As Wilmington driving ranges vanish, golfers flock indoors
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (StarNews) — On Sunday as the temperature dropped, wind gusted and clouds covered the sky, Wilmington golfers took their swings anyway.
Three indoor facilities — Clubhouse Indoor Golf, Club Golf Indoor at River Lights and Rounds Golf and Lounge — have opened in the last two months. Featuring state-of-the-art simulators, comfortable seating and cold drinks served in a controlled climate, they have thrived in spite of the approaching winter blast.
“Golf in general is an intimidating sport,” said Trevin Blondin, co-owner at Clubhouse with Jeff Fuchs. “We’re looking to create a chill atmosphere, somewhere a non-golfer, beginner, or woman might feel comfortable playing. The majority of our members haven’t played golf before.”
With real estate at a premium, Wilmington has watched three standalone driving ranges vanish in the last decade, tees and targets replaced by pavement and steel. A sputtering golf market prompted the closure of two other golf courses as the game struggles to carve its niche with millenials. Local entrepreneurs are trying to capitalize on the limited options available for those who aren’t members at a private club while also creating a golf environment that focuses on fun rather than score.
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