4/11/2013 - By Gregory Nicoll

On April 16, 2013 the WE ARE GOLF coalition will meet with Members of Congress during the sixth annual National Golf Day to share stories and data about golf’s diverse businesses, employees, tax revenue creation, tourism and charitable benefits, and environmental leadership. A snapshot of the information they will share includes:

• Economic Benefits of Golf: Golf is a nearly $70 billion industry, providing nearly 2 million jobs and total wage income of $55.6 billion. That’s larger than spectator sports and performing arts industries combined.
• Golf's Charitable Impact: Golf’s national charitable impact was $3.9 billion in 2011— more than 12 million people participated in 143,000 golf-related charity events at 12,000 different golf facilities.
• Supporting our Troops: The PGA TOUR has raised more than $10 million for US military and their families through Birdies for the Brave. PGA professionals and USGA members have raised more than $16.4 million for the Folds of Honor Foundation, which has provided more than 3,600 scholarships for military families. The Salute Military Golf Association has helped rehabilitate wounded warriors, providing more than 1,700 free, private lessons and custom-fitted clubs to our veterans.
• Health Benefits of Golf: Walking 18 holes of golf is the same as taking a 5 mile walk or running 3.5 miles – well in excess of the 10,000 steps recommended for daily exercise. You burn about 2,000 calories when you walk and 1,300 when you use a cart – and your blood glucose levels fall anywhere from 10 to 30 percent.
• Environmental Stewardship: Golf is now on the leading edge of environmental sustainability and stewardship efforts. Golf courses account for two million acres of green space across the country, which are home to a vast array of wildlife species. New, industry-wide principles on sustainability ensure continual improvement in the design, development, construction, and management of golf courses.

For more information, visit the WE ARE GOLF web site.