Pinehurst, NC – The 2025 Golf Business Network Leadership Summit closed with an unforgettable competition that combined precision, pressure, and pure excitement as attendees battled in the Donald Ross Closest-to-the-Hole Challenge followed by the E-Z-GO Shootout on Forest Creek Golf Club’s iconic par-3 “Hog Hole.”
The action began with the Donald Ross Closest-to-the-Hole Challenge. Justin Foster (Ridgewood Country Club) earned top honors with a pinpoint tee shot that finished just inside seven feet, claiming a substantial luxury gift package from Donald Ross Sportswear.
Nathan Hoffman, Senior Vice President of Donald Ross Sportswear, commented, “We love sponsoring the Closest-to-the-Hole Challenge because it’s the perfect way to inject a little friendly competition into what is already the industry’s premier networking and educational event. Spending this type of quality time with our customers at this summit and watching them hit great shots reminds everyone why we all fell in love with this game—and it makes the relationships built over the week even stronger.”
The six closest shots advanced to the E-Z-GO-sponsored Shootout, where the ultimate prize—a certified pre-owned E-Z-GO golf cart—was on the line:
- Justin Foster – Ridgewood Country Club
- Cameron Fody – Quail Creek Country Club
- Tim Garvin – Amagansett Golf Club
- David Altemus – Trout National – The Reserve
- Mark Ray – Special Guest Speaker
- Austen Hyde – Forest Creek Golf Club
In a dramatic finish that required four returns to the tee box, the Shootout came down to Justin Foster and Tim Garvin. On the final hole, Garvin rolled a testing 30-foot lag putt that gave a tap-in for the win, securing the E-Z-GO golf cart and sending the gallery into celebration.
“This is exactly the kind of energy and camaraderie we strive for at every GBN Leadership Summit,” said Julia Nittoll, GBN Event Manager. “We’re truly grateful to Donald Ross and E-Z-GO for their generous support. Their contests kicked off the evening perfectly, bringing an immediate burst of energy and excitement that carried through the entire night!”
Brian Termini, National Director of Strategic Partnerships at E-Z-GO, added, “E-Z-GO is proud to once again sponsor the Shootout and put a smile on Tim Garvin’s face with a new golf cart. Moments like these—bringing the industry together for friendly competition on a spectacular stage—are what make our longstanding partnership with GBN so special.”
Golf Business Network extends its deepest gratitude to title sponsor Donald Ross Sportswear and premier partner E-Z-GO for their continued generosity and unwavering support of the Leadership Summit and its signature events.
About Golf Business Network
Golf Business Network (GBN) is the preeminent private-club networking organization connecting golf industry professionals, private clubs, and premier vendor partners. Through exclusive events, education, executive search services, and member-only benefits, GBN drives excellence and builds lasting relationships across the private golf community.
For more information about upcoming GBN events, visit www.golfbusinessnetwork.com.
About Donald Ross
Donald Ross Sportswear, inspired by golf architect Donald J. Ross, offers premium men’s apparel blending timeless style with advanced performance fabrics. Since 2008, the brand has crafted breathable polos, sweaters, and pants for comfort on and off the course.
Click here to learn more about Donald Ross Sportswear.
About E-Z-GO
Since 1954, E-Z-GO has led the golf cart industry with reliable, innovative electric and gas vehicles built in Augusta, Georgia, for golf courses, neighborhoods, and beyond. As a Textron company, E-Z-GO combines decades of engineering expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver top-tier performance and sustainability.
Click here to learn more about E-Z-GO.