Pro Golfer, Over 20 Million KRW + α for US Training Camp Expenses

Tour players begin 8-week overseas training from January
Expenses include airfare, golf course fees, accommodation, and lesson costs

Training camp in the United States requires more than 20 million won.

January is the season for golf players to undergo training camps.

They set up camps in the United States, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and other countries to start serious physical conditioning. It is a crucial period that can determine the results of the entire year. As the COVID-19 situation eases, more golfers are looking overseas. However, the costs are not cheap. This year, due to the strong dollar, even more expenses are required. How much money is needed to go to the U.S. for training? On average, it comes to 20 million KRW + α.

Tour players depart in early January and train overseas for about eight weeks. Overseas locations are warmer than the cold domestic climate, reducing the risk of injury and improving efficiency. Players practice at camps run by their own swing coaches, not their main sponsors.

The biggest expenses are round-trip airfare and golf course fees. Jiyujin, director of the Samchully golf team, who has been going to Palm Springs, California for three years, explained, "Airfare and golf course fees are about the same, and they make up a large portion of the training costs."

Airfare has increased significantly. The exchange rate has soared, and fuel surcharges have risen due to the high international oil prices. Director Ji said, "Even using economy class, round-trip airfare to the U.S. costs between 2.5 to 3 million KRW."

Golf course rounds, practice range usage, and cart fees are also considerable. It is a valuable time to address weaknesses and strengthen strengths. Coaches are needed to correct swings and learn new techniques. Lesson fees cost between 2 to 2.5 million KRW.

Players can also use resorts attached to golf courses, but the costs are not cheap. Lodging and meals are arranged through local camp agencies, allowing requests for preferred houses and food. Occasionally, expenses for dining out, tips, and rental cars are also necessary.

Some golfers travel to Southeast Asia to reduce expenses. Round-trip airfare is cheaper. However, there is the practical issue that the climate is not perfect. As more golfers flock to Southeast Asia, golf courses become crowded. There are also concerns that training efficiency decreases.

These days, the trend in training camps is gradually changing. In the KLPGA Tour, players must compete in about 30 tournaments a year. Physical fitness is more important than ever. More players are completing perfect physical training domestically and then going overseas for short rounds.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.