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GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
THE TOP<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
ANNUAL<br />
AWARDS<br />
THIS SPECIAL<br />
SECTION<br />
MARKS THE<br />
12TH ANNUAL<br />
GOLF RANGE<br />
MAGAZINE<br />
RANKING OF<br />
THE TOP <strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF PRACTICE<br />
CENTERS AND<br />
LEARNING<br />
FACILITIES<br />
IN AMERICA.<br />
Top<strong>Golf</strong> Kingstowne<br />
Alexandria, Virginia
44<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
THE TOP<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Ace <strong>Golf</strong> at Riverview<br />
Riverview, Florida<br />
Owner: Bill Place<br />
GM: Dennis Bowman<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Laura Beuhring, LPGA<br />
www.ace-golf.com<br />
Arundel <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong><br />
Glen Burnie, Maryland<br />
Owner: Jim Kardash/Ken Gill<br />
GM: Jim Kardash<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jim Kardash, PGA<br />
www.arundelgolfpark.com<br />
Chattanooga <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Chattanooga, Tennessee<br />
Owner: Zeb Patton, PGA<br />
GM: Mike Bennett<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Colt Helton, PGA<br />
www.chattanoogagolfcenter.com<br />
D.A.‘s Spring Creek <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Plano, Texas<br />
Owner: LP inluding D.A. Weibring<br />
GM: Don Cornell<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Scott Robbins, PGA<br />
www.dasspringcreekgolf.com<br />
Different Strokes <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Louisville, Kentucky<br />
Owner: Different Strokes <strong>Golf</strong>, Inc.<br />
GM: Ted Beckman<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Ted Beckman, PGA<br />
www.dsgolfcenters.com<br />
The Downs <strong>Golf</strong> Practice Facility<br />
Tampa, Florida<br />
Owner: Mrs. Stella Thayer/<br />
Tampa Bay Downs, Inc.<br />
GM: Peter Berube<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jon Johnson, PGA<br />
www.tampabaydowns.com<br />
Dulles <strong>Golf</strong> Center & Sports <strong>Park</strong><br />
Dulles, Virginia<br />
Owner: Robert Riever<br />
GM: Chuck Will,PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Chuck Will,PGA<br />
www.dullesgolfcenter.com<br />
East Potomac <strong>Golf</strong> Course<br />
Washington, D.C.<br />
Owner: National <strong>Park</strong> Service<br />
GM: <strong>Golf</strong> Course Specialists, Inc./<br />
Kim Thomas<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Capital City <strong>Golf</strong><br />
School/Mike Byrd, PGA<br />
www.golfdc.com<br />
Fairways and Greens<br />
Knoxville, Tennessee<br />
Owner: Vincent Keller<br />
GM: Britton Spann<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Walt Chapman, PGA<br />
www.fairwaysandgreens.org<br />
Games People Play<br />
Beaumont, Texas<br />
Owner: Jeff Williams<br />
GM: Matt Cormier<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Kurt Picard, PGA<br />
www.gppgolf.com<br />
Golden Bear <strong>Golf</strong> Center at the<br />
<strong>Highlands</strong><br />
Carrollton, Texas<br />
Owner: Fritz Duda<br />
GM: Tom Morehart<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mark Maness, PGA<br />
www.gbgc.net<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> & Games Family <strong>Park</strong><br />
Memphis, Tennessee<br />
Owner: Aubrey Smith<br />
GM: Philip Gray<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Ted Butler, PGA<br />
www.puttputtmemphis.com<br />
Jim McLean <strong>Golf</strong> Center at Waterchase<br />
Arlington, Texas<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>smith <strong>Golf</strong> Center &<br />
Harvey Penick Academy<br />
Austin, Texas<br />
Owner: <strong>Golf</strong>smith<br />
GM: Jeff Morgan<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Myron Klement, PGA<br />
Harvey Penick <strong>Golf</strong> Academy<br />
www.golfsmith.com<br />
Hackers <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong><br />
Statesboro, Georgia<br />
Owner: Darin Van Tassell/Larry<br />
Bryant<br />
GM: Brad Bradley<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Brad Bradley, PGA<br />
www.hackersgolfpark.com<br />
Hank Haney <strong>Golf</strong> Ranch at<br />
Vista Ridge<br />
Lewisville, Texas<br />
Owner: Hank Haney<br />
GM: Spencer Ebeler<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Steve Johnson, PGA<br />
www.hankhaney.com<br />
The <strong>Highlands</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong><br />
Ruckersville, Virginia<br />
Owner: The Scheuermann Family<br />
GM: Gretchen Scheuermann, LPGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Anne Marie<br />
Scheuermann<br />
www.highlandsgolfpark.com<br />
The Hooch <strong>Golf</strong> Club<br />
Duluth, Georgia<br />
Owner: OTC <strong>Golf</strong> Club<br />
GM: Tim Foster, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Tim Foster, PGA<br />
www.thehoochgolfclub.com<br />
48-acre golf training center includes a fully lighted practice range, with seven target greens,<br />
an 11,000 sq. ft. short game area including a bent grass putting green and three-tier practice<br />
bunker. 8,000 sq. ft. clubhouse incorporates golf fitness center, restaurant, 4 indoor, “Superstation”<br />
instruction bays, Full Swing Simulator, putting studio and clubfitting and testing center.
The Downs <strong>Golf</strong> Practice Facility<br />
Tampa, Florida<br />
Jim McLean <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
at Waterchase<br />
Fort Worth, Texas<br />
Owner: Jim McLean<br />
GM: John Sinclair<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Brian Schorsten, PGA<br />
Web: www.jimmclean.com<br />
Knights Play <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Apex, North Carolina<br />
Owner: Nelson Hare<br />
GM: Kevin Jones, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Kevin Jones, PGA<br />
www.knightsplay.com<br />
Leatherman <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Learning Center<br />
Charlotte, North Carolina<br />
Owner: Chris Leatherman, PGA<br />
GM: Matt Lester<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Chris Leatherman, PGA<br />
Webiste: www.leathermangolf.com<br />
Leonard <strong>Golf</strong> Links<br />
Fort Worth, Texas<br />
Owner: Martha Leonard<br />
GM: Steve Blondell<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Dana Bellinger, PGA<br />
www.leonardgolflinks.com<br />
Man ’O’ War <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Lexington, Kentucky<br />
Owner: Partnership Group<br />
GM: Brad Bachand, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Brad Bachand, PGA<br />
www.manowargolf.com<br />
Unique in the nation,<br />
The Downs <strong>Golf</strong> Practice<br />
Facility is located next to<br />
the horse track, Tampa<br />
Bay Downs. It offers<br />
simulcast wagering on<br />
events running next door.<br />
The goal in building the<br />
range complex was to<br />
make Tampa Bay Downs<br />
a total entertainment<br />
destination: from live<br />
racing to concerts and<br />
also golf. The facility also<br />
includes a two-acre short<br />
game area. Their popular<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Expo is a big area hit.<br />
Mid-Atlantic <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Silver Springs, Maryland<br />
Owner: MAGC <strong>Golf</strong> Properties<br />
GM: Carl James<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mike Horner, PGA<br />
www.midatlanticgolfcenter.com<br />
Night Hawk <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Gambrills, Maryland<br />
Owner: Bill Forthofer<br />
GM: Bill Forthofer<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Don Slebodnik, PGA<br />
www.nighthawkgolfcenter.com<br />
Olney <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong><br />
Olney, Maryland<br />
Owner: Tim Landres/Westland<strong>Golf</strong><br />
GM: Bob Karnei<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jim Estes<br />
www.westlandgolf.com<br />
Orange County National<br />
Winter Garden, Florida<br />
Owner: Team Classic <strong>Golf</strong> Services<br />
GM: Bruce Gerlander<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Phil Ritson <strong>Golf</strong>,<br />
David Glenz <strong>Golf</strong> Academy<br />
www.ocngolf.com<br />
PGA <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Center<br />
Port St. Lucie, Florida<br />
Owner: PGA of America<br />
GM: Gene Powell<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rick Martino,<br />
Master PGA<br />
www.pgalearningcenter.com<br />
Swaders Sports <strong>Park</strong><br />
Prince George, Virginia<br />
Owner: Swader Family<br />
GM: Ken Swader<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rick Schuller, PGA<br />
www.swaders.com<br />
Top<strong>Golf</strong> Kingstowne<br />
Alexandria, Virginia<br />
Owner: Top<strong>Golf</strong> USA/<strong>Golf</strong><br />
Entertainment Int’l.<br />
GM: Kevin Vouglitois<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mitchell<br />
Spearman/Stephen Moskal<br />
www.topgolf.com<br />
Tupelo Bay <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Garden City, South Carolina<br />
Owner: Partnership<br />
GM: Vince Cronkey<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rod Gainer, PGA<br />
www.tupelobay.com<br />
Man ’O’ War <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Lexington, Kentucky<br />
Man O’ War exhorts it’s patrons to follow the<br />
advice of Lee Trevino by posting on it web site<br />
the following quote, “There is no such thing<br />
as a natural touch. Touch is something you<br />
create by hitting millions of golf balls.” And<br />
Man O’ War is ready to accommodate. With<br />
four top instructors on staff, the facility runs<br />
an amazing array of lessons for ladies-only,<br />
mixed adults, seniors, junior, etc. They’ve also<br />
been marketing membership programs for the<br />
past several years. Summer memberships<br />
run from March 1-Oct. 31 and cost $900/yr. At<br />
that membership level patrons have unlimited<br />
range balls, a members only hitting and short<br />
game area, (4) individual golf lessons, a club<br />
fitting evaluation, and unlimited use of all<br />
practice areas. Full membership at $1150/yr<br />
adds 4 member practices per month, 4 private<br />
lessons, stretching and strength seminars, as<br />
well as 20% over wholesale in the pro shop.<br />
SOUTHEAST
46<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
THE TOP<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Branchburg Family <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Branchburg, New Jersey<br />
Owner: John & Shannon Holodinski<br />
GM: Randy Bartushak<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: TBD<br />
Website: TBD<br />
Bumble Bee Hollow<br />
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Lorraine Klippel/Rhea Singsen<br />
GM: Lorraine Klippel/Rhea Singsen<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Lorraine Klippel,<br />
LPGA Master Professional<br />
www.bumblebeehollow.com<br />
Cool Springs <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Cool Springs LLc.<br />
GM: Buzz Pasquini<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Bob Salera, PGA<br />
www.coolspringsgolfcenter.com<br />
Fairview <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Elmsford, New York<br />
Owner: The Baker Companies<br />
GM: Joe Mahecha<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Martin Nolletti Sr., PGA<br />
www.fairviewgolfcenter.com<br />
SportsCenter of Connecticut<br />
Shelton, Connecticut<br />
Owner: Alan Phillips/Howard Saffon<br />
GM: Thomas Kim<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rich Lanigan, PGA<br />
www.sportcenterct.com<br />
The <strong>Golf</strong> Club At Chelsea Piers<br />
New York, New York<br />
Owner: Chelsea Piers Management<br />
GM: Greta Wagner<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Tom Sutter, PGA<br />
www.chelseapiers.com<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>Quest<br />
Brookfield, Connecticut<br />
Owner: Tom Brown/ Larry Kwiat<br />
GM: Tom Fulgum<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Pete Stankevich, PGA<br />
www.golfquestranges.com<br />
Stony Hill <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Bethel, Connecticut<br />
This mighty-might located on 16 acres in Northern Fairfield County, Connecticut, Stony Hill<br />
has a staff of dedicated teaching, fitting and club repair professionals that collectively over<br />
the past few years has propelled the facility into a Top <strong>100</strong> and Top 25 Pro Shop standard.<br />
The <strong>Golf</strong> Shop has been renamed Performance Clubworks Custom Club Fitting Centers and<br />
they’ve taken over pro shop operations at <strong>Golf</strong> Quest’s (another Top <strong>100</strong> facility) two CT locations.<br />
They have garnered awards from Mizuno, Ping, Taylor Made, Titleist and Callaway.<br />
Harmon <strong>Golf</strong> & Fitness<br />
Rockland, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: Greg Simeon/<br />
John & Bill Launie<br />
GM: Rich Campbell<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Tom Cavicchi, PGA<br />
www.harmongolf.com<br />
Kimball Farm<br />
Westford, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: The Kimball Family<br />
GM: Mike & Peter Kimball<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Larry Finnegan, PGA<br />
Web: www.kimballfarm.com<br />
Lancaster <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Lancaster, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: Bruce Gurall<br />
GM: Dave O'Connor<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Dennis Lanciani<br />
www.lancastergolfcenter.com<br />
Mad <strong>Golf</strong>er <strong>Golf</strong> Club<br />
Southampton, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Kal Katz<br />
GM: Bob Henry<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Savage, USGTF<br />
and Jean Platt Spencer, LPGA<br />
www.madgolfergolfclub.com<br />
Mc<strong>Golf</strong><br />
Dedham, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: William McInerney<br />
GM: Bill McInerney, Jr.<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Bill McInerney, Jr.<br />
www.mcgolfonline.com<br />
Mulligan's Island<br />
Cranston, Rhode Island<br />
Owner: Jim Picquette<br />
GM: Jay Midwood<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mike Hughes, PGA<br />
www.mulligansisland.com<br />
Sagamore <strong>Golf</strong><br />
North Hampton, New Hampshire<br />
Owner: Sagamore <strong>Golf</strong>, Inc.<br />
GM: Dean Scarito<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Brian O'Hearn, PGA<br />
www.sagamoregolf.com<br />
Scally's <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Moon Township, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Phil Scally Sr.<br />
GM: Phil Scally Jr.,PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Phil Scally Jr., PGA<br />
www.mysite.verizon.net/carl.silvestri/scallys
Sittler <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Kutztown, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Rick & Patty Kline<br />
GM: Patty Kline<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rick Kline, PGA<br />
www.sittlergolf.com<br />
Spring Rock <strong>Golf</strong> Center,<br />
New Hyde <strong>Park</strong>, New York<br />
Owner: Francis An<br />
GM: Ed Lee<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Sutter, PGA<br />
www.springrockgolfcenter.com<br />
Stony Hill <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Bethel, Connecticut<br />
Owner: Partnership<br />
GM: Scott Ward<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Paul Miner, PGA<br />
www.StonyHill<strong>Golf</strong>.com<br />
Sun ‘n Air Driving Range &<br />
Learning Center<br />
Danvers, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: WMSJ Co. Inc.<br />
GM: Stephen Jones<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Rick DePamphilis,<br />
Master PGA<br />
www.sunairgolf.com<br />
Sun ’N’ Air Driving Range<br />
Danvers, Massachusetts<br />
The <strong>Golf</strong> Club At Chelsea Piers<br />
New York, New York<br />
Having completed its first decade of business, The <strong>Golf</strong> Club at Chelsea Piers remains “one of<br />
golf's 50 coolest places in the world” as highlighted by <strong>Golf</strong> Magazine. Featured in many TV<br />
shows, movies and photo shoots, the <strong>Golf</strong> Club at Chelsea Piers is a 4 level facility that features<br />
52 heated and weather-protected hitting stalls on four levels, an automatic ball tee-up system,<br />
200-yard, 156 foot nets enclosing an artificial turf fairway with distinct greens and hazards.<br />
The indoor 2,000 sq. ft teaching academy is staffed by 14 PGA and LPGA teaching pros. They<br />
recently added a fifth level...an indoor area called THE PLAYERS Championship room features<br />
2 Full Swing <strong>Golf</strong> simulators. The facility is an affiliate of The First Tee of Metropolitan New York.<br />
Two T’s <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Easton, Pennsylvania<br />
Owner: Thomas E. Dietzler<br />
GM: James A. Dietzler<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: N/A<br />
www.eastonpaonline.com<br />
Whirlaway <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Methuen, Massachusetts<br />
Owner: Kazanjian Family<br />
GM: Mark Kazanjian<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mark Kazanjian, PGA<br />
www.whirlawaygolf.com<br />
Willowbrook <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Wayne, New Jersey<br />
Owner: Partnership<br />
GM: Patrick Mallory<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Walt Baker, PGA<br />
www.willowbrookgolfcenter.com<br />
Woods <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Norristown, Pennsylvannia<br />
Owner: The Woods Family<br />
GM: Jenna Woods<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Wendy Wisbon, PGA<br />
& LPGA; Don DeAngelis, PGA<br />
www.woodysgolfcenter.com<br />
With a golf range, teaching academy and recently built 3-Hole “Practice Loop” which functions<br />
as a warm-up to a regulation round; a stepping stone for new players entering the game and/or<br />
a training ground for on-course golf instruction, Sun ‘n Air is a multi-year Top <strong>100</strong> winner. The<br />
range consists of both artificial mats and grass tees for members. Over the past few seasons,<br />
the facility has gone deeper into custom fitting (using Flightscope) and club retailing.<br />
NORTHEAST
48<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
THE TOP<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Ables <strong>Golf</strong> on Avery<br />
Dublin, Ohio<br />
Owner: JR Ables/Laurel Dieken<br />
GM: JR Ables/Laurel Dieken<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Laurel Dieken, LPGA<br />
www.golfables.com<br />
Begin Oaks <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Plymouth, Minnesota<br />
Owner: Mrs. Betty Begin<br />
GM: Judy-Begin-Sloan<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Ingrid Galls, LPGA<br />
www.beginoaksgolf.com<br />
Allseasons <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Center<br />
Normal, Illinois<br />
Owner: Tim Jones<br />
GM: Eric Miceletti, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Kenny Jacobs, PGA<br />
Web: www.allseasonsglc.com<br />
Bob Burns <strong>Golf</strong> Learning<br />
Center<br />
Appleton, Wisconsin<br />
Owner: Bob Burns, Master PGA<br />
GM: Chris Burns<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Bob Burns, Master PGA<br />
www.bobburnscustomclubs.com<br />
Cog Hill Learning Center<br />
Lemont, Illinois<br />
Owner: Frank Jemsek<br />
GM: Pat Sexton<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jeff Rimsnider, PGA<br />
www.coghillgolf.com<br />
Fairfield <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Fairfield, Ohio<br />
Owner: Michael Kocheck<br />
GM: Michael Kocheck<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Pete Nelson, PGA<br />
www.fairfieldgolfcenter.com<br />
Family <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Centre<br />
Oakville, Ontario, Canada<br />
Owner: Larry Armatage,<br />
GM: Larry Armatage<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Cochrane, CPGA<br />
www.familygolfoakville.com<br />
Family <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong><br />
Kansas City, Missouri<br />
Owner: James Slaven<br />
GM: Mike Slaven<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Chuck Evans, PGA<br />
www.Family<strong>Golf</strong><strong>Park</strong>.com<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Center Des Plaines<br />
Des Plaines, Illinois<br />
Owner: City of Des Plaines<br />
GM: Robert Ward<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Robert Ward<br />
www.thegolfcenter.org<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Center at<br />
Michigan State University<br />
East Lansing, Michigan<br />
Owner: Michigan State University<br />
GM: Ken Horvath<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Dal Corobbo, PGA<br />
www.golfmsu.msu.edu<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Headquarters<br />
Family <strong>Golf</strong>plex<br />
St. Charles, Missouri<br />
Owner: John & Barb Rufkahr<br />
GM: Dana Crenshaw<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong> Jeff Mullican, PGA<br />
www.golf-headquarters.com<br />
Tower Tee <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
St. Louis, Missouri<br />
Launch <strong>Golf</strong> Centre<br />
Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada<br />
Owner: Gerard Waslen<br />
GM: Gearard Waslen<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Matt Stallone, CPGA<br />
www.launchgolfcentre.com<br />
Maumee Sportsmall,<br />
Maumee, Ohio<br />
Owner: Bob Mix, Mix Enterprises<br />
GM: Terry Walter<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Frank<br />
Hesselbart,PGA<br />
www.maumeesportsmall.com<br />
Meadow Links and <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Academy<br />
Cincinnati, Ohio<br />
Owner: Hamilton County <strong>Park</strong> District<br />
GM: Doug Stultz, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Doug Stultz, PGA<br />
www.greatparks.org<br />
Miles of <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Ypsilanti, Michigan<br />
Owner: Chris Miles<br />
GM: Doug Davis<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Dave Kendall, PGA<br />
www.milesofgolf.com<br />
Otte <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Indianapolis, Indiana<br />
Owner: Frank Otte<br />
GM: Terry Sherard<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Bertges, PGA<br />
www.ottegolf.com<br />
Built back in 1962 by Richard Lotz, his son Steve Lotz, PGA-member now owns and operates<br />
the facility. A real institution in the greater St. Louis area, an amazing number of golfers have<br />
gotten their start at Tower Tee. This family-friendly facility features a range, miniature golf<br />
course, a batting cage area, golf learning center and a fun Par 3 course.
<strong>Golf</strong> Center Des Plaines<br />
Des Plaines, Illinois<br />
Owned and managed by the Des Plaines <strong>Park</strong> District, originally this private project built<br />
in 1997 for $8 million was going to be a member-only facility. In 2000, the <strong>Park</strong> District<br />
purchased the site. It recently received a major facelift with new landing area artificial turf.<br />
Over the Thanksgiving weekend, a three-day “Reopening Celebration” included free range<br />
time, live radio remote broadcasts and more than 10 major club manufacturers. More than<br />
2,000 participants hit as many as 500,000 balls onto the new range turf. Facility features<br />
include: 80 heated stalls with automated tee-up machines; lighted Par-3 golf course; full pro<br />
shop and the Club Casa Cafe & Sports Bar.<br />
Perche Creek <strong>Golf</strong> Course<br />
Columbia, Missouri<br />
Owner: Richard, Peggy and Jake Poe<br />
GM: Jake Poe<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Dennis Goettel, PGA<br />
www.perchecreek.com<br />
Robin Nigro <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Kansas City, Missouri<br />
Owner: Robin Nigro and Mark Nigro<br />
GM: Mark Nigro<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Robin Nigro, LPGA<br />
www.robinnigrogolf.com<br />
Smiley’s <strong>Golf</strong> Complex<br />
Lenexa, Kansas<br />
Owner: Dennis Tull<br />
GM: Thad Borgstadt/Jeff Tull<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Thad Borgstadt, PGA<br />
www.kcmetrogolf.com<br />
Skokie Sports <strong>Park</strong><br />
Skokie, Illinois<br />
Owner: Town of Skokie<br />
GM: Richard Lee<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Chris Pytell, PGA<br />
www.skokieparkdistrict.org<br />
Tower Tee <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
St. Louis, Missouri<br />
Owner: Partnership<br />
GM: Steve Lotz, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Steve Lotz, PGA<br />
www.towertee.com<br />
Vitense <strong>Golf</strong>land<br />
Madison, Wisconsin<br />
Owner: Joel Weitz, PGA<br />
GM: Joel Weitz, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Joel Weitz, PGA<br />
www.vitense.com<br />
Westerville <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Westerville, Ohio<br />
Owner: Erich Gaiser, PGA<br />
GM: Bill Knipe<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Bob Brokaw, PGA<br />
www.westervillegolf.com<br />
Zigfield Troy <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Woodridge, Illinois<br />
Owner: The Troy Family<br />
GM: Dennis & Tim Troy, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Dennis and<br />
Tim Troy, PGA<br />
www.zigfieldtroygolf.com<br />
Miles of <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Ypsilanti, Michigan<br />
The original facility dates to the 1950’s. In 1995, Chris Mile and Doug Davis came in and have<br />
transformed the facility into a major-national facility. In 2005-2006, the golf shop underwent a<br />
major expansion and doubled in size to 10,000 sq. feet. There’s even a “new” Cluboratory, the<br />
club-fitting area that is now twice as large and attached to the golf shop. Patrons have access<br />
to thousands of fitting clubs, two Vector launch monitors and flat-screen TV’s.<br />
MIDWEST
Callaway <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Las Vegas, Nevada<br />
Owner: Boreta Enterprises<br />
GM: Scott Greer<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Scott Greer, PGA<br />
www.callawaygolfcenter.com<br />
Carlsbad <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Carlsbad, California<br />
Owner: Susan Roll, PGA & LPGA/<br />
Dana Chaiken<br />
GM: Jeff Eucce/Kathy Wake<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Sheri Hayes, PGA &<br />
LPGA<br />
www.carlsbadgolfcenter.com<br />
RedTail <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Beaverton, Oregon<br />
Bursting upon the Portland-area scene just a few<br />
years’ back, RedTail <strong>Golf</strong> Center was a multi-million<br />
dollar rehab of an existing public golf course with the<br />
new building of a 78-stall golf center. All tee stalls<br />
are covered and 1/3 are heated for year round play.<br />
Nike Junior <strong>Golf</strong> Camps are featured in the summer<br />
months. A 2,500 sq. ft. pro shop with $500,000 in<br />
inventory focuses on Nike <strong>Golf</strong>, Callaway, Titleist,<br />
Cobra, Taylor-Made, PING and Adams.<br />
50<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
THE TOP<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Columbia Super Range<br />
Everett, Washington<br />
Owner: The Oskoui Family/Columbia<br />
Athletic Club<br />
GM: Hamid Tabrizzi<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Steve Reuhl, PGA<br />
www.columbiaathletic.com<br />
CrackerJax Sports <strong>Park</strong><br />
Scottsdale, Arizona<br />
Owner: Entertainment Ventures, Inc.<br />
GM: Sharee Swander<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: N/A<br />
Web: www.crackerjax.com<br />
Dominguez <strong>Golf</strong> Course &<br />
Practice Center<br />
Carson, California<br />
Owner: American <strong>Golf</strong><br />
GM: Kyle Mitchell<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Eric Manley, PGA<br />
Web: www.americangolf.com<br />
Eaglequest <strong>Golf</strong> Center at<br />
Coquitlam<br />
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada<br />
Owner: EGCI/Nawaz Hirji,<br />
Don Holmstrom, President<br />
GM: Kevin Ikuta<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Steve Busswood, CPGA<br />
www.eaglequestgolf.com<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> in the Round<br />
Salt Lake City, Utah<br />
Owner: Doug Vilven, Master PGA<br />
GM: Doug Vilven, Master PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Doug Vilven, Master<br />
PGA<br />
www.golfintheround.com<br />
Haggin Oaks <strong>Golf</strong> Complex<br />
Sacramento, California<br />
Owner: Ken Morton, Sr.<br />
GM: Jonathan Cullifer<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Mike Woods, PGA<br />
www.hagginoaks.com<br />
Hilton Bay Aqua Range<br />
Reno, Nevada<br />
Owner: Mark Arnold<br />
GM: Wayne Williams<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: N/A<br />
Website: TBD<br />
The Hodges <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Escondido, California<br />
Owner: LLC<br />
GM: Tim Moher, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Greg Casagranda, PGA<br />
www.thehodgesgolf.com<br />
Interbay <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Seattle, Washington<br />
Owner: City of Seattle<br />
GM: Premier <strong>Golf</strong> Centers/Troy Rodvold<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Ron Hanson, PGA<br />
www.premiergc.com<br />
John Wells <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
North Hollywood, California<br />
Owner: L.A. By-Products. Inc.<br />
GM: Mark Fragale<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: NA<br />
Website: TBD<br />
Mariners Point <strong>Golf</strong> Links<br />
Foster City, California<br />
Owner: VB <strong>Golf</strong>, Inc.<br />
GM: Chris Aliaga<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: <strong>Golf</strong> Academy<br />
www.marinerspoint.com<br />
Pin High <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Alviso, California<br />
Owner: Don Rumpf<br />
GM: Rick Soto<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Ron Rumpf<br />
www.pinhighgolfcenter.com
Eaglequest <strong>Golf</strong> Center at Coquitlam<br />
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada<br />
Eaglequest <strong>Golf</strong> Centers comprise seven sites in Canada. Their mission is “to focus on being<br />
assessable to the golfing public.” Their “Learn, Practice, Play” corporate philosophy aims to<br />
make all their facilities an incubator for the game. Every EQ facility features a golf academy<br />
with a consistent approach to be a ‘Home for <strong>Golf</strong>’. EQ has a comprehensive customer loyalty<br />
program that costs $35 a year. They have also developed very specific strategies to help their<br />
woman’s golf programs and junior programs continue to post solid growth.<br />
RCGA <strong>Golf</strong> Centre at Four<br />
Seasons<br />
Calgary, Alberta, Canada<br />
Owner: Royal Canadian <strong>Golf</strong> Association<br />
GM: Chad Rusnak<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Paul Horton, CPGA<br />
www.rcga.org<br />
RedTail <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Beaverton, Oregon<br />
Owner: Red Tail <strong>Golf</strong>, LLC.<br />
GM: Craig Zimmerman<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: RedTail <strong>Golf</strong> Academy<br />
www.golfredtail.com<br />
River <strong>Park</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Fresno, California<br />
Owner: Chris Doos, Russ Taylor and<br />
Gerald Chow<br />
GM: Denis Lincoln<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Chris Doos,<br />
European PGA<br />
www.riverparkgolf.com<br />
Southcenter <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Tukwila, Washington<br />
Owner: LaPianta Ltd Partnership<br />
GM: Jim Bennett, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jim Bennett, PGA<br />
www.southcentergolf.com<br />
Stadium <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
San Diego, California<br />
Owner: Barry Mahlberg / Managing<br />
Partner<br />
GM: Monty Leong, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Scott Mahlberg, PGA<br />
www.stadiumgolf.com<br />
Carlsbad <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Carlsbad, California<br />
Tom Barber <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Moorpark, California<br />
Owner: Tom Barber/Roger Barber &<br />
Partners<br />
GM: Roger Barber, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Tom Barber, PGA<br />
www.teeclub.com/Courses/TomBarberGC<br />
Tualatin Island Greens<br />
Tualatin, Oregon<br />
Owner: Partnership<br />
GM: Todd Andrews, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Todd Andrews, PGA<br />
www.tualatinislandgreens.com<br />
Trails End <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Oregon City, Oregon<br />
GM: John Welsh, PGA<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: John Welsh, PGA<br />
www.trailsendgolf.com<br />
Van Buren <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Riverside, California<br />
Owner: Mike Hancock and Partners<br />
GM: Ray Schmitz<br />
Director of <strong>Golf</strong>: Jason Wood, PGA<br />
www.vanburengolf.com<br />
Four years into new ownership, owners Susan Roll, PGA & LPGA and Dana Chaiken<br />
continue to flourish. Roll was the 2005 LPGA National Professional of the Year and a<br />
finalist for the 2005 PGA National Merchandiser of the Year-Public. A well-respected<br />
teaching program reinforces their strong retail operation. The facility was recently<br />
featured in a six-page article in <strong>Golf</strong> for Women magazine. Twice a year they host<br />
Southern California’s largest outdoor demo days.<br />
WEST
52<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Swaders Sports <strong>Park</strong>, Prince George, Virginia ▲<br />
A recently opened, $4 million family entertainment center, Swaders Sports <strong>Park</strong> is a<br />
family owned and operated business. The Swader Family have carefully built a<br />
facility offering a full-service range and teaching center; 3,700 sq. ft. clubhouse with<br />
snack bar and two party rooms; Go-kart tracks provided by Amusement Products and<br />
DeBord Engineering; batting cages; and two Harris Miniature golf courses. Swaders<br />
Sports <strong>Park</strong> uses a Micros Systems Inc. POS throughout the entire complex.<br />
Tom Barber <strong>Golf</strong> Center<br />
Moorpark, California<br />
Opened in 2000, the roots of the<br />
facility reach deep into the Southern<br />
California golfing soil. Founder Tom<br />
Barber is head professional at Griffith<br />
<strong>Park</strong> and is the son of Jerry Barber, a<br />
former PGA Tour player who won the<br />
1961 PGA Championship. Together, the<br />
two built the first double-decker driving range west of the Mississippi River at<br />
Griffith <strong>Park</strong> in 1968. Tom Barber and his friend and landscape architect Nick<br />
Williams designed the Tom Barber <strong>Golf</strong> Center. The Barber family has been<br />
involved with golf and the PGA since the 1940’s. Tom’s father, Jerry Barber also<br />
captained the Ryder Cup. With a practice green, manicured grass tee line and<br />
mats as well as a short game area the complex is a green oasis in Ventura County.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Quest Family Sport Center<br />
Brookfield, Connecticut<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Quest has two locations in Connecticut:<br />
Brookfield and Southington. They both feature<br />
extensive golf options, miniature golf courses, and<br />
other family fun activities such as bumper boats.<br />
The pro shop facilities are being run by Performance<br />
Clubworks Custom Club Fitting Centers. Frozen Ropes<br />
at <strong>Golf</strong> Quest is now running various baseball/<br />
softball instruction at its Frozen Ropes Field training<br />
complex at <strong>Golf</strong> Quest. With 18 locations in the<br />
U.S. and Canada, Frozen Ropes continues to set<br />
the standard in baseball instruction and player<br />
development. Sports Illustrated, ESPN, The New<br />
York Times, Collegiate Baseball, NESN, Baseball<br />
Parent, to name a few, have featured Frozen Ropes<br />
in recent stories.<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> & Games Family <strong>Park</strong>, Memphis, Tennessee ▼<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> and Games Family <strong>Park</strong> (part of the Putt-Putt <strong>Golf</strong> Family) is celebrating it's 40th<br />
Anniversary with a "40 Years – 40 ACRES OF FUN!" campaign. Their owners like to say<br />
they offer more entertainment options than any other Family Entertainment Center in<br />
the Mid-South. Every year <strong>Golf</strong> & Games makes the list of top 15 tourist attractions in<br />
the Memphis metro area, bringing in around 3 quarters of a million people annually.<br />
They also host over <strong>100</strong> corporate outings and family reunions each season. The range<br />
features 120 plus grass tees and a number of covered bays with mats. Ted Butler’s <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Academy and the <strong>Golf</strong> Academy of Memphis have set up shop there for instruction.<br />
Maumee Sportsmall, Maumee, Ohio ▼<br />
The Maumee Sportsmall is located just outside of Toledo. At Maumee Sportsmall, there are activities<br />
for the whole family: Batting Cages, Miniature <strong>Golf</strong>, Practice Range, 6 Hole Par 3 <strong>Golf</strong> Course, The <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Club Doctor, Soccer Center, and the Steve Mix Basketball Academy. There are 80 grass tees and 25<br />
heated and covered tee stalls.<br />
▲<br />
▲
54<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Harmon <strong>Golf</strong> &<br />
Fitness Club, Rockland,<br />
Massachusetts<br />
Built in 2003 on just less<br />
than <strong>100</strong> acres, Harmon <strong>Golf</strong><br />
and Fitness Center is a new<br />
template for the industry:<br />
a golf practice and training<br />
facility as well as a health/<br />
fitness club rolled into one.<br />
Yearly and monthly payment<br />
plans are available. Fitness<br />
pros from Fitcorp <strong>Golf</strong> fitness<br />
design individual and golf<br />
specific programs. There’s<br />
a short game area as well<br />
as a 9-holer measuring<br />
3,000 yds designed by<br />
architect Brian Silva.<br />
The Clubhouse Grille and<br />
Sports Bar accommodate<br />
125 people.<br />
SportsCenter of Connecticut (<strong>Golf</strong> Center of Connecticut)<br />
Shelton, Connecticut ▲<br />
A sports emporium that started as a humble golf range, the Sports<br />
Center of Connecticut has remade itself over the past decade. Along<br />
with the heated double-decker golf range, landscaped 18-hole miniature<br />
golf course and all-weather baseball/softball batting cages with a<br />
stadium feel, SportsCenter of Connecticut has recently added The Rinks,<br />
two-NHL-sized rinks. SportsCenter’s 15-acre site has become a premier<br />
all-season environment for fitness/fun for participants of all ages and<br />
skill levels.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
▲<br />
Zigfield Troy <strong>Golf</strong>, Woodridge, Illinois ▼<br />
The Troy family has been involved in Chicago-area golf for 70<br />
years dating back to Mr. Zigfield Troy himself. His sons Dennis<br />
and Tim carry on the Troy family golf tradition, as does son<br />
Mike Troy, a PGA instructor there as well. Extensive junior golf<br />
programs are a hallmark of this facility. The practice facility<br />
includes 60 Penncross bluegrass hitting stations – one of the<br />
largest in Illinois – mats for use during wet conditions, half a<br />
dozen heated/sheltered stations for year-round cool weather<br />
comfort, a<br />
practice<br />
chipping and<br />
bunker area,<br />
putting green,<br />
and of course<br />
a Par-3<br />
layout. The<br />
Lost Mountain<br />
Adventure <strong>Golf</strong><br />
mini-layout<br />
is one of the<br />
largest in<br />
their area.<br />
Hilton Bay <strong>Golf</strong><br />
Reno, Nevada<br />
This is one of the most<br />
crowded and popular<br />
aqua ranges in the<br />
world. Hitlon Bay is<br />
located at The Grand<br />
Sierra Resort (formerly<br />
the Reno Hilton.) It<br />
serves as the practice<br />
range for the University<br />
of Reno’s Men’s and<br />
Women’s golf teams.<br />
Both teams also use<br />
the Bunker Indoor <strong>Golf</strong><br />
and Sports Center that<br />
is part of the complex.<br />
All target islands in the<br />
water are equipped with<br />
a sensor that, when hit,<br />
allows for prizes. On<br />
weekend nights the<br />
music comes on and the<br />
place positively swings.<br />
▲<br />
Sun ’N’ Air Driving Range<br />
Danvers, Massachusetts<br />
The teaching staff at Sun ‘n Air includes Rick<br />
DePamphilis, PGA Master Pro and a Top 50 <strong>Golf</strong> Range<br />
Magazine award winner and Dennis Nestle voted #1<br />
Instructor on the North Shore. The facility offers<br />
“NexLevel” <strong>Golf</strong> Instruction Specialty Clinics aimed at<br />
new golfers, women-only programs and juniors. With<br />
a 3-hole practice course, grass tees, bunker practice<br />
area and a 8,500 sq ft. putting green built to USGA<br />
specs, teaching is major draw.<br />
▲
56<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
The Downs <strong>Golf</strong> Practice Facility, Tampa, Florida ▲<br />
This past October, the Downs <strong>Golf</strong> Practice Facility hosted An Evening for<br />
Kelly Jo, a fundraiser for Kelly Jo Dowd and her charity ‘Making Memories<br />
Breast Cancer Foundation.’ (Dowd is pictured in the middle.) Several PGA<br />
and LPGA Tour professionals participated in the event including Rich Beem,<br />
John Huston, Woody Austin, Greg Kraft and Brittany Lincicome (shown<br />
here on the left). Kelly Jo Dowd’s daughter, Dakota (shown on right) is a<br />
13-year-old golf prodigy from nearby Tarpon Springs and currently the<br />
highest ranked female golfer in her age group and a regular student of<br />
Matt Mitchell, instructor at the Downs.<br />
Skokie Sports <strong>Park</strong>, Skokie, Illinois ▲<br />
A two-tier facility with 40 automatic tees, Skokie Sports <strong>Park</strong> is just 12 miles from downtown<br />
Chicago. According to Richard Lee, <strong>Golf</strong> Operations Manager who runs the Skokie Sports <strong>Park</strong><br />
for the <strong>Park</strong> District, the <strong>Park</strong> is most proud of being the organizer of the North Suburban Junior<br />
Travel League. The Skokie <strong>Park</strong> District, in conjunction with seven other area park districts,<br />
provides an 8-week playing and lesson program serving over <strong>100</strong> junior golfers under the age of<br />
14 and providing them a venue to develop skills to get them ready for high school golf teams.<br />
Mid-Atlantic <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Silver Springs, Maryland ▲<br />
As a sister facility to what is now the remodeled Top<strong>Golf</strong> at<br />
Kingstown facility, Mid-Atlantic was built in 2001. Built along<br />
the lines of the original Kingstown facility, the facility is spread<br />
over 17 acres and includes: 75 tees on two-levels; a putting<br />
green; miniature golf course; 2,000 sq. ft pro shop and a snack<br />
bar. Three PGA teaching pros run the instruction efforts.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
Begin Oaks <strong>Golf</strong>, Plymouth, Minnesota ▼<br />
A family-owned operation that opened in 2000, Begin Oaks was carved out of the<br />
Begin family farm of 70 acres. The facility includes a full practice facility along with a<br />
9-hole short course designed by Bill Philips of the Philips <strong>Golf</strong> Design in Tempe, AZ.<br />
The 2,400 sq ft clubhouse includes a pro shop. The facility is proud of its work with<br />
the Executive Women’s <strong>Golf</strong> Association and the Minnesota State Special Olympics.<br />
Woods <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Norristown, Pennsylvania ▼<br />
Also know as Woody’s, Woods <strong>Golf</strong> Center is a three-generation operation that dates<br />
to 1947. Family spokesman Penn Wood is proud of serving thousands of area golfers<br />
for over a half century. The facility includes more than <strong>100</strong> tees, many on grass,<br />
as well as an 18-hole, Par-3 course, a putting green as well as 2 mini-golf courses.<br />
Here David Mobley, the 2004 RE/MAX World Long Drive Champion (Ranked #1 in<br />
the World by Long Drivers of<br />
America in 2003, 2004 and 2005)<br />
puts on an exhibition at the largest<br />
Philadelphia-area demo day held<br />
at Woods <strong>Golf</strong> Center.<br />
Interbay <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Seattle, Washington ▼<br />
Built in 1997, Interbay is located between four major residential centers<br />
and is only two miles from the business district of Seattle. One of six<br />
courses managed by Premier <strong>Golf</strong> Centers, Interbay features a two-tier<br />
range with 80 tees- 40 are covered and heated. There is also an Executive<br />
9-hole course; an 18-hole miniature golf course and a remodeled 1200 sq.<br />
ft. retail pro shop.<br />
In high season the<br />
facility has 7 PGA<br />
pros working and<br />
4 year-round. A<br />
full-service café<br />
serves beer and<br />
wine.
58<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Fairfield <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Fairfield, Ohio ▲<br />
Fairfield <strong>Golf</strong> Center, with its large golf practice area as well as extensive pro<br />
shop is a magnet for area golfers. The center offers meeting opportunities<br />
for local corporations looking for off-site meeting space. The 9,000-squarefoot<br />
clubhouse includes a meeting room with space for 30 people, and<br />
another separate classroom, complete with chalkboard and multimedia<br />
capability that can accommodate up to 15 people. We don’t know if the nuns<br />
were taking advantage of this classroom opportunity, but we do know they<br />
enjoyed a lively and competitive round of miniature golf!<br />
Family <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong>, Kansas City, Missouri ▼<br />
A full service, family environment is found at Family <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong>.<br />
They continue with their innovative School Birthday Book Club that<br />
is a special reading program in more than 30 area schools. Their<br />
Girl’s <strong>Golf</strong> League is a program designed to encourage area high<br />
school girls to play golf. A new Junior <strong>Golf</strong> League including 8<br />
weeks of league play with two-person teams playing in a scramble<br />
format, all monitored<br />
by the<br />
pros has been a<br />
hit. The facility<br />
will expand in<br />
2007 the “Glow<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>” miniature<br />
golf concept<br />
they tried a few<br />
times with good<br />
results.<br />
Orange County National, Winter Garden, Florida ▲<br />
Orange County National is in a league all its own. OCN is on<br />
922 acres with 45 holes of golf. The golf range complex is the<br />
largest in the U.S. and is 360 degrees in shape. It plays host to<br />
the Demo Day at the annual PGA Merchandise Show every<br />
January. In 2007, the Demo Day will be held January 24.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
Trails End <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Oregon City, Oregon ▼<br />
The Trails End <strong>Golf</strong> Center opened in the spring of 2000 and is considered “the premier<br />
practice facility in the Portland metro area” by the Oregonian. With 45 covered and<br />
heated tees and two expansive grass tee areas, golfers are able to enjoy practicing<br />
throughout the entire year. Trails End <strong>Golf</strong> Center’s special short game area features<br />
one of the largest<br />
putting greens in<br />
Oregon at 17,000<br />
square feet.<br />
Eaglequest <strong>Golf</strong> Center at Coquitlam<br />
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada ▼<br />
The Eaglequest Rewards Club is active at all seven of their Canadian<br />
locations. Members receive savings on practically everything, including<br />
green fees, range balls and selected retail items, all the while collecting<br />
points for every purchase made. These points can be redeemed for<br />
further Eaglequest<br />
services. The EQ<br />
staff also markets<br />
corporate team<br />
building programs.<br />
Companies can<br />
meet in the 50<br />
person Board<br />
Room then enjoy a<br />
tournament on the<br />
championship par<br />
27 nine-hole golf<br />
course or their<br />
18-hole mini<br />
golf course.<br />
Hank Haney <strong>Golf</strong> Ranch at Vista Ridge, Lewisville, Texas ▼<br />
There have been a few changes at Hank Haney <strong>Golf</strong>. The original <strong>Golf</strong> Ranch is in<br />
the process of being redeveloped and the Citipoint facility will soon become a new<br />
Top<strong>Golf</strong> location. The “new” Ranch is the Vista Ridge facility. Upholding the high<br />
standards of the other Haney locations inlcuing Hank Haney at Westridge; Texarkana<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Ranch and Cityplace <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Vista Ridge features a well designed, range<br />
and learning center and a 9-hole executive length course designed by Haney and<br />
Jimmy Fazio. An<br />
8,000 sq. ft. main<br />
building supports<br />
a 3,000 sq. ft. fullservice<br />
pro shop.
60<br />
GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Twin Pines Driving Range,<br />
Epping, New Hampshire ▼<br />
We include in our PORTFOLIO facilities<br />
that may not yet be Top <strong>100</strong> but are<br />
making a good case for their inclusion.<br />
In small markets facilities can thrive,<br />
and William Langdon has done just that<br />
with his father, Gerald Langdon. The<br />
hallmark of their facility is the customclub<br />
work they<br />
do with brands<br />
such as KZG and<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>smith. In fact,<br />
Bill received<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>smith’s<br />
2006-2007 Top<br />
Ten Worldwide<br />
Clubmaker of<br />
the Year award.<br />
East Potomac<br />
<strong>Golf</strong> Course,<br />
Washington, D.C.<br />
There’s no mistaking<br />
where you are when<br />
you’re hitting balls or<br />
The <strong>Highlands</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> Center, Ruckersville, Virginia ▲<br />
<strong>Golf</strong>ing roots run deep at this family-owned facility located just outside<br />
of Charlottesville. Owned by Anne-Marie Scheuermann, a former LPGA<br />
teaching pro and her husband, the facility which includes their daughter,<br />
Gretchen an LPGA teaching pro, is dedicated to the memory of Scheuermann’s<br />
father, Leslie Mercer. Mercer was a teaching pro of Scottish heritage involved for<br />
many years in tournament play and with the USGA’s Junior <strong>Golf</strong> Committee.<br />
PGA <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Center<br />
Port St. Lucie, Florida ▲<br />
The PGA Learning Center is perhaps the finest golf learning center of<br />
its kind in the world today. Home to the 2002, 2004 and just completed<br />
2006 PGA Teaching & Coaching Summit, the 35 acre dream practice<br />
and learning facility includes a 3 hole teaching course; putting course<br />
and USGA-spec putting greens. One of the facility highlights is the<br />
series of nine practice bunkers showcasing construction design and<br />
sand standards used at a variety of courses from around the world.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
▼<br />
playing the short course<br />
at East Potomac. With<br />
distant views of the<br />
Washington Monument<br />
and other Washington<br />
D.C. landmarks, East<br />
Potomac <strong>Golf</strong> Course is<br />
a public golf refuge in<br />
the nation’s capitol.<br />
Managed by <strong>Golf</strong> Course<br />
Specialists, Inc., East<br />
Potomac features a two-tier golf range with <strong>100</strong> stalls; The White Course is a 9-hole, 2,505<br />
yard short course; The Red Course is a Par 3 course while the Blue Course is a regulation<br />
18 hole course. The Capital City <strong>Golf</strong> School runs all the teaching and training programs.<br />
Smiley’s <strong>Golf</strong> Complex, Lenexa, Kansas ▼<br />
Smiley’s remains a positive template in the industry for community engagement.<br />
They donate the use of the facility (range and 18-hole executive course) to over 12<br />
area high schools and colleges. The 3rd Annual Idiot’s <strong>Golf</strong> Open (held in the winter<br />
snows of February on their Executive Course!) to benefit Kansas City Hospice netted<br />
over $15,000. The golf event features a silent and live auction, luncheon and plenty<br />
of prizes. Smiley’s also hosted four high school golf tournaments this past year.<br />
Vitense <strong>Golf</strong>land, Madison, Wisconsin ▼<br />
Vitense <strong>Golf</strong>land is 51 years old and now comes with a new 20,000 sq. foot indoor addition.<br />
The owners just added the Green Tree Grill, two community rooms, birthday party rooms, an<br />
indoor putting green and indoor academy bays. There is also the new Madison “Landmark”<br />
miniature golf course. Next to the Academy is golf space for Nevada Bob’s. The Grand<br />
Opening celebration<br />
of the new building<br />
coincided with 10 days<br />
of special activities!
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GOLF RANGE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>100</strong><br />
THE TOP<br />
GOLF RANGES IN AMERICA 2006<br />
Leatherman <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Center, Charlotte, North Carolina ▲<br />
Since taking over the operation that was the old Michael Jordan <strong>Golf</strong> Center, owner and<br />
PGA member Chris Leatherman reaches out to the community in many ways: hosts clinics,<br />
volunteers at the USBGA Camp for Visually Impaired Children; Special Olympics donates<br />
the facility for its annual cookout and mini-golf/range party; is Involved with local chapter<br />
of Executive Women’s <strong>Golf</strong> Association; participates in the Free 10 Minute Lesson Program<br />
and even hosted a Play <strong>Golf</strong> America Day in March 2005. The 3,000 sq. ft. pro shop is<br />
stocked with many specialty items and name-brand clubs and softgoods.<br />
The <strong>Golf</strong> Club At Chelsea Piers, New York, New York ▲<br />
The <strong>Golf</strong> Academy at Chelsea Piers, in New York City offers a high-tech,<br />
2,000-square-foot indoor training center. There’s also an indoor bunker complex<br />
and two Full Swing simulators, as well as full digital instruction. The <strong>Golf</strong> Academy<br />
features a variety of schools and private/semi-private instruction for novice and<br />
accomplished golfers. With 12 instructors in the Academy, The <strong>Golf</strong> Club at<br />
Chelsea Piers is the major player in Gotham when it comes to golf instruction.<br />
Highland Green <strong>Golf</strong> Links, Jackson, Tennessee ▲<br />
Special kudos to Keith Dory who owns and manages Highland <strong>Golf</strong> Links in<br />
Jackson, TN. Growing up in Milwaukee and playing Dreztka <strong>Golf</strong> Course, he<br />
went on to a college golf career. Now he runs a facility, built back in 1962,<br />
that is approaching a Top <strong>100</strong> because of his drive. With 51 grass tees and a<br />
9 hole short course, Dory is pursuing his dream as its new owner and head<br />
teaching professional. He’s proud that his students have earned $500,000 in<br />
scholarships through his junior academy.<br />
portfolio❉<br />
Arundel <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong>, Glen Burnie, Maryland ▼<br />
Arundel <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Park</strong> one of the most complete state-of-the-art practice facilities in<br />
Maryland. The range is lighted and includes heated stalls. There is miniature golf<br />
as well as baseball batting cages. The teaching staff is noted for their extensive<br />
junior and women programs. For the past two years they’ve served as a regional<br />
host for the Re/Max Long Drive<br />
Qualifier as well as for the<br />
LDA Pinnacle Exceptional<br />
Driver Championship.<br />
Perche Creek <strong>Golf</strong> Club, Columbia, Missouri ▼<br />
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Perche Creek is one of those classic golf and sport facilities<br />
that caters to a full range of users. With top quality golf, an 18-hole short course, a 2,000<br />
sq. ft pro shop, batting cages and go-karts, there’s something for everyone. Started by<br />
Richard Poe, a golf patriarch around Columbia, who was the head golf professional at the<br />
Country Club of Missouri from 1972-90 and the head men’s golf coach at the University of<br />
Missouri from 1977-99. Richards’s son, Jake, joins him in every facet of the operation. Jake<br />
is a graduate of Stanford and was a walk-on for<br />
the golf team in 1994, in the same class as<br />
Notah Begay and Tiger Woods. Perche Creek<br />
continues to expand and Jake even opened a<br />
new downtown Columbia pro shop location.<br />
All Seasons <strong>Golf</strong> Learning Center, Normal, Illinois ▼<br />
This place has it all...the new Hollrock <strong>Golf</strong>/Pareto autotee’s, synthetic turf<br />
landing area, a stable of top professionals and a well-stocked pro shop.<br />
It even features a rather upscale eating establishment called Swingers Grill<br />
with great views over the facility. Next up is a sports bar called Scores that<br />
will open later this winter. Rain or shine, with two-tiers of<br />
covered and heated bays, this college town knows where<br />
to hang out.