New holes, bigger green, more cameras and signature holes for each team: ‘We’re playing a high-tech video game,’ says Billy Horschel.
It’s game time again as Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) launches its second season at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Running through March 3, the season begins with a rematch of last year’s final between Atlanta Drive and New York.
Tiger Woods mic’d up for TGL
While the six teams remain unchanged, Tiger Woods and Justin Thomas are sidelined due to back surgeries. However, Woods, a co-owner of TGL, has promised to attend every Jupiter Links GC match starting January 13, equipped with a microphone. His commentary could add a new layer of entertainment to the matches, as fans anticipate how the 15-time major champion performs as a live commentator.
Tech upgrades and signature holes
Technically, TGL has made major upgrades. The putting green has expanded by 38% to nearly 500 square meters, now offering 12 pin positions. Two larger bunkers remain after the smallest was removed. A total of 608 actuators now simulate realistic slopes and breaks. ‘The green is easier to read now,’ says Wyndham Clark of The Bay. ‘It benefits the best putters among us.’
Artificial turf fibers now run toward the center, allowing players to chip with the grain. ‘Now every chip is into the grain,’ Clark adds. ‘It lets us do anything with the ball, which is more exciting for viewers.’
Virtual Eye and immersive visuals
TGL also enhanced its Virtual Eye tech for better shot comparisons and ball tracking. The SoFi Center now features 79 cameras, including the award-winning SmartPin Cam offering 360-degree views from the flagstick. Signature holes have been introduced for each team, including New York’s ‘Big Apple’ with the Manhattan skyline and Lady Liberty, and Atlanta’s ‘Fore-O-Fore’ showcasing the city’s silhouette. Gil Hanse’s ‘Stone & Steeple’ hole features a church and cemetery, reminding players that errant shots may not survive long. As Billy Horschel puts it: ‘We’ve got holes like on a real course, but also ones you’d see in a video game. We’re playing a high-tech video game.’