GIA Summit 2022 off to a lively start as ideas, suggestions fly

By Rahul Banerji

Ideating, suggestions and domain expertise displays marked the opening day of the Golf Industry Association Summit 2022 at Qutab Golf Course in Delhi on Thursday.

Cricket legend Kapil Dev was on hand in the morning to declare open proceedings and cut the symbolic ribbon while association president Anil Seolaker outlined the purpose and direction of the summit.

The former India captain, now also board member of the Professional Golf Tour of India and a vocal proponent of widening golf’s outreach, sought to engage industry stakeholders in helping grow the game and make it more accessible.

With a number of course owners and managers, design companies, support services, and equipment manufacturers and suppliers exhibiting at the venue, some lively exchanges were witnessed in the afternoon session.

Mark Seigel of Bangkok-based Golf Asian who has been offering tours and related services in east Asia for over two decades spoke at some length about client profiles, spending patterns, and what makes for a good golf holiday.

“There are about 66 million golfers worldwide, 33 percent of whom travel to play at courses of choice,” Seigel said.

Much to offer

“For them, variety is one of four key factors and India has a lot to offer in this area.

“Golf course conditions are another key factor for discerning travellers. In fact, to promote golf tourism, there is no single point of attraction.

“Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for a reason – there is good support from the government and the industry is willing to take initiatives to make the game more accessible.”

Troon International and Prestige Golfshire general manager Declan McCollam outlined how the property near Bangalore keeps itself in the forefront of offering quality golf-related services.

“Motivating our staff is a big factor, plus a focus on giving our members the best experience is a key area of focus for us at Prestige.

“Regular interaction with them and upgrading their skills is another area Troon places focus on, which has helped the company to grow to a point we manage over 700 properties worldwide,” McCollam added.

Exhibitors at the summit include Pacific Coast Design, Alert Golf, Excar, ClubCar, Golf Design India, Megaplast, Aquaritin, SGDC India, IPI, Surge Systems, Toro, Yamaha Golf Car, Agricare, Five S Turf, ICI, Tirupati Agro, Sustane, Gallant Sports, Karma Lakelands, Breathe Easy, Sutlej Automotives, Infinity Cars, and Growfitter.

The summit concludes with an award presentation on Friday evening.

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