Callaway nixes Good Good partnership after driver-ad fallout

Golf equipment manufacturer Callaway has severed ties with popular YouTube golf channel Good Good Golf following an ad that sparked outrage for depicting violence against women. The decision was announced on Thursday, placing an immediate end to the partnership between the two entities.

In a statement, Callaway acknowledged that its review process for the controversial advertisement was insufficient and that it had taken "appropriate internal corrective actions." The company also pledged to donate $1 million to organizations combating violence against women and supporting survivors of domestic abuse.

The advertisement, which aired on August 21st, featured Callaway's co-founder Garrett Clark shoving Good Good personality Alexis Miestowski to the ground while she attempted to pull the driver out of his bag. He then exclaimed, "Do not touch my new driver," while standing over her.

Good Good Golf, known for bringing golf to younger audiences, swiftly removed the ad from its social media platforms and issued an apology. Clark also released a video on August 23rd, expressing remorse for his role in the skit and personally apologizing for his actions. He emphasized that he does not support domestic violence and condemned those who targeted Miestowski online.

The golf community has reacted strongly to the controversy. The Golf Channel postponed the premiere of its reality show, Big Break x Good Good, by a week after a sponsor asked for its branding to be removed. Retailers Dick's Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy also pulled Good Good merchandise from their shelves and online platforms.

The PGA Tour's title sponsorship of an upcoming event in Austin, Texas, is currently under review as the controversy continues to unfold. PGA Tour commissioner Brian Rolapp expressed that the situation remains fluid and emphasized the need for ongoing monitoring. Despite the fallout, Good Good Golf co-founder Garrett Clark remains hopeful that the company and himself can "move on" and continue to promote women's participation in golf.