RICHARD SIMMONS  Editor  Golf International

Love golf? We have an App for that

Sooner or later even the most stubborn of traditionalists among us are going to have to accept the fact that FootJoy really have terminated the Classics, and it’s not all been some sort of strung-out marketing stunt, and, secondly, those blades we insist on carrying around really don’t give us the margins we need these days. Sad, but true. We move on.

In the name of ‘progress’, and at a rate of knots, new materials and new technology have changed the way the game of golf looks and the way it is played. Forever. Not necessarily for the better, many (traditionalists) would be happy to argue. But, hey, there’s no going back. It’s the same story pretty well everywhere in this world, and not least in publishing, an industry that has witnessed perhaps the most radical transformation of all in recent years – the good news being the benefits are yours on demand, back-lit and crystal clear.

Which brings me to the latest addition to the Gi family. Launching with this issue, I am delighted to announce that, at the touch of a button, you can now choose to enjoy the magazine in a digital format designed specifically for iPad and other similar tablet devices. Full details on how to access this subscription service can be found at our website www.golfinternationalmag.com. It’s quick and simple – and can save you money on the newsstand price.

You don’t need me to tell you what a world of opportunity this opens up – for both of us. Not only are we able to share with you a lot more of the stunning photography that has been a feature of our magazine since its launch in 1997, viewed on a digital screen all of the images that make golf the game it is come to life as the colour and texture hits you with a realism that is simply not possible in print. Video and audio content will add a new dimension to the editorial – with obvious benefits to coaching features – and there will be many other ways in which you will be invited to interact with the team who deliver what we hope you regard as the finest magazine in golf.

Exciting times ahead. Here’s wishing you a very happy 2012.

January 2012