The Incredible Journey of Avoda Golf: From Homemade Clubs to a Major Breakthrough
Have you ever thought about crafting your very own golf clubs? Well, Tom Bailey, the brain behind Avoda Golf, started exactly that and took a wild ride that has transformed the equipment landscape in recent months! “Yeah, I just wanted to make myself a set of golf clubs a year ago, and I got a bit carried away!” he humorously admitted.
After leaving college in the US in 2017 to chase his golfing dreams, Bailey hit a huge bump in the road with persistent back injuries. This didn’t just slow him down; it set him on a unique journey of discovery. Bailey explored various mechanics of his swing, realizing that many others faced similar struggles. This led him, almost by accident, into the world of coaching and ultimately an exploration into the equipment side of golf, focusing on how innovative gear could help with these common pain points.
Diving Deep into Equipment
During one of his many explorations into the world of swing mechanics, Bailey became captivated with Bryson Dechambeau‘s game. “What does he do with his swing? What does he do with his equipment?” he wondered. It wasn’t long before Bailey was diving into the concept of single-length golf clubs, inspired by Bryson’s unique approach. “Right, let’s get into this rabbit hole,” he said to himself back in 2021.
By engaging with experts, Bailey began experimenting with his own custom setups. After developing a better understanding of his needs, he made his way to Mike Schy’s Academy where Bryson got his start. With access to all the tools and expertise, Bailey fiddled and tinkered, gradually drafting the idea of Avoda Golf’s combo-length irons. This setup uses single lengths for certain clubs, adjusting based on swing speed, addressing how different golfers might benefit from different configurations.
Homemade Ventures Turned Business
Bailey’s personal experiments soon caught the attention of fellow players. Requests poured in for custom work, and he enlisted his brother Nicholas, who was in the firearms business, to help in forging a professional prototype. The initial response from manufacturers was disheartening – many claimed it was too niche. Still, Bailey held firm to his vision. “That’s great but can we just build it and I can play it, and if other people like it, maybe it will become that?” he asserted.
Eventually, Bailey found a willing partner and made the first order for 50 sets, marking the birth of Avoda Golf. But that was only the beginning! In a stroke of luck, Bailey had a connection with Bryson, who was in desperate need of new irons after a stellar performance. As Bryson’s manager reached out, Bailey seized the opportunity to introduce his prototype irons. It was a wild opportunity that could change everything.
A Race Against Time
With the spotlight on them, Bailey and Schy had only a short window before The Masters. “We need the other set of irons here right now!” was the call they received. Panic set in as Bailey realized just how little time they had to get the prototypes shipped across the country. With a stroke of luck and a friendly UPS worker, the irons made it just in time!
Once at The Masters, Bryson used the new irons to nail an impressive first round 65. The buzz surrounding these “new mystery irons” spurred a wave of interest. Could they be headed for retail? Is the golfing world ready for this kind of innovation?
What’s Next for Avoda Golf?
Bailey believes firmly in the idea that equipment should be tailor-made for every golfer. “I want my company to be about delivering the right product for the person,” he noted. While it remains uncertain if Bryson’s unique gear will be available to the general public, Bailey is committed to developing equipment that performs excellently for golfers of all calibers.
The future of Avoda Golf looks promising with plans to expand fitting locations based on rising demand. Bailey’s journey serves as a reminder that sometimes going “a bit carried away” can lead to exciting new avenues that end up not just benefiting one golfer but potentially many!
