Tee it Forward Initiative now Underway


Over the next few weeks, American golfers are encouraged to "Tee it Forward," a new national initiative to underscore more fun on the course and enhance their overall experience by playing from a set of tees best suited to each player's abilities. Participating facilities throughout the country began the program this month.

"Tee it Forward" encourages all golfers to play the course at a length that is aligned with their average driving distance. Golfers can have more fun and potentially speed up play by utilizing tees that provide the greatest playability and enjoyment.

"We are excited that 'Tee it Forward' has been enthusiastically received by both PGA Professionals and consumers," said PGA President Allen Wronowski. "The PGA believes that this new approach to the game can make golf much more fun for millions of people and increase their desire to come back and play even more golf."

Supported by the PGA of America and the United States Golf Association, "Tee it Forward" was launched in May, during the 72nd Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid.

Through "Tee it Forward," the PGA and USGA hope to influence the mindset of golfers in a positive way. By playing from appropriate tees, amateur golfers have the opportunity to play the course at the same relative distance as a touring professional would over 18 holes.

The playing field is leveled by giving golfers the chance to play from distances that are properly aligned with their abilities. This should result in fewer overall shots, shorter distance traveled on each hole, and potentially, fewer lost balls.

The PGA and USGA have provided more than 11,000 facilities around the country with information about "Tee it Forward." The data can be used to promote the initiative to golfers, including a poster featuring Jack Nicklaus, Paula Creamer and Dustin Johnson, and the suggested distance chart. Golfers can "Tee it Forward" anytime, plus find a list of officially registered facilities on www.PlayGolfAmerica.com, which has a chart that aligns a player's driving distance with total course length.