Golf Channel, Topgolf Aim to Grow Sport via New Partnership
The global golf entertainment brands celebrate multi-year agreement
ORLANDO – Jan. 20, 2015 – Golf Channel and golf entertainment leader Topgolf International, Inc. today announced a partnership intended to attract and serve fans of the sport. The multi-year agreement includes integrated marketing programming, cross-promotional events, prizing for Topgolf® guests and other grow-the-game initiatives.
“The lasting health of the game of golf is a top priority for Topgolf and Golf Channel,” said Topgolf CEO Ken May. “Our collaboration signifies our commitment to growing the sport and offering added value to Topgolf and Golf Channel fans across the nation.”
The new partnership will include:
Golf Channel providing Topgolf with integration support on-air, online, across its social media brands, as well as through its email distribution platforms
Golf Channel supporting Topgolf U and Topgolf Leagues by creating a platform for Topgolf locations on GolfAdvisor.com, the network’s online source for golf course ratings, reviews and recommendations by golfers, for golfers
Topgolf providing brand exposure and signage for Golf Channel and GolfNow at its venues, as well across Topgolf’s digital media platforms
Golf Channel and GolfNow will become a preferred partner of Topgolf Leagues
“Topgolf has quickly stepped in as a leader in expanding golf’s footprint beyond its traditional platform by providing a new direction to propel the game forward,” said Mike McCarley, president of Golf Channel. “The collaboration possibilities between our brands, including GolfNow, will help attract both new and avid golfers to underscore our effort to encourage more golfers to play more golf.”
About Golf Channel
Golf Channel is a multimedia, golf entertainment and services company based in Orlando, Fla. Golf Channel, co-founded by Arnold Palmer in 1995 and now part of the NBC Sports Group, is available in more than 120 million homes in 83 countries and 12 languages around the world. Exclusive partnerships with the world’s top tours allow Golf Channel to feature more live golf coverage than all other networks combined, as well as a programming schedule distinguished by golf’s highest-quality news, instruction and original programming. Golf Channel’s digital platforms, headed by GolfChannel.com, are the leading golf destinations on the Internet, delivering unmatched coverage of the world of golf. Fans are able to enjoy 24/7 live streaming of Golf Channel content through Golf Live Extra and select programming is simulcast via SiriusXM’s PGA TOUR Radio. In addition, Golf Channel connects the world to golf through a wide array of digital services including Golf Channel Mobile; GolfNow, the world’s largest online booking platform; GolfAdvisor.com, a golf course ratings and review portal; the interactive Golf Channel Academy instructional app; and the Golf Channel Am Tour, the world’s largest amateur golf tour.
About GolfNow
Founded in 2001, GolfNow uses leading-edge technology and offers nearly 2 million registered golfers more ways to stay connected to their favorite courses and tee times through the web, e-mail and mobile devices. GolfNow provides tee-time access and technology offerings to more than 8,000 golf courses around the world. GolfNow is part of the suite of digital businesses managed by Golf Channel, which is seen in more than 120 million homes worldwide through cable, satellite and wireless companies. For more information, go to GolfNowSolutions.com.
About Topgolf
Topgolf is a global sports entertainment community creating the best times of your life, with 15 locations serving more than 4 million guests annually. Players hit golf balls containing computer microchips that track each shot’s accuracy and distance while awarding points for hitting targets on the outfield. Each facility offers an upscale and playful experience, featuring an impressive food and beverage menu, music, games, climate-controlled hitting bays, and hundreds of HDTVs. Topgolf also brings fun, interactive experiences to the community through its Topgolf U lessons, leagues, tournaments, KidZone parties, and social and corporate events. To learn more about Topgolf, visit www.topgolf.com.
