An Outing on the Links

Fore! Or is it four? Actually it depends on which “for” you are talking about. “Fore” has been used for decades as a way to warn golf spectators and other players of an incoming ball heading their way. “Four” is the number of people in a golf “foursome” who tee off and play the course together throughout the day. Organizing a private golf outing has just as much complexity as the next event. I interviewed a golf aficionado for the inside scoop on what constitutes a great golf outing. Here is what I discovered.

The first thing to do, of course, is determine the goals and objectives for the event. Is this particular golf outing a fundraiser? If so, how much money does it need to raise? Is it just for fun? What activities should be incorporated into the day? How about a reunion of college friends, an appreciation event, or networking opportunity for a group of industry leaders? How many players will be needed to make this outing successful? And on and on until the purpose, basic outline, and logistics are determined.

Then, secure a time at a great golf course. If possible, talk with executives or other stakeholders within your organization to see if anyone belongs to a private club. Perhaps there is a non-member day you can reserve for the outing. Maybe someone related to your organization or who supports your cause owns or operates a course that can donate a date or time for the outing to take place. Being able to play on a course that is normally only available to members is a great opportunity for some and a big draw for registration.

Next, coordinate tee gifts. We all know everyone loves free stuff. There are a number of ways for the attendees to win gifts and prizes such as closest-to-the-pin, longest drive, a putting contest, hole-in-one, speed hole, and beat-the-pro. Aside from actual participatory opportunities, allow vendors to sponsor holes where they give away merchandise to every participant as they play through. There are many other sponsorship opportunities depending on the nature of the event, and vendors can also supply swag for a parting gift bag for every participant as well. Consider handing out event- or organization-branded merchandise like apparel, golf towels, tees, or balls.

Registration for this type of event is important. This gives the organization an opportunity to ask questions of the registrants so they can ensure an even playing field and fair game for everyone. When setting up foursomes, the organization can partner seasoned and new golf players together. Having an all-seasoned team crush the dreams of those who are playing for fun from the IT department who never leave their office may ruin their experience for the foreseeable future. Mixing the playing levels not only helps make things feel more equal, it allows for conversations and opportunities to learn from one another on the course throughout the day.

Because golf and beverage carts seem to go hand-in-hand, it is recommended to end the event with a buffet or heavy appetizers. Golfers can mingle and tell fish stories while you calculate the winners, all the while time is passing and players are getting food into their stomachs before leaving the venue. Then, announce the winners, hand out prizes and swag, and celebrate your team.

Be sure the experience is memorable. You want the group to walk away excited about what they did today and look forward to coming back again next year, whether there is a next year planned or not. Especially if the event is a fundraiser, having the attendees leave with anticipation will have them thinking about the game, the fun, the food, the prizes, and ideally about the cause for days, weeks, and months to come.

Have you planned a golf outing? What one piece of advice would you give someone who is doing it for the first time? Leave it here or email me!

And let’s get this blog out to others who plan events! Share it on your social media and with your friends and family members!