Fifth consecutive year of growth

Jupiter, FL

According to the National Golf Foundation's latest facilities report a record 509 courses opened in 1999. This figure includes 13 reconstructed courses. Last year was also the fifth consecutive year the U.S. golf industry christened more than 4,000 new courses. Another 936 courses were in some stage of construction as of Dec. 31, 1999.

Florida and California topped the rankings by state with 36 new courses each. Texas, which ranked a distant 11th in 1998, pulled up to the number three spot with 31 new courses. And Michigan, which ushered in the most new courses in 1998, fell to fourth in 1999 with 28. According to the NGF's under-development indicators, two states to watch in 2000 will be New York with 46 new courses now under construction and Wisconsin with 40.

To purchase a copy of the NGF's latest facility report, visit their website at www.ngf.org or call 800-733-6006.