Topgolf, ain't it grand? As with other family-friendly hangouts -- think batting cages or go-kart courses -- you don't have to be good before showing up and pretending to play pro.
But, it does help to know the basics.
That's why the Dallas-headquartered driving range for the whole family is offering free 5-minute driving lessons at all of its North Texas locations on National Golf Day, Wednesday April 25.
The chain is also observing World Autism Month on Saturday, April 21, with sensory-friendly modifications during a two-hour event at its Allen and Fort Worth locations.
Together, they add a couple of nice options for locals, especially those who are newer to the sport. While most of us grew up playing backyard baseball with our siblings or (to this day) pretend our Toyota Corolla is a stock car on North Central Expressway, fewer and fewer people under age 35 are taking up golf.
Countless think-pieces have covered golf's dubious decline in recent years. Maybe it's too expensive, too snooty or "too hard and boring." Or, maybe none of that is true and everything is fine in international golfdom. Either way, industry organizations like We Are Golf (WAG) have taken note and action.
To promote its national day, WAG has for the fourth year partnered with Topgolf in an effort to "attract new fans to the sport by helping people feel more confident in their swing," according to a statement. More than two-thirds of Topgolf customers are under 35, it adds.
Ah Topgolf, a paradise where you can casually hit balls from an air-conditioned upper deck onto a lush enclosed driving range while drinking pineapple mint margaritas and eating chicken and waffle sliders with maple syrup and jalapeno gravy.
(Just please drink responsibly. A gent recently whiffed and fell from the platform at TopGolf Fort Worth. He's OK, folks.)
Intrigued, but not sure where to start? National Golf Day is for you. Anyone who visits Topgolf locations across the country (excluding those in Las Vegas) between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on April 25 can request a free 5-minute startup lesson.
Last year, more than 2,000 people partook in the complimentary mini-tutorials, the statement says. Locally, you can find yours in Dallas, Fort Worth, Allen or The Colony.
For something more in-depth, Topgolf also offers 60-minute classes year-round. Suited for individuals or groups, lessons start at $29, and sessions are tailored for beginner to intermediate/advanced skill levels.
Families needing more inclusive play can enjoy a special two-hour sensory-friendly event at Topgolf's Allen and Fort Worth locations from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 21.
In observance of World Autism Month, modifications include a private entrance and dimmed lights. TVs, music and fans will be turned off and shuffleboard and pool tables will be covered. Staff will be minimal, and specially-trained members will assist at reserved bays.
The idea is that the more controlled environment will not only benefit players with sensory differences, but also offer "the opportunity to connect with other special-needs families," the company says.
Packages are $50, which includes the reserved bay with space and rental clubs for up to 6 players. Participating families will also receive a complimentary lifetime membership card (required of all players, usually starting at $5).
Guests should register online beforehand, as space is limited.
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