Garmin Approach R50: why we use this launch monitor

The launch monitor is the most important part of a golf simulator. It determines whether the ball flies on screen the way it would in real life. We chose the Garmin Approach R50. In this article you will read why, and what that means for your event.

Want to know first how a simulator works in general? Then read how does a golf simulator work.

What is the Garmin Approach R50?

The Approach R50 is a launch monitor from Garmin, known for its golf and sports watches. It is a camera-based system: at the moment of impact it uses high-speed cameras to capture what the ball and the club are doing. From those images it calculates the ball's flight.

The device sits on the ground next to the player, level with the ball. Nothing needs to be stuck to the club or the ball. You simply hit a normal golf ball.

What does it measure?

The R50 measures both the ball and the club. The key data:

Ball data

• ball speed
• launch angle
• launch direction
• spin rate and spin axis
• carry and total distance

Club data

• club speed
• club path (the path of the club through the ball)
• face angle at impact

For most guests at an event, distance and direction are the most interesting. But a golfer who plays seriously often finds the club data the best part: finally seeing why that ball always goes right.

Why we chose the R50

Reliable measurements, even for beginners

Many beginners play at an event. Their shots go everywhere: topped, high and short, well to the right. A good launch monitor has to measure those shots correctly too. Otherwise the result of a longest drive or nearest to the pin is wrong, and everyone notices.

Indoors and outdoors

Camera-based systems work well at short range, which is ideal for an indoor set-up with a screen. The R50 also works outdoors, for example under our tent on a field or car park.

Quickly ready to use

At an event every minute counts. The R50 is quick to set up and calibrate, so we have the whole set-up ready within about an hour of arriving.

Simulator software with famous courses

With the accompanying software, guests play on more than 50 golf courses, including famous names golf fans know from TV. There are also game modes such as longest drive and nearest to the pin that are perfect for a group.

What does this mean for your event?

• Fair competitions. In a challenge with prizes you want the result to be right. The R50's measurements make that possible.
• Realistic feel. Guests see their ball fly as it would on a real course. That makes it exciting.
• Interesting for golfers. Are there keen golfers in your group? They can analyse their swing with the same data as in a golf lesson.
• Fun for beginners. Anyone who has never played golf sees results immediately. That makes it a great introduction, as we explain in golf for beginners.

The rest of the set-up

The launch monitor is one part. Around the R50 we build:

• an impact screen with 4K projector for a big, sharp image;
• a hitting net and hitting mat;
• clubs in several lengths, including left-handed, and balls;
• a tent if the simulator is set up outdoors.

We deliver everything, set it up and collect it afterwards. Self-collection is not possible: it is expensive equipment that has to be set up correctly to be accurate.

Try the R50 yourself?

Would you like the Garmin Approach R50 at your event? Have a look at our packages or request a quote straight away. Set-up & take-down costs €650, fully hosted with challenges €800, excluding VAT and travel costs.