In an effort to celebrate golf and the many things the sport contributes to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Governor Ralph S. Northam has declared Saturday, May 25 as “Virginia Golf Day.” The date coincides with the third round of the LPGA’s Pure Silk Championship at Kingsmill Resort, typically the largest attended day of the event.
There are many reasons to celebrate golf in Virginia, including its economic impact, environmental stewardship, health benefits, its role in tourism promotion, and much more. It is a game for everyone, played throughout a lifetime, and its popularity is gaining. Here are key points Governor Northam has recognized about Virginia’s golf industry:
· Virginia has a rich history as a golf destination, with its first course established in 1892 at the historic Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs.
· Virginia boasts more than 320 golf facilities across the Commonwealth, making golf a key industry contributing to the vitality of Virginia’s economy.
· Virginia’s golf industry supports $2.5 billion in economic output, along with nearly 30,000 jobs and $733.4 million in wage income.
· Virginia golf courses follow best management practices and utilize a written nutrient management plan to ensure environmental stewardship.
· Golf brings visitors to the state, spurs new residential construction, generates retail sales, and creates demand for myriad goods and services.
· Golf tournaments held in Virginia that are televised internationally help showcase our state to the world and encourage people to visit.
· Golf provides physical and social benefits to players of all ages and promotes good character in younger players through mentoring.
· Golf has the support of numerous allied associations who are committed to the promotion, growth and education of the game and who serve and share invaluable resources in every community.
· Golf continues to benefit the economy, quality of life, and culture of Virginia.
As part of the celebration, 1,200 fans at Kingsmill on Saturday will receive a “Virginia is for Golf Lovers” souvenir ball, perfect for getting autographs of all the top players. The Kingsmill event is known for its friendly access to players for post-round autographs.
For more information on the Pure Silk Championship, visit the event website.
|
.jpg)
