The long anticipated grand opening of Streaking Birdies never happened for a good reason.

“We got so busy so fast,” said Jeff Ruth, the PGA Professional and manager. “We started with a few soft opening events and before we knew it we were open,” he chuckled.

The indoor golf concept using the top of the line Trackman simulators allow golfers to experience playing real golf courses in the comfort of a setting that looks a lot like a sports bar with a dozen big screen tvs and golf clubs.

“I think we got it just about right,:” said developer John Bauknight, who joined with Ruth to open the indoor golf concept.

And the way golfers have responded to the new facility below Rockers in the Spartanburg Grain District, Bauknight ‘s observation is right on the money.

With a complete bar and food service from Rockers a trip to Streaking Birdies is just like playing at a golf club except you don’t need a cart.

During the hottest part of the late summer when Streaking Birdies was opening Bauknight enjoyed a couple of the reasons the new golf venue has been successful.

“Instead of going to the club to hit balls for an hour in 90 degree heat, I came here, played Pebble Beach, in the air conditioning and it took an hour or so,” he reported.

Pebble Beach is just one of the more than 200 courses available in the Trackman system. Golfers can pick their course and because of the accuracy of the Trackman system get to play real golf.

“Trackman is so precise it really gives golfers a true experience and it is also great for teaching,” said Ruth, The former club professional teaches all level of golfers and has a large following among juniors.

Instead of standing outside in the heat or other weather conditions using the Trackman for teaching allows students to use all the options of the system.

“When we do a playing lesson on a course and you hit a bad shot we don’t have to chase the ball, we just reset the computer and work on hitting the shot correctly,” said the Streaking Birdies professional.

In only a few months Streaking Birdies has become a favorite for parties and outings. Everything done on a golf course for a tournament or fund raising event can be done indoors and at just about any hour.

The sun never sets on Streaking Birdies, could be the slogan.

“During the summer when it was hot it was great to play and get a lesson in doors. now that it gets dark earlier golfers don’t have to worry about beating the sunset, we are open after dark,” said Ruth.

Golfers can reserve the simulator bays online at http://www.streakingbirdies.com. The website also is the best way to sign up for lessons, get membership information and schedule outings and parties.

The success of Streaking Birdies has Bauknight looking at ways to take the concept to other locations.

“I’ve done a lot of projects and many times after they are done you go back and think maybe I missed something, but I don”t think we did here. I think we got it right,” he concluded.