New proprietary technology developed by British company Global Play Golf (GPG) could soon have a major impact on golf coaching and club fitting worldwide, after initial trials received praise from golf retailers.
Makers of the new Light Speed system claim it will make a difference to how golf retailers and PGA professionals will sell golf equipment in the future, and that the technology offers many advantages over existing launch monitor and swing analysis systems – at a greatly reduced cost.
London based Global Play Golf will shortly begin installing more Light Speed systems in golf retail outlets across the UK, ready for the main selling season. Based on the popular Hi Speed Golf recreational systems already in place at many large driving ranges, Light Speed is a retail-focused system designed specifically for store managers who promote custom fitting and swing analysis as part of the sales process.
From a simple set-up which requires minimal staff training, the Light Speed system offers a consistent, reliable club fit in-store in less than 20 minutes.
“Light Speed combines the visual appeal of a high end golf simulator, with a level of accuracy well beyond traditional technologies, such as launch monitors,” said Global Play Golf CEO, Peter Kershaw. “Our proprietary technology captures 50 million clubhead and ball data samples at the point of impact, and displays the outcome of the shot on-screen with simulator-style shot graphics. The golfer sees the ball fly down the fairway, and the retailer has easy-to-understand readouts which help him improve the custom fit for that golfer.
The result is an enjoyable fitting experience for the golfer, and fast, accurate selling information for the golf retailer.”
Neil Bell, MD of Direct Golf UK, has been trialling a Light Speed system at his Doncaster store. “We’ve been using GPG’s new technology for several months, and I believe it is an exciting piece of kit, unique in today’s market.
“We looked at systems for a lot more money but they didn’t give us the custom fitting ability and accuracy that this machine does, and with all the other features of well-known simulators like playing courses, ranges, target golf as well as online competitions, this really does carry a huge potential.
“It really has made a difference to how we sell equipment in our Doncaster high street superstore and we will certainly be looking at it for any future outlets.”
Golf retailer and golf simulator expert Bert Kofer said: “I believe this technology could have a major impact on golf teaching and club fitting around the world.”
Light Speed is available exclusively from Global Play Golf, with installations available from February 2010. Any PGA teaching professionals, club fitters or golf retailers interested in trying out the technology should call GPG on +44 (0)1892 740201, or email enquiries@globalplaygolf.com.
Global Play Golf Limited www.globalplaygolf.com