Technology that provides instant shot replays and statistical feedback on interactive game screens has been installed at Manston Golf Centre.
Bosses Michael Humphries and Darren Paris have spent £100,000 on the hi-tech tracker – used by the likes of Sky Sports for events including the British Open – plus another £20,000 on new lighting, signs and other improvements on the 9 hole range.
The investment is on top of £500,000 spent some four years ago to create the adventure golf Rascal Bay site, which features a course with dinosaurs, wild animals, pirates, rafts, volcanos and waterfalls.
The new TopTracer ball tracking technology includes screens in every hitting bay, helping players to make swing adjustments and immediately see the impact on their golf shot. It means the range features games and modes suited for all ages and skill levels such as a long-drive competition, Closest to the Pin game and advanced analytics to fine-tune a player’s swing. Participants can also virtually tee it up at some of the world’s greatest courses.
Guests can use the Toptracer Range Community App to link their personal profiles to access their history of shot data, including specific club performance details, as well as how they rank against other players on leaderboards.
The installation took just under a week and was completed on March 29, followed by a week of testing and calibration.
Dad-of-two Michael, who took on the business with Darren some eight years ago, said: “We are always looking to do new things to make golf and the site more welcoming for all ages, abilities, players and families.”
The system is now ready for visitors to try out and over this weekend (April 6-7) players can compete for nearest the pin prizes, enjoy free samples from the range menu and relax with a drinks service to individual range bays.
The week leading up to Easter will also see the reopening of the giant inflatable assault course first introduced last Summer.
The 30 metre course, which includes tunnels, ‘walls’ and slides, has a two-lane design, for one person per lane, to ensure safety. Prices are £3 for 3 circuits or £5 for 20 minutes.
Find out more on the website here or call 01843 590005.