News

My Take: The importance of revitalizing golf for the future through diverse and innovative facilities

Published

9 months ago

Nov 22, 2024

In recent years, golf has been experiencing a significant upward trend. A considerable part of that trend has come from non-traditional, off-course options, which have driven record numbers of new folks to the game. As a veteran of the industry with over 30 years of experience and having spent the past 15 years as a member of the PGA of America, I am excited and encouraged by this development. Despite this ever-increasing positive upward trend, with more and more new people having a golf club in their hands, there has been a downside. Many who have found their way to the game through non-traditional means have yet to cross over into trying it in its traditional form.

Fortunately, there have been signs of an additional emerging trend in golf, which could be a game-changer overall and a means to bridge that gap between non-traditional and tried-and-true. This trend includes the rise of alternative on-course options such as pitch-and-putt, par-three, and putting courses, as well as technology-driven experiences like Toptracer ranges. These amenities are reshaping the golfing landscape worldwide. I feel strongly that this evolution is crucial for the sport’s future, bridging that gap between traditional golf and the expanding off-course facility boom.

With a massive increase in off-course golf participants over the past few years—many of whom have never visited a traditional golf facility—these expanded on-course options will appeal to a broader audience.

Orange County National Golf Club’s “Tooth” 9 Hole Course. Orlando, FL.

Expanding the Golfing Experience

Traditional 18-hole golf courses demand time, skill, and often a considerable financial commitment, which can deter newcomers. In response, more golf facilities are incorporating shorter, less demanding, and more accessible forms of the game. Pitch and putt, par-three, and putting courses provide an ideal introduction to golf, offering a fun and less intimidating environment for novices.

These innovative alternatives are instrumental in attracting newcomers and are also refreshing for seasoned players seeking a casual round. Family-friendly by design, they foster a communal atmosphere that traditional golf sometimes lacks. They cater much more to today’s fast-paced lifestyle, allowing people to engage with the game without dedicating an entire day.

Check out my PGA.com article on some of the best short courses in the game!

“The Barn” at Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, Haines City, FL

The Rise of Tech-Enhanced Ranges

Technology-driven golf experiences are surging in popularity as well. Facilities like those equipped with Toptracer technology, which provides real-time data and analytics on each shot and fun challenges such as closest to the pin, long drive, and other fun forms of play, have redefined the driving range experience. These high-tech ranges captivate players with engaging, game-like formats that appeal to both competitive golfers and casual participants. They also provide opportunities for booms in food and beverage revenue as many facilities that bring in this tech also fit their range with covered sitting areas complete with televisions, fire pits, music, and expanded quick-serve dining.

TopGolf, Drive Shack, and similar venues have harnessed this technology to offer golf-related entertainment in a dynamic setting. These venues have been remarkably successful in attracting diverse demographics, including younger audiences and those with little prior exposure to golf. Their emphasis on social interaction and non-traditional golfing environments has led to a surge in overall golf participation.

Bringing that TopGolf-like experience to the golf course has proven massively successful in recent years, and more and more courses worldwide.

Bridging the Gap to Traditional Courses

While off-course golf experiences have dramatically increased participation, converting these enthusiasts into traditional golf course players remains challenging. This gap represents a significant opportunity for golf facilities to innovate and grow the sport’s base.

By integrating elements like Toptracer ranges or short courses within traditional golf facilities, courses can seamlessly transition from casual participation to more traditional forms of the game. These additions can serve as stepping stones, offering an accessible entry point while gradually introducing newcomers to the intricacies of full-course play. They also provide existing golfers a platform to refine specific aspects of their game.

Tee it Up Driving Range in Oviedo, FL, has a Toptracer range, an 18-hole putting course, and more.

Enhancing Viability and Inclusivity

Incorporating these additional and expanded options at a golf facility promotes inclusivity within the game, breaking down barriers associated with its traditional image. By appealing to a diverse audience, golf can modernize its appeal and ensure its relevance in today’s society. Forward-thinking courses that embrace these innovations can create a welcoming, inclusive environment that celebrates golf as a sport for all.

The need for alternative on-course golf options and high-tech ranges is both a response to cultural shifts and a proactive strategy to safeguard the future of the sport. By lowering entry barriers and enhancing the appeal of golf, these initiatives not only enrich the game’s experience but also strengthen its community and economic foundations. As more facilities embrace these innovations, golf is poised to thrive as a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic sport. Embracing these changes is essential for fostering a new generation of golfers who will carry the tradition and the game forward.

Editor’s note: “My Take” will be an ongoing weekly series where Brendon shares his thoughts and opinions on various aspects of the game and industry. These are Brendon’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of GolfWRX, its staff, and its affiliates.

Reader, please support me by checking out my three weekly columns on RG.org. On Mondays, I present “The Starter,” which recaps the week gone by in golf. On Wednesdays, I give you “Fairway Focus,” which previews the week to come in golf. And on Fridays, I dish up the “Friday Fore-cast,” a look at what’s on tap for the upcoming weekend.

Related Topics:alternative golf opinion toptracer

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Brendon Elliott

As a member of the Golf Writers Association of America, Brendon Elliott covers premier tournaments including the PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour, the Masters Tournament, and the PGA Championship. He has conducted notable interviews with golf legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Annika Sorenstam, and modern greats like Keegan Bradley. Elliott's media career spans multiple prestigious platforms, with current affiliations including PGA.com and PGA Magazine (since 2018), GolfWRX (since 2018), MyGolfSpy (beginning in 2025), and RG.org (since 2024). Through his One More Roll Golf Media company, he works as a premier freelance golf writer while consulting with golf start-up companies. Elliott's distinguished career as a PGA Professional has focused on developing junior golfers. In 2017, he was named the PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award Winner and has been recognized multiple times as one of the best golf instructors regionally and nationally. In 2008, Elliott founded Little Linksters, an award-winning youth golf academy, and in 2010 expanded with a sister nonprofit organization for children of all abilities. While he sold Little Linksters Academy in December 2024, he continues as Executive Director of the nonprofit and launched the BE A GOLFER Academy for competitive teen golfers in January 2025. Elliott's combination of teaching experience, business acumen, and journalistic expertise positions him as a comprehensive authority in the golf industry, bridging instruction and media for golf enthusiasts, industry professionals, and aspiring players.

2 Comments

M

Nov 23, 2024 at 10:02 am

It’s so overcrowded out there right now. We need more courses

Reply Report comment
Bob

Nov 22, 2024 at 5:27 pm

What do you know about currency printed from nothing and who it benefits? Inflation is theft.

Explore that question first because it will answer all your other questions.

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News

Tour Rundown: Bend, but don’t break

Published

3 weeks ago

Aug 4, 2025

Ronald Montesano

I’m going to gush in this intro paragraph, to get the emo stuff done early. I’ve not pulled harder for a professional to win, than Cameron Young. I coach golf in New York state, and each spring, my best golfers head to a state championship in Poughkeepsie. I first saw Cameron there as a 9th grade student. I saw him three more times after that. I reconnecected with Coach Haas from Wake Forest, an old interview subject from my days on the Old Gold and Black, the Wake newspaper. He was there to watch Cameron. After four years at Wake Forest, Young won on the Korn Ferry Tour, made it to the big tour, almost won two majors, almost won five other events, and finally got the chalice about 25 minutes from the Wake campus. Congratulations, Cameron. You truly are a glass of the finest. #MotherSoDear

OK, let’s move on to the Tour Rundown. The major championship season closed this week in Wales, with the Women’s Open championship. The PGA Tour bounced through Greensboror, N.C., while the PGA Tour Americas hit TO (aka, Toronto) for a long-winded event. The Korn Ferry lads made a stop in Utah, one of just two events for that tour in August. The many-events, golf season is winding down, as we ease from summer toward fall in the northern hemisphere. Let’s bask in the glory of an August sunrise, and run down a quartet of events from the first weekend of the eighth month.

LET/LPGA @ Women’s Open: Miyu bends, but she doesn’t break

Royal Porthcawl was not a known commodity in the major tournament community. The Welsh links had served as host to men’s senior opens, men’s amateurs, and Curtis and Walker Cups in prior years, but never an Open championship for the women or the men. The last-kept secret in UK golf was revealed once again to the world this week, as the best female golfers took to the sandy stage.

Mao Saigo, Grace Kim, Maja Stark, and Minjee Lee hoped to add a second major title to previous wins this season, but only Lee was able to finish inside the top ten. The 2025 playing of the Women’s Open gave us a new-faces gallery from day one. The Kordas and Thitikulls were nowhere to be found, and it was the Mayashitas, Katsus, and Lim Kims that secured the Cymru spotlight. The first round lead was held at 67 by two golfers. One of them battled to the end, while the other posted 81 on day two, and missed the cut. Sitting one shot behind was Miyu Yamashita.

On day two, Yamashita posted the round of the tournament. Her 65 moved her to the front of the aisle, in just her fourth turn around a women’s Open championship. With the pre-event favorites drifting off pace, followers narrowed into two camps: those on the side of an underdog, and others hoping for a weekend charge from back in the pack. In the end, we had a bit of both.

On Saturday, Yamashita bent with 74 on Saturday, offering rays of hope to her pursuing pack. England’s Charley Hull made a run on Sunday closing within one shot before tailing off to a T2 finish with Minami Katsu. Katsu posted the other 65 of the week, on Saturday, but could not overtake her countrywoman, Yamashita. wunderkind Lottie Woad needed one round in the 60s to find her pace, but could only must close-to’s, ending on 284 and a tie with Minjee for eighth.

On Sunday, Yamashita put away the thoughts of Saturday’s struggles, with three-under 33 on the outward half. She closed in plus-one 37, but still won by two, for a first Major and LPGA title.

PGA Tour @ Wyndham: Young gathers first title near home

Cameron Young grew up along the Hudson river, above metro New York, but he also calls Winston-Salem home. He spent four years as a student and athlete at Wake Forest University, then embarked on tour. This week in Greensboro, after a bit of a break, Young opened with 63-62, and revved the engine of Is this the week once more. Runner-up finishes at the Open, the PGA, and a handful of PGA Tour events had followers wonder when the day would come.

On Saturday, Young continued his torrid pace with 65, giving him a five-shot advantage over his closest pursuer. Sunday saw the Scarborough native open with bogey, then reel off five consecutive birdies to remind folks that his time had, at last, arrived. Pars to the 16th, before two harmless bogeys coming home, made Young the 1000th winner of an official PGA Tour event (dating back to before there was a PGA Tour) throughout history. What’s next? I have a suspicion, but I’m not letting on. Mac Meissner closed with 66 to finish solo 2nd, while Mark Hubbard and Alex Noren tied for third.

Korn Ferry Tour @ Utah Championship: Are you Suri it’s Julian?

Who knows exactly when the flower will bloom? Julian Suri played a solid careet at Duke University, then paid his dues on the world’s minor tours for three years. He won twice on two tours in Europe, in 2017. Since then, the grind has continued for the journeyman from New York city. At age 34, Suri broke through in Beehive state, outlasting another grinder (Spencer Levin) and four others, by two shots.

Taylor Montgomery began the week with 62, then posted 64, then 68, and finally, 70. That final round was his undoing. He finished in that second-place tie, two back of the leader. Trace Crowe, Barend Botha, and Kensei Hirata made up the last of the almost quintet. As for Suri, his Sunday play was sublime. His nines were 32 and 31, with his only radar blip a bogey at ten. He closed in style with one final birdie, to double his winning margin. Hogan bloomed late…might Suri?

PGA Tour Americas @ Osprey Valley Open presented by Votorantim Cimentos – CBM Aggregates

Some tournament names run longer than others. This week in Toronto, at the Heathlands course at TPC Toronto, we might have seen the longest tournament title in recorded history. The OVOPBVCCBMA was a splendid affair. It saw three rounds of 62 on Thursday, but of those early risers, only Drew Goodman would stick around until the end. 64 was the low tally on day two, and two of those legionnaires managed to finish inside the top three at week’s end. Saturday brought a 63 from Patrick Newcomb, and he would follow with 64 on Sunday, to finish solo fourth.

Who, then, ended up winning the acronym of the year? It turns out that Carson Bacha had the right stuff in TeeOhhh. Bacha and Jay Card III posted 63 and 64, respectively, on day four, to tie for medalist honors at 23-under 261. Nathan Franks was one shot adrift, despite also closing with 63. If you didn’t go low on Sunday, it was about the check, not the championship.

Bacha and JC3 returned to the 18th hole twice in overtime. Card nearly chipped in from the thick stuff for birdie, while Bacha peeked and shoved a ten-feet attempt at the win. On the second go-round, Card was long with his approach, into the native grasses once more. He was unable to escape, and a routine par from the fairway was enough to earn the former Auburn golfers a first KFT title.

Card III and Bacha both miss their birdie tries on the first playoff hole.

We’ll play 18 again @OspreyOpen. pic.twitter.com/vNpHTdkHDg

— PGA TOUR Americas (@PGATOURAmericas) August 3, 2025

Tour Photo Galleries

Photos from the 2025 Wyndham Championship

Published

4 weeks ago

Jul 29, 2025

GolfWRX Staff

GolfWRX is live this week from the final event of the PGA Tour’s regular season, the Wyndham Championship.

Photos are flowing into the forums from Sedgefield Country Club, where we already have a GolfWRX spirit animal Adam Schenk WITB and plenty of putters for your viewing pleasure.

Check out links to all our photos below, which we’ll continue to update as more arrive.

General Albums

WITB Albums

Pullout Albums

See what GolfWRXers are saying and join the discussion in the forums.

News

BK’s Breakdowns: Kurt Kitayama’s Winning WITB, 3M Open

Published

4 weeks ago

Jul 28, 2025

Brian Knudson

Kurt Kitayama just won his 2nd PGA Tour event at the 3M Open. Kurt is a Bridgestone staffer but with just the ball and bag. Here are the rest of the clubs he used to secure a win at the 2025 3M Open.

Driver: Titleist GT3 (11 degrees, D1 SureFit setting)
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD VF 7 TX

3-wood: Titleist GT1 3Tour (14.5 degrees, A3 SureFit setting)
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD DI 8 TX

7-wood: Titleist GT1 (21 degrees, A1 SureFit setting)
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD DI 9 TX

Irons: TaylorMade P7CB (4), TaylorMade P7MB (5-PW)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (52-12F, 56-14F), Vokey Design WedgeWorks (60-K*)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

Putter: Scotty Cameron Studio Style Newport 2 Tour Prototype
Grip: SuperStroke Zenergy 1.0PT

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet

Ball: Bridgestone Tour B XS (with Mindset)