Rounds played in the U.S. were down 4.4% on a same-store basis in May 2008 vs. May 2007, according to the National Golf Federation (NGF). However, because May 2007 rounds were above-average, the recent drop actually marks a return to normal May volume. Year-to-date rounds are 2.3% less than the comparable period last year.
Regions with the largest declines in May (Lower Midwest and Mid-Atlantic) also had nearly two fewer play days this year vs. last. With the recent flooding in Iowa, Illinois and Missouri, the Lower Midwest will no doubt be especially hard-hit in June as well, the NGF said.
Percentage change by region in same-course rounds (year-to-date, May 2008 vs. May 2007)
• U.S. (-4.4%)
• Northeast +6.1%
• Mid-Atlantic (-1.8%)
• Southeast +1.7%
• Central/South Florida (-0.3%)
• Gulf Coast +3.3%
• South Central +5.1%
• Lower Midwest (-10.9%)
• Upper Midwest (-8.8%)
• Mountain (-7.2%)
• Southwest (-2.9%)
• Northwest (-6.7%)
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