LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO THIS WINTER? CHECK OUT GOLF ON BROADWAY

Golf enthusiasts in southwest Minnesota no longer need to travel hundreds of miles in the winter months to enjoy the sport they love because indoor golf has come to Slayton! Murray County Central alumnus Jacob Erickson has blended his zest for golf and entrepreneurial spirit to create “Golf On Broadway”, an indoor venue with two golf bay simulators, a bar and hearty snacks. Jake explained, “First I considered a golf simulator for my own personal use, but learned that though the commercial simulators are more expensive they are significantly more accurate.” Jake began to dream of a larger investment that he could turn into a business, and talked with his dad, Steve Erickson of Slayton. Jake said, “Dad owns a building on Broadway that is mostly used for storage, so we began to clear stuff out. We’ve installed new windows, doors, flooring...nearly everything.” Golf on Broadway is located at 2517 Broadway Avenue, on the east side of the north end of Broadway. The bays are custom designed with careful planning for adequate space and safety. After all, golfers use standard golf balls, a modified tee and take a full swing to hit the ball into a tarp-like material while the ball appears to be moving several hundred yards down a fairway! It’s a strange sensation, but Jake stated it doesn’t take long for golfers to become comfortable and relax into their swing. The simulators are designed for all levels of players and are fun for every age and ability. “Because of the metrics and instructional tools it’s actually a very good teaching tool for lessons and coaching too, and this is an area where I really want to expand.”

Jacob also owns Device Repair in Marshall, and admits, “It helps to be a techie because there are multiple golf software options to choose from.” The simulators allow players to choose from hundreds of golf courses (including Augusta and Pebble Beach) and game play modes, such as pin placement, weather conditions, stroke play, and more. Currently one bay is wide enough for both a right-handed or left-handed player, but Jake plans to widen the second bay to accommodate both types of players as well. The beautiful wood bar was handcrafted by Scott and Wyatt Peschges and the cozy setting provides the perfect atmosphere for a gathering of friends, family or co-workers to play. Currently Jake has set up several leagues but encourages others to schedule a tee-time for additional rounds. As interest grows, he hopes to be open 5-6 days per week, especially during the months when local golf courses are closed. “I’ve had a lot of interest, even from people who live out of town. There are very few public simulators in this region. I have a passion for golf and I wanted to do something interesting and fun for this community.” Much more information can be found on the website: golfonbroadway.com, including rates, availability and contact information. Load up your clubs and travel a short distance for sunshine, green grass, exercise and “summer” fun!