UPDATE APRIL 12:  PING increases pink G20 driver donation to $50 per club

THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE….

PING increases pink G20 driver donation to $50 per club
PHOENIX (April 12, 2012) — PING announced today it will increase its charitable contribution from the sale of 5,000 pink G20^™ drivers to $50 per club, ensuring a $250,000 donation toward Masters Champion Bubba Watson’s goal of raising $1 million for charity in 2012. The decision comes after the overwhelming response to the introduction of the club just two days ago.

On Tuesday, PING had pledged 5% of the proceeds to charity when it introduced the all-pink driver, which is inspired by the G20 driver Bubba used to win the Masters. The 5,000 limited-edition drivers will be available in golf shops around June 1.

“We looked back at the last few days and realized that with all the tremendous energy Bubba has created with his win at the Masters and for our brand, we needed to do more with this opportunity to give back to those in need,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “The response to the pink G20s has exceeded expectations at this point, so we’re increasing our commitment to help bring Bubba closer to his goal of raising $1 million for charity this year.”

In January, Watson announced the formation of “Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million” – a year-long effort to raise $1 million for charity through his own efforts and the support of his partners and sponsors. At that time, PING launched “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING,” a program that pledges $300 for every drive Bubba hits farther than 300 yards (up to 300 drives). It kicked off the initiative with a $10,000 donation.

To date, Bubba has launched 172 eligible drives of 300-plus yards on the PGA Tour, raising $61,600 from PING. He is 128 qualifying drives short of 300. Based on his current pace, it’s expected he’ll reach the 300 milestone in June.

All the monies raised through “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING” will be donated to yet-to-be-named charities in the Phoenix area, where PING is headquartered.

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Original Press Release Below….

PING introduces pink G20 drivers, donating share of proceeds to Bubba Watson charities

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PHOENIX (April 10, 2012) –PING announced today it will sell 5,000 limited-edition all-pink PING® G20™ drivers, inspired by the one used by Masters Champion Bubba Watson, and donate 5% of the proceeds to its fundraising campaign, “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING.”

The bright-pink G20 drivers will be available in golf shops nationwide approximately June 1. MSRP is $430.

As part of PING’s campaign, the company made a $10,000 upfront donation and gives $300 for every drive Watson hits 300 yards or farther (up to 300 drives). To date, $61,600 has been generated. All funds raised will go to Phoenix-area charities, chosen by PING with Bubba’s support. Its effort is part of the “Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million” initiative launched by Watson in January to raise $1 million for charities this year.

“Bubba is already approaching the target of 300 drives of 300 yards or longer, and we wanted a way to provide ongoing support for his generous cause,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO.

“Even prior to his win at The Masters, golfers were requesting pink G20s.Through word of mouth, social media, and phone calls, the interest was extremely high. We want to satisfy that demand while bringing even more visibility to Bubba’s goal of raising $1 million.”

“Golfers who own a pink G20 will be excited to have this prized possession. They’ll not only enjoy the improved performance of the G20, they’ll be participating in a wonderful cause.”

The drivers will have a bright pink shaft and clubhead featuring the same technology that has earned the G20 high marks for its performance from golfers of all abilities. The pink G20s are offered in 9.5º, 10.5º, and 12º lofts for right-handed players; 10.5º for left-handed. There is also a version geared for women with 12º loft and a Ladies flex shaft. All come with a matching pink headcover and a power-promoting high-balance-point TFC 169D shaft labeled, “Bubba Long in Pink. Driven by PING. Limited Edition 2012.” It is available in R, S, and L flexes.

Click here to read the discussion in the forums