I like finding as much golf value for the buck as I can. I hunt for deals and try to stretch my money as far as possible. I think that most golfers are like me and spend their money at many golf stores other than at their local golf course. Over the years, I learned that if I take the time to talk the pro at my local proshop, I make an equal or better deal than I can anywhere else. In those cases, I save money and have instant access to the equipment I am trying to buy. Not only do I save money, but I am supporting my local golf course and that is just smart!
I have been fortunate to purchase wedges (at cost), shirts, golf balls, shoes, clubs, and rounds of golf. Most of the time, I save up to 10% off the cost and also the dreaded tax. So, that equates to savings of about 15% or more. This might not seem like much, but it adds up over the years. And this year is no different.
Jeff Rogerson, GM at Osprey Links, always offers deals if we are paying attention. Additionally, he is willing to discuss potential deals. All we need to do is just ask. There are no guarantees, but he is always someone I talk too before making a purchase.
This year, I saved money on my Golf Canada membership and I bought the 3 dozen get 1 free Pro V1x golf balls. The golf balls are offered on line, but there is benefit for both by buying them through my local course. For now, these are purchases I would have made anyway, but by going through my local golf course, they and I benefit from the deals. I am not sure what else I am going to purchase this year, but Jeff will on my list of people to talk too about saving money.
There is another aspect of any golf purchase that is often overlooked. That would be customer service. I find that my local course provides excellent service and although our proshop is smallish, there is great value to be found. Having a functioning proshop is very important, in my opinion, to the success of any golf course. It is a service that enhances the my golfing experience at any golf course. Hence, I think it is very important to support our local golf course to help build the success of the course.
Do you support your local golf course/proshop?
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
The Grateful Golfer 
I believe wholeheartedly in supporting any business that earns my business through exceptional customer service and that includes my home golf course.
My home golf course, Cambridge Golf Club is more than just where I golf, it is my home literally. For ten years, I have rented the first floor of the stone farmhouse which was the first clubhouse and home to the original owner. Being Golfer in Residence for the past ten years has given me a unique perspective on the sport and how a golf course should be operated.
Chris and Carla Munch operate the course and set a high standard for customer service. The staff they hire are treated with respect and the majority return year after year. The course also has one of the largest junior programs which is growing the game. Members also get a nice discount on pro shop items and there are frequent specials.
I support the club anyway I can because they have earned my business. There is a long standing joke that when I moved onto the course that I should have negotiated a meal plan. During the golf season, if I don’t want to cook (frequently), I make the 50 metre walk into the clubhouse and order breakfast or dinner. The friendly staff are like family and I make sure that they are rewarded with a decent tip. It is the right thing to do. I also support the pro shop and proudly wear my CGC shirts, CGC head overs, etc..
I play a lot of other courses each year with the Golf Historical Society of Canada and realize that not all courses are at the standard I have become accustomed which makes me appreciate what I have.
On a final note, my experience at Osprey Links last August was a good one. The staff was so friendly and welcoming, I received great value. They are worthy of your support.
In this case, being a grateful golfer means showing your gratitude with your wallet.
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Lorne,
Sounds like you have a perfect set up to me. Living and playing on a course and being part of the furniture is always a good thing. I definitely agree that being a grateful golfer means should gratitude with my wallet at my home course of Osprey Links! Thanks for the kindly reminder.
Cheers Jim
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Jim, I shop based on price, convenience, and selection. As a result, on-line and big box stores like Costco and Dicks get my business for small stuff and large. Amazon is very competitive as well. I did buy clubs from a local fitter a few years back, but that’s it. Admittedly, I don’t pick up much from the pro shop.
Thanks,
Brian
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Brian,
I do some of my shopping in the same places you do, but I have learned to talk to my local pro. They can usually do something that will earn my business. No, judging here because getting the most value out of our hard earned cash is something that is important to me as well.
Cheers Jim
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I can’t remember ever trying to negotiate a deal at any but I’ve spent plenty of money in many of our local courses pro shop’s. They often offer some great deals.
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Kevin,
Great to hear you support your local club.
Cheers Jim
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