In Chicago, it’s still too cold to play a round of golf, but Chicago Golf Show helped fill that void. If you weren’t ready for golf season before the Chicago Golf Show, it definitely put you in the mood.

The Chicago Golf Show was established in 1984, making it the oldest consumer golf show in the United States. Presented by the Chicago District Golf Association, it was expected to draw more than 25,000 attendees over the three-day weekend.

Among the golf celebrities appearing were golf instructor Hank Haney, who worked with Tiger Woods and Tom “Bubbie” Broders, of Good Good Golf. ESPN Radio also did a its weekly golf show live from the convention. CDGA TV also was there.

With a paid show ticket, attendees received a coupon for a free round of golf. That alone would be worth it, but there was much more. There were one-on-one lessons with Illinois PGA professional teachers, a long putt contest, simulated driving ranges and other interactive exhibits to test and improve your skills.

Of course, there were many vendors displaying, selling and offering tests for the latest golf gadgets, clubs, balls and other accessories. I didn’t realize how ornate club heads can be until I saw the many artistic options.

A few companies offered enticing trips built around golf. As a duffer, I think I’ll stick to Chicago area courses and use travel for other activities, but I can definitely see the possibilities.

This was my first time attending the Chicago Golf Show, but it will not be the last. It will now be on my yearly convention circuit. I thought I would be there a couple hours on Saturday, but I ended up staying most of that day and returning Sunday to see what I missed on Saturday.

— John Wroblewski, online writer