Travellers get into the swing in virtual golf simulator at HKIA

(HONG KONG, 27 December 2002) – Golfers can now sharpen their game between flights at Hong Kong International Airport thanks to a state-of-the-art virtual golf simulator that has been installed in the Game Zone of the Departures Hall. The Visiotics virtual reality golf system is the most advanced simulator of its type in the world with the most comprehensive golf training programme, and the only one installed at an airport. The machine has eight beautifully landscaped courses, including The Belfry and St Andrews, each with it's own driving range. The computer is extremely accurate in terms of distance, club head speed, shape of shot and ball roll. Every aspect of the game is captured including bunker shots and water hazards; even course and weather conditions can be changed. Either play fun 18 holes with friends or use it as an intelligent learning tool. Golfers can emulate Tiger Woods to test their accuracy and driving skills in its simulation programme, which provides golfers with uniquely accurate ball flight, trajectories, slices and hooks could be accurately shown. Players see everything happening on the course in real time. The system provides instant statistical feedback, and instant and complete video swing analysis to golfers. A number of competitions with exciting prizes are planned for the airport golf simulator:

• The Tag Heuer Hole in One. A luxurious watch for both men and women who score a hole in one.
• Nearest to the Pin. A trip for four people to play a round of golf at "The Belfry", the home of this year's Ryder Cup. The prize includes two nights' stay at the golf course hotel.
• Longest Drive Competition. The prize is a revolutionary new driver which has 20 carats of crushed diamonds at its sweetspot. This not just a cosmetic feature -- as a result of these diamonds the ball runs 20-40 yards further, an important feature for golfers. This new driver has a retail price of US$2,000 and it will be launched in the US in January. So far the furthest that has been hit with this driver is 359 yards.

HKIA is an appropriate venue for the simulator, given the airport's passenger profile. According to a retail survey conducted by AC Nielsen in September, passengers had an average age of 37; about 55% were professionals, executives or business managers. Picture: Emerging champion British golfer Nick Dougherty playing in the golf simulator at HKIA on 9 December. Download the photos Ref: PR-663