Golf's popularity is on the upswing in Colorado, particularly among younger players, according to new data from the National Golf Foundation.
State of play: The number of rounds played in Colorado in the first quarter of the year increased 27% compared to the same period the previous year.
The increase is the 3rd largest jump in the nation.
The big picture: Golf has become younger, "cooler" and more diverse this decade.
57% of on-course golfers are under age 50, the foundation reports.
The number of junior golfers (ages 6–17) has risen 48% since 2019.
By the numbers: At the national level, the sport is diversifying, reaching all-time highs with participants being 28% female and 25% Asian, Black and Hispanic golfers.
The intrigue: Top Golf and tech-enabled driving ranges have also created new entry points to the sport.