Golfers from across the Lower Mainland are chipping, putting and driving at the new Backyard Golf Company facility in Surrey.
The 20,000-square-foot short-game complex opened this summer next to the nine-hole Clayton Hills Par 3 course, which is being upgraded for use by golfers of all levels.
Off Highway 10 at 188 Street, the Backyard facility is designed with both golfers and non-golfers in mind — a place to hang out with friends and socialize, where everyone is welcome.
“It’s got something for everyone,” said Steve Liddicoat, director of operations. “Like, a good golfer can come here and really enjoy it, and someone who’s never touched a golf club can also come here and try putting, try chipping. It’s not intimidating like going to a championship golf course and feeling pressure. It’s very, very welcoming here, very inclusive. There’s something for everyone, that’s the goal.”
Artificial greens and bunkers have been built at the all-weather Backyard, along with a natural-sand bunker, adjacent to Clayton Public House. A licensed patio includes lounge chairs, music and a place to eat food.
A view of The Backyard Golf Company’s new facility in Surrey adjacent to the Clayton Hills Par 3 course. . Contributed photo: SRL Media Productions
Liddicoat is longtime pals with Matt Palsenbarg, a fellow Surrey-based golf pro who came up with the Backyard concept last year. Both are now busy telling people about the new facility and also the improved Par 3 course, opened in 1984.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” Liddicoat confirmed. “Last November is when Matt said he conceptualized it. I came on board in March right before they broke ground, and since then it’s been go, go, go.”
Information about drop-in rates, memberships and lessons is posted on thebackyard.golf.
“We’ve had some group and corporate events,” Liddicoat said, “and it’s been awesome to see all kinds of people see what we have here. Some people might want to sit and watch for a bit, then they see how it’s done and want to get involved, try putting, try chipping — you know, ‘I could do that,’ kind of thing. It’s neat to see the beginners feel comfortable enough to grab a club and have fun.”
