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About Pioneer Golf
Pioneer Golf, Inc. specializes in private golf tours, designed for parties of four to twenty or more. Our office is in Austin, Texas. We customize itineraries along the lines of what our clients - whether they be a group of old friends, fellow club members, or a corporate/incentive group - may specifically have in mind. Our area of specialization is Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales, about which we safely claim to have extensive knowledge.
Peter Hazelton, Founder & President
Peter was born and raised in Scotland and is an immigrant to the United States. He is a 1968 economics graduate of the University of Texas and a golfer. Peter's own golf and British background supplement our technical expertise. Peter has spent 35 years in the tour operating industry. Pioneer Golf was started in 1997 and began to gain momentum in 2000 once its larger incentive travel parent company was sold. It is now one of the largest and most reputable golf tour operators that specialize in Scotland and Ireland.
Mark Hazelton, Vice President
Mark, Peter’s son, was also born in Scotland but has spent the majority of his life in the US. He is a graduate of the University of Texas with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (Summa Cum Laude) and Masters (Summa Cum Laude) degree in Accounting. He is a CPA and spent seven years with Ernst & Young, specializing in International Mergers & Acquisitions, in Dallas and Washington, DC. In 2005, he joined his father, and is responsible for most financial matters, IT, marketing, and thrashing his Old Man on the golf course. Mark is a member of the St. Andrews Golf Club and also spends his time competing in triathlons.
What Separates Pioneer Golf from Other Travel Groups?
When comparing companies, there are numerous reasons for considering Pioneer Golf, a few being:
*Length of time in the tour operating industry – since 1971
*We’re on your doorstep – in Austin
*References – any company can come up with a handful of clients to say a few good words; see our web site for the most authentic references possible.
*St. Andrews-Old Course tee times
*Level of Service – Outstanding, as evidenced by the many testimonials you can see on our web site
*Security – When you’re overseas, we are on call 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
*See our publication: Why Pioneer Golf? Be Sure You’re Comparing Apples-to-Apples
A Typical Golf Trip
Most groups depart from home on a weekend, usually a Saturday, with arrival next day. Some play on the afternoon of arrival although most don’t. The majority will play 18 holes on five or six consecutive days before returning home the following Saturday or Sunday. Some groups base themselves in one location while others split between two. Most participants share rooms; breakfast is included each morning and small groups tend to self-drive while larger ones, eight or higher, will usually have a driver.
What are the Benefits to a PGA Professional & His Membership by Selecting Pioneer Golf?
Pioneer Golf’s sales team understands the role of the Professional at a country club or golf club. (One of us, Steve Reist, is a former club pro). We know what is required to be successful and can absolutely assure any professional thinking of doing a trip that this is one certain way to enhance his profile at the club and that of the club itself. Golf trips almost “sell themselves"; It often takes just an announcement for interested members to become enthusiastic participants. And, it goes without saying that the professional wins financially; either by earning a trip or taking an introductory fee.
What is the Process for Booking a Golf Trip?
After our initial discussion and your review of our proposal, dates and arrangements will be put into place.
Lead time is often nine months and more – can be less of course, but best if underway by late summer/fall of the year prior. Once the announcement and initial promotion takes place, Pioneer Golf effectively takes over, relieving you of any chores connected to the trip.
Why is Pioneer Partnering with Northern Texas PGA?
Both parties have come to know each other and have developed mutual respect for what we each do in the golf world. Pioneer is also in Texas so a natural match. We’re close enough to easily come visit and vice-versa. We’re delighted to be a sponsor and thoroughly enjoyed our presence (Eric Weine & Steve Reist) at your recent outing. We certainly intend for this to be the first of many to come and to solidify our relationship even more.
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