PGA Merchandise Show Kicks Off In Grand Style

 Merchandise Show kicked off in Orlando this week and marked the start of the PGA of America’s yearlong Centennial Celebration. About ten years ago the PGA added an outdoor “Demo Day” on Tuesday of the show week. It’s held at Orange County National Golf Club in Winter Garden www.ocngolf.com which has the largest driving range in the world. Even Bubba Watson can’t hit a drive from one side of the 360* range to the other.

The PGA did a really cool ceremonial tee shot, or shots, by having a PGA professional and a junior golfer from each of the 41 sections around the country hit the shots. The demo day is also a great place to try equipment from all the major manufacturers and all the latest and greatest training aids. If you’ve never been, it’s worth the trip.

The indoor show at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive in Orlando is massive. But perhaps the best part is catching up with friends or just saying hi as you pass by. At the Callaway booth which is so big it occupies two sides of an aisle, I was able to spend a half hour chatting with Roger Cleveland about wedges. Where else can you do that? Lydia Ko came through and shook hands and posed for pictures. Very special.

Callaway definitely takes the award for “Best in Show” for their amazing booth and of course all their new equipment. Check it out here www.callawaygolf.com