Apr 11, 2011 at 02:14 PM
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Telepresence Co. Looks To Make A Splash With Virtual Golf Clinics

While sponsorship spending in the telepresence category has been primarily dominated by tech bellwether, Cisco, there may be a new player in the category. Pittsburgh-based Vu Telepresence is looking to make a splash by today announcing its sponsorship of several PGA Tour tournaments. Vu TelePresence will be showcasing its videoconferencing technology on-site at stops throughout the 2011 PGA Tour, starting with this week's Valero Texas Open.


To activate the partnerships, Vu Telepresence has enlisted former golf pro and renowned golf instructor, Stan Utley, who will provide live golf tutorials through Vu’s videoconferencing system in tents at each event.

“Golf and business are very similar in that they both require a tremendous amount of attention,” said Devita Saraf, chief executive officer of Vu TelePresence. “As a tool to enable the mastery of both, Vu allows business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of technology in business and in golf to effectively balance both work/lifestyle demands.”

During the virtual golf clinics, individuals will be able to demonstrate their short game swing and receive on the spot feedback and tips from Mr. Utley, who will be "Vuing" in from his Arizona clinic.

“Face to face instruction is an important factor in teaching the art of golf because it allows for real time feedback and correction,” said Stan Utley. “For the first time using Vu TelePresence, I’m able to provide the same level of personalized instruction to my students virtually without compromising the quality of my tutorial. As an entrepreneur, this technology will augment my business offering and directly impact my bottom line.”

VU Technologies intends to compete down market from major competitors like Cisco Systems, focusing on low cost options for small to midsize business markets. It has also opened Vu TelePoints, remote access conference suites available by the hour, in major cities like New York, Chicago, Oakland, Boston, Irvine, Cleveland, Seattle, Columbus, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Atlanta and Pittsburgh.

#newstag