ORLANDO — It wasn’t long ago that many were wondering whether or not the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center was losing its fastball.
The 2024 edition of the annual trade show, however, is proving definitively the lasting power of the show — and perhaps how important it’s become in the wake of remote working quarters and increased travel.
According to organizers from the PGA of America, some 200 exhibitors from 25 countries are on hand this year, and the event still includes a robust series of speakers and prominent guests, like 2022 U.S. Open champ Matthew Fitzpatrick and 8-time major champ Tom Watson. Attendees from 80 different countries registered for the event.
Also, while most guests come from the United States or Europe, many of the exhibitors come from China, Korea and Canada. A handful of the major golf club manufacturers still haven’t returned to the show, but many have and the floor has been an endless stream of activity.
“The PGA of America is actively sourcing more opportunities to partner with like-minded organizations, golf facilities and mission-driven individuals across Latin America, Asia, the Middle East and Africa,” said Sean D. Thornberry, Director of Global Development at the PGA of America.
Here’s a look at some of the fun:
PGA Show
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 25: The Share Your Story presentation with Moderator Kennie Sims, PGA, Founder/Creative…
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 25: The Share Your Story presentation with Moderator Kennie Sims, PGA, Founder/Creative Director at aCouture Stacey Stewart, CEO Ebony Greens R. Shawn Summerville, and President of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures Jim Beatty on the Industry Stage during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Thursday, January 25, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Darren Carroll/PGA of America)
PGA Show
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Recruitment and Retention panel with Chief Member Officer at PGA of…
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Recruitment and Retention panel with Chief Member Officer at PGA of America John Easterbrook Jr., Director of PGA Education Todd Sammons, Director of PGA Golf Management Programs Kyle Helms, Chair of PGA Education Committee and Direct of the PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University Dr. Rich Ballinger, Director of Recruiting Chris Kulinski, with Moderator and PGA General Manager Brian Crowell on the Industry Stage during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Darren Carroll/PGA of America)
PGA Show
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 23: Brian Crowell, PGA, introduces the PGA Show Coaches Experience panel members…
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 23: Brian Crowell, PGA, introduces the PGA Show Coaches Experience panel members Trillium Rose, PGA, Jake Hutt, PGA, and Tom Henderson, PGA during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Darren Carroll/PGA of America)
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