[SportsIN] IGF Brings GOLFZON Simulator Technology to Dakar to Expand Access to Golf

International sports publication SportsIN reported that the International Golf Federation (IGF) has partnered with GOLFZON to introduce golf to young people and the public during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. The outlet described GOLFZON as a world leader in golf simulators and said its technology would allow visitors to experience the sport without access to a golf course, their own equipment or prior experience. The partnership aims to expand opportunities to participate in golf in Senegal.

GOLFZON brings an interactive golf experience to Dakar

The GOLFZON simulator experience takes place from November 1 to 13 in a dedicated space on Dakar’s western seafront. Visitors can hit real shots, see the results on a large screen and play virtual rounds on golf courses around the world. The venue also includes short-game and putting stations, with a special golf day scheduled for November 6.

Golf is one of 10 participation sports at Dakar 2026 designed to introduce young people and local communities to new disciplines through hands-on experiences rather than medal competition. The GOLFZON experience is free for students during the day and open to the public in the evening. Instructors from the GOLFZON LEADBETTER ACADEMY lead the sessions, and all necessary equipment is provided.

SportsIN explained that sensors in the GOLFZON simulator measure shot data, including ball speed, launch angle, spin and distance, and display the information immediately on screen. Participants can experience the game from tee shot to final putt while learning about their shots and tracking their progress. The outlet also noted that GOLFZON simulators can operate indoors regardless of weather and be installed in schools, community centers and sports facilities, offering a way to expand access beyond traditional golf venues.

GOLFZON and the IGF look beyond Dakar 2026

The partnership between GOLFZON and the IGF also aims to support the long-term development of golf in Senegal. GOLFZON has expressed its willingness to donate the simulator after Dakar 2026, while the IGF is working with partners to find a permanent location where it can continue to help train new players and develop local coaches. SportsIN noted that simulation technology can support learning and advanced training by helping coaches analyze movements, identify technical details and monitor performance.

IGF Chief Executive Officer Antony Scanlon said the initiative would allow students, families and adults to discover golf within minutes, even without previous experience. Sean Pyun, Director of GOLFZON’s Global Business Division and CEO of GOLFZON AMERICA, said the partnership offers an opportunity to show that people of different ages and backgrounds can experience golf without the infrastructure traditionally required. SportsIN reported that GOLFZON and the IGF aim to use Dakar 2026, the first Olympic sporting event held on African soil, to introduce golf to more people.