June 29, 2011; Phoenix, Arizona — PING engineers Marty Jertson and Mike Nicolette, who sit side-by-side in the company’s engineering department, qualified for the PGA Championship and U.S. Senior Open, respectively, this week. It’s believed to be the first time two golfers who design golf clubs full time have accomplished the feat of qualifying for a major championship in the same year.
Jertson, a Class A PGA member since 2007, finished tied for 5th at the PGA Professional National Championship to earn one of 20 invitations to this summer’s PGA Championship at Atlanta Athletic Club. He joined PING in 2003 as an intern and became a full-time engineer one year later.
Nicolette, a former PGA Tour winner who joined PING in 1989, was the co-medalist at the U.S. Senior Open qualifier at Glendale, Arizona’s Arrowhead Country Club. He shot 66 and claimed one of two spots for the July 28-31 event to be played at the Inverness Club in Toledo. Three weeks ago Nicolette, 54, won the Arizona State Senior Open.
“Amazing,” said PING Chairman & CEO John Solheim. “I couldn’t be happier for Marty and Mike. They are both very deserving of these opportunities. They are passionate about playing the game and helping golfers improve their games through designing better equipment. For one week this summer, they’ll get to put their talents up against the best in the game. All of us at PING wish them the best.”
According to Jertson, the training required to achieve Class A status has been extremely beneficial in his job designing golf clubs.
“Understanding every aspect of the golf industry makes me smarter as an engineer,” said Jertson. “Besides the physics of a golf club, I need to understand industry trends, club fitting, consumer insights and the business of golf. I’m proud to have achieved Class A status. It’s been a great experience and it allows me to continue my playing career.”
Contact:
Pete Samuels (602) 687-5487.
