Emphasizing “Now” in GolfNewsNow (GNN)

After 30 years in the publishing business, the idea of launching into cyberspace was an intimidating yet exciting prospect for a guy who, not so long ago, thought sending an e-mail was a major accomplishment.

The intimidation factor was eased considerably by Steve Woods, a self-taught student of website design who is in that age group that turns to the internet first for its information.

I used to write about Steve over 20 years ago when he played for a powerful peewee hockey team in Mississauga, On, so this really was a case of a young pup in his mid-30s lending his wisdom to an old dog, but his lessons were necessary in order to stay relevant in the 21st Century.

It isn’t just Steve’s generation – one that is gaining more influence in the golf industry – that is counting on the Internet nowadays. Even people of my era increasingly seek instant information about apparel, equipment, events etc., but until now, the Canadian golf industry hasn’t had one central website to visit.

As most of you know, I spent 11 years until just recently as an editor and senior writer with a national trade publication and one of the big frustrations there was writing a story on deadline, but having it turn into old news by the time it got into the hands of readers over a month later.

For that reason, the most important word in GolfNewsNow is “Now,” which reflects the urgency we have for getting news stories, product introductions and other information to the Canadian golf industry.

The golf industry has evolved quickly over the past 10 years, with new products being introduced at a more rapid pace, especially at this time of year. We need to stay on top of those introductions in our clubs, golf ball, shoes and accessories sections.

New technology continues in both fashion and equipment – whether it be clubs, golf balls or shoes – so it is imperative that GNN keeps you informed about the latest trends in our Feature Stories section.
Over the past 10 years, we have seen companies come together and others start up, some becoming major players in golf and some disappearing after a short lifespan.

New faces have taken over as heads of national associations and major manufacturers in Canada. The role of the golf professional has changed immensely and off-course shops now have a major impact as names such as Golf Town and Nevada Bob’s have become major players.

GNN needs to stay on top of those stories in our News section and it all begins now (there’s that word again). The Canadian buying shows are coming up as is the Titleist & FootJoy Canadian PGA Assistants Championship and Club Professionals Championship, while the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando isn’t far off.

The news stops for nobody.

As well as covering the news, GNN is also about opinions and we seek yours, whether it’s in response to this blog, contributing to one of our regular polls, or just contacting us directly.

GNN’s other mandate is to become a central meeting point for the entire Canadian golf industry.
So often, Toronto-based businesses are accused of having an Ontario bias, but we want to change your mind. However, we need your help and would like to hear from those in other provinces about news items, upcoming events and people in new places.

We also would like to become your link to the rest of the golf industry by providing direct links to our advertisers’ websites and those of associations and publications that affect the game in this country.

Take a look around at some of the cool features of this site. For example, if you want to take a closer look at a ball, club, shoe or person, just click the photo (in the full story section) and it will auto-enlarge for closer inspection. In the tags section on the sidebar, just click on a word or name and this context sensitive reference tool will bring up any story (current or archived) that is relevant to what you have selected. GNN will also regularly poll golf shops across Canada to see what’s selling well and what products are on fire in our Hot Stuff section.

Also, be sure to click the ads to see what’s new with those companies.

So add us to your Favourites and check back often. We would like to send you a regular e-mail blast on what’s new at GNN and we promise not to inundate your Inbox. If you would like regular updates, please sign in on the home page with your name and e-mail address and we will add you on the list.

Change will be an important part of GNN, which is a change in itself, both personally and for the Canadian golf industry as we progress into the 21st Century.

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