Field Trip: Los Angeles

Students Golf & Bodega Redefine Golf Culture in Los Angeles

Golf enthusiasts and street culture aficionados gathered on November 9th, 2024, for an electrifying event at the newly renovated Bella Verde Golf Club in Montebello, California. After making waves in Paris, Students Golf and Bodega returned to their home turf to push the boundaries of golf culture and give the sport a fresh, exciting twist. What followed was an unforgettable experience blending art, music, fashion, and golf in a way never seen before.

The Event: The Par 3 Showdown

The highlight of the day was the "Par 3 Showdown," a high-energy, one-of-a-kind golf competition. Presented by Topgolf and featuring partners like Los Angeles Golf Club, Acura, Vans, Callaway, and Corona Premier, this event wasn't your average 18-hole tournament. Instead, it took a bold approach, focusing on precision and strategy with a unique format that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

The action started with 16 two-player teams, each vying for victory. The first round was a closest-to-the-pin contest, where only the sharpest players advanced. For those who made it to the second round, the stakes were higher: a 2-man alternate shot, single-elimination bracket format. The pressure was on as the remaining teams battled it out until only one duo remained standing.

To make things even more exciting, players had the chance to win a brand-new Acura ZDX with a hole-in-one, adding a thrilling element of competition to the event.

Creative Activations and Custom Designs

In addition to the golf action, the event featured multiple activations that blended sport and street culture in creative ways. Here are just a few:

• Vans Golf Kicks: Vans shoes were reimagined for the golf course with Golf Kicks spikes, turning classic streetwear into functional golf footwear.
  

• Custom Barrel Headcovers: Students Golf hosted a design station where attendees could personalize their own barrel headcovers, adding a unique touch to their golf gear.
  

• Lil Design Studies: A fun, interactive activity for younger attendees, allowing them to engage creatively with the event.
  

• Bodega Pop-Up Shop: Exclusive collaborations and products that captured the energy and spirit of the event were available for purchase at the Bodega pop-up shop.
  

• Chain-Stitched Headwear: A collaboration between 47 Brand, Bodega, and Students Golf offered personalized headwear designs featuring intricate chain-stitch embroidery on signature 47 brand silhouettes.
  
  

These activations weren't just about golf; they were a celebration of culture, design, and creativity.

Champions of the Par 3 Showdown

After an intense day of competition, the ultimate champions of the Par 3 Showdown were crowned: Lou Lou Gonzalez and Sam Yi. Their teamwork, skill, and precision on the course earned them the victory, and they were awarded with custom trophies designed by the digital artist FVCKRENDER. Michael Huynh, the founder of Students Golf, expressed his admiration for the champions: “Lou Lou and Sam exemplified the spirit of this event. Their skill, strategy, and camaraderie on the course truly embody the energy we aimed to cultivate.”

A Vision for the Future of Golf

The Par 3 Showdown was not just an event, but the beginning of a new era for golf. Michael Huynh shared his excitement: “We’re thrilled to bring this energy to our backyard. This is about redefining how golf can be experienced—blending sport with art, culture, and streetwear to engage the next generation of fans.” Dan Natola, co-founder of Bodega, added, “Our goal is to bridge golf with broader cultural movements. Through activations, design, and innovation, we’re reimagining golf as a space for creativity and inclusivity.”

FVCKRENDER’s Futuristic Touch

To add to the event’s larger-than-life experience, FVCKRENDER, a Montreal-based digital visionary, brought his futuristic aesthetics to Bella Verde Golf Club. Known for his jaw-dropping installations, including his recent works at the Las Vegas Sphere and New York solo exhibition, FVCKRENDER’s art transformed the golf club into an immersive, otherworldly environment, enhancing the cutting-edge vibe of the event.

What’s Next for Students Golf & Bodega?

The Par 3 Showdown is just the beginning of a bigger movement to redefine golf culture. With plans for future events in Los Angeles, Paris, and beyond, Students Golf and Bodega are set to continue blending sport with street culture, design, and innovation. The next installment of their Field Trip series promises to bring even more exciting surprises, collaborations, and fresh takes on the game of golf.

Stay connected and be part of the movement:

• Instagram: @StudentsGolf

• Instagram: @Bodega

• Instagram: @FVCKRENDER

For a closer look at the event, check out the video recap and the event photos.