The driving range.
Norway’s largest and most-visited year-round golf centre ToppGolf is Norway’s largest fitness centre for golfers of all levels, with a ninehole outdoor golf course, Norway’s largest driving range, and 12 top-of-the-range indoor golf simulators. By Sunniva Davies-Rommetveit | Photos: ToppGolf
While for many, the very idea of golfing brings up connotations of summer outfits and warm weather, ToppGolf chief executive Thomas Amundsen points out that Norway has had its share of golfing champions. “From Suzann Pettersen, who was world number two in 2013, to emerging champion Viktor Hovland, Norway is definitely up there with the world's top golfers.” In a country with markedly fewer summer months than most competitive golfing nations, Amundsen credits such notable successes to the use of technology in centres like ToppGolf. As a result, golfers need not worry about a bit of snow – instead being able to opt for state-of-the-art full-swing golf simulators indoors. 40 | Issue 124 | May 2019
Come rain, shine or snow At ToppGolf, these simulators boast the latest E6Golf software, ensuring excellent image quality and accuracy, plus an enviable list of some of the world’s most sought-after golf ranges. “In the height of winter, our golfers can still practise their game and choose to play on world-famous courses such as St Andrews and Pebble Beach,” Amundsen explains. Four out of ToppGolf’s 12 simulators also have ION Performance Camera installations, which provide an overview of speed, clubhead angle, and ball track information. “This technology gives our golfers the highest accuracy, allowing them to shape each stroke just as they would do outdoors,” Amundsen adds.
The innovation doesn’t stop indoors, either. Outside of the centre, ToppGolf boasts Norway’s largest driving range – with over 80 covered golf bays spread across two floors – bookable via a mobile app or at the centre. Target ranges are provided, with accurate distances measured from each tee, enabling every golfer to perfect their game in their own time and comfort. Alongside a proactive committee, Amundsen has given ToppGolf a new offensive attitude – always looking for new opportunities to develop the centre further. “We now have a long-term plan over the next five years. This includes expanding our offering for all visitors, with more pro coaches as well as a new studio and academy opening soon.”
First-rate training In order to play at Nordhaug Golf Club, the nine-hole outdoor course administered by ToppGolf, beginners must take an introductory course to get to grips