Golf Trends: Spur of the Moment

Segway from hole to hole at Kierland Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz.

According to the Golf Profit Builders consulting group, golf demographics are changing — the 29-49 age group has become the “hot” demographic. Golfers are spending less time planning golf trips: These days, they plan two to six weeks in advance, as opposed to one to five months in past years. Almost 67% of golfers plan their vacations online, according to Golf Profit Builders.

Meanwhile, the ramp-up of various amenities — from forecaddies to free club towels and bag tags to spas offering before- and after-round massages — continues unabated. At one course, Kierland Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz., golfers can use a Segway instead of a golf cart. Golf bags are attached to the side of the gyroscopically balanced two-wheelers.

Another trend: Fractional golf-club membership. Tour GCX Partners gives players access to about 30 private clubs around the country, including courses in Naples, New York, Boston and Las Vegas, among others. A one-year membership buys 10 foursomes. Membership, which starts at $6,250 a year (or $156 per person per round), includes a debit feature that allows members to purchase food, lessons and pro shop merchandise.

Links: • Golf course business trends • Golf gets a makeover For more articles this month with extra links, go to the Links page.

Tags: Dining & Travel, North Central