STUTTGART, Germany -- In golf, the swing's the thing.
Even professionals such as Tiger Woods revamp their swings on occasion.
There are all sorts of gimmicks out there to improve the games of most golfers, but perhaps the most efficient way is with the use of video swing analysis and 3-D Doppler tracking radar.
The technology is now available at the Stuttgart Golf Course.
"The video system gives golfers immediate feedback as to what their swing looks like," said Gary Groff, the club manager and Professional Golfers' Association of America teaching pro.
"When you can watch what your body is doing, it's easier to correct," he said.
Add the Doppler tracking radar, and a golfer gets precise data on the club and ball travel as a result of his or her golf swing.
It all helps golfers improve their swing mechanics, and points them to the right shaft and ball they should use, Groff added.
The "Scope House" is only one of several new additions to the golf course that golfers will notice this season.
Another is the installation of solar-powered toilets. Both projects were donated to the military golf course by the Golfclub Neckartal e.V., a German golfing association authorized to use the 7,000 yard, par 73 course.
"We're very happy to have them," said Groff. "They've partnered with us in many projects that benefit the club."
There's one ongoing project that benefits the environment.
The 18-hole Stuttgart Golf Course continues to be one of two courses in Europe, and the only U.S. military course anywhere, certified by Audubon International, a not-for-profit organization that helps golf courses protect the environment.
"We have 300 acres of land. Everything we do has an impact. We're always trying to reduce our footprint," said Chris Konik, the course superintendent.
While golfers may appreciate the new technology and efforts to improve the environment, it's the game they're after. And tournament season starts this month.
The Spring Scramble on May 7 opens the season, followed by the U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart Commander's Cup competition on May 20.
Golfers also get the opportunity to play after work in the weekly Wednesday Night Scramble series which runs from May 25 through Aug. 17.
The facilities, located at 975 Aldingerstrasse in Kornwestheim, include six practice greens, a driving range, fully stocked pro shop and a restaurant.
The course is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
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