WORLEY, IDAHO – Circling Raven Golf Club (www.circlingraven.com) and Director of Golf Tom Davidson has been named a finalist in the PGA of America’s national “Merchandiser of the Year” contest which will be decided later this summer. Davidson was notified by the PGA last week that the operation here has made the final cut. (Photos of the pro shop and Davidson are available upon request.)
Circling Raven, an amenity of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel (www.cdacasino.com), advanced to the national finals by virtue of winning the PGA’s Pacific Northwest Section “Merchandiser of the Year” distinction – which comes from among operations in Idaho, Washington, Oregon and Montana – for the third time since its first full season in 2004.
The sectional winners, 41 of them in the U.S., are then eligible for national honors among public, private and resort courses. Circling Raven is in the resort category.
“This puts our clubhouse, pro shop, staff and offerings in the elite category,” said Davidson. “There are 10 pro shops in consideration nationwide and all finalists have outstanding operations, run by outstanding professionals. This is a humbling, uplifting honor for us.”
Anyone who has seen the Circling Raven pro shop, not to mention encountered its staff, knows this elite designation is no surprise. The pro shop and staff have pleased visitors both in service and in what’s offered from the golf club’s beginning. Pro shop sales, which are significantly up this year, get a boost from the wide array of offerings, including apparel, accessories and equipment for both men and women. Where the shop also excels is in its offerings of memorabilia and gifts.
The PGA criteria are demanding, focusing on everything from the customer base, to shop displays, to financial details and even ongoing training for the staff.
“They look at us from top to bottom,” said Davidson. “Just as they do with all things, the PGA is very thorough in judging these types of competitions. We also know that there are a great many pro shops and golf pros who are exemplary at serving their customers. We’re certainly proud to be listed among the best at it.
“Golfers and guests may find a pro shop and staff that equals ours, but I honestly don’t think they’ll find a better one anywhere in the country. Everyone here is part of that. Everyone here has earned a share of this honor.”
An easy, scenic drive from the Spokane Airport (GEG) in eastern Washington, Circling Raven and the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel are owned and operated by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. For more information about the course and resort please call 1-800-523-2464.
Contact:
Dan Shepherd, Buffalo Communications, 703-891-3320
www.buffalocommunications.com
