Divot Mix

There are many ways of performing the operations successfully. I can claim, however, to be in a position to explain how not to putt. I think I know as well as anybody how not to do it. --Harry Vardon

Golf enjoyment scorecard

For golf course managers and operators, understanding why golfers play the game can be an important component of running a successful facility.

So when the National Golf Foundation asked 850 core golfers to think about what makes golf enjoyable, and divide that enjoyment across 10 factors, the answers should be illuminating.

Not surprisingly, NGF learned that the golf course and the people account for over half of golfers' enjoyment.

Ball striking is important - all golfers need some positive reinforcement. That feeling of "shot euphoria" adds to everyone's enjoyment and keeps golfers coming back.

The last six factors: scoring, weather, amenities, course aesthetics, exercise and competition add to, but certainly don't significantly drive the enjoyment of golf for most golfers (of course there are always exceptions). Scoring itself accounts for less than 10 percent of total enjoyment. And competition isn't for everyone. It accounted for only 3 percent of all core golfer enjoyment.

EWGA Web site revamped to connect more women through golf

The Executive Women's Golf Association Web site has a new look that reflects the organization's ongoing drive to connect more women through the game of golf.

The site provides easy access to locate the more than 125 EWGA chapters throughout the country, search for upcoming events and learn more about the EWGA and its golf programs. Other features include free tips on business golf, listings of the more than 200 courses that provide golf discounts in the EWGA Golf Club Network, and an "Inside the Ropes" blog on the EWGA Championship, the largest amateur women's golf competition in the country.

"We wanted our Web site to convey the same welcoming experience that women can expect when they join the EWGA," says Pam Swensen, CEO of the association. "From our wide range of golf programs and hundreds of chapter activities to the work of the EWGA Foundation, we offer a wealth of ways for women to get connected and involved in the game of golf. A visit to our site is the fastest way to discover the many benefits of the EWGA."

A popular Web site feature is the new EWGA Shop offering apparel, raingear, headwear and accessories from EWGA's sponsors. Under the 'members only' section, are exclusive savings offers, chapter and member resources and the EWGA handicap service.

"We want to break down the barriers and end the intimidation factor to get more women into golf," says Swensen. "That is why the EWGA was started and an integral part of everything we do. The updated website makes it easy to join the association and get connected to an international network of women, interested in golf for business and fun. I encourage everyone to log on and see the new online look of the EWGA."

Since its founding in 1991, the EWGA has touched the lives of more than 100,000 women by providing opportunities to learn, play, and enjoy the game of golf for business and for life.  This not-for-profit association delivers a wide range of golf, social and networking activities for both new and experienced golfers to nearly 20,000 members at over 125 local chapters throughout the United States and international chapters in Canada and France.

The EWGA is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. For more information about the association and its membership, visit www.ewga.com.

EPA tightens engine standards for turf and surf

From lawn mowers and weed trimmers, to personal watercraft and speedboats, gas-powered engines will soon contribute to healthier and cleaner air for Americans. The EPA has set strict new standards for gas-powered lawn equipment and marine engines, enhancing public health by substantially reducing the amount of gas fumes, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and smog-forming pollutants emitted from a wide range of engines. The regulations will take effect in 2010 and 2011.

"EPA's new small engine standards will allow Americans to cut air pollution as well as grass," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "These standards help fight smog in our neighborhoods and waterways as we continue to improve the environmental landscape."

When fully implemented, the rule will yield annual emission reductions of 600,000 tons of hydrocarbons, 130,000 tons of nitrogen oxide, 5,500 tons of direct particulate matter, and 1.5 million tons of carbon monoxide. EPA expects the new standards to save approximately 190 million gallons of gasoline each year. 

The rule kicks into gear in 2011 for lawn and garden equipment of 25 horsepower or less. For a full range of gas-powered personal watercraft and inboard and outboard engines, the rule goes into effect in 2010.
Commenting on the new rules, Kris Kiser, vice president of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, said, "Although challenging, we believe the new exhaust emission standards are fair and achievable," Kiser said. "OPEI members will meet or exceed the new standards. By attaining a 95 percent reduction in emissions within 15 years, and with scientific studies confirming a carbon benefit for responsibly maintained turfgrass, OPEI is proud of the industry's track record in environmental stewardship and developing cleaner technologies."