Even with its vast resources, its experience at running major golf events and its renowned hospitality division, the Kohler Co. faces a daunting challenge this year.
The Wisconsin-based company owns the host hotels for two major championships, a first in golf.
Kohler will team with the PGA of America to stage the PGA Championship at Whistling Straits, Aug. 9-15, with the American Club serving as the host hotel. The company also owns the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews, site of the British Open Championship, July 12-18.
The Old Course Hotel abuts the "Road Hole," the par-4 17th hole on the Old Course that is perhaps the most famous piece of golf real estate in the world.
Herbert V. Kohler Jr., the president and CEO of the Kohler Co., admitted it's possible even for his company to become overextended, but he doesn't think that's the case this year.
"I'm not worried because we have a significant organization and they've all jumped into this with enthusiasm," he said. "Obviously, this economic climate doesn't make life easy. But they've been very enthusiastic and so far we show no signs of not being able to handle it."
The Kohler Co. plans to enhance the spectator experience at the PGA Championship with more on-course amenities than were available in 2004, when Whistling Straits hosted the first men's major championship in Wisconsin in 71 years.