New Ping Exhibition

The Heritage Centre’s new temporary exhibition is opening this Saturday and is focusing on the history of Ping, the local business of assembling golf clubs and equipment. The exhibition produced by Ping will showcase the story of this factory and the legacy it has left to the town and will be available to view throughout July and August. Karsten (UK) Ltd., known as Ping was founded in Britain in 1973 by Karsten Solheim and Roy and Pat Freeman. Ping was the first manufacturer to offer high-quality clubs by using manufactured fitting techniques that developed throughout the world. This high-level service ensured that professionals and people involved in the sport could have a club that was custom fit to their own individual specifications. The development of this service helped people to play golf more efficiently. The story of Ping first began with Karsten Solheim from America who was interested in the sport of golf and realised that his main problem was putting so he designed himself a revolutionary putter.

Pat and Roy Freeman pictured above

Through a chance meeting with Karsten, Roy and Pat Freeman brought Ping to Gainsborough by developing the business through hard work and determination. The work of Ping continues today in Gainsborough with custom golf fittings, assembly line production and two 18-hole courses at Thonock Golf Club as well as much more to explore. Roy and Pat have left a fantastic legacy to the town with the Ping factory and golf club that both continue to thrive.

Publicity Officer Gemma Clarke said: ‘We are really excited to be working with Ping and launching their exhibition this Saturday at the Heritage Centre. Visitors are welcome to pop in and explore the fascinating history and story of this company, its achievements and the business it has brought to the town. This year celebrates Ping’s 60th anniversary and the 125th anniversary of the Gainsborough Golf Club. The Centre and Telephone Exchange tea room are open this Saturday from 10am until 4pm. Entry is free and donations are more than welcome to help the Centre to continue to provide fantastic exhibitions for you all to see. For more information please contact [email protected] or call 01427 610526.’

To find out more about Roy and Pat Freeman’s story then click here to read and listen to just some of their memoirs…

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