Stanley Golf Course has unveiled its brand new, state-of-the-art range that uses Toptracer technology to give golfers input as to their swings, ball flight and more.
New Britain, Ct. Mayor Erin Stewart officially opened the $350,000 facility in early spring, saying that Stanley GC is a “destination” that warranted further investment by the city in making the course one of the top municipal operations in the state.
The 19-bay enclosed, heated and lighted driving range opens at 7:30 a.m. weekdays and 6:30 a.m. on weekends. Staff plan on keeping it open from 6 to 10 p.m. on select nights.
Plans for the new Toptracer range began several years ago, said PGA Head Golf Professional, Howie Friday. “We discussed the role technology played in the game and how the younger generation really embraces it, and in many ways, demands it. It really came together last spring when we decided to move forward.”
Friday continued, “The last few years have been very good ones here at Stanley Golf Course and the city leaders have decided to reinvest in the course to make it the best it can be. We believe that the new range is the best in the state and offers golfers and non-golfers alike the opportunity to enjoy the game. We know that people want and need more things to do socially, especially outdoors. We also understand the demands on people’s time and we think we can provide golf in a different yet fun and competitive way.”
Friday said the new range exceeds expectations. “We have added seating in each bay and a service bar where you can get a drink and a quick bite while you play or practice. Moving forward we will have fans for the summer and heaters for the colder months so you can enjoy the facility all year round. And as an added bonus we are open four nights a week, for now, until 10 p.m. so you can play under the lights. Each bay is lit as well as the range itself.”
The feedback on the new range from the public as been “incredible” said Friday. “Young and old, good golfer and high handicapper alike are here enjoying our range. We have comfortable seating in each bay so golfers can relax in between shots and that has been very popular.”
The beauty for the golfer accessing the range is that Stanley doesn’t charge for use of the Toptracer technology. Once they purchase the balls, golfers can use the bays however they would like. Friday explained, “Toptracer is so easy to use as each option on the screen has a description of how to use it. Toptracer allows you to practice and learn how far each club goes by tracking distance the ball travels, play closest to pin and long drive contests, do a short game challenge, play simulated golf on some the greatest courses in the world and much more.”
Said Friday, “We opened on March 16 and we have been very busy each and every day since. I would say our range usage is up well over 60 percent due in part to the technology but also because of the fun atmosphere we have created. It is a unique place where people can gather, hit balls and enjoy the great outdoors. We also offer chipping and putting areas, a perfect place to improve your short game.” The range will be a true year-round facility as long as the winter weather is not too severe.
The Driving Range at Stanley Golf Course
New Britain, Ct.
860-527-8570
