Tagmarshal announced the acquisition of WindIQ—a technology that measures hyperlocal, real-time wind speed, direction and precise hole location—to enhance its on-course optimization platform.
WindIQ was founded in 2023 by Ben Holbrook, an experienced tech entrepreneur, investor, and avid golfer who wanted to improve his game but was regularly hampered by strong West Coast winds. Holbrook identified a need in the golf market for a technology that accurately measures wind velocity, unlike current apps, which often show outdated wind conditions miles from the course being played.
“I always grappled with how golfers have so much information at hand about the distance to the bunkers and other visible hazards but rely on gut feel when it comes to wind,” said Holbrook. “Wind is a golfer’s invisible hazard. WindIQ finally gives golfers the wind information they need to make better shot decisions.”
Tagmarshal recognized the potential of WindIQ’s technology as a complement to its platform. Adding wind data to the data-driven insights it provides operators broadens the scope of the company’s optimization and adds value for new and existing partners.
Bodo Sieber, Tagmarshal CEO, said, “We are continually looking at innovative ways to improve the player experience using technology. WindIQ’s vision aligns closely with Tagmarshal’s, and we are delighted to bring Ben’s expertise aboard to help us bring golf into the tech-enabled future.”
WindIQ uses ultrasonic transducers to measure wind speed and direction on the green once per second and multi-band GPS for precise daily hole locations. The small solar-powered device requires no cell service, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It screws on top of each pin, and once set up, golfers can see real-time wind speed and direction to plan shots displayed on Tagmarshal’s Caddie app or 2Way screen devices and available screens for tee boxes and yardage markers.
The technology also provides real-time recommendations considering how wind impacts distance, club selection, shot trajectory, and target. After socializing the invention, Holbrook was asked, “What do I do with this brand-new wind data?” He answered, “Imagine, just like slope for distance, we pioneer slope for wind. Now, via the Tagmarshal platform, we can articulate: ‘The pin is 157 yards with an 11-mph hurting wind; consider more club with a lower trajectory.”
WindIQ also impacts on-course operations integrated into the Tagmarshal ecosystem, increasing the data available for optimizing strategy and pace of play management.
Images PGA of America/Tagmarshal
