SofTrak Synthetic Putting Greens Sales Up 25% This Year


September 18, 2003. United Turf Industries ("UTI") of Wichita, Kan., developer of SofTrak Synthetic Putting Greens ("SofTrak") – the high-performance turf for residential and commercial use that closely simulates the look and feel of natural grass greens – today announces sales of its leading synthetic turf putting greens are up 25 percent from January to August 2003 compared to the same period last year.

Widely regarded as the top synthetic turf putting and chipping greens brand on the market and used by PGA, LPGA and Champions TOUR members - Fred Couples, Bruce Lietzke, Steve Flesch, Donna Andrews, among others – SofTrak now boasts certified dealers-installers in 35 states, nine countries and on three continents.

For more information about available dealerships and areas, SofTrak and its exclusive supplier United Turf Industries, visit www.unitedturf.com or call 800.540.4899.

"SofTrak continues to post sales increases in this our sixth year," says Lance Pierce, President of United Turf Industries. "We attribute our steady growth to providing a high-performance chipping and putting surface that is easy to maintain, looks good, and provides family fun, game improvement, and businesses with an expense-saving and revenue-generating amenity."

SofTrak's sophisticated construction process includes two layers of crushed stone base, which enables undulations and contours to be designed into the green as well as quick, thorough drainage of water.

SofTrak’s proprietary RQS in-fill – a sand-like material that is unique to the industry in that it resists hardening over time – ensures SofTrak greens provide consistent-rolling putts and accept shots into greens from more than 125 yards. Also, the surface fibers of SofTrak greens are UV-ray resistant to help maintain the lush, green appearance. In addition to performing like natural turf, SofTrak is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and blends seamlessly into existing landscapes.

"People are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy their downtime at their homes," says Pierce. "With SofTrak, we can build them a virtual country club in their backyard that provides high performance for the avid golfers, but versatility and fun for family and friends to enjoy."

In addition to thousands of homeowners and commercial businesses nationwide – from retirement communities and college campuses to golf shops and condominium complexes – PGA TOUR stars Fred Couples and Steve Flesch use SofTrak in the convenient comfort of their respective venues.

They are not alone, reigning U.S. Senior Open champion and Champions TOUR money leader Bruce Lietzke also owns and practices on a SofTrak green at his private residence, as do one-time U.S. Open runner-up T.C. Chen and LPGA member Donna Andrews .

Also, top college golf programs – reigning NCAA Division I men's champion Clemson for one – are increasingly using SofTrak at their training facilities as an all-weather, game-enhancing tool for their players.

Couples had his SofTrak Putting Green constructed at his home early last year. He went on to average 1.751 putts per hole last season, which tied him with Ernie Els and Vijay Singh on the PGA Tour in that statistic and bettered Tiger Woods.

"My SofTrak Putting Green helps me improve my short game yet it’s fun for our entire family and it looks great in our yard," says Couples, who has won on TOUR this season and is in the top 30 on the money list, having earned nearly $2 million.

About SofTrak Putting Greens

From backyards to commercial venues, golfers and businesses are turning to SofTrak for its convenience, affordability, and realistic performance. SofTrak Putting Greens help golfers improve their game and provide entertainment for family, friends and business associates. Developed by United Turf Industries of Wichita, Kansas, SofTrak greens are virtually maintenance free. SofTrak’s exclusive fibers are finer, softer, and denser than those of other synthetic greens. Combined with SofTrak’s exclusive RQS infill, the SofTrak system provides the most realistic roll and effective practice surface on the market. There are more than 55 SofTrak dealers and certified installers in 35 states, three continents, and nine countries including The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Canada, Taiwan, and Korea. For information about SofTrak visit www.unitedturf.com