Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club (SGSC) have unveiled their brand-new Academy building and are confident it will give a big boost to summer coaching programmes in the northern emirates.
The well-equipped building has two swing studios, both opening out onto the driving range and can be used as air-conditioned bays during the summer. Both swing rooms are fitted out with state-of-the-art video analysis software, accompanied by Trackman Radar technology, to give members and students a full overview of their golf game.
The Academy forms the ground level of the impressive new building, with upper floors to be rented out as offices. The adjoining driving range now has a ‘lounge’ feeling, with the Twisted Olive restaurant forming one part of the building and providing outdoor dining area with a view of the driving range.
Scott Graham, Head Professional, SGSC said each swing room has its own identity to go with the video and Trackman software.
“The Altitude Studio, which is sponsored by Altitude Gym, boasts a fully-equipped functional training space that enables clients and coach to promote desired swing kinematics through strength and conditioning methods,” said Graham.
“As well as the gym space, the main feature of the Altitude Studio is the True Golf virtual simulator. Using this software, you can practice as if you were on the range, take a trip to Scotland to play 18 holes round The Old Course in St Andrews or fly west to Torrey Pines for a quick nine holes from the championship tees.
Golf simulators allow participants to play on any course in the world.
“Giving accurate readings and ball flight, the virtual simulator is a great way to play some of your dream courses with friends in air-conditioned comforts.
“The second swing room is known as the Ping Studio and has been designed to assist the golfer who is looking for some sound technical advice. Whether it be with their putting stroke on the four hole Huxley Putting Surface, tracking weight dispersion throughout the swing on Body Trak or general club fitting instruction. The Ping Studio offers a holistic golf lesson for the pupil who is trying to progress their game to the next level.”
Apart from the driving range, there is a short-game practice area for which the green has been enhanced, and the putting green.
Graham, who is assisted by Lee JH Lee and Mark Ruddy, added: “This is really a big new change for us and for Sharjah. It not only makes our own operation very efficient, but also gives our clients a great place to practice and enhance their skills during the summer months.”
