Our Equipment
Radar Tracking Devices
Very recently a new technology has taken the golfing world by storm. The Trackman radar tracking device uses radio waves to track the golf ball as it travels through the air. This technology was first used by the military to track missiles and shells! In its latest incarnation these units are now small and portable enough to be used by anyone at any golf course or range.
The unit, about the size of a cereal packet, is placed behind the golfer. This unit emits a low level radio signal that bounces back from solid objects. In this fashion both the club head and the ball can be tracked, giving vital information about both.
All of the major equipment manufacturers and many of the world's top golf professionals are now using this equipment. Golfing magazines are frequently using this technology to test selected equipment as a means to give fair and scientific comparisons. Until now it has been beyond the reach of the average golfer. This is where we would like to make a difference.
Now you can find the information you really need to know!
Golfers have become increasingly aware over the last few years that custom fitting is a vital part of purchasing new equipment. Radar Tracking units are becoming a vital part of this process. Several of the parameters measured are listed below alongside a brief explanation of what they can tell you.
| Measured Parameter |
Explanation |
Club Head Speed |
The Radar tracking unit not only measures the club head speed at impact but actually tracks the club head through the impact zone. This gives important information about the angle of impact.
Club head speed is an important factor in determining the correct shaft flex for a golfer. Each manufacturer specifies a range of swing speed values for which each shaft is optimized. |
Ball Speed |
This gives the speed of the ball just after impact. This together with the club head speed give an indication of how well the ball was struck. This is important in assessing how consistently you hit each club |
Ball Spin |
Spin rates (separated into both horizontal and vertical) are important when trying to maximise distance. |
Launch Angle |
This is the angle at which the ball leaves ground. The correct launch angle, spin rate and club head speed determine the carry distance |
Full 3D Tracking |
The trajectory of each shot is measured in 3D. This gives the carry distance, maximum height and the distance to the left or right of the target. |
This list represents just some of the information available, but should give you some idea of the value in using one of these units. If you would like the opportunity to use this equipment take a look at the dates and places section to find out where we will be. We are always interested in hearing from anyone who would like to get access to this new technology so if you would like a session arranged at your club then get in contact!
Having evaluated the current radar tracking devices available we have decided to opt for the Trackman system. This unit provided the most accurate and reliable data available.
 
The Tackman radar tracking unit is now used by many of the worlds top equipment manufacturers. It has also recently been seen in use on the TV coverage for The Open and the HSBC world matchplay. You will also see Trackman data from every event on the PGA tour in 2007 and beyond. This is
The picture opposite is a screen shot of the onscreen display.
 Example Analysis
We have given you a few ideas for the kind of analysis you might like to try in the services section. Opposite is a typical output of the full analysis, where we measure the average distance you hit each club in your bag.
This produces a chart that graphically displays the distance you hit each club (which is often very different to the distance people think they hit each club!) This can be very useful in identifying weaker areas of your game, or perhaps where different club designs may help you.
There are a number of shorter analyses available, have a look at the Range sessions for some ideas.
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