June 10, 2025

Tony Manzoni & My Dad Grew Up Playing Golf Together and Started Callaway! featuring Gene Parente

Tony Manzoni & My Dad Grew Up Playing Golf Together and Started Callaway! featuring Gene Parente
GS#1003 Summary: Our guest this week is Gene Parente, inventor of the "Iron Byron" golf-ball hitting robot and contributor to Golf Digest. But that's not where our story begins! Gene shares his deep personal connection to the golf industry, particularly through the legacy of Tony Manzoni. The conversation explores Gene's father's journey in golf, the rise of Callaway Golf, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drove both Gene's father and Tony to create innovative golf products. We discuss the changing landscape of golf companies, the influence of celebrity culture on the sport, and the craftsmanship behind golf clubs, particularly putters. Gene reflects on growing up in a unique environment where golf and celebrity intersected, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of the golf industry. He also shares insights into the development of golf robotics and the importance of biomechanics in improving performance. Gene emphasizes the transformative role of launch monitors in understanding swing mechanics and enhancing player performance. He reflects on his personal journey in the golf industry, the impact of his father's legacy, and the importance of effective communication in teaching golf.

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