Golf Channel, other niche networks get good reception from viewers

0 Comments | USA TODAY, January, 2005 | by Rudy Martzke

ORLANDO -- A 35-foot mural near the entrance of The Golf Channel's headquarters traces milestones not always reached in the competitive world of cable TV.

Launched 10 years ago this month. Reached 24 million homes in the USA by late 1998. Passed 50 million in 2002. Now in 67 million and headed for 70 million this year.

Not bad for a niche network that also reaches 20 million homes outside the USA.

Senior vice president Bob Greenway , who left HBO to join The Golf Channel in its infancy, attributes the network's inclusion in more than three-fourths of cable homes to a continuing connection with golf's loyal fans.

"If any sport evokes passion that continues for a lifetime, it's golf," Greenway says. "Unlike some other sports, golfers play golf until...