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Golf News: March 8, 2026

Golf News: March 8, 2026
Golf News: March 8, 2026

In golf news this week are items from TRUE, Shotscope, Honma, the Golf Writers Association of America and more.

TRUE linkswear Expands Future Staples Apparel Collection

Versatile quarter-zip, crewneck, and overshirt join the lineup with comfort, mobility, and modern on- and off-course styling.

TACOMA, WASHINGTON – TRUE linkswear (TRUE), creator of ultra-comfortable modern golf footwear designed for walking on and off the course, announces three new additions to the Future Staples (FS) apparel collection; Quarter Zip, Crewneck, and Overshirt.

The Future Staples collection is a core division of the TRUE portfolio, featuring footwear and apparel designed through “selfish innovation” for golfers who demand performance, versatility, and comfort in every condition. Each garment is crafted from a premium blend of materials designed to handle early-morning drizzle and stay dry until the sun comes out – and when it does, the naturally breathable nature of the fabric construct ensures comfort and mobility throughout the remainder of the round.

Quarter Zip – The On-Course to Everyday Essential

The Quarter Zip offers a clean, modern silhouette that performs on the course and fits seamlessly into daily life. Its adaptable design delivers lightweight warmth, breathability, and a refined look suited for any setting.

Crewneck – The Perfect Layer, Wherever You Go

Designed as the ideal layering piece, the Crewneck combines protection, breathability, and flexibility in a perfectly weighted profile. Whether tackling cool, damp conditions or adding a dependable mid-layer to your everyday wardrobe, it delivers comfort on and off the course.

Overshirt – A Premium, Modern Take on Fleece

Built from the same premium fabric used in the best-selling FS Hoodie, the Overshirt offers a refined, modern silhouette that moves effortlessly from the fairway to the office. With elevated construction and versatile styling, the Overshirt is an all-day layer designed for work, play, and everything in between.Quarter-Zip, Crewneck, & Overshirt Features

  • 4-Way Stretch
  • Water-Resistant Construction
  • All-Season Wear
  • Breathable
  • Ultra-Soft
  • Sustainable Materials
  • Recycled Polyester
  • Construction: 57% Recycled Polyester, 38% Organic Cotton, 5% Spandex
  • MSRP: $125
  • Colors: Oatmeal Heather, Grey Heather, Navy Heather, Charcoal, Black

For more information on all of the new TRUE products, visit www.truelinkswear.com.


Michael Bamberger added to his legacy in the Golf Writers Association of America 2026 Writing Contest, winning two first-place honors as his employer, Golf.com, claimed three of the seven top prizes.

Bamberger was recognized in the Short Profile category for his work “RIP, Fuzzy, a man in full” on the life of the late Fuzzy Zoeller, a Masters champion.

Bamberger also was honored in the Long Feature category for “9/11 in New York City from Long Island club” about National Golf Links caddie Kevin Williams on the 24th anniversary of his death in the terrorist attacks.

“The 9/11 story was gut-wrenching and made me as a reader think of how fate can deal a cruel hand,” one of the contest judges said.

For Bamberger, the longtime Sports Illustrated golf writer, the first-place prizes raise his career tally to 12 in the annual GWAA contest. It was his third consecutive year with at least one top honor. Bamberger also claimed third-place honors in the Long Feature and Commentary/Analysis divisions as Golf.com compiled eight top-three spots overall, including a 1-2-3 sweep in the Long Feature category.

Bamberger’s colleague Nick Piastowski earned the other first-place honor for Golf.com. He won the Short Feature category for “A golf course marshal was dying. Then he felt his best friend’s paw” about Hank Ford, a Marine and Army veteran from Colorado, and recovery from PTSD via golf and his life-saving 3-year-old yellow lab, Tommy. “There were so many great features, it was really hard to narrow it down,” a judge said. “In the end, it’s hard not to love man’s best friend!”

Golf Digest emerged as the other top publisher in the GWAA Writing Contest.

Max Adler won first place in the Enterprise division for his piece “Masters treasures went missing, then the FBI showed up” about the break-up of a theft ring targeting Augusta National memorabilia. A judge remarked: “A very good example of investigative journalism, uncovering a hidden story while providing a glimpse into the inner sanctum of Augusta National.”

Jerry Tarde, the longtime editor at Golf Digest, was awarded the top prize in the Commentary section for “The real score is Jack 20, Tiger 18” about how the two golf icons’ top amateur titles should be included in their major-championship totals.

Golf Digest totaled six top-three prizes overall, with Joel Beall earning a runner-up and two-third places. 

In the News/Game Story category, Gary D’Amato won first place for “At long last, McIlroy caps grand career with Masters title” after Rory McIlroy slipped into the green jacket at Augusta National to complete the career Grand Slam.

In the Long Profile division, Alan Shipnuck claimed the top prize for SkratchGolf.com with “The shadows that follow Angel Cabrera” about the comeback and checkered history of the two-time major champion and domestic-violence convict. With the first-place award, Shipnuck adds to his record number of GWAA top prizes, now 14.

The GWAA Writing Contest winners will be recognized at the 52nd   annual ISPS Handa GWAA Awards Dinner on Wednesday, April 8, at Augusta Country Club on the eve of the 90th Masters Tournament. Other honorees will include players of the year Scottie Scheffler (men), Jeeno Thitikul (women) and Stewart Cink (senior), plus Brandt Snedeker (Charlie Bartlett Award), Mark Rolfing (William D. Richardson Award), Bud Cauley(Ben Hogan Award) and Stacy Lewis (Jim Murray Award).

The PGA of America also will recognize Jeff Babineau posthumously with the association’s Lifetime Achievement in Journalism Award and Matthew Harris with the Lifetime Achievement in Photojournalism.

GWAA members submitted a total of 328 entries in the seven categories: commentary (63), short feature (60), short profile (55), news / game story (52), long profile (45), long feature (39) and enterprise (14).

The complete list of winners:

ENTERPRISE

1. Max Adler, Golf Digest: “Masters treasures went missing, then FBI showed up,” March 19

2. Adam Schupak, Golfweek: “Past legends left out of Tour equity,” July 1

3. Joel Beall, Tod Leonard, Drew Powell, Mike Stachura, Golf Digest: “The best little golf towns in America,” Sept. 1

HONORABLE MENTION: Jeff Shain, The Villages Daily Sun: “The Villages 40-year odyssey,” Nov. 2; John Hopkins, Lewine Mair, Ron Green Jr., Everett Munez, Mike Cullity, Scott Michaux, John Steinbreder, Global Golf Post: “Tiger 5.0,” Dec. 8

NEWS/GAME STORY

1. Gary D’Amato, Wisconsin.golf: “At long last, McIlroy caps grand career with Masters title,” April 14

2. Joel Beall, GolfDigest.com: “McIlroy, finally, is a Masters champ now and forever,” April 14

3. Brentley Romine, GolfChannel.com: “Luckiest man alive? It’s irrevocably J.J. Spaun,” June 15

HONORABLE MENTION: Alan Shipnuck, SkratchGolf.com: “J.J. Spaun, 64 feet and men in the sky,” June 16; Josh Berhow, Golf.com: “In hours after US Open, Spaun’s best moment was unscripted,” June 16

LONG PROFILE

1. Alan Shipnuck, SkratchGolf.com: “The shadows that follow Angel Cabrera,” June 10

2. Josh Berhow, Golf.com: “Rachel Heck didn’t need pro golf. She wanted something more,” March 31

3. Joel Beall, GolfDigest.com: “The Incredible story of Ryan Peake,” July 7

HONORABLE MENTION: Gabby Herzig, The Athletic: “Charley Hull’s Instagram tells a story,” Dec. 11; John Steinbreder, GlobalGolfPost.com: “Resolute voice,” Aug. 3; Adam Schupak, Golfweek.com: “Unbreakable bond: How Scottie Scheffler’s life changed from Ragan’s cancer fight,” April 6

SHORT PROFILE

1. Michael Bamberger, Golf.com: “RIP, Fuzzy, a man in full,” Nov. 28

2. Sean Zak, Golf.com: “She won 5 majors, then switched from righty to lefty,” May 28

3. Jeff Shain, The Villages Daily Sun: “Saunders comes full circle at Bay Hill,” March 9

HONORABLE MENTION: Ryan Lavner, GolfChannel.com: “Scottie Scheffler reminds golf world who’s No. 1,” May 19

SHORT FEATURE

1. Nick Piastowski, Golf.com: “A golf course marshal was dying. Then he felt his best friend’s paw,” Nov. 12

2. Dave Shedloski, GolfDigest.com: “Europe’s Captain Everything reaches legend status,” Sept. 28

3. Gary Van Sickle, TheFirstCall.com: “Why Fezler really wore shorts at the U.S. Open,” June 9

HONORABLE MENTION: Joel Beall, GolfDigest.com: “A stupid game of chicken: Inside the Tour/Saudi negotiation breakdown,” March 6; Lisa Mickey GlobalGolfPost.com: “Clinging to what remains,” Jan. 5; Gary Van Sickle, The-Golf-Show.com: “Getting up to Speed,” Oct. 25

LONG FEATURE

1. Michael Bamberger, Golf.com: “9/11 in New York City from Long Island club,” Sept. 11

2. Oliver Horovitz, Golf.com: “Bhutan might be world’s most pleasant golf destination,” Dec. 18

3. Michael Bamberger, Golf.com: “Tiger 2000 was best run ever,” May 24

HONORABLE MENTION: Tom Coyne, The Golfer’s Journal: “Perchance to dream,” June; Sean Zak, Golf.com: “What I learned playing 36 U.S. Open holes in 36 hours,” June 6

COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

1. Jerry Tarde, GolfDigest.com: “The real score is Jack 20, Tiger 18,” Jan. 28

2. Gary Van Sickle, Memorial Tournament Magazine, “Let us pray,” June

T-3. Ron Green Jr., Global Golf Post: “Mickelson’s U.S. Open exit deserves its due,” June 12

T-3. Michael Bamberger, Golf.com: “Where Spaun really won the U.S. Open,” June 15

HONORABLE MENTION: Ron Green Jr., Global Golf Post: “McIlroy’s perseverance reaps grand reward,” April 14

ABOUT THE GWAA
The Golf Writers Association of America, founded in 1946, is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit members organization and the only American organization dedicated to the promotion and continued improvement of golf journalism. The GWAA includes members across all disciplines and career levels and is dedicated to helping members advance careers, build connections and celebrate our ever-changing industry.

The $200 Launch Monitor That Turned Heads at the PGA Show: Shot Scope LM1 Revolutionizes Personal Launch Monitors

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK – After their busiest PGA Show ever, Shot Scope, an industry leader in performance-driven golf technology, traveled back to the Home of Golf with unprecedented momentum. Retail orders and media attention surrounding the LM1 Launch Monitor and H50 GPS Handheld exceeded forecasts, reinforcing Shot Scope’s position at the forefront of golf technology.

The main attraction at the Shot Scope booth was undoubtedly the LM1 Launch Monitor. LM1 is designed to be portable, easy to use, and to deliver accurate digestible data to golfers without overcomplicating the game. At just $199.99 MSRP, with no additional costs or subscription fees, it has sparked a surge in interest and was recognized as one of only five products to earn a spot in the prestigious ING Media Showcase of New Products. Shot Scope is gearing up production to keep up with global demand.

“We knew we had something special on our hands, and the reaction at the PGA show spoke for itself,” said Gavin Dear, Chief Commercial Officer at Shot Scope. “The level of demand we saw validated that this is exactly what the market has been waiting for. It’s one thing to believe in a product; it’s another to see that kind of validation from the industry.”

The media agree. MyGolfSpy, known for unbiased data-driven golf reviews, said that “this new launch monitor from Shot Scope might just blow up the market.” Community-oriented reviewers, The Hackers Paradise, echoed the excitement of MyGolfSpy when saying LM1 is “designed for golfers who want meaningful launch data without stepping into the complexity or cost of higher-end systems. By focusing on speed, smash factor, and distance, it delivers metrics that directly translate to on-course performance and game improvement”.

The addition of the LM1 adds to Shot Scope’s ecosystem of products, covering golfers’ needs and wants both on and off the course, regardless of their budget or tech preference:

  • Launch Monitor: The breakthrough LM1.
  • GPS Handhelds: The brand-new H50, featuring Green Contour maps for those who look for large, Detailed hole maps.
  • Laser Rangefinders: Options ranging from the reliable PRO L2 to the high-performance PRO ZR and PRO L5.
  • GPS Watches: Everything from the entry-level G6 to the premium X5 and V5 performance tracking models.
  • Performance Tracking: Industry-leading analytics that have already helped hundreds of thousands of golfers save an average of 4.1 strokes.

“This marks a significant milestone for the company,” added Dear. “Whether you’re looking for a value-driven rangefinder, a portable launch monitor or a premium tracking watch, we now have the consumer covered at every single touchpoint.”

Honma Golf’s BERES 10 Artistry Meets Pure Speed

BERES 10 is defined by performance, luxury, and craftsmanship.

Carlsbad, CA — Honma Golf, the leader in beautifully crafted performance golf equipment, today announces the launch of BERES 10, the next generation of the iconic collection. Crafted for players who value consistency, luxury, and effortless power, BERES 10 elevates performance through greater distance, precision, and control.

For more than 65 years, Honma has manufactured the world’s most luxurious golf clubs and has turned heads with its prestigious BERES family of clubs. BERES 10 continues this tradition, representing the highest expression of luxury in golf, where rarity, refinement, and performance exist in perfect harmony. Globally recognized as a symbol of prestige, BERES has long been the choice of those who value craftsmanship at its most elevated level.

The intricate design of BERES 10 draws inspiration from Edo Kiriko, a traditional Japanese glass-cutting art established in 1834 and designated a National Traditional Craft of Japan. The disciplined geometry, deep colors, and intricate two-tone overlay techniques of Edo Kiriko mirror Honma’s own philosophy—where technical excellence and refined beauty coexist.

The timeless beauty of Edo Kiriko glasses inspired master Takumi craftsmen, whose pursuit of perfection defines Honma’s legacy. The glass-cutting discipline combines a unique blend of transparency, dimension, and metallic elegance that shifts with the light in exquisite detail. The BERES 10 woods feature striking laser-cut patterns on the clubheads, creating a modern interpretation of glass-cutting techniques that are executed with a level of precision found only in the world’s most exclusive creations. These are not decorative gestures; they are signatures of mastery.

Yet BERES 10 is defined as much by performance as by appearance. Advanced engineering is seamlessly integrated to deliver effortless clubhead speed, powerful distance, and a penetrating, remarkably stable ball flight. Advanced materials and hand-finished construction work together to produce efficient ball flight and reliable performance. The result is a set that performs with authority while preserving the elegance expected at this level. (3-Star woods feature a champagne gold sole; 4 Star and 5 Star grade woods have a gold sole.)

BERES 10 Driver

At the heart of the BERES 10 Driver is the Pure Speed Engine, a suite of four advanced technologies engineered to deliver maximum acceleration and efficiency at impact. The Full Titanium Frame features an ultra-thin, high-rigidity crown and body that optimize head stability and energy transfer, while the Rear Weight Balancer incorporates a 9-gram (men’s model) high-density sole weight to lower the center of gravity for higher launch and increased forgiveness. A forged Cup Face Design expands the high-speed zone across the entire clubface, and the Variable Thickness Face utilizes an optimized flex pattern to minimize ball-speed loss on off-center strikes. Together, these innovations produce exceptional ball speed, high MOI, and a stable, powerful launch – engineered for one purpose: pure speed.

The women’s BERES 10 Driver features a Full Titanium Frame, Casting Cup Face, and 4-gram Rear Weight Balancer to achieve high ball speed, MOI, and forgiveness. (Men’s and Women’s Driver Pricing: 3 Star $1,200, 4 Star $2,000, and 5 Star $5,000)

BERES 10 Fairway Wood & Hybrids

BERES 10 performance extends far beyond the driver, with Pure Speed engineered throughout the Fairway Woods and Hybrids. Each club features Cup Face construction, a Rear Weight Balancer with loft-specific weighting, and a low center of gravity design to promote naturally high launch, paired with high-strength faces for explosive ball speed. The result is aggressive long-game performance that delivers exceptional forgiveness and extended carry from every position on the course. The women’s Rear Weight Balancer features a 4-gram aluminum weight. (Men’s and Women’s 3 Star Fairway $800/Utility $600, 4 Star Fairway $1,500/Utility $1,400, and 5 Star Fairway $5,000/Utility $5,000)

BERES 10 Irons

Forged by master craftsmen, BERES 10 Irons unite refined beauty with powerful distance performance. The new Speed Core Face integrates a 3D L-Cup Face Structure that expands the high-velocity zone across the entire face and maintains ball speed on off-center hits, while a 3D Variable Thickness Design optimizes energy transfer efficiency and feel at impact. An intricately crafted 3D Emblem Structure suppresses unwanted vibration while elevating the club’s premium aesthetics. A low-and-deep center of gravity promotes higher launch and steeper landing angles to help hold greens, and lightweight shafts featuring an advanced 5-axis hybrid metal mesh construction with TORAYCA® T1100G carbon fiber deliver improved impact efficiency, higher ball speed, and greater distance.

The Men’s and Women’s BERES 10 Iron sets are distinguishable in composition. The men’s collection is a forged S25C carbon steel, and the women’s product offering is a body of 17-4 stainless steel casting. (Men’s and Women’s 3 Star $550/each, 4 Star $1,350/each, and 5 Star $5,000/each)

LEADING GOLF SHAFT TECHNOLOGY – ARMRQ FLIGHT

HONMA’s proprietary golf shaft technology pushes the limits of performance with advanced carbon composites and high-grade metals. Variations based on design and material differences. Higher grades deliver greater precision and consistency — for longer, straighter shots.

★★★3S – The high-elasticity TORAYCA® M40X, which pursues the ultimate in both fiber strength and elastic modulus, provides superior playing performance that efficiently accelerates head speed without waste, while at the same time suppressing torque and improving stability.

★★★★4S – The kick point is designed closer to the tip to further improve club head speed. At the same time, flexing and torque are further suppressed, increasing initial speed and stability.

★★★★★5S – From the 4S grade, the bias layer has been further strengthened to generate strong torsional return power. This is an ultra-premium shaft that achieves the ultimate flight and stability.

The BERES 10 collection is available in Men’s and Women’s 3 Star, 4 Star, and 5 Star series. Standard iron sets include 7-10, SW for ladies, and 5-11, AW, SW for men. Visit us.honmagolf.com for more information.


Cole Haan Golf Apparel Spring 2026

COLE HAAN LAUNCHES GOLF APPAREL CATEGORY FOR SPRING 2026

The new collection marks the brand’s first dedicated step into performance apparel.

NEW YORK, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cole Haan, the iconic American lifestyle and accessories brand, today announced the global launch of Cole Haan Golf apparel. The introduction marks the brand’s first dedicated expansion into performance apparel, extending its Golf platform into a head-to-toe lifestyle offering.

Rooted in Cole Haan’s nearly 100-year legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, the inaugural men’s collection merges elevated design with technical performance. Developed through an exclusive partnership with Catapult Group, the assortment is designed for individuals seeking apparel that performs on the course while remaining versatile enough for work, travel, and everyday wear.

“Cole Haan has always been grounded in craftsmanship, innovation, and purposeful design,” said Krissie Millan, Chief Marketing Officer at Cole Haan. “Launching Golf apparel is a natural extension of our brand and product evolution, and our commitment to serving consumers across the moments that define their lives. This collection brings together performance and sophistication in a way that is meant to feel intentional and effortless.”

The collection pairs Cole Haan’s design heritage with Catapult Group’s deep expertise in production and merchandising. Tailored silhouettes and thoughtful details, including peached finishes, streamlined fits, and subtle accents are balanced with performance-driven fabrics engineered for stretch, moisture management, temperature regulation, and protection from the elements. The result is a contemporary golf wardrobe that prioritizes both function and polish from the 9AM meeting to the back nine.

“Cole Haan represents an opportunity to bring the ethos of intentional design and technical ingenuity to golfers who value style and function,” said Scott Davis, Chief Brand Officer of Catapult Group and President Cole Haan Golf Apparel at Catapult. “By combining the strengths of both organizations, we have created a collection that meets the demands of the game while simplifying how the modern athlete moves through the day. This is the beginning of a long-term commitment to evolving how the game is worn and lived.”

The launch builds upon Cole Haan’s expanding Golf footwear line. Since re-entering the category in 2021, the brand’s Golf footwear has steadily grown, reinforcing its position within the modern golf lifestyle. For Spring 2026, new introductions include the dual-gender GrandPrø All-Day Golf shoes, designed with waterproof uppers, proprietary ENERGYFEEL cushioning, and spikeless rubber outsoles engineered for traction on and off the course. Together, the apparel and footwear assortments establish a complete head-to-toe offering for today’s golfer.

Cole Haan Golf Apparel will be available globally beginning Spring 2026 at colehaan.com, select green grass accounts, resorts, and premium lifestyle retailers, with plans to introduce Women’s Golf apparel in Fall 2026.


See the Difference: Srixon Introduces Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE Alignment System

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., March 3, 2026 – Offering a fresh way to see the game, SRIXON® introduces the all-new Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE, delivering golfers a blend of visual performance, explosive distance, and greenside control, in a bold, modern look.

Featuring a premium two-stamp alignment system, Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE is designed to help golfers line up putts more confidently and gain clearer visual spin feedback, all while maintaining the look of a traditional golf ball. The result is 360 degrees of visual benefits for every important shot on the course.

Enhanced alignment-aid golf balls continue to be a popular and growing trend in the market, especially among golf balls designed for everyday players. Building on the success of the Q-STAR ULTISPEED launch, TRACKLINE will continue to take ULTISPEED to new heights, offering golfers more options and more ways to play.

Jake Donahue, Product Management Specialist at Srixon

New FastLayer Core

At the center of Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE is Srixon’s unique FastLayer Core. Seamlessly transitioning from soft to firm for both distance and feel, this core was meticulously developed by the R&D and engineering teams over the past decade. This 85-compression core maximizes ball speed and carry distance without sacrificing control, giving players in the R-flex category the confidence to attack every shot

Additionally, a soft, thin cover gives Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE the ability to generate more spin on short-Iron approaches and delicate greenside shots, while also offering a softer, more responsive feel. At the same time, it preserves the explosive speed and distance that define a true performance-driven golf ball.

Flight Performance

In the air, Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE benefits from Srixon’s advanced 338 Speed Dimple Pattern, improving aerodynamics for better flight performance. This specialized feature helps reduce drag at launch for a penetrating ball flight and sustains lift through the air for maximum carry. The aerodynamic shaping also keeps the ball stable in windy conditions, ensuring consistent speed, flight, and accuracy even in challenging weather.

Together, these innovations make the Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE a complete performance package. Golfers can trust it to deliver confidence on the greens, feedback on spin, and distance they can feel tee-to-green.

To learn more about Srixon’s newest ball offering, visit us.dunlopsports.com/srixon.

Pricing & Availability

Q-STAR ULTISPEED with TRACKLINE: $29.99

Colors: Pure White, Tour Yellow

Launch Date: March 3, 2026



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