SAN DIEGO -- Graphite Design — maker of some of the most widely played graphite driver shaft models on the PGA TOUR — today announces the hiring of Justin Padjen as Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”) Sales Representative.
Padjen will serve as a liaison between Graphite Design and OEMs on purchasing and engineering matters while assisting with project management. Padjen previously worked as a club fitting specialist at CMD Golf in Jupiter, Florida, where he helped PGA TOUR and European Tour players maximize their equipment’s performance. Padjen holds a Masters Degree in Sports Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University.
“Adding Justin Padjen to the Graphite Design team will enhance the company’s relationships with OEMs while streamlining operations,” said Akio Karashima, CEO of Graphite Design. “He is extremely knowledgeable about shafts and technology and brings valuable experience and enthusiasm to this position.”
“I am thrilled with this opportunity to work for one of the world’s premier golf shaft manufacturers and look forward to contributing to Graphite Design’s continued growth,” Padjen said.
The hiring of Padjen is the latest of many developments at Graphite Design. Previously in 2006 the company unveiled four new shaft lines – the YS Type II Series, an expanded Purple Ice series, Pershing and Lady Pershing – while players using Graphite Design shafts have excelled on professional tours worldwide.
PGA TOUR professionals playing Graphite Design shafts made 11 trips to the winner’s circle in 2006 while the company has continued to dominate on the Japan Tour, running its graphite wood shaft brand-count victory streak to 132 consecutive tournaments (dating to 2002). Graphite Design has also produced winners on the Nationwide Tour, Champions Tour and LPGA Tour during the 2006 season.
About Graphite Design
Graphite Design, established in Japan in 1989 and in the U.S. in 1997, is one of the world's three largest golf-club shaft manufacturers. The company made its mark manufacturing high-performance shafts for most of golf's major OEMs worldwide, including the top four companies by sales volume, and Graphite Design shafts continue to be preferred by top clubmakers, worldwide.
Graphite Design's trademarks are revolutionary technology, design and sourcing the most advanced materials so Graphite Design shafts are of highest quality and performance. Graphite Design shafts specifically promote “Accuracy and Distance” among players of all levels, and are commonly referred to as “Ultimate Performance, Proven on Tour.”
The core components of the company’s “AD” logo, these key competitive advantages help professionals and amateurs optimize their game after switching to Graphite Design shafts. The company’s popular YS series and recently introduced Tour AD line are taking this message to the next level.
For more information about Graphite Design: 888.707.6132, info@gdintl.com; www.gdintl.com.
CONTACT:
Daniel Mitchell
Buffalo Communications
253.631.5001
dmitchell@billycaspergolf.com
