Golf is all the rage in Altrincham, with increased numbers of players flocking to the town to play a round or to practice.
From April to November this year a total of 1,763,904 balls were hit at Altrincham Golf Course and Driving Range and 33,552 rounds of golf were played on the course.
That’s an increase of more than a quarter of a million balls (20%) on the 1,466,922 hit in the same period last year at the much-loved attraction, with completed rounds up 5.5% on last year’s 31,809.
Each round involves about 10 kilometres of walking, meaning Altrincham’s golfers have moved an impressive 335,520km since April, tying in with Trafford Council’s priority for facilitating healthy lives.
Altrincham Golf Course is run in partnership with Trafford Leisure, the community interest company owned by Trafford Council, and has 18 holes and a 20-bay driving range with TopTracer tracking system, as well as practice putting and chipping greens.
Data shows the average age of players is 49, with 25% aged 74 or over and 25% aged 22 or younger. Golf members currently number 600 and non-member visitors, who can pay and play, are also very welcome.
Players of all ages and abilities can book online or at the site’s golf shop. Golf buggies are available for participants with disabilities at an additional cost.
Jo Cherrett, Chief Executive of Trafford Leisure, said:
“Our aim is to provide affordable, accessible, competitive golf in welcoming and sociable surroundings. It’s not just for enthusiasts and regular players who are members of the club.
“Anyone can give this great sport a go. It’s fantastic way to get your steps in, in the great outdoors, while enjoying the challenge of the game – and the camaraderie and conversations with other players.
“This year’s long, dry summer definitely helped to boost the number of players, as well as all the work our grounds team has done recently to improve drainage and make the club a great destination all year round.”
Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage said:
“Altrincham Golf Course is a great facility for the town of Altrincham and the borough of Trafford, and somewhere where anyone can come along and try an enjoyable activity in beautiful, green surroundings.
“The Council works hard to encourage residents to be active and enjoy culture and leisure, so we’re delighted to see an upturn in the popularity of golf and this fantastic course.”
The course has a bar and is affiliated to the Cheshire Golf Union, offering competitions and handicaps throughout the year for both men and women. Competitions take place all year round.
When weather is wet, windy or icy, players should check the status of the course online before travelling to ensure it is open.