Nike’s no Portland patron for PGA

Portland one day may be the site of a PGA event. It won’t be the replacement for the International in July — Washington, D.C., likely will take that spot on the tour — and for now, Nike isn’t interested.

“It’s not a priority for us,” says Charlie Denson, president of Nike Brand. “It’s great for (a potential sponsor that) is not a part of the game of golf. We’re already part of the game of golf.”

Nike Golf is a major player on the international golf circuit. Endorsees start with Tiger Woods and include many of the game’s big names. The cost of serving as title sponsor for a PGA event simply isn’t worth it for Oregon’s shoe and sports apparel giant.

 – Excerpt from the Portland Tribune, February 23, 2007