At the 124th US Open at Pinehurst Resort, a new robotic solution for picking up golf balls has been debuted by creators Korechi Innovations (Korechi).
The Pick’r-1500, a golf ball retriever, was deployed on the newly converted Cradle 9-hole course.
The Ontario-based company designed the Pick’r-1500 for rugged terrain. With a durable steel frame and a thick stainless-steel shell, the robot is built to withstand the harsh conditions of a professional practice range.
In a company statement, Korechi said that the Pick’r-1500 uses advanced GPS technology to efficiently collect thousands of golf balls daily, ensuring a constant supply for players.
Introducing the Pick’r-1500 at the US Open was intended to highlight its capacity and reliability.
Considering the robot’s lightweight design and long-lasting battery, which reportedly enables uninterrupted, all-day operation, the decision was made to bring in the device to minimise disruptions during practice sessions.
According to Korechi, the machine operates on less than US$1 of electricity per day, with the autonomous ball retriever representing a potentially cost-effective solution for golf facilities facing staffing shortages.
By automating the labour-intensive task of ball retrieval, the Pick’r-1500 enables staff to concentrate on enhancing guest experiences and other value-added services, Korechi said.
This shift not only optimises operations but also aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable practices in sports management.
By embracing Pik’r-1500 during the US Open, the robotics company is hopeful Pinehurst Resort’s decision marks a significant step forward in combining tradition with technological advancement.
