TROY>> On Friday, Nov. 7, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., OptiGolf Troy LLC, an indoor golfing facility, will host a VIP event to showcase the new 6000-square-feet enterprise at 1520 Sixth Ave. On Saturday, Nov. 8, OptiGolf’s doors will be open to the public in an all-day-long open house, starting at 9 AM.

The space has seven different golf simulators that boast over 110 virtual golf courses from all over the world, 14 foot televisions, lounge areas, a bar, and three private party rooms. Another amenity, one that sold owner Mark Wekara on the location, is free indoor parking with a direct entrance to the space.

“This is very important,” he said. “Golfers like to bring their own equipment, and this way they don’t have to carry it through the rain and snow.”

Equipment for all varieties of golfers is also available on site, co-owner Tuula Wekara stressed. “It’s great for out-of-town guests,” she added, “who don’t travel with their own equipment.”

The Wekaras own other OptiGolf facilities as well as the simulators—their company manufactures them. “I can say that this is the top one percent of facilities of its kind in the world,” said Mark Wekara—who is originally from Finland, though he has spent the latter part of his life in Australia.

Rob Moore of Albany and owner of Stockyard BBQ is a partner in Troy OptiGolf as well. Moore is excited about introducing OptiGolf to the Capital Region. He said that the experience is a perfect fit for upstate, and a great way for golfers to keep in practice all year long. “It’s indoor—always the perfect weather for golf.”

“What we are offering is to have a good time with your mates,” said Mark Wekara.

“We are very excited to have OptiGolf opening their doors here at City Station,” said Tommy Uccellini, Director of Business Development and Commercial Leasing for Troy-based The United Group of Companies, Inc., the neighborhood’s developer and owner. “They bring a unique experience to the area and I know a lot of Capital District residents are going to enjoy what they can do there, especially during the colder winter months.”

Tuula Wekara said, “This is a great place to practice but also interact with other people.”

Mark Wekara added, “The word enjoy is near and dear to my heart. This is the place you relax. Smiling is allowed.”