Page 46 - GBC Summer ENG flipbook 2024

As you read this message, the season is well underway and like me, you are probably busy making sure everything is in place for a smooth season ahead.
On May 23, the golf industry is heading to the Canadian Parliament and various Provincial legislatures for National Golf Day. The main purpose of this day is to educate government officials that golf in Canada is a serious business, contributing billions to the economy, in addition to being a great sport.
In Ottawa, there will be 2-3 members from each golf association taking part in targeted meetings with members of parliament from all parties, as well as meeting with cabinet ministers. A similar process will take place in the provinces where they have elected to participate in a Provincial Golf Day.
Our message is clear and unified: Golf is a serious business contributing to the economy, Golf is good, Golf is healthy for all, Golf is inclusive and Golf is the number one participation sport in the country.
An important aspect of National Golf Day is presenting the results in Golf’s Economic Impact Report, a vital tool for our industry. It demonstrates golf’s contribution to the GDP, to employment, to protecting green space, monies raised through charity and taxes, etc. I would like to thank everyone who filled out the survey.
2024 National Golf Day
46 Golf Business Canada
It is crucial for all stakeholders to develop strong relationships with our local, provincial and federal government represen-tatives. It helps them understand the impact the golf industry has on their constituencies and by maintaining strong relationships, you will also have a key contact person within government.
Media relations are so important to how the public views our industry. It is imperative to always keep the message positive, as one negative comment on the state of golf, can have a ripple effect across the country. We need to focus on getting the right message out to the consumers such as; we are a safe sport, an inclusive sport, an affordable sport, a sport that contributes to your health and one that employs hundreds of thousands of people, including many students. Golf is a large industry, made up of many local small businesses, often passed down from generation to generation, just like mine.
In addition, let’s not forget how much greenspace we protect. My quick calculation: 2400 golf courses with an average of 120 acres equals nearly 300,000 acres of greenspace, 12.5 billion square feet of grass and trees. Now that’s impressive!
While on the topic of the environment, have you seen the information on our partnership with the GEO Foundation on Sustainable Golf? I encourage you to look into this program and join at no additional cost, at https://sustainable.golf.
I am so proud to be part of this industry and this organization, and I hope that you are too! Let’s spread the word that we are a great industry and one that does great things for our communities.
Wishing you all a successful 2024 season and I look forward to sharing a glass or two with you in Calgary in November!
Sincerely,
Daniel Pilon, Owner
Club de Golf St-Zotique, QC
The Parting Shot
Message From The NGCOA Canada President • Daniel Pilon