The 73rd PGA Show...January 20-23

The Original PGA Show

The original PGA Show began in the trunks of cars during a golf tournament in 1954. Today, it has grown to be the longest running and largest global gathering on our planet. Ninety (90) countries and 50 U.S. states come together to meet more than 1,100 participating brands.

While you are reading this article, I will probably be on the main floor of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida pinching myself again, as I wander around the 10 miles of aisles that are in the 1.1 million square foot facility.

Every year for the last 25 years, I have had the pleasure of being invited to, and attending the PGA Show in Orlando. It is always scheduled during the third week in January and has enjoyed the reputation of being the world’s largest premiere destination for the business of golf.

It brings together all of the movers and shakers around the globe including, Golf Industry Professionals... Golf Course Owners...PGA of America Professionals...LPGA Professionals... International PGA Professionals... Assistant PGA Professionals...Golf and Pro-Shop Owners and Managers..Golf Coaches and Instructors...Directors of Golf...Entrepreneurs in the Golf Industry as well as Radio, Television and Newspaper Media who shape the future of the game.

Currently, the show is a partnership between Reed Exhibitions (RX) and the PGA Tour and continues to be a trade-only event.

Demo Day at Orange County National

The show begins on Tuesday, January 20 with the world’s largest outdoor professional Demo Day at the Orange County National Golf Center (OCN) where the latest innovations from the top equipment and technology golf brands can be field-tested at the Center’s massive circular and 42 acre practice facility.

Workshops are offered throughout the day long event in Coaching, Clubfitting, Fitness and Range operations. The range is a unique 1/2 mile tee that extends from the tee to form a circle. Everyone using the range hits their balls towards the center of the circle.

To the best of my knowledge, no one has ever hit a golf ball from one side of the circle to the other. Although my Geometry skills were better than average in high school, I no longer have the desire, patience nor the skill set to figure out the radius. Let’s just say it’s over a 400 yard carry.

The Main Show Floor

The main show starts on Wednesday and runs through Friday at 12 noon at the Convention Center where the vendors will be exhibiting their products featuring the industry’s newest innovations in appeal, accessories, technology, equipment, training aids, travel, fitness and the new products and inventions area.

The PGA Show is truly a once in a lifetime experience for golf industry professionals that want to enhance their skills and explore their opportunities to grow their network.

If you or anyone else in your family have the interest and desire to learn more about the business of golf, the PGA Education Program is a wonderful opportunity for you to investigate your options. Go to...pgashow.com...for more information.

A Personal Reflection

Last year, for the first time, I attended all four days of the show and stayed until they closed the doors each day. I’m glad I did, but it was a long haul. Hopefully, this year I will attend at least three days of the Greatest Golf Show on Earth.

Tune In

Don’t forget to listen to my I Heart Radio Show this Saturday morning from 7-8AM on...News Radio 570 WSYR. We’ll be talking about the PGA Show, Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA TOUR, golf rule of the week and a stroke saver.

Also check...perrynoun.com