With apologies to Emerson, his line “And fired the shot heard round the world” from the poem Concord Hymn, written in 1836 has served to mark more than one historical event. It was originally written to commemorate citizen sacrifices during the Battle of Lexington and Concord, the first battle of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. Several people also use that phrase to describe the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which started World War I.

Approximately two hundred years after the “Shot Heard Round the World” was fired at Lexington and Concord, a PING was heard round the world. That ping was the sound of Karsten Solheim’s revolutionary, newly designed putter hitting a golf ball. People made fun of the PING noise, but Solheim named his company after it, and went on to create a hugely successful golf manufacturing empire. PING merchandise outfits some of the most well-known players on the PGA tour. Three of their sponsored players played in the Ryder Cup at Valhalla last week.

The First Customized Golf Clubs

Ping Jersey Polo with Tipped Trim

Over the years, PING has pioneered many advances in golf equipment, beginning with the putter that started it all. PING was the company that first customized golf clubs for golfers—both amateurs and professionals. When PING began customizing clubs it was considered to be quite the revolutionary practice. Now, no professional golfer plays without customized clubs. And, when ordering higher-end golf clubs, they are always customized to some degree—whether the grip, club length or shaft is modified.

Customize your own PING Golf Shirts

Because PING was the first company to promote customized golf clubs, it is only fitting that Queensboro, champion of logo apparel customization, now carries PING golf shirts that can be personalized with your logo. Queensboro’s four piece minimum is perfect size for a golf group! Fore!

Having been born in Boston, Massachusetts and sharing a birthday with George Washington, American history, and specifically the 4th of July, have always had a special place in my heart. Of course, I also have an interest in pop culture and a decent sense of humor (depending on who you ask!), so I can really appreciate “Schoolhouse Rock.” So, to celebrate America’s 232nd birthday I thought it would be appropriate to share the following “Schoolhouse Rock” video titled “Fireworks.” Enjoy!