Today we’d like to introduce you to LUKE BENOIT
Hi LUKE, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began my golfing journey at the age of 13, a time when most young people are busy discovering their favorite pastimes. Prior to picking up a golf club, I was a self-proclaimed multisport athlete, thriving in activities that involved hitting balls with racquets or bats. Sports like ping pong, baseball, and tennis captured my heart and kept me engaged.
It took me about a year to break 80 in golf, not due to any natural talent, but because of my steadfast dedication. I played over 200 rounds in a year, all while navigating the challenges of Minnesota’s climate. Though I never had formal lessons, my grandpa was my guiding light. He introduced me to the fundamentals of ball flight and taught me to curve the ball both ways—something he referred to as the Magnus effect. That moment sparked a passion within me; I was determined to spend the rest of my life mastering the art of hitting the ball straight, something that has proven more difficult than it seemed at age 13.
My journey in golf has been remarkably fulfilling. I’ve had the privilege of meeting kind and brilliant individuals and have been fortunate enough to serve as the Director of Instruction at Interlachen Country Club, the top-ranked club in Minnesota. Four years ago, during the pandemic, I initiated RYP Golf as a personal project to help my students hit the golf ball farther. Since then, we have grown RYP into one of the most innovative and recognized speed training companies in the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My work life has had 3 phases. In the first phase, I was a golfer, wholeheartedly dedicated to becoming one of the best players in the world. My journey began at Gustavus Adolphus College, where I played four years of competitive college golf. Those years were a whirlwind of practice and competition and great memories. Upon graduation, I turned professional and embarked on a journey through the mini-tours, a grueling 18-month experience that tested my resolve and passion for the sport.
As I progressed through the “playing” phase, it became painfully clear that my accuracy off the tee was a significant obstacle. I hit too many houses and not enough fairways. While the rest of my game was solid, my driver became a serious limitation, hindering my ability to compete at the level I aspired to. It was a humbling realization, one that forced me to confront the reality that my dream of being a top-tier player might not materialize as I had envisioned.
This realization led me to phase two of my career: teaching. With a newfound perspective, I decided to pivot and invest heavily in understanding motor learning and biomechanics to sharpen my skills as an instructor. I delved into the intricacies of how golfers learn and the mechanics of the golf swing, transforming my passion for the game into a commitment to helping others succeed. Along this path, I have had the privilege of teaching a dozen state champions and several professionals, which enriched my experience and deepened my understanding of the game from a different angle.
While stage 2 (teaching) will continue until I’m an old man, I’ve also added stage 3. Phase 3 is the business phase, where I aim to merge my experience as a player and educator into a thriving venture. This stage has been highlighted by various struggles, from navigating the complexities of e-commerce to building a capable team. I have faced the challenges of sourcing products, managing day-to-day operations, and providing exceptional customer service—all while striving to maintain the same passion and dedication that fueled my earlier phases. Ultimately, whatever life stage we may be in, the same life rules generally apply. Try hard, be kind, and have fun. Grit and perseverance go a long way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Ryp Golf?
Ryp Golf is a brand dedicated to enhancing golf performance through innovative training tools and educational resources. Founded in 2020 as a speed training company, our mission has expanded significantly over the years.
Our flagship product, the Rypstick, is a variable weight speed stick designed to help golfers increase club head speed. This concept is based on the understanding that higher swing speeds can lead to longer drives and improved scoring. Our training protocols emphasize better ground force and kinematics, enabling most golfers to gain an impressive 20 yards of distance within just three months of training.
In addition to the Rypstick, we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Ryp Laser. This innovative device attaches to the putter, allowing golfers and club fitters to quantify aim. Early testing of the Ryp Laser has already revealed fascinating insights into how golfers aim their putters, further advancing our understanding of the game.
What truly sets Ryp Golf apart is our unwavering commitment to innovation and science. We continuously seek out improved training methods and products that accelerate the learning process for golfers, ensuring they have the best tools available to enhance their performance.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
As an entrepreneur in the golf industry, I’ve gleaned valuable insights from my journey with Ryp Golf that can benefit fellow business leaders. First and foremost, staying dedicated to your mission is crucial. Your mission should serve as your guiding light, and as your brand evolves, ensure that your core values remain intact. For Ryp Golf, our commitment to enhancing golf performance through training and technology has always motivated us. Whatever your mission, stick to it.
Prioritizing innovation is also key to success. We’ve been fortunate to view the marketplace of training aids through the eyes of a golf teacher. Each lesson I conduct reveals specific needs my students have to improve their game. From these observations, I take ideas to the lab, transforming challenges into opportunities for development. Having a “problem-solving” viewpoint for innovation is what it takes to produce novel ideas that truly resonate with your customers.
Building a strong team is equally important. Surround yourself with individuals who share your vision and complement your strengths, allowing everyone to contribute meaningfully to your objectives. Finally, never lose sight of your passion. Your enthusiasm will resonate with others, inspiring your team and customers alike. Passion fuels creativity and innovation, essential components for a thriving business.
By focusing on these four core principles—dedication to your mission, embracing innovation through problem-solving, building a strong team, and nurturing your passion—you can navigate the entrepreneurial landscape more effectively and cultivate a brand that resonates with your audience while achieving your goals.
Pricing:
- Rypstick – $199
- Ryp Laser – $199
- Butter Blade – $139
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rypgolf.com
- Instagram: dr.luke.benoit.golf
