New Dumfries golf simulator business offers chance to take on world-famous courses
A new golf simulator business has opened in Dumfries.
Champions Links Golf (CL Golf) offers people the chance to test their skills on world-famous courses.
The three-bay venue on Academy Street caters for all ages and abilities, with a variety of fun-focused games.
CL Golf is the brainchild of golf enthusiast Ross Murray and has been made possible thanks to a £15,000 loan from DSL Business Finance through the British Business Bank's Start Up Loans programme.
Ross said: 'There's nothing quite like the feeling of hitting a great shot, and I wanted to create a space where people could enjoy that – regardless of experience.
'Whether you're just getting into the game or have been playing for years, CL Golf is about enjoying it your way.
'The simulators are incredibly accurate and give personalised feedback in a relaxed environment, which takes the pressure off. It's the perfect place to practice what you've picked up from YouTube or just come along for a bit of fun.'
Ross was inspired by a lifelong love of golf to swap his career as a store manager in retail to launch the venture – which is all about playing for fun.
The AI powered Trackman i0 system provides incredibly realistic graphics, instant feedback on swing data and the chance to virtually play more than 300 iconic courses – including Open venues Royal Troon and the Old Course at St Andrews.
There are also interactive mini-games, making it ideal for casual players, families and groups of friends.
Ross's use of AI puts him ahead of the curve, with new research by Start Up Loans, conducted by YouGov, revealing that just 36 per cent of microbusinesses currently use AI tools, and only a third of smaller business owners have even a basic understanding of the technology.
Loan officer at DSL Business Finance, Lindsay Hamilton, said: 'It was a pleasure working with Ross to help him achieve his dream.
'He is clearly passionate about golf and it's great that DSL Business Finance have been able to support him to develop this passion into a business that will definitely bring something new and different to the local community.'
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