GBR Tuesday | Exactly How Much Are The TGL Stars Being Paid To Play Simulator Golf?
Every Tuesday and Friday We Bring You the Ten-Minute Summary of What's Happening in the Golf Industry. Grab Your Favorite Beverage and Catch Up With Everything You Need to Know.
Good morning, GBR community!
It’s time to catch up on everything happening in the golf world. We hope you are enjoying the PGA Trade Show. Our suitcases will be packed, and we’ll join you next January. We will also get a practice run at the British Golf Show in May. We’re sure the weather will be identical to Florida's!
Industry
Circuits
Equipment
People To Watch
Must Reads/Views
We’d love you to join the community and help us grow GBR!
Tom & Neil
1. INDUSTRY
THE CADDIE BY PINNED GOLF: TRANSFORMING GOLF WITH PORTABLE GPS TECHNOLOGY
Golf’s landscape is changing, driven by younger, tech-savvy players seeking tools to enhance their game. Innovations like rangefinders and launch monitors bring new insights to the sport, yet on-cart GPS systems have largely remained exclusive to high-end clubs. Pinned Golf’s latest product, The Caddie offers a portable solution that brings advanced GPS technology to golfers at any course.
Pinned Golf: Who They Are and What They Bring
We’ve kept a close eye on Pinned for a few years now. Founded in 2018 by a group of Boston-based college friends, the company has built a reputation for delivering accessible, high-quality golf technology. With a portfolio that includes rangefinders and speakers, they are now introducing The Caddie, a GPS device designed to democratize access to on-course data. Their mission is admirable: to help golfers play better and have more fun. So when we heard they were making an announcement this big, we were excited to dive in.
The Caddie is a smart GPS tablet tailored specifically for golf. Instead of waiting for courses to invest in expensive cart systems, golfers can now bring their own high-tech Caddie, complete with a heavy-duty magnet that securely attaches to the golf cart. This device provides instant yardages, identifies hazards, and gives a 360° view of each hole at any of the 45,000+ courses it has pre-installed. Outfitted with an ultra-bright screen, weatherproof casing, and an embedded magnet, this portable tablet is the first of its kind. The Caddie is an early favorite to win New Product of the Year at the 2025 PGA Show, and for good reason.
With The Caddie, Pinned Golf addresses a gap in the portable, affordable GPS technology market. As the demand for innovative tools in golf continues to grow, this product represents a significant step in broadening access to data-driven insights and enhancing the experience for players across skill levels.
ST ANDREWS LINKS TRUST IN TALKS TO ADD DUKE’S COURSE TO ITS PORTFOLIO AT THE HOME OF GOLF
St Andrews Links Trust is in advanced discussions to assume a long-term lease of The Duke’s Course, potentially adding an eighth championship layout to its renowned collection at the Home of Golf.
The proposed agreement would see the Links Trust take over management of The Duke’s Course from the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, owned by U.S.-based Kohler Co., later this year. This transition would also include the clubhouse, driving range, and associated facilities, thereby expanding playing opportunities for links ticket holders and visitors to St Andrews.
Located three miles from St Andrews, The Duke’s Course offers panoramic views of the historic town. Designed by five-time Open Champion Peter Thomson, the 18-hole heathland course features two loops of nine holes, blow-out style bunkers, rolling fairways, and undulating greens. With multiple teeing options, the course can be played from 5,216 to 7,512 yards. It has hosted several elite amateur events, including the Scottish Men’s Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship in 2019.
CEO of St Andrews Links Trust, Neil Coulson, said, "This would be an exciting opportunity to expand the range of exceptional golfing experiences we offer. The addition of The Duke’s Course to our portfolio would increase tee time availability for our ticket holders and visitors while continuing to uphold the traditions and excellence synonymous with St Andrews."
Phyllis Wilkie, General Manager at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, added, "We are pleased that The Duke’s could play a role in satisfying the high demand for golf in St Andrews. The inclusion of The Duke’s in the St Andrews Links Trust roster would provide ticket holders and visitors with yet another outstanding golf experience. We look forward to progressing these positive discussions."
This potential addition aligns with the Links Trust's historical practice of expanding its course offerings to meet growing demand. Initially managing only the Old Course, the Trust has incorporated the New, Jubilee, Eden, Strathtyrum, Balgove, and Castle Courses over time. Under the proposed agreement, current members and visitors with existing bookings for 2025 would not experience any changes. More information is available at St Andrews Links Trust.
FIVE IRON GOLF EXPANDS INTO FLORIDA WITH NEW LOCATION IN TAMPA
Five Iron Golf is set to open its first Florida location in Tampa. The new venue will feature state-of-the-art TrackMan simulators, a full-service bar, and private event spaces, providing a dynamic atmosphere for playing, practising, and socializing.
This expansion aligns with Five Iron Golf's mission to make golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of skill level. The Tampa location will offer various services, including lessons from PGA teaching professionals, leagues, club fittings, and social events.
Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, "We are excited to bring the Five Iron Golf experience to Florida. Tampa's vibrant community and growing interest in golf make it the perfect location for our newest venue."
The Tampa facility, which is slated to open later this year, marks a significant milestone in Five Iron Golf's rapid growth across the United States and internationally. With existing locations in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Singapore, the company continues to redefine the urban golf experience by combining technology, entertainment, and hospitality.
For more information visit their official website at Fiveirongolf.com.
TIGER WOODS EXTENDS DEAL WITH BRIDGESTONE GOLF
Tiger Woods has renewed his partnership with Bridgestone Golf, continuing his endorsement of the company's golf balls.
Woods has been a Bridgestone ambassador since 2016, playing a significant role in the development and promotion of their golf ball technology.
In recent years, Woods transitioned from Bridgestone's Tour B XS to the Tour B X golf ball, seeking additional distance without compromising control.
This extension underscores Woods' confidence in Bridgestone's products and his commitment to collaborating on future innovations.
Elliot Mellow, Bridgestone's golf ball marketing manager, expressed enthusiasm about the continued partnership, highlighting Woods' invaluable feedback in refining their golf ball offerings.
PUMA GOLF TEAMS UP WITH DANI DAZEY FOR WOMEN'S APPAREL LINE
PUMA Golf has unveiled an exciting collaboration with Los Angeles-based designer Dani Dazey to launch a bold and colorful women’s apparel collection. Known for her distinctive 1960s and ’70s-inspired designs, Dazey brings her flair for retro-modern aesthetics to the world of golf fashion.
The new line offers a wide array of pieces, including dresses, skirts, sweaters, and shoes. All feature vibrant colors, bold patterns, and custom details like pleated collars, Intarsia knits, and unique logo badges. Designed for women to wear on and off the course, the collection strikes a balance between functionality and style.
The collection will be available starting February 2025 at select retailers and on ca.pumagolf.com.
FLEXIBLE WORKING FUELS WEEKDAY GOLF BOOM IN THE UK
A BBC Panorama report has revealed a 350% increase in weekday golf rounds in the UK and Ireland, driven by post-pandemic flexible working. Data from The Revenue Club, analyzing bookings across 202 courses, underscores how changing work habits are reshaping leisure activities.
This boom has significantly boosted golf clubs, many of which struggled during the pandemic. "The growth in weekday rounds has revitalized local golf communities," noted a representative from The Revenue Club.
The shift highlights how work-life balance is becoming more integrated with outdoor recreation, providing golfers opportunities to enjoy the game while maintaining work commitments. More information is available in Golf Business News.
NVISAGE TO INTRODUCE ADVANCED GOLF LAUNCH MONITORS AT PGA SHOW 2025
NVisage will unveil its latest golf launch monitors at the PGA Show 2025. These state-of-the-art devices are designed to provide golfers with precise data on swing metrics, ball flight, and club performance, aiming to enhance training and gameplay analysis.
The new launch monitors incorporate advanced sensors and algorithms to deliver real-time feedback, assisting players in refining their techniques. Features include high-definition displays, user-friendly interfaces, and compatibility with various devices through wireless connectivity.
Golf professionals, coaches, and enthusiasts attending the event will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the capabilities of NVisage's new launch monitors, which could potentially set a new standard in golf training technology. Further information is available in the accompanying press release.
2. CIRCUITS
TGL PLAYER COMPENSATION DETAILS REVEALED: MILLIONS IN PRIZES AND EQUITY STAKES
The TGL has disclosed its lucrative player compensation model, blending prize money with equity stakes in the league. This structure emphasizes player investment in the league’s long-term success while offering substantial financial rewards.
Writing in Sports Business Journal, Josh Carpenter reports that the inaugural season carries a total prize purse of $21 million. The winning team of the SoFi Cup will split $9 million, equating to $2.25 million per player. Second place will take home $4.5 million, followed by payouts of $2.25 million for third place, $2 million for fourth, $1.75 million for fifth, and $1.5 million for sixth. This ensures that even players on the last-place team will earn a minimum of $375,000 for their participation. Additionally, all 24 players share a 10% equity stake in the league, further incentivizing their commitment to TGL's success.
Most players are reportedly on two-year contracts, securing their role in the league during its critical formative years. TMRW Sports co-founder Mike McCarley, who oversees the league, has expressed confidence in the model, describing it as aligning players’ interests with the league’s growth.
The league's television debut on January 7, 2025, averaged 919,000 viewers on ESPN, exceeding initial expectations. Week 2 saw an even stronger performance, drawing over 1 million viewers as Tiger Woods made his first TGL appearance. The L.A. Golf Club delivered a decisive 12-1 victory over Jupiter Links, marking the second consecutive lopsided match. Despite this, the ratings reflected a 9% increase from the previous week.
Tonight, Atlanta Drive Golf Club is set to make its debut against New York Golf Club. However, Xander Schauffele, ranked No. 2 in the world, will not compete, presenting a potential challenge for the league to sustain its strong viewership numbers.
2025 GENESIS INVITATIONAL LIKELY HEADING TO TORREY PINES DUE TO LOS ANGELES FIRES
Golfweek’s Adam Schupak has reported that the 2025 Genesis Invitational is likely to move to Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, San Diego, following devastating wildfires in the Greater Los Angeles area.
The event, originally scheduled to take place at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, was forced to relocate due to safety concerns despite Riviera avoiding damage. The PGA Tour announced the change last week, emphasizing its commitment to the well-being of those affected by the disaster.
The tournament is slated to begin on February 13, 2025. Torrey Pines, a venue closely associated with Tiger Woods, has emerged as the frontrunner due to its readiness. The course currently hosts the Farmers Insurance Open, simplifying logistical preparations for hosting back-to-back tournaments. Infrastructure such as grandstands, hospitality chalets, concessions, and gallery ropes is already in place, allowing the PGA Tour ample time to transition branding from Farmers to Genesis.
While sources indicate that negotiations to finalize Torrey Pines as the venue are in the final stages, alternative locations such as the Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West in Palm Springs and TPC Scottsdale in Arizona have also been considered. However, Torrey Pines, which ranks as the fourth-best public course in California according to Golfweek raters, is the most likely option.
PRIMO PARTNERS WITH PHIL MICKELSON AND HYFLYERS GC TO SHOWCASE INNOVATIVE GOLF APPAREL
Primo Golf Apparel has announced an exclusive partnership with six-time major champion Phil Mickelson and the HyFlyers GC team.
As the official apparel sponsor for HyFlyers GC, Primo will outfit Mickelson and his teammates in their athletic-inspired gear during all competitive rounds at LIV events and major championships.
This collaboration marks another milestone for Primo, whose flagship product, the golf jogger, debuted in 2020. Mickelson, a World Golf Hall of Famer with 57 career wins, including three Masters titles and the 2021 PGA Championship at Kiawah Island, praised Primo's innovative designs.
“I was challenged to wear the Primo joggers at the Open Championship after losing a match against Primo ambassador Grant Horvat,” Mickelson said. “It turned out to be a game-changer. I wasn’t sure I could pull off wearing the cool, fashionable joggers, but I’ve fallen in love with them and the rest of Primo’s outstanding product line. I’m excited the HyFlyers will be rocking them during our season.”
The team will debut Primo’s apparel during the LIV Golf season opener, scheduled for February 6-8 in Riyadh. The lineup includes Primo’s joggers, traditional pants, quarter zips, vests, and polos, emphasizing athletic fits designed for golfers of all sizes.
HyFlyers GC Primo apparel can be purchased at LIV Golf events, via the LIV Golf website, or directly from Primo's official site. More information is available at LIV Golf.
FOX SPORTS AND LIV GOLF ANNOUNCE MULTI-YEAR BROADCAST PARTNERSHIP
FOX Sports and LIV Golf have finalized a multi-year media rights agreement. Starting in February 2025, the deal will bring live coverage of the LIV Golf League to viewers across the United States.
The agreement ensures that all 14 tournaments of LIV Golf’s global schedule will air live on FOX Sports platforms. More than half of the events will be broadcast on FOX or FS1, with additional coverage on FS2, FOX Business Network, and the FOX Sports App.
Nearly 210 hours of live competition will be available across the platforms. LIV Golf+ app subscribers will also have access to streaming options and exclusive features, including video-on-demand content and the innovative "Any Shot, Any Time" technology that allows fans to choose specific players, teams, or groups to follow in real time.
LIV Golf will continue to use its in-house production team and continue with features such as enhanced drone footage and statistics-driven graphics. Arlo White will return to lead the on-air team alongside analysts David Feherty and Jerry Foltz. Dom Boulet and Su-Ann Heng will cover the action on the course. More information is available in the press release issued by LIV Golf.
HOTELPLANNER ANNOUNCED AS TITLE SPONSOR OF THE EUROPEAN CHALLENGE TOUR
The European Challenge Tour has announced a multi-year partnership with HotelPlanner, the travel technology company's first title partner since the tour’s inception in 1989.
Beginning with the 2025 season, the partnership promises significant investment into the tour, enhancing prize funds and expanding its global reach.
The 2025 HotelPlanner Tour kicks off on January 23 at the SDC Open at the Zebula Golf Estate & Spa in South Africa.
This year’s schedule includes 29 tournaments across three continents and 18 countries, culminating in the Rolex Grand Final, supported by The R&A in Mallorca. Players will compete for a record total prize fund exceeding €9 million, with each European event guaranteeing a minimum of €300,000 in prize money. Prize increases will benefit 16 events, underscoring the partnership’s impact.
In addition to its title sponsorship, HotelPlanner has committed to providing additional investment in six events during the 2025 season and a total of 40 tournaments over the duration of the partnership. The company’s global presence and expertise in travel technology will aid in promoting the Challenge Tour to new audiences and expanding opportunities for players worldwide.
HotelPlanner CEO Tim Hentschel shared similar enthusiasm, stating:
“We are delighted to become the title partner of the Challenge Tour. This partnership provides an excellent platform to engage with customers, prospects, and stakeholders, and build our brand. We share the same vision and values as the Tour and look forward to helping grow the game of golf globally.” More information on the partnership is available on the Challenge Tour’s website.
3. EQUIPMENT
VOKEY SM10 WEDGES WITH LIMITED EDITION OIL CAN FINISH
Titleist has brought back the popular limited-edition Oil Can finish for its SM10 wedges.
The Oil Can finish is achieved through a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) process, providing a striking copper tone while reducing glare. This finish not only looks premium but also matches the durability standards of other finishes in the Vokey lineup.
From a technical perspective, the SM10 wedges feature spin-milled grooves that are individually cut for each loft and finish. The micro-texture between the grooves enhances friction, resulting in maximum spin control, especially on partial shots.
Additionally, the clubface undergoes a high-frequency heat treatment to double the durability of the grooves compared to standard wedges. The center of gravity (CG) varies across loft options to ensure optimal performance, offering players precise control and feel.
Release Details: The limited-edition wedges are available in all 27 lofts, bounce, and grind combinations for right- and left-handed golfers. They are expected to sell out quickly, with pricing set at $249 (£200 / €230).
More information is available at Titleist.com.
TITLEIST GT1 DRIVERS AND FAIRWAY WOODS
Following the success generated by last summer’s release of the GT2, GT3, and GT4, Titleist has added the user-friendly GT1 to its range.
The GT1 driver features the same Proprietary Matrix Polymer (PMP), which offers weight-saving properties that allow Titleist’s engineers to move the mass deep and low for maximum stability. This culminates in a Split Mass Construction design that redistributes weight within the club head, ensuring optimal launch, spin, speed, and stability. Using PMP also gives golfers a familiar sound and feel that is typical of the previous generation of titanium-based drivers.
The GT1 driver incorporates Speed Ring and Variable Face Thickness (VFT) technology, enhancing ball speeds across the face. Aerodynamic shaping further increases clubhead speeds, giving players an edge in distance and control.
Fairway Woods
The GT1 fairway woods are slightly larger than their GT2 counterparts, with a shallower face and deeper CG to improve stability on off-center hits and add spin for higher lofts.
Release Details:
The GT1 driver is priced at $649 (£520 / €600), and the fairway woods are available at $399 (£320 / €370).
More information is available at official website.
COBRA MINI DRIVER/2-WOOD PROTOTYPE
Cobra has unveiled a prototype mini driver, dubbed “The Deuce. " It combines the characteristics of a driver and a fairway wood. Featuring a 13.5-degree loft, a carbon fiber crown, and a titanium sole, the club is designed to provide flexibility and performance for players looking for an alternative off the tee.
The movable weight system, which includes a 12g and 2g weight, allows players to adjust launch and spin characteristics by shifting the heavier weight to the front or back of the sole. Cobra’s FutureFit33 hosel adjustment system provides further customization, enabling players to tweak loft and lie settings. The mini driver’s carbon fiber crown redistributes weight to optimize the CG location, ensuring a blend of power and control.
Release Details:
While an official release date has not been announced, the Cobra mini driver is expected to be available soon and will cost an estimated $349 (£280 / €320).
4. PEOPLE TO WATCH
Carter Bonas, Spectrum Golf's 13-year-old founder and CEO, is set to exhibit at the 5th Annual African American Golf Expo and Forum, coinciding with the PGA Show in Orlando, Florida. The event, organized by Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, will take place on January 22 and 23 at the Hyatt Regency Florida Ballroom B/C from 6:30 to 9:00 PM. Admission is free, but attendees must register in advance.
Carter Bonas is making waves in both the golf industry and the business world. As the founder of Spectrum Golf, he is dedicated to teaching the game and inspiring future entrepreneurs. Carter recently launched Spectrum Vitamin Water and established his 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The nonprofit provides free golf lessons and equipment to children, aiming to make the sport more accessible to young players, regardless of their circumstances. Full press release.
5. MUST READS/VIEWS
It’s fair to say that Greg Norman’s time as CEO of LIV Golf had its interesting moments. Was he good for LIV Golf? The answer is a likely yes. His charisma played its part in selling players like Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm the LIV story. But Norman is now gone, replaced by Scott O’Neill, as LIV make widespread changes in its C-Suite. Sports Illustrated’s Bob Harig examines Norman’s role and legacy with LIV Golf.
Phil Mickelson’s HyFlyers has announced a new clothing sponsorship deal with Primo Golf. Primo might not be familiar to many, but it has a growing fanbase backed by YouTube stars such as Grant Horvat. Essentially Sports’ Abhijit Raj looks into Primo’s rapid growth.
Close House, in the north of England, was a rising star. Host of a DP World Tour event and backed by European stalwart Lee Westwood, the golf club looked to have a bright future. However, the truth was the club was losing money. Golf Business Quarterly’s case study reveals the steps taken to save the club and restore some solidity to its finances.
As Donald Trump is inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States of America, Bunkered magazine looks at who the most golf-mad former U.S. presidents are.