Bushnell debuts Yardage Pro,

its first GPS handheld device

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- Bushnell Outdoor Products has introduced the Yardage Pro, its first handheld GPS device featuring an easy-to-use interface that gauges distances to the front, back and center of the green. The new distance-made-simple GPS handheld debuted at the PGA Merchandise Show carries a suggested retail price of $199.

"While our best-selling family of Bushnell laser rangefinders, anchored by our PinSeeker 1500 series, boast optical systems with incredible precision and magnification, we recognize that a segment of recreational golfers prefer a GPS distance measuring device that quickly and easily provides distances to the front, center and back of the green," said Bushnell National Golf Sales Manager Jason Seeman. "With the purchase of an annual membership, golfers can quickly access golf courses worldwide."

Bushnell has partnered with iGolf to offer downloadable course files from the world's largest GPS golf course database. Golfers who purchase the new Yardage Pro will want to go to www.bushnellgolf.com for product support, features and software download information.

The unit comes with one trial course download from iGolf before an annual membership of $34.95 is required for 100 GPS course downloads. Unlike other GPS competitors, course downloads are stored on the hard drive of your PC and do not expire if the membership is not renewed.

Other product features include:
--LCD screen with backlight
--Easy to use interface, distance at a glance
--Distance to center, front and back
--Store up to 10 courses
--Bag/belt clip
--Auto shut-off/Sleep mode after 30 minutes
--Rechargeable Li-ion battery
--Battery life up to 15 hours
--USB PC interface for downloads

According to the Darrell Survey, 90 percent of professional golfers and caddies on the PGA, LPGA and Champions Tour prefer Bushnell products when assessing distances and updating their yardage books during practice rounds.