Golf Tournament Preparation for Amateurs

The following is an interview with Bill Craig, PGA member and Head Golf Professional at The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center in The Woodlands, TX. Bill has set up and administered over 1,000 corporate golf outings and charity golf tournaments.

When setting up and organizing golf tournaments or corporate outings, what are some of the most common mistakes when planning golf tournaments and corporate outings?

A common mistake I see happen with organizers of golf tournaments or corporate outings is that they do not pay enough back to participants. Meaning they do not pay enough places and the places that are paid do not pay a respectable amount considering the entry fee. Golf tournament committees do not always think about the future of the event. The tournament committees can get caught up with how much they are raising for their charity. They do not stay focused on the future of their event. To continue the growth of their event in coming years, the golf tournament committees must give back to those participating.

Do golf tournaments and corporate events seem to have the same type of problems?

Opposed to charity events, corporate events rarely have this problem. The host company usually covers all expenses for a wonderful day of food and beverage with golf. Cutting corners by not hosting a beverage cart while on the golf course can be a big disappointment to those clients you are hosting. Keep in mind you are trying to thank or impress those on the golf course as they are your current or maybe future customers. A tee gift with a course logo or your company logo such as a towel, hat, or sleeve of balls can leave a good impression on the participants. You only have one chance to make a good first impression.

What do successful corporate outings do that allow them to do well year after year?

Regardless of whether it is a corporate or a charity tournament, tee gifts, big or small will immediately get your participants attention. However, if you give a tee gift once, the current participants will expect it in the future. As you are planning your event, put a lot of though into how much to spend on your tee gift and what your future goals for the event are going to be. Every time you exceed the previous expectations, it then becomes .the norm..  If it is a new tournament keep the gifts simple. This will also allow you to have consistently priced tee gifts from year to year.

Do most Golf Shops carry items that can be used as a tee gift?

Your local PGA Professional or Course Tournament Director will have many ideas and suggestions for you. In addition, sometimes tournament pricing is offered which can save you some money.  The club will be making profit on guest fees, food, beverage as well as gift certificates. Clubs do not necessarily make a huge profit on the tee gifts. They would much rather have you return to their facility the following year. Once your logo has been set up by the club and their vendors, the tee gift process will be even easier for you.

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