JUPITER, Fla. -- Rounds played fell two percent on a same-store basis in July 2006 vs. July 2005. Rounds had been up three percent year-to-date through June. However, because July accounts for a large volume of rounds nationwide, the year-to-date figure fell to +1.8% through July. Worst performing regions in July were the Southwest, Lower Midwest and Mid Atlantic. But not all the news was bad: four regions posted gains, including the Southeast and Central/South Florida.

About the NGF
The National Golf Foundation, founded in 1936, is the industry leader in providing accurate information and insights on the business of golf. Based in Jupiter, Fla., the NGF serves many constituencies in the golf industry including equipment manufacturers; builders and developers; facilities and ranges; course architects; retailers; turf maintenance suppliers; golf associations and the media. For more information, visit www.ngf.org.