The extended winter is testing the patience of Quebec golfers. Until the snow melts, the impatient can now retreat to the largest indoor golf complex in the country, a true “all inclusive” for fans of the little white ball, which opens its doors in Levis.
Opened nearly two years ago, GolfIn Lévis Center of Excellence has nearly doubled in size this spring. The complex now occupies 16,000 square feet and prides itself on being the largest of its kind in Canada.
There are 13 state-of-the-art simulators, “the most technologically advanced in Canada,” proudly states Dominic Cote, co-owner and principal.
Photo courtesy of GolfIn Lévis Center of Excellence
“They pretty much give the same pitch or momentum that I hit overseas,” he promises.
A performance area has been added to provide a modification and repair shop. There is also a specialized ‘fitting’ simulator, used by the greatest gamers on the planet, available to customers, as well as a large putting green practice.
Photo courtesy of GolfIn Lévis Center of Excellence
A boutique, golf academy and lounge complete the picture. High school students in golf studies and Rouge et Or golf teams will practice there as well.
“We’re like everything for golfers,” smiles Dominique Cotet, who explains that the project meets a need in the area. Together with his partners André and Pierre Champagne, they wanted to create a “unique” place in the region, especially “since there was no ‘similar offer in Chaudière-Appalaches'”.
golf is “cool”
The pandemic has “resurrected golf” and that’s part of what prompted the business trio to move forward with their mega-resort.
According to Golf Québec, the number of rounds played grew 19% in 2020 and jumped 21% in 2021.
“Over the past year or two, golf has become popular again with young people. We’re betting on investing in young people,” says Mr. Cotet.
Photo courtesy of GolfIn Lévis Center of Excellence
They have also been commissioned to put up golf camps for young Cobra-Pumas, which have already been sold.
Soon in Quebec?
Dominique Cottet intends to “ride this wave of popularity” to cross the river and eventually settle in Quebec.
“We are in talks to open a GolfIn Center of Excellence in Quebec. […] It is a concept that can be easily exported,” emphasizes Mr. Cote.
“Hipster-friendly tv trailblazer. Problem solver. Infuriatingly humble introvert. Reader. Student. Subtly charming bacon maven.”
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