PING has agreed a new five-year extension of its long-standing Principal Partnership with The PGA, reinforcing a collaboration that has supported the education and professional development of PGA Trainees and Members for three decades
The partnership dates back to 1996, when PING became the sponsor of The PGA Training Academy at The Belfry, now widely known as PING House. Since then, PING House has become the cornerstone of the PGA Training Programme, delivering industry-leading training in product engineering and custom fitting, equipping future PGA Members with the technical knowledge and skills to succeed within the modern golf industry.
More than 300 Trainees have progressed through the Training Programme each year. As a result, the vast majority of PGA Members have experienced the PGA training pathway during the PING partnership era, underlining the impact and consistency this collaboration has brought to PGA education for the last 30 years.
PING’s support is embedded throughout a PGA Member’s journey – from the Trainee stage through graduation and into full Membership – via ongoing professional development opportunities delivered through PGA Learn.
Over the years, PING has also provided wide-ranging support across the Association, including the provision of equipment to support education delivery, apparel for PGA Education staff, and backing for numerous PGA events, awards and Member initiatives. This depth of involvement reflects a partnership built on trust, shared values and a collective commitment to raising standards across the profession.
Richard Barker PGA, Executive Director – Business Development at The PGA, said: “PING has been one of our longest-standing and most impactful partners and this five-year extension reflects the strength and depth of a relationship that has supported generations of PGA Members.
“Many Members will have progressed through the training programme during the PING era, which speaks volumes about the role this collaboration has played in shaping careers in this profession. We look forward to continuing and building that collaboration in the years to come.”
Paul Wiseman, The PGA’s Executive Director – Education, added: “PING has been integral to the PGA Training Programme for nearly three decades, with PING House providing an outstanding learning environment for Trainees year after year.
“PING are synonymous with innovation and quality, and their commitment to supporting PGA education has made a lasting impact on how we develop PGA Members. We are delighted to see this partnership continue for the next generation.”
”PING has proudly enjoyed a relationship with The PGA for over 30 years, and throughout that time PGA Professionals have remained an incredibly important part of our retail business,” commented Lisa Lovatt, PING Europe Managing Director.
“The expertise, trust and service provided by PGA Members are fundamental to how golfers experience our brand. Their commitment to custom fitting and education plays a vital role in helping golfers find the right equipment and play their best.”
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with PGA Professionals in the years ahead, strengthening that partnership through ongoing support, innovation and our shared dedication to delivering the very best for golfers.”