Even though it’s tucked inconspicuously into a corner of a high-profile Bellevue retail corridor, the Back Nine indoor golf experience is quickly becoming a destination unto itself. The facility’s welcoming ambience and dazzling technology inspires golfers of all levels to hone their skills and immerse in a community of like-minded fairway fanatics. Recently we stopped by to chat with franchise owners Carrie and George Lund about the latest addition to Bellevue’s recreational and entertainment landscape.
Bellevue City Lifestyle: What inspired you to open a venue like this in Bellevue?
George Lund: Carrie and I are Nashville natives, and Bellevue has been our home for the past nine years. As entrepreneurs, we were looking for a business opportunity that would bring something meaningful and enjoyable to our community. When we discovered The Back Nine franchise, we immediately felt it was the perfect fit—not only for us, but also as a great addition to Bellevue’s growing golf community.
BCL: Were you looking for something golf specific?
Carrie Lund: Golf has always been something that connects our family. We have three grown children who all play, and some of our favorite memories have been made during a fun round of golf together. When we discovered The Back Nine, it felt like a natural fit for us—not only because of our love for golf, but because it offered something Bellevue could really enjoy and rally around. Tee times can be hard to find, and outdoor golf always depends on the weather. At The Back Nine, members can play 24/7, year-round, in the comfort of a private bay.
BCL: Let’s get right to it: Tell us about the technology and how does it compare to outdoor golf?
GL: The Back Nine uses Full Swing technology, which is the same technology featured in Tomorrow’s Golf League, or TGL, airing in primetime on ESPN with current PGA Tour players. It creates an incredibly realistic experience, from the course imagery on our large screens to the way the ball performs in real time. The Full Swing technology provides immediate feedback, so players can see accurate data on each swing while still enjoying the feel of playing a real round of golf. We currently have 83 courses available, including Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, and all of the TPC courses. We also have Wade Hampton Golf Club in Cashiers, North Carolina, which is a favorite among many golfers from Middle Tennessee. Full Swing is also adding 50 courses each year for the next five years, so the experience will continue to grow. What makes it especially fun is the ability to customize the round. You can adjust pin placement, fairway, rough and green conditions, and even weather. Because of that, members never run out of new ways to play.
CL: It really is an incredible concept, and one of the biggest benefits is convenience. A round of golf does not have to take the entire afternoon. Three or four people can typically play 18 holes in about three hours, and two people can usually finish 18 holes in about an hour and a half. That makes it much easier to fit golf into a busy schedule, while still enjoying a great experience with friends, family, or clients.
BCL: For the golfers who have visited competing facilities, what is their reaction when they see Back Nine?
GL: Shock.
CL: “Wow!” That is usually the first reaction we hear. Our goal was to create an atmosphere that feels comfortable and welcoming—almost like home—where members enjoy spending time, playing golf, and making memories with friends and family. I think we have achieved that. One thing members really appreciate is the private bay experience, which is not always easy to find. That has been especially meaningful to me as a newer golfer. I love being able to close the door, practice, and learn without worrying about who may be watching. One of my favorite parts of owning The Back Nine is walking down the hall when the bays are full and their bay doors are closed. I love hearing friends and families laughing, playing, and spending time together. Our members bring their friends, their favorite food and beverages, and simply enjoy being together around the game of golf.
BCL: Who is your typical member?
GL: We’re seeing the most traction from someone who wants to improve their game, have the flexibility to play 24/7 and be able to pivot on that and bring their friends and families. Back Nine is a complement to outdoor golf as many of our members belong to private clubs. Corporate memberships are also available as well as co-branding opportunities. For example, Nashville Collision Center is the sponsor of our Augusta Bay. And all of our Back Nine members are eligible to play at any of the other Back Nine locations across the country.
TheBackNineGolf.com/nashville-bellevue-tn/
"You can adjust pin placement, fairway, rough and green conditions, and even weather. Because of that, members never run out of new ways to play."