June Is American Express Women's Golf Month

Throughout the month of June, women will call the shots on the links, as American Express Women's Golf Month celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2009. A nationwide initiative, American Express Women's Golf Month seeks to provide people with the opportunity to learn or re-learn the game of golf in a fun and friendly environment, while also increasing the participation of women in golf.

During June, participating facilities will offer complimentary golf instruction to people 14 years of age and older as well as activities such as networking receptions, golf rules and etiquette seminars, club fitting and equipment demonstrations, golf apparel fashion shows, luncheons, playing experiences, and contests. Each activity is designed to provide a fun and inviting atmosphere for all involved.

PGA/LPGA Professional Suzy Whaley, LPGA Tour and World Golf Halls of Fame member Nancy Lopez, and world-renowned fitness expert and philanthropist Donna Richardson Joyner are the American Express Women's Golf Month Spokeswomen Team for 2009.

Donna Richardson Joyner, along with more than 15 PGA/LPGA Professionals from the Midwest PGA Section, will host a national kick-off event to celebrate the beginning of American Express Women's Golf Month at Tiffany Greens Golf Club in Kansas City, Mo., June 3 from 3-7 p.m.

"Through programs such as American Express Women's Golf Month, people are provided with the opportunity to experience the game of golf in a comfortable setting, under the guidance of skilled PGA and LPGA Professionals," said Anne Lyndrup, director of player development for the National Golf Course Owners Association and leader of the Women's Golf Month organizers. "We look forward to celebrating the game of golf with thousands of people across the country during our fifth anniversary in June."

More information regarding American Express Women's Golf Month, including a list of participating facilities in your area, can be found at PlayGolfAmerica.com.

In its first four years, more than 105,000 people across the country have been introduced or re-introduced to the game of golf during America Express Women's Golf Month, which premiered in 2005 as Women's Golf Week. In 2008, 1,208 facilities across the county hosted events with 37,350 consumers in attendance. Of the consumers who participated in 2008, 47 percent were new customers to the facility and 32 percent were new golfers. Host facilities reported a median of $3,320 in revenues generated from people who continued to pursue the game following American Express Women's Golf Month.

Over the years, through programs such as American Express Women's Golf Month, many people have also discovered that the game of golf can be used to foster relationships and encourage personal health. Whether one is spending time with colleagues - socially or professionally, spending time with family and friends, or exercising while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the golf course, the game of golf provides the tools necessary for success in all aspects of life.