According to the National Golf Foundation, rounds played dropped 0.8% in from the same period in 2005, based on same-store sales. The year-to-date percentage change, which has gradually given back gains posted earlier in the year, now stands at +1.4%. The hardest hit region in August was the South Central (-3.4%). The best-performing regions year-to-date are the Southeast (+5.2%) and the Gulf Coast (+3.9%).

Rounds Played, 2006 vs. 2005
Source: NGF/Allied Golf Associations

 

  August    Year-To-Date
Total U.S. facilities -0.8% 1.4%
     
Private Clubs 0.1% 1.6%
Total Public Courses -1.0% 1.3%
Public Courses:    
  Premium -4.1% 0.0%
  Standard 0.8% 1.7%
  Value -1.3% 1.4%
     
Region    
Northeast 0.0% -0.6%
Mid-Atlantic 1.0% 2.7%
Southeast 1.8% 5.2%
Central/South Florida -0.6% 2.8%
Gulf Coast -0.2% 3.9%
South Central -3.4% 1.2%
Lower Midwest -1.2% 0.7%
Upper Midwest -2.0% 2.7%
Mountain -0.8% 1.3%
Southwest -0.4% -1.4%
Northwest -0.1% -0.5%