With the Alberta golf season shorter than most places in the world, the Red Deer Golf and Country Club has long been looking for a way to extend it.
While they haven’t created a weather bubble to protect the course from the winter – in the next few weeks the club is set to open a permanent indoor golf facility.
Hawk’s Alley, as the course is calling it, is an indoor golf facility with four golf simulators, a four-hole putting green and a full-service lounge.
“We had ideas last winter of installing one simulator but we couldn’t find the right space in our clubhouse. In the summer of 2020 we decided that we would renovate our old turf care facility into what is now known as Hawk’s Alley,” said Dean Manz, head professional at RDGCC.
“Hawk’s Alley is adjacent to the clubhouse which is nice to have it so close. We started construction in late October, and the project was completed this week.”
A sneak peak into @HawksAlley at @rdgcc1922 @ForesightSports. The Hawks have landed. 🦅 🦅 🦅 pic.twitter.com/UdmtWb1K0I
— Dean Manz (@deanmanz) January 7, 2021
Manz said many courses in the province have set up temporary simulators in their lounges because of the pandemic, but few have gone as all out as RDGCC.
He said they wanted a full-time setup that they could potentially use year-round for league play, practicing and instruction.
He added that Hawk’s Alley will only open to RDGCC members, but those members are allowed to bring guests to the space.
“The interest has been incredible. We recently launched a video of Hawk’s Alley on our social media platform and received over 25,000 views. We are eager to provide an experience to our members that will be something special,” Manz said.
At the end of the day, Manz hopes that Hawk’s Alley can help grow the club and the game in the community.
“Our long term goal for Hawk’s Alley is attracting new members, retain our current members and to grow the game of golf,” he said.
“We have a very passionate membership that love the game of golf. Hawk’s Alley is the perfect setting for people who love golf.”
Send your news tips
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter