Ask Thad: How was your 2025 GCSAA Conference experience?
How was your 2025 GCSAA Conference experience? And tell us about your trip to “The People’s Open” in Phoenix.
Power hours for education, a field trip with equipment techs, talking to all my vendors about upcoming projects, reconnecting with old and new friends alike and, of course, the Friends of Golfdom Party, where I had to wear a Chiefs jersey again, the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show was a huge success both personally and professionally. It’s still one of my favorite weeks of the year, and you get out of it as much as you’re willing to put into it.
Free from the burden of wearing a Chiefs jersey, my brother Drew and I jetted to Phoenix for The Ewing Golf Getaway sponsored by Ewing Outdoor Supply. This included travel, first-class accommodations and meals, a pink ball golf tournament and the crown jewel: a day at the Waste Management Phoenix Open! We were in a second-story suite overlooking the drivable par 4, 17th hole.
The largest cheer of the day was for Peter Malnati, who Ewing sponsors. What a golf tournament. We were there on Friday, when the crowd was a bit more subdued. The golf is first-class, fun and dramatic to watch, but the people watching has to be the best I’ve ever witnessed. Guys in everything from top hats to red, white and blue shorts overalls to the ladies wearing dresses and heels to casual golf attire.
We met several people throughout the day who were also part of our group. Talking golf and tournament setup with other turf professionals in that setting is awesome and eye-opening.
Yes, all the bleachers and structures around the golf course are temporary and must be removed after the tournament. No, Golfdom wouldn’t let me expense anything in the merchandise tent.
Go Bills!
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