Alternatives to Golf
Activities to consider for non-golfers Planning ahead
one’s forte and may not resonate with all of your event attendees. Some event participants may be willing to take a swing at golf, but others may want to utilize their off-time for other activities. As a meeting planner, it is im- portant to accommodate multiple skill levels on the course, but also to cater to different interests entirely.
L
The following ideas can be utilized for the non-golfers in the group that opt not to participate in the golf tournament/outing. Most golf courses also offer golf lessons, from beginner to ad-
vanced. Take newbies to the driving range to fi nd out where they stand skill wise. This is also a good networking opportunity for non-golfers that want to pick up the basics of the game. Allow your participants to learn more about their hidden talents or to hone in on existing ones by hiring a golf pro to help out. Resorts may have tennis courts onsite. Instead of participating
in the golf tournament, offer tennis lessons with a pro. If there is a need, arrange a tennis tournament onsite that participants will enjoy or match up non-golf event participants that are tennis en- thusiasts instead. Networking and business opportunities occur on the tennis court as well as during a round of golf. Make a splash. If pool facilities are available, arrange for pool-
side food and beverages while attendees relax. Give non-golfers a gift in place of the resources that would be utilized on their golf out- ing. You can include beach bags with sunscreen, shades, lip balm,
62
et’s face it - su- perb golfi ng is not every-
etc. Even if they opt to stay off of the greens, it is important to pamper them too. Loosen up. Send event attendees to an onsite spa for various treatments and ultimate relaxation. Who knows - some of your golf participants may opt for a massage after a long day of golf as well. If you are lacking ideas or onsite resources, get a game going that
keeps participants moving. Whether it be sand volleyball, beanbag toss, racquetball or croquet, fi nd something that will keep partici- pants happy and busy while golf is taking place. For shopping fi ends, plan a shopping outing. Seek out hot shop-
ping spots in the area. Is there something unique for both male and female participants? Let participants know the hours of service and provide transportation offsite, if necessary. Another exciting option to consider is touring a cultural venue
or a one-of-a-kind attraction in the area. Plan ahead to ensure that there is the proper transportation available to get attendees from point A to point B. Also, if necessary, call the venue ahead of time to let them know how many people will be visiting. Tickets, if nec- essary for the exhibit or venue, should be bought in advance. Finally, consider bringing in a motivational or self-help speaker
or demonstrator. This could be a big hit for participants looking to learn more about event-related topics or simply more about them- selves. Self-help seminars are usually always a hit and may help attendees learn more about who they are, which in turn will help them both personally and professionally. Most importantly, know your audience. Planning ahead is key.
Gauge attendees interest in golf and possible alternate activities far in advance of the meeting/event. Finding out what interests them will ultimately allow you to make successful plans that are received well by all participants. Remember, it is necessary to have a backup plan for attendees
with limited golf knowledge or desire. Make sure that you plan for both, so everyone has an enjoyable time at your next meeting or event.
MIDWEST MEETINGS SPRING 2010
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112 |
Page 113 |
Page 114 |
Page 115 |
Page 116