Tour Report with PROTOCONCEPT - VOL.47

The LPGA is back in the States after several weeks overseas.

I made my way to Portland, Oregon for the Standard Portland Classic at Columbia Edgewater Country Club.

This event is the longest running non-major tournament on the LPGA schedule. The Portland Classic has been a favorite tour stop since 1972, and one of my first events as a tour rep back in 1998.

This is where I was when 9/11 happened back in 2001. This tournament and location hold a lot of memories for me, and a special place in my heart.

Built in 1925, this course is “old school” and proud of it. Tree lined fairways and small greens make this a challenge for any player not on their game.

Unfortunately, with all the advances in equipment and golf ball technology, the course is no match for these talented young players who usually finish double digits under par.

If the weather stays as perfect as it was the beginning of the week, I don’t think this year will be any different.

With no tour van at the event this week to do club work in, I spent my time testing one of our future iron models.

Several players spent time with me testing this these clubs and giving me feedback that I will pass along to our designers back in Japan. This type of testing shows how hard it is to please everyone.

One player may love A and B while the next player may comment on how they don’t prefer A and B. Overall, this particular club is getting great reviews already and I have been asked to build sets for players that are not currently our ambassadors, but could be by next year.

Jodi Shadoff loved the look, feel and playability. She is looking forward to getting a set to work with this off season.

Up Next: Back on the Korn Ferry at the Advent Health Championship in Kansas City, MO.

Steve Loerzel
Director of Operations & Chief Performance Engineer