(Grand Rapids, Mich.) For over 25 years, the West Michigan Golf Show has provided a touch of springtime in the dead of winter. With hundreds of exhibits, dozens of interactive areas, seminars, free lessons, and even a real par-3 hole, the show offers patrons the next best thing to actually playing the game. With that as an introduction, here’s a helpful FAQ (frequently asked questions) guide for new and returning patrons headed for the show on Feb. 14-16 at DeVos Place:
Why do people attend a golf show in February?
The short answer: to get out of the house or igloo and think golf! The long answer may be best summed up in the words of a 2013 patron, “It’s great just seeing all the golf stuff and hanging out with the golf people. It’s also great relearning about the local golf facilities and resort courses.”
What about the seminars? Do they cost extra?
All seminars and golf lessons are provided gratis with the price of admission. And they offer an incredible value. The 2013 PGA National Teacher of the Year Lou Guzzi, who normally charges hundreds of dollars for a private lesson, will conduct free seminars all weekend on the Pfeiffer Lincoln Stage. His seminars are aimed at anyone who wants to play better and enjoy golf more.
I want to get my child more interested in golf. What’s available at the show for juniors or new golfers?
Good question because new players represent the future of the game and the Golf Show itself. The Michigan PGA and the PGA of America will have booths at the show with information and assistance on a number of player development programs-regardless of age- including Get Golf Ready, PGA Junior League, Tee it Forward and more. Plus, the First Tee Program of West Michigan will be on hand with a special junior golf area and news about its 2014 programs aimed at getting juniors excited about golf, a character-building game of a lifetime.
What’s some fun stuff to do at the Show?
Besides getting a great parking spot underneath DeVos Place, there are putting contests, closest to the pin events using a golf simulator, free golf tips provided by PGA pros, new equipment demos inside a huge hitting net, and the ever-popular Par-3 Challenge. And for entertainment value don’t miss Bobby Wilson, a four-time National Senior Long Drive Champion. Along with a few trick shots, he promises to teach you “how to pick up an extra 15-20 yards off the tee without hitting a cart path!”
What’s the Par-3 Challenge?
Expertly constructed by Everett’s Landscape and sponsored by Treetops Resort, an actual par-three golf hole, mostly over water, will serve as a dramatic centerpiece of the Show. For a modest fee, patrons register to play-raising money for Patriot Golf Day which provides scholarships for military families-and compete for prizes including a chance to win $25,000 on Sunday. Balls and clubs are provided as well as lots of encouragement from spectators and friends alike.
What’s new at the Show?
There are over 30 new exhibitors at the Show this year, ranging from out of state destinations, the new Meijer LPGA Classic event this summer, area golf courses, and a whole range of golf products, including several new putter companies. New this year is the Bridgestone Ball Fitting Challenge, where patrons will discover what’s the optimum ball for them to play. And check out the new Local Golf Loyalty Card available free with every admission, aimed at promoting more golf in West Michigan in 2014.
Any incentives for showing up early for the Show?
The first 100 people entering the Show each day will receive a free sleeve of balls. Incidentally, the Show opens on Friday at 2 pm, two hours earlier than in the past. Friday is also Ladies Day at the Show with special gift bags for the first 500 women and special presentations. On Saturday morning between 9 am-11 am, there’s a $5 pancake breakfast to inspire syrupy swings.
With Friday, Feb. 14th, being Valentine’s Day, are there any sweetheart specials?
Fitting the romantic occasion, there’s Duffers and Dolls on Friday. Couples (not Fred!) will find a special date night area with miniature golf, flowers for the ladies, silly Valentines, a soda fountain and wine tasting (for a fee). And register to win Dinner & a Movie for a date night redux. Yep, there’s romance, nostalgia and good times at the Golf Show!
How much does it cost and where can I purchase tickets?
$10 for adults; $4 for children ages 6-14; children 5 & under free. Tickets at the door at DeVos Place or in advance online at www.westmichigangolfshow.com
Produced by ShowSpan Inc. and sponsored by Treetops Resort, Pfeiffer Lincoln, Odawa Casino Resort, Golf Association of Michigan, Boyne USA and the Michigan PGA. West Michigan Golf Show’s hours are 2:00 pm-9:00 pm, Friday; 10:00 am-7:00 pm, Saturday; and 10:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday. For more information, visit www.westmichigangolfshow.com
Contact:
Carolyn Alt, ShowSpan Senior Show Manager, at carolyna@showspan.com
Terry Moore, Sportserv Ltd, at 616-490-0433 or terry50moore@gmail.com
Note: A complete media section with images is available at:
http://showspan.com/WMG/for-the-media/media-gallery/
