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Business & Tech

Pete Carlson's Golf and Tennis: Strong After 30 Years

This final segment of "10 Palm Desert Businesses You Need to Know" looks a retailer on Highway 111 that some may know more for its exterior that what's inside.

After growing up on a golf course, and working for a top golf retailer the San Francisco area, Pete Carlson knew what he was doing when he decided to open a golf and tennis store in the desert. 

Thirty years later, is an icon along Highway 111 in Palm Desert.

“Honestly, I never imagined that this was going to happen," Carlson told Patch.  “We started at an opportune time, and with all the changes and breakthroughs in golf and tennis, we’ve been fortunate.” 

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Carlson said he’s also fortunate to have a seasoned staff with a deep golf background.

“We’ve got 30 to 40 years experience for many of our employees. Some have even been teaching pros, they all know the game well and we have great relationships with the local pros, as well,” Carlson said.

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For the shopper, the sheer magnitude and depth of product is something Carlson is very proud of. He says its part of the difference between his store and other golf and tennis retailers. 

“A former senior buyer for the old Montgomery Ward chain one told me ‘you have more product per square foot than most department stores’ and its something we do well,” Carlson said. ‘Its our depth of product. Some places may offer one set of irons or drivers, we’ll offer a full range from across many brands.” 

His location on Highway 111 may be best known to passers-by for the colorful golf murals covering the display windows. Carlson told Patch that it was out of necessity. 

“About 15 years ago, there was a rash of break-ins and robberies at golf stores. Not just here, but nationwide,” Carlson said. 

He wanted to do something to keep potentially targeted items out of view in the display windows. Carlson said he wanted something decorative that would also give some security.  

“I had a friend who was a mural painter and he said ‘I can do something for you,’ so he made a mural of scenes from the oldest golf courses in Palm Springs." 

Carlson says apparel is becoming an increasing part of his business. Along with golf and tennis wear, street wear is also being offered. It's estimated that clothing is about half of his total sales. 

Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis is also becoming known for its community endeavors, including sponsoring a series of jazz concerts by youth bands.

Carlson estimated the 12 concerts last year with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Coachella Valley helped raised over $20,000. 

Carlson said he has autographed copies of baseball Hall-of-Famer Willie Mays autobiogrpahy, along with baseballs also signed by the long time San Francisco great.

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