The R&A and Golf New Zealand have announced a strategic partnership with DotGolf, an international provider of golf technology solutions. Founded in 1999 and based in New Zealand, DotGolf is a leading technology provider for golf clubs and organisations.
Under the new partnership, The R&A and Golf New Zealand will each hold a 50% equity stake in DotGolf. Murray Ward will remain as Chairman, with both organizations appointing two directors to the board. Dean Murphy, currently the Chief Executive of Golf New Zealand, will transition to the role of Chief Executive at DotGolf.
Enhancing Technology Solutions
DotGolf’s technology is already utilized by national associations in New Zealand, England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, with Australia set to adopt it in 2024. The investment from both organizations aims to expand DotGolf’s range of technology products and develop new platforms that will help attract more players to the sport. The partnership will also focus on creating multilingual solutions and tools for data utilization and monitoring.
Martin Slumbers, CEO of The R&A, stated, “We envision a thriving future for golf, heavily reliant on innovative technological solutions that can engage more people and enhance golfer services. As a global sport, we see significant potential in DotGolf to provide cutting-edge platforms and solutions for the industry.”
A Perfect Match
Michael Smith, Chairman of Golf New Zealand, expressed pride in DotGolf’s success and growth in both domestic and international markets. “We are excited to partner with The R&A to foster DotGolf’s future growth. Our shared values and ambition to promote the sport of golf make The R&A the ideal partner for us.”
DotGolf provides platforms for clubs and national associations to manage handicaps under the World Handicap System (WHS), which is jointly governed by The R&A and USGA. All accredited independent software vendors will still have full access to WHS, which will remain platform agnostic.
For more information about DotGolf, visit www.dotgolf.co.nz.
