CDL golf course 15th Hole-Island Green-Real vs online golf
August 27, 2024 Golf Course, Technics No Comments

Indoor Golf vs Outdoor Golf: Course Comparison-Coeur D’Alene Golf Course 

In recent years, golf simulators have become increasingly popular, providing golfers with a convenient and engaging way to practice and play the game year-round. The high-tech systems like the ones we use here at OGP, incorporate advanced tracking sensors and detailed 3D course recreations to offer an immersive golf experience indoors.

outdoor-golf-course-comparison-to-indoor-golf-course
https://www.cdaresort.com/golf-course/

While golf simulators undoubtedly offer numerous benefits, such as instant feedback, weather-independent play, and the ability to sample courses from around the world, the question remains – how does the simulator experience compare to playing on an actual golf course? I have you covered. As a recently graduated collegiate golfer, I had the opportunity to play a number of beautiful courses in the United States-many of which are playable on our simulator. There is one course in particular that I had the pleasure of playing a number of times-enough times that I can confidently say I can sufficiently compare the simulator version to the real deal. This course is Coeur D’Alene Golf Course, located in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. The stunning course is, in my opinion, a must play. It is far away though, so for now, let me tell you how close you can get to playing the real thing from right here at OGP.

In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the simulator vs. reality comparison hole-by-hole, looking at just how accurate our technology is in comparison to the IRL golf course. I used one of my old yardage books to compare, and I promise to be as honest as possible!

Let’s begin.

Hole-By-Hole

The first hole is a dog-leg right, and as the hole-by hole on the website states, the fairway is forgiving, and for those looking to go for the green in two, a right center tee shot is preferred to take the trees on the left out of play. A lay up left is a safe play, but the green is reachable, both in real life and on the simulator. From what I recall, there is a somewhat steep slope down off the right side of the green, which isn’t as visible or in play on the simulator (this makes it easier to score here though). The slopes of the green are accurate to the green book.

Hole 2 is a test to say the least. It is definitely easier to play on the simulator in comparison to the real thing, where the long, slight dog-leg right par 4 demands accuracy in order to be set up for a good second shot. Yesterday I hit my drive slightly left, and while I would’ve been struggling on my approach in real life, I was easily able to hit it from the rough on the sim. The slight false front is less pronounced digitally, but definitely still comes into play, and the big green slopes fairly accurately.

The third hole is a slightly daunting one to look at, both in person and on the simulator, and from what I can remember, it plays almost exactly the same in both circumstances. Aiming right allows the ball to kick well off the slope and roll close to the hole. The biggest simulator benefit here in my opinion, is the fact that you don’t need to hike up the humongous hill after you finish out the hole.

Hole 4 again, plays almost exactly the same as it does in real life. You have to lay-up off the tee into a good position in order to be able to attack the pin. The approach is said to play 6-7 yards up in my book and on the sim alike-so if you’re worried about slope accuracy indoors, don’t be.

Hole 5 and 6 are both par threes-and extremely interesting ones at that. One thing I will say about these two holes is that you do need to see them, and the sim doesn’t quite give you the same view as what you would have in person. Hole 5 is home to a clover-shaped, three-tiered green that is surrounded by one of the world’s largest bunkers, and a number of rust-toned rock outcroppings. Each prong of the green is very narrow. In real life, aiming at the middle every single time is the right play, but on the sim it seems much less daunting to fire one right at the pin. I guess it helps that you’re automatically lined up straight! The tiers in the green definitely come into play as they would in real life, so keep that in mind.

Hole 6 plays extremely downhill-18 yards down on the sim, and 20 yards down in my yardage book. The ball rolls a fair amount off the back in both cases. There are steep slopes on the left and the right and they do come into play in both the digital and real versions of the golf course.

Holes 7 is pretty straightforward, the bunkers are less in play on the digital version, but the overall look of the hole is set up really nicely and very similar to the real thing. Same with hole 8. There is a tree in the middle of the fairway that comes into play as much as it would in real life. I’ve hit straight into it in both cases, and trust me, the ball bounces off those branches the same way.

Hole 9, 10, 11, and 12, are fairly straightforward and similar to the real deal-maybe a touch easier to play. 13 is an interesting one. Depending on tees you can go for the green off the tee, but honestly, I think this hole plays harder on the simulator than it does in real life. The sim makes the water off the left seem more daunting than it is, and for some reason it’s just tricky to hit a straight tee shot. Wind also comes into play digitally, but because you can’t feel it, it’s tricky to remember to take it into account-beware of this when you play any sim courses!

14 is the course’s signature hole. One of only two island greens to exist, this one is a sight to see. Though you get a good look digitally, you don’t get to take the boat up to the green as you do in real life. In terms of golf alone though, the hole plays accurately.

15 is a short par 5, easy to reach but hard to putt on since the green is about 35 yards long, and narrow. The drive and approach shots are accurate, and the greenside bunkers prove a challenge. 16 is a classic hole, not much to it.

17 plays very different in real life to the simulator. It is extremely short, and very drivable off the tee on the simulator. In real life there is a thick tree line on both sides that make accuracy very necessary. These are not present in the digital version, making it easy to just bomb one down there.

Last but not least, the 18th hole. This one is a bunker-filled challenge both digitally and in real life. The simulator pin placement is placed far back in the corner of the green, making it really difficult to approach the hole. The green is sloped and this is reflected, and the giant bunker is very hard to hit out of despite not having real sand on the mats.

So, Indoor or Outdoor?

There is no right answer to this question-both have benefits and drawbacks. Overall, the simulator tends to downplay the severity of certain hazards like deep bunkers, steep slopes, and dramatic elevation changes that are more pronounced on the actual golf course. So holes with these types of features see the biggest differences between the virtual and real-world experience. Courses like this one are played much for the untouchable experiences they provide, but honestly, if you’re just looking to see an accurate depiction of a course and play some golf without the constraints of travel, time and weather, then it’s perfect! I will admit, it is also much easier to score indoors because you don’t have to hit out of funky lies like bunkers or thick rough.

Generally, I highly recommend coming down to play some courses on our simulators. Chambers Bay, Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines are a few others I’ve played in real life and on the sim, and it’s lovely to see the comparisons and even just to “see the course” on the screen. We have an awesome selection here at OGP-so seriously, come and try them out!

Call or WhatsApp us to book a bay now!

 

Golfer on putting green
August 6, 2024 Golf Course, Golf Tips No Comments

Sink More Putts, Stick More Chips: The Benefits of Dedicated Short Game Training

As golfers, we’re often tempted to focus the majority of our practice time on perfecting our full swing mechanics and hitting the ball farther. While there’s value in improving your long game, the real key to lower scores often lies in your short game prowess.

Think about it – how many times have you hit a solid drive only to struggle with your next shot from 50 yards or less? Or found yourself agonizingly close to the hole with a tricky downhill putt that just wouldn’t fall? These short game situations are where the majority of strokes are gained or lost in golf. Mastering them through deliberate, targeted practice is one of the fastest paths to lowering your handicap.

At our indoor facility, you can dedicate focused practice to your putting, chipping, and pitching. We offer short target practice and chipping simulation practice to help you hone these critical skills. And we have exciting new developments coming soon that will add even more possibilities for short game improvement.

Let’s explore a few of the core benefits of investing time in short game training:

 

Up-and-Down Proficiency

We’ve all been there – hitting a beautiful tee shot only to then shank, chunk, or top our next shot from short yardage. Being able to consistently hit these or get up-and-down from the fringe, rough, or bunker is a hallmark of a skilled golfer.

With proper chipping and pitching technique, you can stick more of your greenside shots close to the hole, giving you makeable par-saving or birdie opportunities. Shaving off just one to two strokes in your short game per round can have a substantial influence on your golf game as a whole. By dedicating focused practice to these critical short game skills, you’ll start to see tangible improvements in your ability to save par from tricky situations around the greens. No more wasted shots – you’ll be sticking it close time and time again, giving you the confidence to attack the flag and lower your scores.

We have expert coaches here who can help you hone your technique, and technology where you can practice your feel and see your swing. Our coaches are also equipped with Capto, a cutting edge putting analysis system offering real-time detailed accurate and reliable putting parameters for complete analysis. Come in before you get out onto the golf course and dial yourself in as much as possible.

 

Reliable Putting Stroke

Hours spent honing your pace control and distance control on the practice green will translate to more one-putts and fewer three-putts on the course. A trusty putting stroke is the foundation of a strong short game.

Our WellPutt Big Tilt platform gives you the ability to gain an understanding of where the ball should start and finish, and how the speed at which you hit the ball can affect its roll. On the course, knowing how speed and line interact is extremely important. The WellPutt also lets you see your stroke track and marks for foot position – so give it a try and get comfortable with your putter. Dialing in your putting skills is one of the fastest paths to lowering your scores. With the right practice tools and techniques, you can transform this often overlooked part of your game. Eliminate those costly three-putts and start sinking more of those par and birdie opportunities.

Take advantage of our specialized putting practice area to hone your stroke, distance control, and green reading abilities. The payoff will be evident the next time you step out on the course.

 

Course Management Savvy

An understanding of how far back to take your club for a certain shot, and knowing how your ball will react off the putter or wedge, allows you to strategize more effectively on the course. This knowledge enables you to better navigate tricky situations and plot your way around with confidence. Through repetitive practice, you’ll develop the feel and comfort to execute these delicate shots with consistency. Whether it’s chipping, pitching, or putting, dedicated repetition is key to improving your distance control and overall precision.

By dedicating focused practice to your chipping, pitching, and putting, you’ll start to ingrain the mechanics and feel required to consistently execute these critical shots. No more guesswork – you’ll know precisely how to adjust your stroke and club selection to achieve the desired outcome.

 

Scoring Confidence-Invest the time to master distance control, and watch your scores plummet.  

Perhaps most importantly, dedicating time to short game practice instills a profound sense of trust in your abilities around the green. You’ll approach these high-pressure shots with the calm assurance that you have the skills to execute them successfully.

The beauty of short game training is that you don’t need hours upon hours at the range to see tangible improvements. Even 20-30 minutes a few times per week can make a measurable difference. So the next time you’re tempted to hit driver after driver, consider spending that time perfecting your touch, feel, and distance control around the greens. It just might be the missing link to better scores.

As of right now, we have great approach shot training options on our simulators, where you can practice dialing in your distance control and feel. Soon you’ll be able to hit real-life chips, watching the ball release and fly the whole way, because WE’RE EXPANDING!

We will soon have a beautiful state-of-the-art short game facility equipped with a Zen Stage, as featured on Rick Shiel’s channel, trackman technology, and a REAL sand bunker with a two tiered green. If you’re looking for a place to tackle all possible aspects of your game, look no further than OGP, we’ve got you covered.

For more information about the expansion, or to learn about our especially lovely early bird deals and specials, contact us or come on down!

 

 

July 4, 2024 Golf Course, Golf Tips

Unlock Your Golf Potential: The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Golf Simulator Training

How to structure your indoor golf practice and use the technology to your advantage.

In the ever-evolving world of golf, one tool has become increasingly more accessible, and essential for players of all skill levels – the golf simulator or indoor golf driving range. These advanced technologies have revolutionized the way we practice, train, and improve our game, allowing us to step up our performance and unlock our true golfing potential, both in and outside of golf lessons. Plus, with the Hong Kong summer heat, what could be better than playing some indoor golf?

The Power of the Indoor Driving Range Training

Gone are the days when golf practice was limited to the driving range or the occasional round on the course. Golf simulators have opened up a new realm of possibilities, enabling us to hone our skills in a controlled, data-driven environment. The advanced systems that we have here at OGP use state-of-the-art sensors and software to provide detailed feedback on every aspect of our swing, ball flight, and overall performance. By analyzing the data generated during our indoor golf sessions, we can pinpoint areas for improvement, experiment with different techniques, and track our progress over time. This level of insight is invaluable for golfers looking to take their game to the next level.

Maximizing Your Indoor Golf Experience

To truly harness the power of golf simulator training, it’s essential to approach it with a strategic mindset. The numbers are abundant, and can be confusing sometimes. Here, we will break down a few of the most basic data points that the simulators in our facility provide you with, and then give you some tips to make the most out of your practice session.

Golf Swing Data from Golf Lessons. Indoor Golf Hong Kong

Spin Rate 

Your spin rate numbers can be found on the right of the screen, along with your other data. It will be in the middle section. Spin rate refers to the amount of spin on the golf ball immediately after impact. This rate of spin influences the height and distance of your golf shot, as well as the direction the ball will travel in the air. Clubs with higher loft typically have higher spin rates, and vice versa. More club speed will also increase spin rates, so many tour golfers will have higher spin rates even with longer clubs. Understanding your own spin rate will give you a much better understanding of your ball flight and short game. To see a full list of tour spin rate averages, visit TrackMan PGA and LPGA Tour Averages 

Indoor Golf Simulator Data from golf lesson

Launch Angle 

The launch angle is located under “side angle” on the right side of the screen when you are in the driving range setting, and shows you what angle the ball launches off of the club face in degrees. Optimal launch angles for each club depend on the player, their equipment and their swing, but for the most part, it should fall within a certain bracket. If the launch angle is too high, this can mean that contact isn’t clean. Launch angles decrease when you hit down on the ball (ball-first contact). 

For most golfers, aspiring towards LPGA launch angle numbers is a good goal to have. Click here for a complete list of trackman PGA and LPGA tour averages.

Smash factor

Smash factor is the amount of energy transferred from the club head to the golf ball. You’ll see this number in the top right corner, under the ball and club speed data. When the club head transfers energy to the ball efficiently, the smash factor goes up. To work on increasing this number, you want to work on contact, swing path, and swing speed-which our indoor technology makes much easier for you to do. Work on these and then watch your smash factor go up.

Launch angle data from indoor driving range golf lesson hong kong

Swing Recordings

Watch your swings! Our Uneekor cameras film your swing in real time and can store these videos during your practice session if you choose. When you watch a swing and look at your data, it makes it easy to connect the feeling to the outcome. This is the first step towards optimizing your practice. If, for example, you slice a shot, you can look at your numbers and see where the miss might have come from. Once you see it, fixing it becomes a more tangible possibility. 

Make the Most out of Your Session

Establish Clear Goals

Before stepping into the indoor driving range, take the time to define your specific goals, whether it’s improving your driving distance, fine-tuning your putting stroke, or mastering a particular shot. This will help you tailor your practice and measure your progress. 

Embrace Deliberate Practice

Effective golf simulator training requires a focus on deliberate practice. This means purposefully challenging yourself, trying new things, and stepping outside your comfort zone to identify and address your weaknesses.

Utilize the Data

The wealth of data provided by golf simulators is one of their greatest assets. Carefully analyze the feedback you receive, and use it to refine your technique, adjust your club selection, and optimize your overall performance.

Vary Your Routines

To keep your training engaging and effective, mix up your simulator sessions by incorporating different drills, playing virtual courses, and experimenting with various club and ball combinations.

Seek Guidance

Consider working with a golf coach or instructor who can provide expert guidance on how to maximize the benefits of your simulator training. Here at OGP, our coaches have a wealth of knowledge that they are willing to impart on their trainees. They can help you develop a personalized training plan and offer valuable insights based on the data.so you can take what you learn from lessons and apply that knowledge to your own individual practice sessions. 

Unlock Your Golfing Potential

By embracing golf simulator training, you’re taking a powerful step towards unlocking your true golfing potential. With the ability to refine your skills in a controlled environment, analyze your performance data, and continuously challenge yourself, you’ll be well on your way to reaching new heights in your game.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of indoor golf training with us here at OGP and watch your game soar to new levels of excellence.

Hong Kong Golf Club Driving Range 770x896
June 30, 2024 Golf Course, Golf Tips

Hitting the Links: Indoor Golf Simulators (Indoor Driving Range) vs. Outdoor Driving Ranges

Are Outdoor Driving Ranges better than Indoor Golf Simulators for your game?

Hong Kong Golf Club Driving Range

For golfers looking to hone their skills, the decision between practicing at an indoor golf simulator versus an outdoor driving range is an important one. Both offer unique advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors to weigh when choosing between these two practice options.

Convenience and Accessibility

One of the primary benefits of using an indoor golf simulator is the convenience and accessibility it provides. Indoor driving ranges are often located in dedicated facilities or even at some golf courses, making them readily available year-round, regardless of weather conditions. This is especially advantageous for golfers in Hong Kong during the summer when the heat and humidity can get out of hand. With a simulator, you can squeeze in a quick practice session any time, day or night, without having to travel to a driving range.

In contrast, outdoor driving ranges are subject to the whims of Mother Nature. Inclement weather can force ranges to close, disrupting your practice schedule. And depending on your location, driving ranges may require longer travel, reducing your flexibility.

Realism and Feedback

When it comes to realism, outdoor driving ranges typically have the edge over indoor simulators. Hitting balls into an open field, and being able to see the ball fly, can provide a more authentic golfing experience.

Some outdoor driving ranges are also equipped with Trackman Range, which provide ball data including carry, total, ball speed, apex, launch angle etc.

That said, indoor simulators do offer enhanced feedback and data-tracking capabilities that can be invaluable for improving your game. Most modern simulators are equipped with high-speed cameras and sensors that provide additional detailed information on ball data as well as club data such as angle-of-attack and other critical metrics. This granular data can help you identify and address specific weaknesses in your swing, allowing for more targeted and efficient practice.

Cost and Access

Another important consideration is the cost and accessibility of each practice option. Outdoor driving ranges are generally more affordable, with many offering pay-per-visit or membership options. This can be particularly beneficial for casual golfers or those on a tighter budget.

Indoor golf simulators, on the other hand, often come with a slightly higher price tag. Renting time at a simulator facility can cost a little more, especially in high-demand areas. However, for dedicated golfers who are serious about improving their game, indoor golf driving ranges in close proximity can limit travel time and help them get the practise in.

OGP’s Take – Indoor + Outdoor + On-Course

Ultimately, the choice between an indoor golf simulator and an outdoor driving range will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. The most important thing is to get out there and practice, regardless of whether it’s on an indoor simulator or an outdoor range.We do encourage our golfers to practise both indoors and outdoors to get the most out of each. Getting on the course as much as possible is also an important factor in lowering your scores.

Kau Sai Chau golf course
June 16, 2024 Golf Course, Golf Tips

The Importance of Playing on Course to Lower Golf Scoring or Handicap

As any avid golfer knows, lowering your score and improving your game is a constant pursuit. From fine-tuning your swing mechanics to perfecting your short game, there are many elements that go into becoming a better player. However, one factor that is often overlooked is the importance of actually getting out on the golf course and playing rounds, rather than just practicing on the range.

While range sessions are valuable for dialing in your technique and trying out new shots, there is simply no substitute for the experience of playing a full round and dealing with the unique challenges that come up on the course. Here are a few key reasons why playing on course is so crucial for lowering your scores:

Course Management

When you’re out on the fairways and greens, you have to make a constant stream of strategic decisions – what club to use, where to position your shots, how to navigate hazards, etc. This on-the-fly course management is a skill in itself that can only be developed through actual course play. Practicing on the range doesn’t expose you to these types of in-game decisions.

Dealing with Pressure and Nerves

The pressure and nerves of playing a competitive round are very different from the controlled environment of the driving range. Learning to manage your mental game and swing mechanics under the stress of an actual scorecard is crucial. Range sessions simply can’t replicate that feeling.

Developing a Rhythm

Golf is a game of feel and rhythm, and that rhythm can only be established through extended play on the course. The flow of teeing off, walking the fairway, executing your shots, and reading the green is something that has to be experienced to be ingrained.

Identifying Weaknesses

When you’re out on the course, you’ll quickly identify the parts of your game that need the most work. Maybe you’re struggling with your driving consistency, or your approach shots keep finding the bunker. These course-specific weaknesses won’t necessarily show up on the range, but will become glaringly obvious during an 18-hole round.

Develop a Scoring Mindset

In the end, the old adage “practice makes perfect” is only half true in golf. The other half is “playing makes perfect.” No matter how much time you spend on the range, you have to complement that with regular rounds on the course to see true improvement in your scoring. So the next time you’re tempted to just hit the range, consider booking a tee time instead – your handicap will thank you.

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