Page 46 - GBC Fall 2024 ENG

We have experienced another great year! The numbers from the NGCOA Canada Rounds Played Report indicate that we are still way ahead of the pre-pandemic numbers. At the end of May, the National Allied Golf Associations returned to Parliament Hill for National Golf Day to meet with MPs and Senators. At the same time, the Economic Impact Report was released. Check out our feature article on page 12 for the full report on National Golf Day and highlights from the Economic Impact Study.
This study provides valuable data and industry insight. For example, the average no-show rate is about 3.6%. During National Golf Day, one of the reporters suggested that 3.6% isn’t too bad and viewed on its own, maybe they’re right. But, when examining it through the lens of the entire industry, we see a much different picture.
Quick calculation: 74 million rounds at a 3.6% no show rate = 2.664 million Canadians that didn’t get a chance to play because someone else was a no-show. At a $52 average rate, the industry lost almost $140 Million in unused inventory as a result of no-shows.
On a different note, be vigilant as there have been numerous break-ins at golf courses in Eastern Ontario and Quebec lately. More
Golf is Good
46 Golf Business Canada
than 30 courses have been targeted, with cash as the only goal. No inventory was stolen. Some nights, they could rob 3-4 courses. The OPP and QPP are working together to stop this. We suggest that operators have less cash in their facilities and ensure they have a cloud-based camera system, as robbers have taken recorders a few times.
Cart theft in Southern Ontario is also an issue with more than 250 carts being stolen. Make sure your carts are well secured and keep an eye out if you get offered carts for sale.
We recently concluded the NGCOA Canada Summer Board meeting in Montreal, and I would like to explain how your Board functions. We are an association that sets a standard for our integrated system within the industry and beyond. Many organizations worldwide have reached out to us for advice on structuring a system like ours.
Our organization has many departments across the country, all working towards a single goal from
coast to coast. Members pay one membership fee that covers all regional, provincial, and national benefits. Each chapter has a Chapter Advisory Board (CAB) representing the grassroots of the industry. Every CAB has a desig- nated President with a reserved seat on the NGCOA Canada Board, ensuring all provinces have national representation. This bottom-up approach allows each department to develop its strategic plan with the National Board’s approval in July.
As we move forward, I encourage you to register for the upcoming conference in Calgary at conference.ngcoa.ca. This event will be a fantastic opportunity to connect, share insights, and continue strengthening our community. Don’t miss out on this valuable experience.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our industry. Together, we can achieve great things.
Sincerely,
Daniel Pilon, Owner
Club de Golf St-Zotique, QC
The Parting Shot
Message From The NGCOA Canada President • Daniel Pilon