‘Setting Up Golf Courses for Success,’ an industrywide guidebook to course setup, officially debuted in digital form today on PGA.org. The collaborative guide contains new industry research and addresses a critical factor that inhibits enjoyment of the game for many women—golf course setups that are not tailored to the customer and their ability level.  

With women comprising nearly 40 percent of all new golfers in the United States, ‘Setting up Golf Courses for Success’ focuses on their swing speeds and distance, serving to highlight the need for an alternative approach to course setup. Specific recommendations focus on tee positioning, nomenclature, retrofitting, the elimination of cross hazards and forced carries, and the long-term economic benefits of transitioning to shorter tees.

“The ‘Setting up Golf Courses for Success’ guidebook will serve as a resource to provide industry professionals the research and tools necessary to make golf courses more fun and enjoyable for all,’ said PGA President Derek Sprague. “We believe this guide will inspire facilities to recognize the tangible benefits that a welcoming golf course set up suitable for one’s skill level can have for their members, customers and guests, and over time, their bottom line.’

The book provides research, case studies, and self-assessment tools for facilities to use when considering course setup and is supported by the: PGA of America, American Society of Golf Course Architects, Club Managers Association of America, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), National Alliance for Accessible Golf, National Golf Course Owners Association and the United States Golf Association (USGA).

The book was authored by Arthur D. Little, the senior trustee of the Royal Little Family Foundation, with support from the golf industry organizations.

The hardcopy version will accompany select copies of the July issue of PGA Magazine.

https://www.pga.org/articles/setting-golf-courses-success-collaborative-guidebook-debuts