PING Renews Presenting Sponsorship of The 2011 PGA Professional's Appointment Calendar

PING, which began its second half-century this year at the forefront of advancement in golf equipment technology, has renewed its presenting sponsorship of The 2011 PGA Professional's Appointment Calendar Presented by PING. Founded in 1959 by the late Karsten Solheim, and with headquarters in Phoenix, Ariz., PING employs more than 1,000 who leave their mark on golf products every day. The family-owned company is now under the leadership of Chairman and CEO John Solheim, as PING continues its quest to develop the most innovative and highest quality golf equipment in the world. "The PGA of America is proud to have PING continue its commitment as presenting sponsor of The PGA Professional's Appointment Calendar," said PGA of America President Jim Remy. "Like the calendar, which has become a welcome companion piece to any PGA Professional's business, PING has been a loyal friend for generations to our Association's men and women professionals." PING's humble beginnings are traced to the family garage, where Karsten Solheim spent late nights, and together with persistence and curiosity formed a world-renowned golf equipment company, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009. Today, the primary task of leading the product development charge is John's oldest son, John K. (Karsten), who trailed his grandfather around the plant during summer breaks from high school. Among his experiences was witnessing the transition of the product design process into the computer age. Solheim leads a team of more than 60 engineers and researchers. "Since the very beginning, developing and maintaining relationships with PGA Professionals have been extremely important to our success," said John Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. "Their expertise and influence during the equipment-buying process helps ensure golfers are playing clubs that are best suited and properly fitted to their games. Our sponsorship of the appointment calendar provides a daily reminder to the PGA Professional that PING fully supports their efforts in helping golfers continue to play and enjoy the game of golf."