Sheila Johnson wants more women in golf
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Sheila Johnson, CEO of Salamander Hotel & Resorts and the first black woman to become a billionaire, says she is determined to give women a stronger voice in golf.
With her network of golf resorts across the central part of Florida, including Innisbrook, Reunion and Hammock Beach, designed by golfing greats including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Arnold Palmer, Johnson is committed to giving the LPGA Tour a boost.
Johnson is proposing that an LPGA Tour event rotate among her three resorts.
“I think we’re in a time now where sponsors are making us work for their money,” she said. “It’s a case of trying to put the right package together, and finding the right sponsor that believes in the sport.”
Johnson, though, is looking beyond tournaments. She was at the PGA Merchandise show in January, meeting the equipment companies about apparel and with the PGA of America about their “Golf 2.0” program, which includes an effort to attract women.
“Golf is in a transition. Things are starting to pick up again,” Johnson said. “The PGA has recognized that we’ve got to get women into the game of golf. It’s a good revenue source. I’m taking it upon myself with my properties to bring that commitment and excitement.”
Johnson has enlisted LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam as a partner in her projects, with an Annika Academy at Reunion and appearances by Sorenstam lined up at other resorts.
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