#golf simulator columbus ohio

[joshbailey1]

Indoor Golf Adventures in Columbus, Ohio

Join us for an exciting round of indoor golf in Columbus, Ohio, where every swing counts! Our facility offers a unique blend of fun and skill development, suitable for players of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find plenty of challenges and enjoyment here.

[bunkershotgolf]

Golf Retail at Two Club Lengths

By ED TRAVIS

Retailing has taken an unprecedented hit. According to the U.S. Census Bureau the Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical category had 38% lower sales in April than in March and Adobe’s Digital Economy Index reported online purchasing increased 49% in April.

It is easy to see the most immediate task for all retailers is to figure how to take advantage of the “new normal,” whatever that may be.

As shelter-in-place restrictions are being removed stores of all sizes are faced with figuring out how to attract customers, perhaps in ways never considered previously. E-commerce was already a major factor but due to the recent health requirements the trend is sure to gain momentum. Consumers, many for the first time, are taking advantage of the inventory variety, ease of comparison shopping, speed of ordering and often lower prices.

According to one major golf retailer, PGA TOUR Superstore (PGATSS), the solution is continuing a customer-centered instore experience and doing business at “Two Club Lengths.”

Dick Sullivan, President and CEO of PGA TOUR Superstore, has a reputation for dynamic management that is readily apparent while leading the company for the past decade. PGATSS’s results and his leadership were recognized in 2018 when he was the first retailer to be elected chairman of the National Golf Foundation. We had the opportunity to ask him questions about the present retailing situation and what it means for his operation.

Ed Travis: With store closings forced by the efforts to contain transmission of the COVID-19 virus did PGATSS lay off employees? If so, will they all be eventually reemployed?

Dick Sullivan: Our number one priority remains health and safety of Associates and customers. After that our focus is on preserving jobs. We have not furloughed Associates or had pay cuts. Our vision and business strategy are driven by a long-term approach in everything we do. That means making good, smart decisions for our business for the months and years ahead.

ET: An online ordering program with Curbside Caddie pickup was initiated. Considering the circumstances do you consider it a success?

DS: Absolutely, we were still able to accommodate our customers in our local markets while the stores remained closed to the public. We conceived the Curbside Caddie idea and integrated it into our digital experience in less than 48 hours. It has represented approximately 25-50% of our total e-commerce orders since launch.

ET: During the stay-at-home period were hard goods sales hurt more or less than soft goods?

DS: There has been significant demand in the accessory’s category because the majority of our sales are being driven by people that are out playing golf or practicing at home. Not surprisingly, many Customers have bought training aids, push/pull carts and golf balls, etc.

375% reflects the increase in push/pull cart sales from April of this year, compared to April of last year. With nearly 95 percent of golf courses open across the US, many facilities have put in place walking only protocols. Golf is a game that offers many physical and well-being benefits. Walking nine holes of golf is equivalent to 5,000 steps.

What has been the consistent number one category of products sold online was clubs. Our online club sales were up 120% vs. prior year and we attribute this to excellent blended offering of both repositioned and new clubs. It’s interesting to note, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in women’s packaged sets being purchased. Soft goods have seen smaller comp increases during this time compared to hard goods.

ET: With approximately two-thirds of your locations reopened have there been problems for employees and customers with social distancing and other preventative measures?

DS: We’ve done a good job of “doing the right thing.” Sanitation supplies, on the way in and out of the store, signage to reinforce social distancing, Associates wearing masks and we provided them with individual hand sanitizers in addition to multiple sanitation stations throughout the stores. We are also regularly wiping down clubs that are being demoed, golf balls that are being used in the simulators and on the putting green, and high traffic areas and surfaces.  

We implemented a new ‘Starter’ position to help customers navigate the rules and to clean any equipment that is brought in for repairs or regripping. It gives the customer an opportunity to ask questions and hear what we are doing to help make them comfortable and safe.

We have also established a que line at check-out and labeled spacing to ensure social distancing guidelines.

ET: Will the costs of extra cleaning, etc. result in increased prices?

DS: No. Putting people first has always been our top core value. The health and safety of our Associates and customers will always be our top priority. Comfort, care, and cleanliness, has been our operational approach driving us during this time. For example, we have secured disposable masks, reusable masks, gallons of hand sanitizer, individual hand sanitizer, gloves and set up 450 hand sanitizing stations.

We also set up social distancing protocols reminding people to stay “two club lengths” (six feet) away from each other. And, then there is the signage throughout our stores and at the Store Support Center reminding people to practice social distancing, frequently wash hands, etc., all based on CDC and other government guidelines and recommendations.

ET: Before the closings, the growth trend in both instore and online sales had been extraordinarily strong. What special promotions or other initiatives will be done to reestablish that growth?

DS: We will continue to manage online business as we have working different exclusive promotions and offers. For the stores, we will celebrate Father’s Day with our usual focus on gifts for Dad and special offers. After Father’s Day, we will assess the results including what we heard from our customers and Associates and then plan the balance of the year as needed. I think it goes without saying that we are moving into uncharted territory with the season shifting to the second half of the year. The typical playbook is not going to work in 2020 and we want to be as agile and responsive as possible.

ET: Instore sales at the Altamonte Springs, Fla. location have shown a very significant increase since reopening May 4. What were the contributing factors and have similar results been seen in other locations?

DS: We have seen a significant year over year sales increase since re-opening our Altamonte Springs location. This is due to a couple of factors. The first being that a local competitor closed their location prior to and unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Secondly, the Altamonte Springs location relies more on its residential community rather than tourists. As you know, when they rank the top cities in the US for golf, Orlando is always in the top-10. http://theaposition.com/golf/courses-and-travel/1526/the-a-list-what-is-the-best-golf-city-in-the-us

ET: Given the depressed conditions some retailers are permanently closing locations while PGATSS is opening a new store in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. What is your thinking about such expansion right now and are more new store openings planned in the near future?

DS: Our brand has tremendous momentum and many markets that are not yet served. We support a game that is well-positioned to serve a higher purpose – particularly right now. Our growth plans have not changed. Not only Palm Beach opening, but we will open a store in Columbus, Ohio the week of the Memorial.

ET: An attraction and strength of PGATSS stores has been the “experience” consumers get when making a visit. How do you see that going forward?

DS: We have a very strong brand and history of consistently delivering positive experiences and trust for our Customers. Customers have thanked us for creating a safe environment for them to continue to enjoy shopping in our store and leveraging all that our store has to offer – putting green, hitting bays, fitting studio and more. We have made many enhancements to continue to facilitate the in-store experience that our customers enjoy. Their feedback and input have validated that they feel comfortable, are easing back in gently but looking forward to getting back into the store.

ET: The stay-at-home rules and retail shut down resulted in an immense increase of online transactions. According to some analysts this means basic changes to retailing in general as many shoppers may have simply gotten the “online habit” rather than making trips out to stores. Do you share that view, or do you see retailing returning with a similar buying pattern as it has had in the past due?

DS: We expect to continue to have strong online sales and will continue to elevate the digital experience – as we always have. That said, given the strong retail results we’ve been experiencing, as well as the feedback and insights directly from our Customers over the past month, we believe that our retail experience will be an opportunity for consumers to get custom fit and connect with others over their shared passion for the game, as well as continue to be mindful of their own self-care – mind, body and spirit. Golf is the game that provides that solution.

[rickhorrow]

10 To Watch : Mayor’s Edition 7119

RICK HORROW’S TOP 10 SPORTS/BIZ/TECH/PHILANTHROPY ISSUES FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 1 : MAYOR’S EDITION

with Jacob Aere

Ahead of Wimbledon, major brands feature Williams, Kerber. Tech giant SAP has unveiled “Call the Shots,” an interactive, online game that places fans in the shoes of Wimbledon Champ Angelique Kerber the day before a big match and allows fans to use SAP Tennis Analytics to get Kerber match-ready, by using data to make decisions that will help – or potentially hurt – her success on the court the next day - from helping Angie pick the most nutritious breakfast, to selecting her training intensity levels. And Serena Williams is finally gracing the cover of Wheaties, with General Mills announcing the addition of the multi-time Grand Slam champion to its historic lineup of athletes. Said Williams, “I have dreamt of this since I was a young woman and it’s an honor to join the ranks of some of America’s most decorated athletes. I hope my image on this iconic orange box will inspire the next generation of girls and athletes to dream big.” The Wheaties announcement clearly comes in the “It’s about damn time” category of brand initiatives.

So far, NBA free agency headlines have been dominated by the three Ks. NBA free agency began at 6:00 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, and among the earliest news that broke was the announcement that the Celtics inked Kemba Walker to a reported four-year, maximum salary contract worth $141 million. Almost immediately, the New York Daily News and others reported that Kyrie Irving agreed to a four-year, $141 million deal with the Brooklyn Nets, a move that will "give the Nets a marquee name and elite talent." The Nets certainly weren't done – Kevin Durant then announced on Instagram his decision to leave the Golden State Warriors for the Nets; Durant signed for a reported four-year, $164 million maximum contract. Per the Associated Press, the NBA set the salary cap for 2019-2020 at $109.14 million, an "increase of just more" than $7 million from last season. The tax level will be $132,627,000, and the minimum salary, which is "90% of the cap," will be $98,226,000. That didn't stop teams from making some big league moves.

College athletes in California are a "step closer to being able to make money from the use of their names, images and likenesses," after a state committee passed a bill that would "fundamentally change" how the NCAA conducts business. The California Assembly’s Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism, and Internet Media Committee passed the Fair Pay to Play Act, which would take effect January 1, 2023. According to the Los Angeles Times, while the bill would "not allow schools to directly pay athletes, athletes would be able to receive compensation from outside sources." The Los Angeles Daily News noted the bill advanced "despite a letter from NCAA President Mark Emmert last week urging the committee to postpone considering it and warning of dire consequences if the athletes were compensated." The Washington Posts’ Sally Jenkins notes Emmert has "suggested all of California’s postseason competition could be jeopardized if the state allows an athlete to make a profit from his or her own name, picture or signature." Emmert is "bluffing, and California should call him on it." North Carolina has proposed a similar bill, so we now have two major states mounting a serious challenge to NCAA rules.

Ronald McDonald House Charities will be the title sponsor of this year’s Triple-A All-Star Game. The annual game, in which stars of the Triple-A Pacific Coast and International League compete, is scheduled for July 10, at Southwest University Park in El Paso, Texas, and will be telecast on MLB Network. The deal includes advertising inventory on MLB Network, logos on player uniforms, and static signage within the ballpark. Social and digital media will also support the event. Agency 4Front worked with the host El Paso Chihuahuas to secure the sponsorship. Huntington Bank and Gildan were presenting sponsors of last year’s Triple-A All-Star Game, in Columbus, Ohio. The return on investment for MiLB sponsors, both at their mega events and regular season games, continues to grow.

The 2020 Tokyo Games have "generated record domestic sponsorship revenues" of more than $3 billion, "three times more than any previous summer Games," according to Reuters. IOC Coordination Commission Chair John Coates said that local sponsorship agreements "were up to 62 companies for all three tiers of sponsorship arrangements." He noted that doesn’t “include the partnerships with Toyota, Bridgestone, and Panasonic and their contribution to the TOP program,” which have "separate deals with the IOC." Revenues currently stand at $3.1 billion, and the Tokyo Games now have "15 gold partners, 32 official partners,” and 15 “official supporters." Comparatively, the 2012 London Games raised roughly $1.1 billion from domestic sponsors. Regarding the Coca-Cola-Mengniu Dairy tie up, the Wall Street Journal notes Coca-Cola "didn't give a reason" as to why it is partnering with China Mengniu Dairy Company to share the title of exclusive global beverage sponsor, but the "sharply rising cost of sponsorship may have something to do with it." Olympic sponsorship has become more global, more competitive, and more expensive, pushing even the likes of mighty Coca-Cola to look for a partner.

AEG Facilities, a subsidiary of venue and live entertainment company AEG, has signed an agreement with the Raiders to manage the team’s $2 billion, 65,000-seat domed stadium scheduled to open in Las Vegas in August, 2020. AEG Facilities operates the team’s current home, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, now known as RingCentral Coliseum. AEG Facilities President Bob Newman would not disclose the length of the deal and its value but said the agreement is for “several years.” AEG Facilities will manage the day-to-day stadium operations, including booking, ticketing, security, event operations, concessions and human resources, Newman said, adding that the opportunity to manage the Raiders’ new home was a unique moment in time for a professional sports franchise. “You have an iconic brand, in an iconic stadium converging in an iconic destination,” he emphasized. AEG Facilities manages 150 venues and stadiums on three continents, including T-Mobile Arena close to the Raiders new Las Vegas home.

Bleacher Report is harnessing the Women’s World Cup to curate brands around soccer. As the FIFA Women's World Cup intensifies, Bleacher Report is using its data to win over brands who want to grab onto soccer's rising popularity in the U.S. According to The Drum, a white paper from Bleacher Report seems to back up the rising popularity of the sport in America. Bleacher Report's brand partners for the WWC include Adidas, Nike, Hulu, Umbro, Powerade and AT&T. AT&T owns Bleacher Report through its acquisition of Warner Media. To win future advertisers, Bleacher Report – which is reportedly on track to grow 50% this year and reach $200 million in revenue – pooled together its first-party data from its app with a U.S. survey of 2,000 people 13-and-older to track soccer fandom stateside. The report found that 52 million soccer fans are in the U.S., to varying degrees. As the USWNT charges on in the World Cup, defeating France 2-1 on Friday, their extended run will continue to show the high value of soccer in the U.S.

The NBA and its players association launch virtual sports betting product NBA Last 90. According to onlinegambling.com, the new service will give gamblers in the U.S. and Europe the chance to bet on simulated games that feature actual game highlights from the league. The product is set to launch sometime during the 2019-2020 season with fixed odds that control the chances that any given bet will win, which means these games can appear even in jurisdictions where sports betting isn’t legal, but other forms of gambling are permitted. The virtual sports betting features real teams and players, and NBA Last 90 allows players to view the final 90 seconds of a simulated NBA game between two real teams. They can then place bets on who will score first, who will win the game, or the total points to be scored. Additionally, real highlights from recent NBA seasons will be used to stitch together a unique finish to each game. As esports and digital screens grab more attention from the casual bettor, the NBA looks to capitalize on a growing virtual betting audience, which netted nearly $1 billion between April 2017 and May 2018.

OTT is King: DAZN app nets 950% year-on-year revenue growth. According to SportsPro, the mobile OTT platform was the world’s top-grossing app in May, 2019 and has experienced exponential growth throughout the past year. Gross user spending across the month shows that the DAZN’s digital app brought in close to $11.5 million in revenue – more than nine times its income for May 2018. U.S. subscribers represented 35% of DAZN’s consumer-based revenue through its mobile app, while Japan made up 6.5% of its market income. The Japanese based service recently set a new viewership record as the men’s national soccer team took on Chile at Copa America and new services have been launched in the U.S., Italy, Spain, and Brazil since May 2018. DAZN seems to keep growing and is now nearly double the total amount that ESPN grosses in a month. With DAZN’s latest acquisition of the secured rights to the Chinese Super League 2019-2020 seasons for its Italian service, it seems that their expanding OTT global empire won't be slowing down.

F1 will host a charity golf tournament in Austin ahead of U.S. Grand Prix. In support of the world’s leading breast cancer organization, Susan G. Komen, F1 will host “Grid to Green” in conjunction with GOLF Magazine to unite the two sports. The tournament, which will take place the afternoon of October 31 at the Tom Fazio designed Omni Barton Creek Canyons Course, will feature a current or previous legend from the world of motorsport in each group. According to formula1.com, Carlos Sainz Jr, Christian Horner , Zak Brown, Otmar Szafnauer, Damon Hill, Ross Brawn, and Danny Sullivan will all partake in the event. F1 is making a push on all ends to find its way into the U.S. market, and by combining golf and philanthropy will find their way into headlines.

[lauraelainebice]

The “largest indoor entertainment center in the country” is opening in the next couple week right here in Columbus, Ohio!  Scene75 already has four locations but I had the pleasuring of taking a private Columbus Ohio exclusive tour of this “opening soon” indoor wonderland, Scene75 and I am sharing SOME sneak peeks with you today!

  HIGHLIGHTED SCENE75 cOLUMBUS FEATURES & ATTRACTIONS

Over 200 arcade games – anything from The Walking Dead to Air Hockey

Nuclear Rush Coaster; a spinning car indoor roller coaster & a two-story Drop Tower

Indoor electric Go-Cart track; single, driver only carts & driver + one passenger carts

Bouncing InflataPark – 2,000 square foot obstacle course inflatable park

Green screened Karaoke Booth; pick a song, sing & record!

Two laser maze rooms – The Vault & The Gold Mine

18 hole black light ocean themed Mini-Golf Course : Immortal Jungle

Batting Cage Simulator with different pitches & interactive competitive games

Escape rooms created by IQ Escape; creators of the most advanced escape rooms

Laser Tag arena- Jungle themed, black light, up to three teams

Snack Bars, full bars, a magic-themed restaurant plus a banquet area that holds up to 550 people

  EXCLUSIVE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

The space that Scene75 is filling is HUGE; two floors and 225,000 square-feet make this indoor entertainment center the largest in the country!  During my Columbus Ohio Exclusive Tour the senior staff members were conducting training for new employees so I was able to see a number of the features in action.  I even was able to sit in on a demonstration of the XD Dark Ride motion simulator!  The XD Dark Ride is a thrill ride for sure!  I also was able to take a test run through The Vault; a laser maze with a Mission Impossible feel.  During my mission, there was a camera recording my progress and I was able to email the video to myself so I could share with my friends on social media!

This post really is only covering a portion of what Scene75 Columbus is offering; there simply isn’t enough space in the post to cover everything.  Trust me; it’s a massive playground with tons of fun for everyone!

  SCENE75 COLUMBUS – SLIDE SHOW

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Scene75 Columbus is located at 5033 Tuttle Crossing Boulevard, Dublin, OH 43016

“Scene75 specializes in birthday parties and corporate events! Tons of entertainment all in one place means an easy party for you–and a blast for your kids and co-workers. Here, weather will never ruin your good times.”

Scene75 Columbus “Opening Soon” :: Exclusive Tour The "largest indoor entertainment center in the country" is opening in the next couple week right here in Columbus, Ohio! 

[joshbailey1]

Discover the Thrills of Virtual Golf in Columbus, Ohio

Golf enthusiasts in Columbus, Ohio, are discovering a new way to enjoy their favorite sport without the constraints of weather and time: virtual golf. This innovative approach allows players to practice their swing, compete with friends, and experience world-class courses from the comfort of their homes or local facilities. Here’s why virtual golf in Columbus, Ohio is becoming popular.

What is Virtual Golf?

Virtual golf uses advanced technology to create realistic golf environments. Players can swing their clubs in front of high-definition screens that show various courses. The simulators track the ball's movement, providing feedback on each shot.

Benefits of Virtual Golf

Year-Round Play: One of the biggest advantages of virtual golf is the ability to play year-round. In Ohio, unpredictable weather can often limit outdoor golfing. Virtual golf allows players to practice and compete regardless of rain, snow, or extreme temperatures.

Skill Improvement: Virtual golf simulators offer instant feedback on your swing, helping players improve their skills faster. Many facilities in Columbus, such as Ohio Golf House, provide lessons with trained professionals who can analyze your game using the simulator's data.

Social Experience: Golf is often about camaraderie, and virtual golf brings that spirit to life. Many virtual golf centers in Columbus offer group sessions, tournaments, and themed nights, allowing you to enjoy a fun night out with friends or family.

Accessibility: For beginners, virtual golf is an excellent way to learn the basics without the pressure of being on a traditional golf course. Many simulators have built-in tutorials and tips to help new players get started.

Where to Play Virtual Golf in Columbus

Columbus boasts several venues where you can experience virtual golf. The Ohio Golf House is one such facility that offers state-of-the-art simulators with multiple course options. These venues often include amenities such as food and drinks, making them perfect for a day out or a casual evening.

Conclusion

Virtual golf in Columbus, Ohio is revolutionizing the way locals enjoy this classic sport. With the ability to play year-round, improve skills, and socialize with friends, it's an appealing option for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, the virtual golf scene in Columbus offers a unique way to tee off and enjoy the game.

[joshbailey1]

Top Indoor Golf Experience in Columbus, Ohio

Rain or shine, take your game to the next level with indoor golf Columbus Ohio. Perfect for all skill levels, this facility offers realistic simulations and an unmatched golf environment. Check it out today!