Technology can help solve problems in golf swing

January 27, 2007

By Mike Henry

Local links

Members of The Founders Golf Club in Sarasota have access to technology that offers a fix for what ails their golf swings.

Bob Irving, head professional at the private club, and first assistant Sam Broome gave a recent demonstration of their state-of-the-art Vector Pro launch monitor to media representatives.

The launch monitor, cameras and computer-analysis system are inside an all-weather, open-ended teaching center adjacent to the club's practice area.

Among the system's numerous applications is the ability to record members' swings and compare them to swings of tour pros from a video database.

Players hit off an Astroturf-particle surface filled with sand and rubber beads. They can study at home by viewing themselves on a DVD.

"For many of our members, once they see their swing on video, it makes it easier to make a change," Irving said.

"The golf swing happens so fast, this equipment gives me a chance to really break it down. Then, as a teacher, it is my job to pick out the things they can work on."

The system can also be used to fit players for drivers that suit their ball speed, launch angle and shot variation.

"We want them to find a driver that fits their flight path to get maximum distance and helps them move the ball the way they want," Irving said.