There’s No Business Like Show Business
I made it to The Show.
In my former life working for a Major League Baseball team, that sentence would mean I made it to the Big Leagues. Here, in a golf context, it basically means the same thing–to me at least.
I’m talking about the PGA Show in Orlando. Organized in partnership by PGA Golf Exhibitions and the PGA of America, “The Show” has been the largest annual global summit for the business of golf for almost 70 years.
Although the event was canceled in 2021 due to the pandemic, I was extremely excited to be able to attend my first Show this year and it did not disappoint.
The 69th Show welcomed back the industry with a new look and feel, focusing particularly on enhancements that power face-to-face business connections, technology, and innovations.
It all started with Demo Day at Orange County National Golf Center. Although the absence of major equipment manufacturers such as Callaway, Cleveland/Srixon, Cobra, Ping, TaylorMade, and Titleist created a buzz of its own, there was still plenty to take in.
Unfortunately, the Sunshine State did not live up to its name during Show week, and inclement weather cut my time at the massive, circular driving range shorter than I would have liked. However, in my limited time at Demo Day, I was able to pack in a lot, like test driving a golf scooter and a golf bike, demoing the Orange Whip and SuperSpeed training programs, and even testing out a PowerGolf Club (no swing required!), just to name a few.
The show itself opened at Orange County Convention Center the following morning, featuring 600 brands showcasing every type of item used for golf, or the golfing lifestyle, imaginable.
As I walked into the large exhibit hall, my senses were overwhelmed and I didn’t know where to begin. From apparel, training aids, and launch monitors to fitness, course maintenance, home goods, and everything in between, there was a vendor there waiting to chat.
It should be noted that the Show is not open to the public. The majority of the folks who attend are PGA professionals, or golf course owners, looking to purchase items for their businesses, make connections, and attend concurrent continuing education workshops and seminars while in the area. Me? I was there in a media capacity, to capture the experience, preview some new products and make connections; I’m pleased to say that I accomplished each of those goals and more during this trip.
I also got to meet Adam Grubb, the boss here at Stick and Hack, in person for the first time, and bear witness to him enjoying the best Fish and Chips in the United States, served at The Pub in Orlando. But that’s a whole story in itself.
I left the Show feeling energized, inspired, and excited; Getting a little golf fix and a small reprieve from the Wisconsin winter has only left me more anxious than ever before to get out there and play.
In the meantime, I’ll be following up with some of the new brands and connections I made in Orlando and working on future articles. Oh yes, and working on my putting, too, of course.
