Jane looks back at our American Golf in-store shopping experience with a few golfing challenges thrown in
Women & Golf were delighted to collaborate with American Golf for an in-store shopping experience for our readers this month. What better way to spend a rainy Thursday evening in Manchester than shopping and golfing? The Trafford Golf Centre, home to one of American Golf's flagship stores, allowed us to do both.
The American Golf store was stacked full of the latest female golf clothing ranges, there were bays set up to test out the latest golf equipment, whilst also taking part in some fun challenges. Upstairs there was a putting competition and a chance to check out the latest footwear on offer. As an added bonus, if some clothing or footwear caught your eye, then there was an extra 10% off on the night.
We were also joined by PGA Professional, presenter and ex-LET professional Rachel Drummond, providing a break in golf shopping and product testing to take part in a Q&A with Women & Golf Editor Emma Ballard.
Welcome to the Trafford Golf Centre
Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with a glass of prosecco and a American Golf x Women & Golf goody bag. They were also able to help themselves to some popcorn and some delicious chocolate golf ball cake pops which had been made by Christian Constantinou from American Golf HQ.
The goody bag may have been our best yet - including a golf towel & pitch repairer from Stromberg, a water bottle & marker from Rohnisch, a visor from J. Lindeberg, tees from OceanTee, golf balls from Srixon and a shoehorn & sunglasses from Women & Golf.
With goody bags and snacks in hand, everyone was encouraged to browse the extensive selection of women's golf fashion, accessories and footwear on display plus test their golfing skills in the bay area for a chance to win some prizes.
Shopping
It was great to see such an extensive collection of women's golf clothing on show. Brands included Stromberg, Travis Matthew, Under Armour, adidas, Rohnisch, J.Lindeberg, Calvin Klein, OceanTee, Footjoy and Greg Norman.
American Golf are committed to ensuring that a wider range of women's golf clothing can be found in more of their stores across the country over the coming months. They appreciate that we like to shop in-store, as well as online.
Golf Challenges
No golfing get-together would be complete without swinging a club. The all female fitting team organised a series of challenges for the guests - straightest drive, 67 yard pitch and the 3-hole putting challenge.
Needless to say the bays and putting green were very busy and the precision and accuracy on show was very impressive.
Our guest speaker
Q&A with Rachel Drummond
At 6:30pm we were joined by our guest Rachel Drummond who took to the stage with our editor Emma to talk about how she transitioned from LET professional golfer, to coach and now presenter on LIV Golf. She was honest about the reception she has received for working on the breakaway league, how she juggles her diary, her PGA exams and also gave some helpful tips to the assembled golfers.
Rachel Drummond, a seasoned professional golfer since 2012, has showcased her skills on the Ladies European Tour. Transitioning from the golf course to coaching, she has made a lasting impact at Sunningdale Heath, St Georges Hill and Pitch London. Widely recognised for her insightful commentary on Europro, Legends Tour, Aramco Team Series, and Sky Sports Studio, she currently works for LIV Golf. To read more about Rachel’s life in golf, follow this link.
Guests were also given the opportunity to ask Rachel questions and had time to speak to her after the Q&A. Thank you to Rachel for her time, it was great to have her in attendance.
A chance to chat
One thing we know about golf is that it appeals to all ages and to play it you need a sense of humour. It was lovely to see a mix of women, of all ages, come together for a shared passion. There was an enormous amount of chat. We also had a DJ on hand to add a positive and relaxed feel across the store.
American Golf x Women & Golf conclusion
We were delighted that we managed to meet a number of our readers from the North West of England face to face. Thank you for taking the time to pop in.
It was great to see a diverse audience - seasoned golfers and those new to the game, and give them an opportunity to try out golf, take on some golfing challenges and discover the wealth of women's golf clothes at reasonable prices.
An inspiring evening, not only for our guests but also for the team at Women & Golf. These events have shown us just how important it is to reach more women to bring them into the game and enjoy the many benefits that golf brings to our lives.
Here's to the next one!
Feedback
Don't just take our word for it, here is some initial feedback from attendees:
“Great evening, enjoyed it so much!”
Sinead
“Amazing event and so nice to finally meeting some of women golfers from our stores. Amazing cake pops.”
Emma
"It was a fantastic evening Emma Ballard. Huge thanks to you, and Rachel Drummond. Our customers and team members loved it"
Elaine
With thanks to our Partners
For their support of women's golf and producing an excellent evening with chat, laughter and making new golfing friends.
Plus Stromberg, Rohnisch, and J.Lindeberg for donating items to the goody bag.
If you would like to be involved in our next event or collaborate on an event please contact Jane Lees.
