoy the game more?

Peter: AimPoint brings clarity to putting and transforms how golfers feel on the greens. Wherever I’ve coached around the world, I’ve seen players at every level become more engaged and positive once they understand how to read greens effectively.

At Yas Acres, it’s not just about chasing scores, it’s about helping golfers enjoy the process of learning and performing. When players start to see their putts roll on line and drop more often, their confidence and enjoyment naturally grow. That’s what makes AimPoint such a powerful coaching tool.

Q: You mentioned you’ve had a fascinating journey in golf. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to join the team at Yas Acres?

Peter: I was born into a golfing family, my father and uncle were both golf professionals, and my grandfather was a club maker, so golf was always part of life. I enjoyed it as a kid but only started taking it seriously when I was about sixteen. I qualified as a PGA professional at twenty-one and took my first job at Wensum Valley in Norfolk, where I later became Head Pro. It was a busy 36-hole facility with a great community of golfers.

After that, I moved to Bonmont Golf Club in Barcelona, which had hosted European Tour events, and later to Brussels, where I worked at the Brussels Golf Club Training Academy and then at Houdoncourt, a small club but one of the best training facilities in Belgium. I later joined Brussels Drohme Golf Club before spending two years in southern Spain running a short-game coaching business, working independently across several clubs.

One day, I came across an article by Marc Arnold (Director of Instruction at Viya Golf Golf) titled “From Burnley to Bahrain and Beyond” in The PGA magazine. I messaged him, saying “From Darwen to Brussels and beyond,” as our stories had a lot in common. A few conversations later, we were discussing ideas for the academy, and now here I am. I’ve been at Yas Acres for nine weeks, and it’s already been an eventful start. Let’s just say I’m still getting the hang of Excel.

Q: With so many expats and international players living in the UAE, how do you think your experience working and living in different countries helps you in your role at Yas Acres?

Peter: I think it helps a great deal. Having lived and worked in several countries, I understand how golfers from different backgrounds learn and communicate. I also speak Spanish and French, which has been a big advantage here.

For example, I recently gave a lesson in Spanish to a player from South America and another in French to a Moroccan golfer. Being able to teach in someone’s native language instantly makes the experience more comfortable and personal.

Many of the expat golfers I’ve met so far are British, but the international mix here is fantastic, and having that cultural and linguistic versatility really helps build stronger relationships with players.

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With a broad international background and a modern, data-informed approach, Peter is already making his mark at Yas Acres. His experience across Europe and now the UAE brings valuable perspective to the academy’s growing reputation as a destination for golfers seeking structured, accessible, and enjoyable coaching experiences.

To find out more about the facilities at Viya Golf’s Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks.

Since joining Viya Golf in 2023, she has helped lead the group’s creative strategy, driving campaigns that not only showcase world-class golf facilities but also celebrate Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global golf destination.

Originally from Scotland, Heather brings a fresh perspective and a creative energy to her role — combining her background in marketing, business development, and brand growth with a deep passion for storytelling. Whether coordinating international campaigns, supporting flagship events such as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, or building the region’s growing community of women golfers, she is helping to shape the next chapter of golf’s evolution in the UAE.

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Q: You play a key role in supporting the team across three of the UAE’s leading courses: Yas Links, Saadiyat Beach and Yas Acres. How does it feel to be part of such a high-profile portfolio, and what aspects of your work give you the most satisfaction?

Heather: It’s really special to work for these clubs in Abu Dhabi, especially as they continue to grow and have such an impact on the golf scene in the UAE. Of course, being part of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship hosted at Yas Links Abu Dhabi is a huge highlight of the job, seeing the club on a global stage and the best players in the world walking our fairways.

However, for me, seeing our campaigns come to life is always the most satisfying aspect of the job. We spend weeks and months planning content, everything from concept development right through to publishing it across all of our channels, and seeing it go from a storyboard to stunning visuals and storytelling is amazing!

Q: Your role touches on many different areas of marketing and communications. What does a typical day look like for you, and how do you balance working across multiple clubs and projects at once?

Heather: I think most people who work in MarComms would say that there is no such thing as a typical day – which people either love or hate! I like the fact there is always a new campaign to work on, or an announcement from the clubs that we have to communicate.

Due to the seasonal nature of golf, I can plan ahead and know what projects or campaigns need to be running at certain stages of the year, so I can work on the bigger projects in advance and make sure we’re on track for launching them, then that means when new tasks, or photoshoots, or projects with our stakeholders pop up, I can focus on them knowing our core campaigns are organised. I’ve found this the best way to stay on top of things!

Q: Moving from Scotland to the UAE is a big step, both in life and career. What motivated you to take on this challenge, and what have been the biggest highlights of your experience so far?

Heather: It was a huge change, especially the climate!! But I’ve loved every second so far in the UAE, and especially Abu Dhabi. It surprised me how quickly I settled into life here. Working in golf in the UAE is a fantastic way to meet people and such a fun industry to be part of, so I’m glad I made the move.

There are endless highlights of my time here so far, but one thing I really appreciate, and think is unique to working in this part of the world, is how fast-paced everything is. It’s a completely different work environment. People are so passionate and continuously want to do better and be better, and just surrounding myself with this environment pushes me to do the same. Especially at a relatively early stage of my career, I couldn’t be in a better place to learn and grow, on an international scale.

Q: Golf is often seen as male-dominated industry, yet you’ve already made a strong impression early in your career. How have you found this environment, and what advice would you give to other women looking to grow in the industry?

Heather: The golf industry has historically been male-dominated, but I’m encouraged to see real progress in recent years, with more women building successful careers across the sector.

The Viya Golf clubs also have a strong ladies membership and have grown the ladies development programmes at the academy massively over the last few years. This has been a key goal as part of my role, to work on building the women’s golf community through the events at our clubs, and something I’m really proud of.

My advice to women looking to enter or progress in this industry is the same advice I’d give for any career: believe in your skills, trust your knowledge, and don’t hesitate to speak up and contribute your ideas. I’ve often been the only woman in the room, but rather than seeing that as a disadvantage, I’ve found it to be an empowering opportunity to stand out and make an impact.

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To find out more about the facilities at Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks

PORTO CARRAS GRAND RESORT, GREECE
11-14 OCT 2025

The Royal PGA of Belgium claimed ITC victory for the first time in the 2025 CPG International Team Championship [ITC], producing a stellar team performance at the Festival of Golf hosted at Porto Carras Grand Resort, Greece.

The Belgian trio of Christopher Mivis, Olivier Withofs and Laurent Richard combined for a superb 43-under-par total (389) across the 54-hole championship, holding off strong final-day challenges from Slovakia and Poland, and claiming the first ITC win for Belgium in the championship’s 36-year history.

Just two strokes behind, PGA of Slovakia — represented by Michal Brezovsky, Adam Puchmelter, and Juraj Zvarik — secured the runner-up spot with an impressive -41, while PGA of Poland’s team of Oskar Zaborowski, Alejandro Pedryc, and Marcin Bogusz rounded out the podium at -39.

The Championship – the longest-running event on the CPG schedule – brings together PGA Professional teams from across the CPG Member Countries to compete in a combined strokeplay format and took place at Porto Carras Golf Club for the first time.

Another first for the Championship saw the inclusion of Pro-Am rounds across Rounds 01 and 02 where Festival Delegates including representatives from Member Countries and Partner organisations.

Slovakia’s Adam Puchmelter and PGA of Romania representative, Dan-Sebastian Grecu, won day one’s event with a betterball 49 points, whilst another Slovakian, Juraj Zvarik, and PGA of Serbia General Secretary, Nebojsa Lazic, won day two with 48 points.

The CPG International Team Championship and Festival of Golf were made possible thanks to the support of Porto Carras Golf, AEGEAN Airlines, Real Greek Dairies, Domaine Porto Carras, and Souroti — whose partnership helped deliver a memorable week of golf, learning, and celebration on the shores of Halkidiki.

FIND OUT MORE

From inspiring women and juniors to harnessing cutting-edge technology at the Yas Links Academy at CPG Collection Member Venue, Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Amy is helping shape a new chapter of inclusive coaching in the region.

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Q: As the only female PGA professional in Abu Dhabi, how do you see your role in encouraging more women and juniors to take up the game of golf in the UAE?

Amy: Being the only female PGA professional in Abu Dhabi is both a privilege and a responsibility. I see my role as not just a coach, but also as a visible role model for women and juniors who may be curious about golf but don’t yet see themselves in the game. Representation matters.

I try to create a welcoming, inclusive and relaxed environment, where new players—especially women and children – feel comfortable taking those first steps onto the golf course. My aim is to completely remove the intimidation factor and show that golf can be fun, social, and accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability.

Q: Your coaching philosophy focuses on making lessons fun and accessible. Can you share an example of how you simplify complex techniques for your students?

Amy: Golf can be overwhelming if you dive straight into technical jargon. I like to break things down into simple, relatable concepts.

For example, instead of overloading a beginner with swing mechanics, I might compare the golf swing to drawing a specific letter of the alphabet, like a “Y” or an “L.” This gives the player a clear visual and feel without having to overthink the movement.

I also use CoachNow, which allows players to see video feedback of their swing. Often, what a player feels they’re doing and what they’re actually doing can be quite different- having that visual comparison really bridges the gap and speeds up the learning process.

By combining simple analogies, fun games, and technology, students stay engaged, learn faster, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Q: You’ve worked with both beginners and elite players, including Irish internationals. How do you adapt your coaching style to meet the needs of such a wide range of golfers?

Amy: The key is flexibility and understanding what each golfer needs at their stage of development. Beginners often need confidence-building, encouragement, and simple fundamentals, while elite players benefit from more detailed feedback, data-driven insights, and marginal gains.

With juniors, it’s about keeping things playful and enjoyable, whereas with high-level players, it’s about structured practice and performance under pressure.

At Yas Links Abu Dhabi, we’re fortunate to have incredible technology at our disposal, such as TrackMan analysis and Swing Catalyst. TrackMan allows players to see precise data on ball flight, club delivery, and gapping, while Swing Catalyst gives valuable insights into movement patterns, balance, and ground force use.

For elite players, this technology helps take their game to the next level by providing clear visuals and feedback that support further learning and fine-tuning.

Q: Having coached in Dublin before moving to Yas Links, what differences have you noticed between the golf culture in Ireland and the UAE, particularly in terms of female participation?

Amy: In Ireland, golf has such a deep-rooted tradition and community presence—you often see families passing the game down through generations, and club competitions are a huge part of social life. In the UAE, the game is still growing, especially among women. What’s exciting here is the sense of opportunity—female participation is on the rise, and there’s a real appetite to learn.

At Yas Links, we’ve been building that community from the ground up with programs designed to support women’s development in the game. Last year, I introduced a monthly Par 3 event, which turned out to be extremely successful. It’s a non-competitive, fun, and exciting way for the ladies to take what we’ve worked on in class and apply it on the course.

The enthusiasm and diversity among the women and juniors here is incredible, and it feels like we’re part of shaping the future of golf in the region.

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With a blend of passion, creativity, and a focus on accessibility, Amy Condon continues to redefine what golf coaching looks like in the UAE. Her work at Yas Links is not only supporting players of all levels, but also building a stronger pathway for women and juniors to feel part of the game.

To find out more about the facilities at Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks

The Emirates PGA, a part of the Emirates Golf Federation [EGF], brings with it a vibrant and active national professional scene, with an impressive tournament schedule and a growing commitment to enhancing the value and support offered to its Members.

Through CPG membership, the organisation aims to further strengthen opportunities for UAE-based Professionals, while encouraging the growth of the profession among Emirati nationals.

This new partnership creates exciting opportunities for collaboration across tournament activity, education, and member services, complementing CPG’s long-standing presence in the UAE through events such as the AESGC International Pro-Am, and via the GolfSixes League Project that has been successfully operated by the EGF in Abu Dhabi.

“The Emirates PGA event offering has strengthened significantly this season, with the number of events growing by 22%,” said EGF Director of Operations, Kieren Pratt. “With over 150 members from all corners of the globe, the EPGA provides a diverse and premium tournament, education, and social offering. This expansion not only creates more competitive opportunities for our professionals but also enhances the value we deliver to clubs, partners, and the wider golfing community.”

Together, the CPG and Emirates PGA will explore ways to elevate coaching, playing, and professional standards, while ensuring that local golf professionals are connected to a global network of shared learning, tools, and support via the CPG Learning Institute and wider international programmes.

“CPG, as an Association, has been through significant change over the last few years, working hard to develop a suite of services and products that provide tools, opportunities and experiences to, and through, national associations and their Members, whilst still retaining the core principles and benefits that were founded some 35 years ago,” said Ian Randell, CPG Chief Executive.

“We are thrilled to be welcoming the Emirates PGA back into our membership as they recognise the potential to supplement their own efforts, activities and member benefits through collaboration.”

The addition of the Emirates PGA reinforces the CPG’s growing role as a hub for PGAs across the world – fostering collaboration that strengthens the game at every level

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For more information on the Emirates PGA visit cp.golf/3GhAAfz and for more on CPG Member Countries, visit cpg.golf/members.

With cutting-edge technology, climate-controlled facilities, and the largest coaching team in the club’s history, the academy is redefining how golf is taught, played, and enjoyed in the region.

We sat down with Marc Arnold, Director of Instruction at Yas Links, to explore the philosophy behind the academy, the impact of its new tools and facilities, and what visiting PGA Professionals, players, and the wider community can expect from this exciting new chapter.

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Q: Yas Links is home to some of the most advanced coaching technology in the region, including PLATFORM Golf, Swing Catalyst, Sam PuttLab and Trackman. How do these tools change the game for visiting PGA Professionals and players looking for a true high-performance training experience?

Marc Arnold: We’ve invested heavily in the academy, bringing in some of the most advanced technology and coaching platforms available. PLATFORM Golf played a key role in rebuilding the academy from the ground up into what it is today.

These tools allow us to offer a much more data-driven, engaging coaching experience – not just for elite players, but for everyone.

Whether it’s juniors, beginners, or seasoned golfers, we can tailor the experience based on real-time data from Trackman, Swing Catalyst, and more.

This technology helps us elevate coaching at all levels and has become an integral part of our school programmes, junior development initiatives, and everyday lessons. It’s a real step forward in making high-performance golf accessible to all.

Q: With year-round access, including climate-controlled indoor facilities, Yas Links is able to maintain player development and coaching programmes throughout the summer. How has this helped your in-house team continue delivering consistent results during Abu Dhabi’s hotter months?

Marc Arnold: Living in the Middle East, the summer heat does have a big impact on participation. Traditionally, we see a drop-off from early June to the end of August. But with the addition of indoor, climate-controlled facilities, we’re able to offer our students a consistent coaching environment all year round.

Our professionals are using the studios every day during the hotter months. This means we’ve been able to retain more students over the summer, keep revenue steady, and continue delivering top-level coaching. The feedback from our members and guests has been really positive – it’s made a huge difference for the academy and the business overall.

Q: How do group coaching programmes and Viya Golf’s expanding academy network support your long-term growth strategy?

Marc Arnold: We’ve made great strides this year, not just at Yas Links, but across our academies at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and Yas Acres Golf & Country Club as well. Each location is seeing strong growth, particularly in group programmes and private lessons.

Our coaching team has grown too – bringing in professionals with a broad range of experience and skills. That expansion has allowed us to offer more and tailor our services to a wider audience.

We’re continuing to look at ways to grow, whether through school engagement, expanding our junior development programme, or adding more tournaments and initiatives throughout the year. Having these facilities and the right team in place gives us the platform to keep pushing forward.

Q: Beyond the technology, the relaunch includes a clear investment in people – with the largest coaching team in the club’s history. What’s the thinking behind this growth, and how does it reflect the academy’s new philosophy?

Marc Arnold: We’re aiming to position Yas Links as one of the leading academies in the UAE, if not the Middle East. Bringing in more coaches and building the strongest team possible is a key part of that.

We’ve also introduced a new pricing structure, which allows us to offer different levels of coaching – from beginners to high-performance players. That’s opened up the academy to a much broader audience.

Another big milestone for us has been bringing in a female golf professional. We’ve seen that many women and juniors in the region feel more comfortable learning with a female coach, and we’re now able to engage with those groups in a much more meaningful way.

We’ve grown our ladies’ and juniors’ programmes, introduced par-3 social events, school programmes, and corporate clinics – all with the aim of offering more variety and value to our members and guests. It’s a complete shift in how we approach coaching and engagement.

Q: From your perspective, how does Abu Dhabi as a whole complement the golf offering at Yas Links? What can visiting players and coaching groups expect off the course in terms of hospitality, lifestyle, and culture?

Marc Arnold: Abu Dhabi is evolving rapidly. We’re seeing more hotels, more schools, more theme parks – there’s a huge amount of development and energy in the city right now.

For visiting players, it’s not just Yas Links they’re experiencing – we also have Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, both of which are world-class venues in their own right.

Off the course, visitors can enjoy fantastic restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options. The feedback we’ve had has been brilliant – many of our guests are now coming back year after year, not just for the golf, but for the complete experience that Abu Dhabi offers.

Q: With participation rising, especially among juniors and women, how is the academy approaching grassroots development? And how does this fit into your long-term vision for growing the game in Abu Dhabi and the wider region?

Marc Arnold: We’re currently reviewing our junior offering and planning to restructure it again next year to make it even stronger. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has accomplished – we had 200 juniors at our end-of-season presentation this year, which shows just how far we’ve come.

We’ve launched par-3 tournaments, attracting up to 50 juniors per event. That gives young players exposure to the competitive side of the sport, helps them learn rules and etiquette, and introduces them to different formats like scrambles.

We’re also working more closely with local schools and the Emirates Golf Federation to expand our reach and get more kids involved in the game.

There’s a lot to be excited about – including some big projects in the pipeline for 2026. I can’t say too much yet, but the work we’re doing now is laying the foundation for even greater growth in the years ahead.

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From world-class technology to grassroots development, the Yas Links Golf Academy is combining innovation with accessibility to shape the future of coaching in Abu Dhabi. With strong leadership, a growing team, and bold plans for the years ahead, it’s clear that Yas Links is setting a new benchmark for golf education and player development – not just in the UAE, but across the wider region.

To find out more about the facilities at Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks

Founded with the aim of advancing the professional game in Macau through education, development, and support for local golf professionals, the Macau PGA becomes the latest organisation to align with the CPG’s mission of growing the game through collaboration and shared knowledge.

Through this new partnership, the CPG will work closely with the Macau PGA to help develop coaching standards, support Member services, and provide access to the CPG Learning Institute, international opportunities, and a global community of fellow PGAs.

“We are very excited to join the CPG as members in this global community,” said Keith Lawson, Chairman of the Macau PGA.

“The Macau PGA is relatively small but the membership is diverse including Professionals and Board members from Macau, Hong Kong, China, United Kingdom, Canada, USA, France, and Australia.

“The collaboration with the CPG reinforces our shared dedication to promoting regional player development, enhancing coaching standards, and creating opportunities for members at an international level.”

This collaboration reflects the CPG’s ongoing commitment to helping PGAs around the world achieve their goals, while fostering regional development and creating sustainable pathways for coaches, players, and the sport as a whole.

“The welcome addition of Macau follows recent CPG membership growth into Asia, reflecting the evolution of the Association internationally in providing services to PGAs and their members,” said CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell.

“We are already working with the Macau PGA to help them achieve their goals and we are committed to providing tools, opportunities and experiences to both the Association and their members as we welcome them into the expanding international community.”

Further updates will follow as both organisations work together to deliver programmes that serve Macau PGA Members and contribute to the long-term development of golf in Macau.

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For more information on the PGA of Macau visit macaupga.com and for more on CPG Member Countries, visit cpg.golf/members.

Sotogrande is proud to announce a new partnership with leading Ladies European Tour star, Mimi Rhodes, who will represent the destination as its official touring professional ambassador.

Currently sitting at #1 on the Ladies European Tour rankings, Rhodes has already secured three victories on tour this season and is firmly in contention for the prestigious Order of Merit title.

This exciting collaboration sees Rhodes return to her roots, with a significant personal connection to Sotogrande. Having grown up playing and practicing in the region as a resident, she is very familiar with the world-class golf facilities and tranquil environment that have long made Sotogrande a home for elite athletes and discerning travellers alike.

As part of the agreement, Rhodes will base her ongoing training and preparation at The Alto Club Sotogrande and the brand-new Alto Academy, located at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort. She will feature The Alto Club branding on her apparel and golf bag throughout the remainder of the season and beyond.

Rita Jordão, Director of Marketing for Sotogrande SA, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Mimi back to Sotogrande in an official capacity. Mimi being someone who knows and loves Sotogrande as deeply as she does, makes this partnership all the more special. She exemplifies the values of our community, so we really look forward to supporting her on her journey.”

Rhodes also expressed her excitement at the partnership, saying: “Sotogrande has always felt like home to me. I’ve spent some of the most formative years of my life here, practicing, growing, and enjoying everything the destination has to offer. I’m thrilled to now represent The Alto Club and Sotogrande on the Ladies European Tour and beyond and look forward to returning regularly to prepare and recharge in-between tournaments.”

This announcement follows the recent unveiling of Suzann Pettersen as global ambassador for The Alto Club Academy. Set to open in the coming weeks, the Academy will feature state-of-the-art training facilities, a professional-level performance zone, and a par-3 course. It will also serve as a key practice location for Rhodes.

To know more about The Alto Club, head to: altogolfclub.com/a>

Sotogrande, the latest CPG Collection Member, has unveiled the rebranding of Almenara to, The Alto Club, alongside the launch of its much-anticipated Golf Academy, as part of the SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort, further adding to the world-class golf and lifestyle experience in Sotogrande.

Widely recognised for hosting some of Spain’s finest golf experiences, Sotogrande is home to iconic venues, Real Club Valderrama, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande and La Reserva Club. Now, The Alto Club brings a bold and contemporary new vision to the region – combining an exciting 18-hole championship course, a brand-new par-3 layout designed by Manuel Piñero, and a state-of-the-art Golf Academy located on the former Alcornoques nine-hole loop of Almenara’s 27-hole course.

The Alto Club Academy, which will officially open on the 1st of September, is the first of its kind on the Costa del Sol and has been designed to support players of all levels – from beginners to aspiring professionals – with a focus on accessibility, fun, and community. More than a training facility, it aims to be a welcoming space where the local community, club members, visiting golfers, and resort guests can discover or deepen their love for the game.

The academy complements the existing 18-hole championship layout at The Alto Club, originally designed by Dave Thomas and later refined by Spanish golfing legend, Manuel Piñero. Just steps away, guests of SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort enjoy five-star accommodation, an award-winning spa, and elevated gastronomy – creating a seamless connection between world-class golf, wellbeing, and hospitality.

By the hand of Solheim Cup legend Suzann Pettersen

At the heart of this new chapter is two-time major champion and Solheim Cup-winning captain, Suzann Pettersen, who joins as Global Ambassador for The Alto Club Golf Academy. Her leadership will shape the Academy’s vision, values, and training philosophy – bringing world-class insight and inspiration to every aspect of the programme.

“My time competing was a defining chapter, but this feels just as meaningful,” said Pettersen. “I’ve always dreamed of building something lasting – a place where people of all ages and levels feel welcome, supported, and inspired to get better. That’s exactly what we’re creating at The Alto Club Golf Academy.”

The Golf Academy will feature a Toptracer-equipped driving range with natural grass and covered artificial tee lines, two dedicated swing analysis suites featuring Foresight and Swing Catalyst technology, custom fitting, short-game areas with multiple greens and bunkers, and night-time training access. A newly designed nine-hole par-3 course will also provide an ideal environment for sharpening players’ iron play and short game, with holes ranging from 200m down to 80m.

Tailored coaching programmes will be available year-round, covering every aspect of development, from full-swing mechanics and course management to mental approach and competitive preparation. Whether visitors are just starting out, returning to the game, or training seriously, the Academy is purpose-built to support their progress in a welcoming, structured environment.

“We are proud to introduce a facility that reflects the spirit of Sotogrande: refined, forward-thinking, and rooted in quality,” said Stéphane Menou, General Manager of SO/ Sotogrande and The Alto Club. “With Suzann’s leadership and the support of our wider community, The Alto Club Golf Academy is set to become one of the most exciting and inclusive golf training destinations in Europe.”

With the opening of the Golf Academy, The Alto Club continues to build on Sotogrande’s legacy as one of Europe’s most revered golf destinations.

To know more about The Alto Club, head to: altogolfclub.com/a>

As one of the most respected figures in international golf, Pettersen will serve as the face of the Academy, bringing her experience, passion, and leadership to this transformative project. Her appointment marks a major milestone ahead of the Academy’s official launch and underscores Sotogrande’s commitment to creating a world-class destination for golf training and development.

The brand-new Golf Academy, situated at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort Hotel is set to become a premier hub for golf instruction in southern Europe. It will feature cutting edge Toptracer driving range technology, a natural and covered tee line with VIP practice area, a custom fitting centre, night-time practice facilities, and a bar and café. The facility will also feature a new 9-hole par-3 course designed by former Ryder Cup star, Manuel Piñero, short game practice areas including putting and chipping greens, and a professional coaching zone.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Suzann,” said Rami Badr, as CEO of Sotogrande S.A. “She is the perfect ambassador for our new Golf Academy – a world-class athlete with an astonishing resumé in the game, and with a dedication to the sport that is an ideal representation of the Academy. She is also a fantastic role model to inspire those beginning their golfing journeys with us here in Sotogrande.”

Petterson shared her excitement about the partnership, stating: “I’m honoured to join the Sotogrande team and be part of this project. This new facility is outstanding, and unlike anything else in the region. I look forward to spending time at the Academy and helping shape it into one of the best coaching facilities in the country.”

As part of her role, Suzann Pettersen will collaborate closely with the Academy’s team of teaching professionals to develop tailored training programmes that reflect her strategic approach to the game. Drawing on her extensive experience at the highest levels of competition, Pettersen will help instil her coaching philosophies throughout the facility, ensuring a consistent, elite-level methodology that supports golfers of all ages and abilities.

“We look forward to welcoming Academy guests to SO/ Sotogrande,” said Stéphane Menou, General Manager of SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort. “With one of the best coaching facilities in Europe on our doorstep creating an even more lifestyle destination within the destination, visitors can now enjoy not only elite program from Suzann and the team, but also the full experience of a 5-star lifestyle resort, completed with luxury spa Thalasso-inspired, Michelin star dining, and sweeping views across the Mediterranean.”

The new Sotogrande Golf Academy is set to officially open to the public in September 2025.

To find out more about the facilities at Sotogrande Golf Academy visit: Sotogrande.com

This new chapter sees the introduction of two cutting-edge swing studios with high-spec simulators, a dedicated indoor putting studio, and climate-controlled indoor teaching spaces – allowing for uninterrupted, year-round coaching and player development on all areas of the game, even during the hot summer months.

A key highlight of the upgrade is a new partnership with PLATFORM Golf, a global leader in immersive, performance-driven technology. Yas Links becomes the first academy in the region to feature PLATFORM Golf’s groundbreaking technology, fully integrating real-world slope, lie, and putting conditions into the simulator golf experience. Trusted by top coaches and elite programmes worldwide, PLATFORM Golf’s integration marks a significant step in elevating year-round training, coaching, and player development at Yas Links.

Additionally, integrated Swing Catalyst pressure plates measure balance and movement during the swing, giving coaches and players access to real-time performance data. Each studio is equipped with best-in-class training tools including Trackman launch monitors, Swing Catalyst systems, video analysis technology, and full simulator capability – enabling both serious coaching and engaging practice experiences.

The new putting studio also introduces Sam PuttLab, one of the most advanced putting analysis systems on the market, supporting the launch of a brand-new putting lesson programme at the academy.

The relaunch is part of a broader investment plan at Yas Links to elevate the standard of coaching and player experience. The academy will also introduce new premium lesson packages tailored to experienced golfers and those seeking a high-performance environment, as well as those looking to try the game for the first time in a comfortable space.

Marc Arnold, Director of Instruction at Viya Golf (operators of Yas Links), commented:

“This investment marks a huge step forward, not just for Yas Links, but for golf development in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. These new facilities allow us to offer the kind of world-class training environment only seen at the very best coaching facilities around the world. Whether it’s elite-level coaching, engaging junior programmes, or simply providing players with the tools to improve, we’re proud to be setting a new standard here at Yas Links in Abu Dhabi.”

The relaunch comes as Yas Links expands its coaching team – the largest in the club’s history – with five golf professionals, including four full-time. Participation is already on the rise, with more than 140 different juniors having taken part in Par 3 competitions already this year and new ladies’ social sessions helping to grow the game at community level.

This latest chapter cements Yas Links Golf Academy’s position as a regional leader in innovation, coaching, and year-round player development. The launch of the new academy also comes at a time of exceptional momentum for Yas Links, with the club not only achieving strong commercial growth, but also playing a leading role in increasing participation in the game. It also marks the first stage in a wider series of upgrades, as Viya Golf Academies relaunch under the new Viya Golf Performance Institute – a refreshed identity focused on delivering world-class instruction and performance-driven programming.

In 2024, the club recorded a 49% year-on-year increase in memberships, a 101% rise in coaching lessons delivered, and a 26% uplift in rounds played – reflecting both the growing appetite for golf in the region and Yas Links’ reputation as one of the UAE’s most dynamic golf destinations.

To find out more about the facilities at Yas Links, including the new Golf Academy, the 18-hole championship course and the par-3 course, visit: viyagolf.com/yaslinks

SAÏDIA RESORTS, MOROCCO
07 – 10 JAN 2025

The CPG Festival of Golf is heading to the incredible Saïdia Resorts in Morocco, with events taking place across Saïdia’s beautiful facilities, with a focus on providing a valuable and practical series of events, exploring innovative ways to increase your earnings and generate income from your coaching business and golf travel.

There are 3 days of sessions that are open to any individuals to attend and learn how to make more from their coaching, travel and business overall:

Innovation in the Business of Travel – The Role of the PGA Professional as the Ultimate Influencer in Golf Travel [08 Jan]

A variety of stakeholders involved in golf travel come together to look at ways of innovating and enhancing golf travel experiences and the business opportunities on all sides, including making money from golf travel for professionals.

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Innovation in the Business of Coaching [09 Jan]

Focusing on the ever-evolving world of the coaching business, in particular how golf professionals should be looking to innovate and maximise their revenue and engagement opportunities in this space.

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Annual Congress: Go Disrupt Yourselves! Innovation in CPG and PGAs [10 Jan]

A focus on challenging assumptions, embracing constraints, disrupting the status quo – all in the name of innovation and ensuring we are all future-proofing our organisations and businesses.

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The Festival of Golf will also feature the CPG International Team Championship, as well as the first ever CPG International Series Grand Finale for the 23/24 season where the season qualifiers will battle it out to be named Series Champion.

To find out more about the schedule across the week, view package information and register, click on the button below.

FIND OUT MORE

The RCEDT is dedicated to enhancing lives through golf and encouraging people to engage with the sport, including by promoting its health benefits. This challenge embodies those values by showcasing the physical and mental health benefits of golf.

The challenge takes place on June 20th at Little Aston Golf Club, UK, starting at first light at 4:30am, and will see Ian and Aston play over 5.5 rounds of golf over an approx. distance of 35 miles/56km!

We need your support! Here’s how you can help:

• Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.
• Share: Spread the word about our challenge to your friends, family, and social networks.
• Participate: Consider taking on your own 100 Hole Challenge at your local course.

How Your Donation Helps:

Funds raised from the 100 Hole Challenge will support the RCEDT’s ‘health and wellbeing’ strategic pillar. Your contributions will go towards projects that not only promote the health benefits of golf but also enhance the sport itself. Every donation helps us make a significant impact on communities, promoting healthier lifestyles through golf.

Find out more and donate at rctru.st/100

For decades now the PGA Professionals has played a pivotal role within clubs and facilities, and whilst the job may have evolved to a huge variety of different roles within the sport, they have remained in their positions as influencers of behaviour.

The PGA Pro frequently plays one of the most consistent roles within a facility environment – often the first and main point of contact for customers at a facility, they develop strong, trustworthy and valuable relationships with customers, and are known for being experts in all aspects of the sport. This positions them perfectly to be able to advise and support on all manner of subjects, not least in the area of golf travel.

Here are just a few reasons why the PGA Pro is a key influencer on golf travel:

1 – They know the best places to go…

The PGA Pro always has their ear to the ground – being so engrained in to the fabric of the sport itself allows them to be aware of those destinations, at home or abroad, that will make for a great trip and experience be they host venues of big events or hidden gems that might otherwise be unknown to the average golfer.

2 – The PGA Pro can be a great travel companion…

Travelling with a PGA Pro can make for a fantastic golf experience for even the most discerning travellers – time savers, tips, support throughout the whole process, local knowledge and more create enjoyable and effective trips plus have advantages that go both ways as explained by PGA of Italy Professional, Federico Elli: “It gives you the opportunity to create even stronger bonds with your students/friends and also to bring them to some of the most outstanding places around the world, with the guarantee of having a well-qualified, knowledgeable and experienced PGA Pro on their side who can help take care of them.”

3 – They know the best type of place to go depending on what type of trip someone is looking for…

Shopping around in golf travel for specific types of trip can be tricky, particularly when someone is trying to combine the enjoyment or relaxation associated with a holiday whilst optimising their golf experience at the same time. The PGA Pro has the residual knowledge and awareness of what makes for a good trip and the places that can facilitate this and help to provide tailored recommendations (or even create the trip itself) based on someone’s needs and requirements.

4 – The have relationships with other PGA Pros and people in golf who operate facilities around the world…

The PGA Pro network has to be the strongest in golf – all PGA Professionals share the similar principles at the heart of what they do and this creates strong bonds between them, regardless of whether they are Members of the same PGA or not. Their own travel experiences, friendships and professional network enable them to be able to connect golfers to travel companies and destinations in ways that might not otherwise be possible, often resulting in even more exceptional experiences, cost-effective deals or seamless booking and logistics around trips.

5 – They can take coaching groups away where people can enjoy a trip whilst also being coached…

PGA Pros are not only helpful points of reference for trips but they can also host the trips themselves either generally as a ‘golf guide’ or more specifically with coaching trips where individuals can not only have fantastic experiences with minimal fuss and organisation on the client side, but also strengthen bonds with their coaches. AW Golf Performance’s Alex Wrigley (PGA of GB&I) knows this only too well: “For me, golf coaching trips have made it possible to earn money in some fantastic destinations, but perhaps more importantly they have given my clients a special experience that will massively help their golf game. Intense, day-to-day coaching has many short and long-term advantages for both the player’s game and the ongoing player-coach relationship.”

6 – They are best positioned to deal with inbound tourism too…

Many of the aforementioned reasons also place the PGA Pro in the perfect position to be on the receiving end of golf travel, helping with the coordination of travel to their facility and the hosting of guests when they are on-site to provide one-on-one and face-to-face customer experiences and help them to maximise their trips.

Find out more about the CPG’s own Golf Pro-Specific Offers from the CPG Collection at cp.golf/collection

This exclusive assembly of world-class golf facilities and destinations is designed to support PGA Professionals in their roles as key influencers in golf travel and their activities such as coaching trips and golf holidays, creating substantial opportunities to develop their businesses and drive revenue.

The CPG Collection categorises its distinguished members into three tiers: Gold, Silver and Bronze, each providing unique benefits and opportunities for collaboration. But at the heart of the Collection’s mission is the promotion of exclusive offers, allowing PGA Professionals to provide their clients with unparalleled golfing experiences at worldwide venues that offer the highest stan dard of service and offerings for pro travel.

The Collection kicks off with an initial group of Members at multiple levels, with various others on the horizon to join as well:

• Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, UAE: A gem in the heart of the Emirates, offering a unique combination of golfing luxury and equestrian charm.
• Antognolla Golf, Italy: Where ancient history and modern luxury meet, set against the backdrop of Italy’s breath-taking landscapes.
• BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas, Bulgaria: A stunning cliff-top experience, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and world-class golfing facilities.
• Centurion Club, UK: Renowned for its exclusivity and exquisite golfing experience, nestled in the serene Hertfordshire countryside.
• Vilnius Grand Resort, Lithuania: A premier golf and spa resort, offering a serene escape with one of the finest championship golf courses in the Baltic region.
• Yas Acres, UAE: A vibrant community with a championship golf course at its heart, located in the dynamic Yas Island area.

“Travel continues to be a hugely valuable and important part of Professionals’ businesses and the creation of the Collection continues our mission to provide great opportunities to PGAs and their Member Professionals,” said CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell.

“Our initial line-up of Collection Members include some long-standing existing partners and some fantastic new additions and we are extremely excited to work with each of them to share their offerings to the golf community.

“In particular the Collection provides a vehicle to enhance the value we provide to Sanctioned Event / Pro-Am hosts to become a year-round partnership making those partnerships even more valuable on all sides, and provides further opportunity for PGA Professionals to add to their role as influencer and mentor to their clients.”

“Golf professionals are a vital part of our business at Antognolla and we strongly believe they contribute a great deal to golf travel,” said Antognolla Golf Director of Golf, César Burguiere.

“The CPG Collection is a great initiative that gives us another channel as part of our marketing mix, allowing us to promote our facilities that can be utilised by golf professionals and their guests, and continues to enhance our relationship with the CPG in general.”

There are a variety of benefits for Collection Members at different levels depending on how venues engage with the CPG from marketing packages to sanctioning and hosting of events and more, offering year-round opportunities.

More information on the CPG Collection and its Members can be found online at cp.golf/collection

These outputs – available to view online at edugolf.eu – are openly accessible for all individuals and organisations across the golf community to inform systems and structures for innovation in golf education.

EDUGOLF, funded under the Erasmus+ Sport Programme of the European Union (Call 2020), was founded on the principle that adapting to change can revitalise the sport and allow it to meet its potential to improve the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

The Project’s stakeholders were tasked with exploring and providing solutions to issues of workforce development, skills and education in golf, with a focus on skills development and education reform, firmly rooted in the belief that those working in golf, in both paid and voluntary positions (and those wishing to do so in the future), are the key to the future of the sport.

The Project was coordinated by the European Observatoire of Sport and Employment [EOSE] with the Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] working as Technical Lead, alongside multiple partners from a variety of areas of the golf and sport worlds – PGA of Belgium; Polish Golf Union [PGU]; French Golf Federation [ffgolf]; Real Federación Española de Golf [RFEG]; PGA of Sweden; EDGA; University of Applied Sciences for Sport and Management Potsdam [ESAB]; National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport.

“Through the EDUGOLF Project, we’ve seen the power of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of golf education,” said CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell. “The valuable outputs produced will not only benefit golf professionals but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the sport. We’re proud to have led this project with EOSE and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the golfing community.”

EOSE Director, Aurélien Favre, added: “EDUGOLF has been a journey of discovery and progress, showcasing the potential for education reform to drive positive change within the golf industry. The collaboration between EOSE, CPG, and our esteemed partners has resulted in invaluable resources that will shape the future of golf education. We are grateful for the opportunity to work on this project and excited to see the lasting impact it will have on golf’s workforce across Europe.”

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS

The Project built upon strong foundations of work from across the partnership and another Erasmus+-supported programme, Golf Stand. The outputs from that project were game-changing and have shown an impact in education activity across the whole of Europe, but EDUGOLF was able to provide a basis for many of the Golf Stand outputs to be modernised and advanced even further ensuring a continued forward-thinking and future-proofing legacy of the work.

PROJECT OUTPUTS

The outputs generated by the Project are designed to be leveraged by all parts of the golf industry to help inform and align the development of various occupations.

Outputs 02 – 05 are largely built on the research and insights generated by the Research Report in Output 01 made up of literature review, partner desk research across Europe, surveys, interviews and focus groups for a wide-ranging and holistic view of the workforce landscape.

1 – A research report on changing realities and tendencies of the golf labour market and education requirements.

2 – New occupational standards that show clear benchmarks of excellent practice and knowledge specification for golf facility staff to be competent in their jobs.

3 – An Education and Training Handbook that provides advice, direction and guidance for the development of learning programmes.

4 – Innovative online learning modules built on the principles of the handbook in relevant topics areas with detailed content in an e-learning format.

5 – A strategic action plan to ensure continuity and implementation of the Occupational Standards, Education and Training Handbook, and online learning.

NEXT STEPS

Now the Project has concluded, it is Output 5 that will be put into action to initially share the Project’s findings across the continent and drive awareness of its work, closely followed by practical applications.

The Project’s partners have already begun to incorporate the occupational standards within education frameworks and programmes, alongside provision of the content generated as part of the online learning modules developed.

All outputs from the Project are open-access and representatives from the Project Partnership are available to support those who wish to utilise them within their work and activity.

Thanks on behalf of the Project goes to all those involved in the partnership, all who contributed and supported the research and output creation activities, and to the European Union’s Erasmus+ Programme.

. . . . .

Outputs from the Project are already available to view at edugolf.eu and queries or requests to access the full online learning elements can be directed to info@edugolf.eu

Full list of partners – European Observatoire of Sport and Employment (EOSE); Confederation of Professional Golf (CPG); PGA of Belgium; Polish Golf Union (PGU); French Golf Federation (ffgolf); Real Federación Española de Golf [RFEG]; PGA of Sweden; EDGA; University of Applied Sciences for Sport and Management Potsdam (ESAB); National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport.

With the ceremonial opening of the Performance & Competence Center of the Österreichischer Golf-Verband [ÖGV] / Austrian Golf Association in Oberwaltersdorf, which is unique in Europe, a new era begins for Austrian golf.

The CPG and ÖGV have also partnered to create the Continental European Headquarters of the CPG and the CPG Learning & Performance Institute that is based at the ‘ÖGV Performance and Competence Center’, opening a variety of international learning opportunities that will be launched in the future. CPG CEO, Ian Randell, and CPG Chairman of the Knowledge & Development Panel, Jonathan Mannie, were present to see the PCC officially launched.

Numerous well-known guests from politics, sport and business personally saw the groundbreaking facility in the former tennis hall in Fontana. Including active supporters and trailblazers. ÖGV President Dr. Peter Enzinger and General Secretary Robert Fiegl welcomed, among others, entrepreneurs and Fontana owner Siegfried Wolf, the section head in the Ministry of Sports Philipp Trattner, the former Burgenland state governor and now president of the federal sports organization Sport Austria Hans Niessl, Peter McDonald (President Sportunion), Herman Krist (President ASKÖ) as well as numerous representatives of other Austrian sports associations as well as the sports director of the German Golf Association.

A Shared Success of Sport

ÖGV President Peter Enzinger, one of the initiators of the project, praised the excellent cooperation between the individual players right from the start: “This project was very close to my heart from the start. The Performance & Competence Center represents our vision of taking golf in Austria to the next level. I am thrilled with the support and positive feedback we have received both nationally and internationally. A big thank you to everyone involved.”

Siegfried Wolf was also at the forefront of this project, and despite his entrepreneurial approach, profitability played a subordinate role in this project: “For this project, all financial reason has temporarily been suspended for me. But when you see what has been created here, we can all draw a very positive conclusion.”

It is particularly important to show young people what is possible and to create the best possible conditions so that they can emulate their idols: “There was a lot of discussion about this visionary idea beforehand. However, many who are here today have continually supported us. I would also like to thank everyone very much. We made it! The Performance & Competence Center is an international flagship of Austrian golf and it is almost impossible to get young people out of the facility. That’s why I put profitability aside. This is my contribution to Austrian golf.”

The project also received great support from politicians. On the one hand, to further develop competitive sport – in which little things make the difference – and, on the other hand, not to put any obstacles in the way of the next generation. “In sports infrastructure, the past catches up with you. Not just when it comes to golf. Infrastructure projects that were built in the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s are no longer “up to date” today. But if we want to get our children moving, we need the infrastructure to do so. We as a sport have to address this together. We must gradually close these gaps. Step by step. We won’t be able to do this in all 60 sports associations overnight. Golf was now the next step,” said Philipp Trattner, head of the sports section at the Federal Ministry.

Of course, Austrian golf was also well represented at the opening. Led by the Austrian golf legend Markus Brier, the tour professionals Lukas Nemecz and Niklas Regner did the honors – including a demonstration of their impressive skills with the small white ball.

Innovation & Expertise

The facility is also tailored primarily to competitive sports and to enable up-and-coming young talent to make a professional transition from amateur to professional. Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies and year-round usage, Austria’s new “Home of Golf” offers Austrian competitive athletes unprecedented training conditions in order to best prepare for future challenges.

In a first phase, an indoor training center with a 1,300m² driving range including a 200m² practice green, warm-up & lounge area and a 750m² pitch & putt short game area was built in the former tennis hall of the Fontana golf course. The indoor training center is also equipped with the latest training technologies and analysis tools.

The mission of the project is to bring together all golf expertise in one location and extends beyond the borders of Austria. The ÖGV has also moved into new office space in Oberwaltersdorf. The location is also enriched by collaborations with institutions such as the PGA of Austria and the Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG]. Numerous European golf associations have already expressed their interest in cooperation.

For more information on visit performance.golf.at

New innovative technology drives this expansive range of clothing, in addition to three new print stories that encompass timeless elegance: with comfort, playability and style at the core. The breadth of choice within the collection allows golfers to express their individuality by layering up in coordinated printed patterns or simply keep their style sleek in the new sporty silhouettes, all available in this season’s colours and textures.

Terrazo, the first of three print stories, is a textured print that incorporates a natural, warm autumnal palette for a selection of on-trend outfits. The Monogram print exudes classic luxury, with a unique and symbolic combination of the women’s PING logo for a repeated premium print. Finally, the Diffused Florals print includes an abstract design for a floral camo effect; a bolder option for those seeking a sophisticated, sporty look.

Milli, a new high-end waterproof, features a monogram embossed pattern on the front panels, back vent and lower sleeves and is constructed in a two-layer breathable fabric, designed in a flattering silhouette, to keep you dry and stylish out on the course. The jacket also has a useful adjustable hood which packs into the collar, for ultimate protection during wet weather and the cosy brushed tricot lined areas provide warmth and cosiness on colder days.

An exciting new stand out style is the Gem, a lightweight hybrid hooded jacket with wind and water resistance. The insulation in the front and back panels utilises PING’s SensorWarm® technology for core warmth, while the stretch fabric throughout creates a complimentary fit. This incredibly versatile jacket is a must for golfers, as it is the perfect solution for an on-course thermal, or an off-course winter warmer.

Layering garments in this season’s range couldn’t be simpler, making it easier than ever to create fresh and modern outfits. The insulated Flo vest, with its chic collarless design, makes layering a seamless process by slipping it under outerwear or over mid-layers; with the added benefits of the lightweight and breathable Sorona® Aura insulation and windproof stretch side panels, the Flo will give you a thermal boost and great look.

The Lolette, a printed long sleeve top engineered for moisture-moving comfort in all conditions, comes in three stylish colourways with a peached fabric for enhanced softness – an ideal garment to wear underneath an outerwear option, like the Bryony insulated reversible vest, for full freedom of movement.

The Autumn Winter season means sweater weather is in full swing. Step onto the course in one of PING’s new knitwear styles; the Jeanie roll neck has been designed to effortlessly complement the new insulated vests in the collection and with highlight colour details, it makes it super easy to style for the season. Crafted from a merino blend, this style provides next to the skin warmth and comfort, perfect for layering.

A lined sweater never goes out of style and this season PING has two to choose from; the Elspeth is a hybrid knit, which combines merino blend knitted details with an insulted quilted front body, making it a versatile must have, offering maximum comfort and style on the course. The Kaylah is a timeless fully lined sweater featuring a seamless deep neckline with direction ribs giving this a modern update for the season.

PING also continues its support for the Solheim Cup in 2024, as the official apparel supplier for the European team. Details of the replica kit will be available nearer the time.

Find Out More at PINGEurope.COM

The Taran 3L Jacket leads the range as the ultimate in waterproof protection and is engineered for optimal playability in wet weather. Constructed in a three-layer stretch woven fabric, to provide superior waterproof (20,000mm) and breathability (20,000 g/m2), it embodies what a waterproof jacket should be: protective, breathable and built with the golfer in mind. Crafted from a single panel, the new innovative seam-free construction to the under arm allows greater overarm lift for enhanced playability, allowing golfers optimum freedom of movement during the swing. The inner layer features an exclusive PING print that creates a feeling of comfort next to the skin, whilst this waterproof also comes with a limited five-year warranty.

Joining the range and representing an expansion of the Graphene technology already explored in PING’s previous AW ranges, is the Levan Graphene Jacket. The Graphene technology provides heat retention properties for enhanced thermoregulation in cold weather, with long-lasting comfort regardless of changing conditions. It’s designed with timeless appeal and packed with technical features for peak performance on the golf course. Constructed using a Graphene yarn, knitted into a honeycomb pattern, to provide a soft lining for enhanced comfort, this high-performance fabric provides superior water and wind resistance, offering golfers the perfect non-padded alternative to their choice of outerwear.

PING continues to redefine the future of insulated outerwear through their renowned Norse Series – a new line up of impressive garments all engineered with market leading PrimaLoft® insulation that are perfectly suited to excel in winter conditions. Designed for the coldest days, the Norse S6 Jacket sees a notable reduction in the sleeve bulk to ensure golfers can swing freely and confidently on the course, whilst the stitch-free quilted ThermoPlume® technology to the front body helps eliminate the exposure to wind, adding next-level warmth to this performance golf jacket.

The Norse S6 Hooded Jacket is engineered for core warmth and wind resistance, thanks to stitch-free quilted PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume® to the front and back body. Its contemporary design also features an improved hood, for a modern fit and silhouette. With its multi-purpose protection and core insulation, this is the perfect trans-seasonal jacket to protect golfers throughout the seasons and varying on-course conditions.

The new collection from PING embraces the need for more options and layers of warmth, showcased by the extensive breadth of outerwear and mid-layers available to golfers. Ranging from traditional blue and navy tones to fresh on-season colours like Mushroom and Russet, the options for a sleek, engineered to play outfit are endless.

New for this year, the Firth joins the choice of outerwear, designed with a sporty and contemporary aesthetic for superior playability on the course. The Astle, featuring a mini textured pattern to the fleece sleeves and sleek rubber trims designed with clean, seamless detailing, provides a contemporary look for those looking to add a modern touch to their outfit. With the addition of a water-resistant finish to this cosy brushed back stretch fleece, it’s the perfect mid-layer for winter golf.

Finally, the range of knitwear continues to broaden with the addition of the Cranford hybrid knit sweater and Murphy, a fully lined zip sweater. Both sweaters are crafted from Merino Wool, engineered for complete warmth and comfort. The Cranford features smart contrast woven panelling, whilst the Murphy provides directional rib detailing to elevate their style, seamlessly transitioning from on to off-course appeal.

Find Out More at PINGEurope.COM

CPG INDOOR PRO-AM SERIES POWERED BY TRACKMAN

DEC ’23 – Mar ’24

This December the CPG launches the CPG Indoor Pro-Am Series Powered by TrackMan – four Pro-Am tournaments across four months, at Ryder Cup venues past and future, that utilise TrackMan’s powerhouse simulator technology and offer social and friendly opportunities to play, alongside great business opportunities for PGA Professionals.

Following on from CPG’s successful Virtual Series, and a further addition to the successful CPG International Series,

these events will see 1 Professional and 3 Amateurs compete in the popular Pro-Am 2-from-4 betterball format.

The events act as a great way for Professionals to bring together clients, students and friends for friendly and social competition and to generate revenue by packaging up team entries to combine with coaching sessions when the days are shorter and colder. Plus, there is also the opportunity to win prize money.

For example, Professionals could package up their Pro-Am Team’s entry into a session where they are able to entertain and engage their team with not only tournament play but also a social and coaching-focused event to maximise their opportunities to connect with their amateur teammates and generate revenue. Professionals could even create pre-tournament practice sessions to help their team prepare for the big tournament round itself.

Pro-Am events take place monthly between December 2023 and March 2024, and can be played on any TrackMan 4 unit or TrackMan iO sim in the world:

EVENT 01 01 – 31 DEC 2023 Marco Simone Golf & Country Club 🇮🇹	EVENT 02 01 – 31 JAN 2024 Le Golf National 🇫🇷 Registration Opening Soon…
EVENT 03 01 – 29 FEB 2024 Medinah Country Club 🇺🇸 Registration Opening Soon…	EVENT 04 01 – 31 MAR 2024 Adare Manor 🇮🇪 Registration Opening Soon…

The winning team in each event will also earn themselves golf and lunch for four people on two days at the incredible Antognolla Golf in Italy, with free access to golf carts and the practice facilities and a promise of preferential rates at a nearby hotel.

Prize fund is also on offer in the Individual Professional division of each event, and as part of the CPG International Series Powered by Golf Genius, each event’s Professional winner will receive an invitation to the Series Final along with all Professionals in each field receiving Order of Merit points.

TrackMan’s combination of radar and camera tracking has led to a paradigm-shift in the golf simulator experience that emulates down to the last detail some of the best courses in the world. TrackMan’s dedicated team uses drone mapping to render courses in extraordinary detail with incredibly high-definition graphics, providing an excellent opportunity to compete as realistically as possible.

Now, with the recent launch of Trackman iO — the company’s first purpose-built product for indoor golf – the powerful product lineup reinforces Trackman’s position as the market leader in indoor golf.

For more information on the CPG Virtual Series visit https://cp.golf/indoor and for more on TrackMan visit TrackMan.com

Impact on recreational game kept to an absolute minimum

………………….

The R&A and USGA will update the testing conditions used for golf ball conformance under the Overall Distance Standard (ODS), which will take effect from January 2028. The decision aims to reduce the impact increased hitting distances have on golf’s long-term sustainability while minimising the impact on the recreational game.

The revised ball testing conditions will be as follows: 125-mph clubhead speed (equivalent to 183 mph ball speed); spin rate of 2220 rpm and launch angle of 11 degrees. The current conditions, which were established 20 years ago, are set at 120 mph (equivalent to 176 mph ball speed), 2520 rpm with a 10-degree launch angle.

The revised conditions are based on analysis of data from the worldwide tours and the game over several years and are intended to ensure that the ODS (whose limit will remain unchanged at 317 yards with a 3-yard tolerance) continues to represent the ability of the game’s longest hitters. An analysis of ball speeds among golf’s longest hitters in 2023 shows that the fastest ten players had an average ball speed of 186 mph, while the average ball speed of the fastest 25 was 183.4 mph (the very fastest averaged 190 mph).

The longest hitters are expected to see a reduction of as much as 13-15 yards in drive distance. Average professional tour and elite male players are expected to see a reduction of 9-11 yards, with a 5-7-yard reduction for an average LET or LPGA player.

The change in testing speed is expected to have a minimal distance impact, 5 yards or less, for most recreational golfers. Research shows an average swing speed of 93 mph for male golfers and 72 mph for female players.

Existing balls approved for conformance in 2027 may continue to be used by recreational golfers until January 2030 to give golfers, manufacturers and retailers additional time to adjust. These decisions are in line with the commitments made by the governing bodies at the project’s inception.

A significant portion of golf ball models that are currently in the market – and more than 30 percent of all golf ball models submitted for conformance across the game – are expected to remain conforming after these changes are applied.

Martin Slumbers, CEO of The R&A, said, “We are convinced that this decision is one of the key ways of achieving a sustainable future for golf, protecting the integrity of the game and meeting our environmental responsibilities. The measure we are taking has been carefully considered and calibrated while maintaining the ‘one game’ ethos deemed to be so important to the golf industry. Importantly, it also keeps the impact on recreational golfers to an absolute minimum. We are acting now because we want to ensure that future generations can enjoy the unique challenge of golf as much as we do.”

“Governance is hard. And while thousands will claim that we did too much, there will be just as many who said we didn’t do enough to protect the game long-term,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. “But from the very beginning, we’ve been driven to do what is right for the game, without bias. As we’ve said, doing nothing is not an option – and we would be failing in our responsibility to protect the game’s future if we didn’t take appropriate action now.”

The Notice of Decision follows the most thorough and comprehensive examination of the issue in the game’s history through the Distance Insights project, which was launched in 2018 and gathered data, shared research and solicited feedback from golf course owners, players, and stakeholders across the game. Data provided by the seven major worldwide tours has also been analysed by the governing bodies, who have published Annual Driving Distance Reports every year since 2015.

The reports followed the governing bodies’ joint Conclusions from the Distance Insights Project: Implication of Hitting Distance in Golf, which shared the reasons why addressing the continuing trend of hitting distance increases and subsequent course lengthening is critical to the game’s long-term sustainability.

All golf ball and club manufacturers were advised of the decision on Tuesday and were given full technical details and an implementation timeline. The Notice of Decision takes into account the extensive research and feedback received from manufacturers and other industry stakeholders throughout the six-year process and following multiple Areas of Interest and proposals starting in 2021 as part of the Equipment Rulemaking process.

A copy of the letter and technical documents can be found at www.RandA.org/distance-insights.

The extensive feedback received showed worldwide sentiment that the retention of a single set of playing rules and equipment standards is critically important to the sport and should apply across the game. Feedback from manufacturers resulted in the timeline being extended to 2028 to allow more time for innovation and production of new products for elite and recreational players.

In addition to the new ball-testing conditions, the governing bodies will:

Expand the testing approach to better detect ‘Driver Creep,’ which can result in drivers exceeding the limits set out in the Equipment Rules. This is a change in the testing methodology for submitted drivers, to identify and proactively address driver models that are within current tolerance levels and have Characteristic Time (CT) values that are more likely to exceed the limit through regular use.

Continue to monitor drivers and explore possible additional options related to distance. Specifically, we will research the forgiveness of drivers and how they perform with off-centre hits. This is an ongoing review and we will seek input from and continue to work with the industry, including manufacturers, to identify driver design features that can be regulated as a means to reward centre impact position hits versus mis-hits.

The R&A and the USGA are guided by an overarching principle to continue to preserve the fundamental elements of golf – protecting the integrity of golf courses, including their overall length, and ensuring that a variety of skills are needed to be successful.

Longer golf courses require additional resources such as water, the cost of renovating or moving elements like tees and bunkers continues to rise and other long-term impacts have been identified as a result of increased distance. The governing bodies believe that if the sport is to enjoy a sustainable long-term future then these economic and environmental impacts have to be kept under control.

The Overall Distance Standard was first introduced in 1976 and has been updated on three previous occasions (1980, 2002 and 2004). This is the first time that test speeds have been updated since 2004, when the current standard was set based on the longest hitters at that time.

Details on the study and complete technical data on the Distance Insights project can be found at www.RandA.org/distance-insights.

RECEIVE FUTURE CPG NEWS

VISIT THE R&A

The event was organised as part of the Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] Learning and Performance Summit which took place over several days.

The event began with EOSE Director of Standards, Ben Gittus, introducing the EDUGOLF project and involving the audience with a series of interactive polls linked to the themes of the EDUGOLF project which aimed to modernise education and training in golf. Ben also presented the key results from the Research Report produced as an output of the project.

Next, Wojciech Waśniewski, CPG Executive Director – Knowledge Development, presented the new Occupational Standards for Professionals in Golf. The standards describe the competences, skills and knowledge needed for effective performance in various job roles in golf. Wojciech also presented the EDUGOLF Education and Training Handbook which aims to support the modernisation of golf education in line with the key aim of growing the game.

Participants took part in group work to test their understanding of the outputs and describe how they could be used by different parts of the golf industry, including employers, training providers and individual coaches or manages.

Look out for the publication of all the EDUGOLF outputs in the New Year!

Visit the project web page at edugolf.eu to learn more about the project. You can contact the EDUGOLF project and ask to be kept informed about developments by contacting info@edugolf.eu or subscribe to project updates on the website.

Full list of partners – European Observatoire of Sport and Employment (EOSE); Confederation of Professional Golf (CPG); PGA of Sweden; Polish Golf Union (PGU); French Golf Federation (ffgolf); Real Federacion Espanola de Golf (RFEG); PGA of Belgium; EDGA; University of Applied Sciences for Sport and Management Potsdam (ESAB); National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport (NUPPES).

An exclusive resource hub curated specifically to empower the dedicated representatives of CPG Member Country PGAs – Your Association in a Box – has been launched by the Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG].

This hub and toolkit serve as a comprehensive guide to all things PGA, providing a variety of resources that will empower organisations to enhance their activities and the experience of their Members and help them to unlock a wealth of opportunities.

Reflecting the Togetherness, Collaboration and Development ethos of the CPG, the creation of this hub reinforces the CPG’s commitment to knowledge sharing, progression, and growth across the collective of PGAs.

“The concept of ‘Your Association in a Box’ was widely discussed at our Annual Congress earlier this year and is a superb example of our guiding principles being put into direct action,” said CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell.

“By collating best in class examples from across our membership, along with those developed during the evolution of our Association, the resources available now and in the future are designed to provide clear, tangible and practical tools and benefits to enhance the already great work of Member Country staff, Boards, Committees, education leaders and more, assisting them to thrive in their future development.”

Your Association in a Box users already have access to a suite of resources such as guides, information documents, templates, articles and more with resources being specifically crafted to ensure relevance and adaptability to the unique and diverse activities of a PGA. Resources are also tailored to the wide range of stages of development from embryonic PGAs at the beginning of their journeys to those that are established and operating for 100+ years.

Member Countries are now also able to access live benchmarking data from across the organisation’s 39-country strong collective, allowing them to compare and contrast for ongoing analysis, identification of good and consistent practice, and for strategic goal setting and activation.

The hub also acts as a home for CPG Partners to share exclusive opportunities with Member Countries, such as Lead Partner, TrackMan, already working to develop professional education opportunities for PGA Members.

The resources fall into various domains including membership, governance, tournaments, education, golf development, operations, sustainability, marketing and communications, strategy, and career development, as well as digitalisation resources powered by CPG Partner, Golf Genius.

Resources come from numerous sources both from the CPG’s own activity, resources and experiences, along with those from across the network of countries, leveraging the truly collaborative and collective intelligence established across 30+ years.

For more information on Your Association in a Box, contact info@cpg.golf