High-Priced Robot Ball Gatherer Found on US Open Driving Range at Oakmont (Costing More Than $50,000)
Hopping onto a Robotic Revolution at the U.S. Open
At the bustling driving ranges of a golf Major week, the range picker or golf ball collector is undoubtedly a key player. The recent U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club is no exception, as maintenance staff tackle a labor-intensive task, but with an extra boost from our mechanical friends - robots.
Take a peek at this tweet, showcasing the Korechi Pik'r-Alpha in action at the third men's Major of the season:
The video presents the Korechi Pik'r-Alpha circling the practice green at Oakmont, snatching up golf balls effortlessly. As the first commercial range picking robot, it automates ball picking at driving ranges using existing range pickers. According to the brand, it has graced several golf facilities in North America, including the 2023 RBC Canadian Open. In addition, this marvel can store up to 2,400 balls and collect as many as 4,000 balls per round, making it a perfect fit for high-traffic major championships.
The Korechi Pik'r-Alpha also sets a costly standard, tipping the scales at $54,000. With the USGA putting up a $21.5 million prize purse this week, a few Pik'r-Alpha's won't even take a bite out of their budget.
Overseeing the proceedings at Oakmont this week, a total of 190 maintenance volunteers and 50 agronomy employees work tirelessly. In anticipation of the US Open, greenstaff were seen finessing the course on Monday, with maintenance teams trimming the rough into intricate formations and several staff members giving the fringes a trim using clippers, as the rapid growth of Poa Annua grass could potentially disrupt the consistency of the lie and length across the course.
With advancements in technology, the future of golf maintenance looks increasingly automated and streamlined, as shown by the adoption of the Korechi Pik'r-Alpha at the U.S. Open. Embrace the Robotic Revolution, golf enthusiasts, as these mechanical marvels continue to bring efficiency and innovation to the world of golf!
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- At the U.S. Open, technology is not limited to golf gadgets; a robotic range picker, the Korechi Pik'r-Alpha, is helpfully assisting with the collection of golf balls on the practice green.
- Embracing the burgeoning robotic revolution in sports, the Korechi Pik'r-Alpha, a mechanical marvel, effortlessly snatches up golf balls in high volumes, making it ideal for major championships where traffic is high.
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