According to the National Golf Foundation, May rounds were down 3.2% nationwide on a same-store basis, breaking a streak of four months during which rounds were in positive territory. Nevertheless, rounds are up 4.5% for the first five months of 2006 vs. 2005. The largest percentage drop in May occurred in the Northeast region (down 8.7%). Well-above normal rainfall occurred in the Midwest and New England, particularly in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, both of which experienced their second wettest May on record.

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

 

  May    Year-To-Date
Total U.S. facilities -3.2% 4.5%
     
Private Clubs -1.9% 4.9%
Total Public Courses -3.5% 4.4%
Public Courses:    
  Premium -1.3% 2.5%
  Standard -3.3% 4.5%
  Value -3.8% 4.6%
     
Region    
Northeast -8.7% 10.1%
Mid-Atlantic -6.0% 11.6%
Southeast -2.1% 6.0%
Central/South Florida -0.9% 2.4%
Gulf Coast 0.2% 5.9%
South Central -0.6% 2.4%
Lower Midwest -7.6% 5.4%
Upper Midwest 2.9% 6.6%
Mountain 2.5% 2.5%
Southwest -1.4% 0.0%
Northwest 5.3% -4.6%


 

Public facilities fall into one of three categories based on peak season weekend green fees with cart:
Premium (High) – Above $70
Standard (Middle) – $40-$70
Value (Low) – Below $40