Golf cart history
runs deep in Augusta
By Pierce Legeion | April 8, 2019
http://www.wfxg.com/2019/04/08/golf-cart-history-runs-deep-augusta/
Two of the largest golf cart makers in the world are headquartered in Augusta. A pair
of local brothers had a huge impact on both companies, even if for opposite sides. The
golf cart’s impact on the game of golf is undeniable.
Fred Palmer, Vice President of business development at Club Car, said: “The revenue
production that they produce with a rental fee is very lucrative for the club. And that in
and of itself has helped fuel the growth of golf.”
It’s fitting that the golf cart grew up in the city that the Masters calls home.
Brandon Haddock, director of communications at E-Z-GO, added: “E-Z-GO traces its
history back to 1954. Two brothers, Beverly and Bill Dolan, saw one of the first golf cars
being produced. They were inspired by that moment to go into the golf cart business.”
“Eventually, the influence of the Dolan family [was felt] of the golf car here in town,”
said Palmer. A difference in opinion on the future of E-Z-GO would lead the brothers to
part ways.
“Billy Dolan was our first president in 1978 when a group of investors and former em-
ployees at E-Z-GO bought Club Car,” said Haddock. As the brothers went their separate
ways, the companies they built up would grow Augusta into the golf cart capital of the
world.
“We’re all very fortunate for their taking a risk and for their vision about the golf car,”
said Palmer.
“Mr. Bev Dolan is the quintessential Southern gentleman and a brilliant, brilliant busi-
nessman,” said Haddock.
“Billy was one of those personalities,” added Palmer. “When he hit the room, you knew
he was. He brought passion and energy to the room.”
“Augusta is our home. It’s our headquarters,” said Haddock, about E-Z-GO.
“We just invested a tremendous amount of resources in a new facility about 14 miles
west of here near Harlem,” added Palmer.
Golf cart production in Augusta is looking bright.
MAY 2019
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