Mohave Daily News: Local

The Daily News

BULLHEAD CITY - The Mohave Desert's temperatures have reached 120 degrees this summer, and there are times when staying outdoors is simply unbearable. But golfers have nothing to fear because air-conditioned golf carts have arrived at one of the local golf courses as of July 1.

Laughlin Ranch Golf Club has answered the prayers of its golf enthusiasts by installing air-conditioners by Coolwell so its golfers can combat the summer heat and golf to their heart's content.

The club's general manager, Pat Laughlin, said Laughlin Ranch has 20 golf carts equipped with air-conditioners. “When you sit on the seat, the air-conditioner activates,” he said.

There are two compartments filled with ice attached to the rear on both sides of the cart. The chilled air funnels through tubes, which extends to the front of the cart and blows the air on the back of the necks of its passengers. The device is mobile, so the golfers can thoroughly enjoy its comforts.

Laughlin said the ice is designed to last for 36 rounds of golf, and it is generally good for an average of 27 holes.

He said the implement will also generate heat during the winter months.

Laughlin said Troon Golf Course in Scottsdale experimented with air-conditioned golf carts, and its success prompted him to try it out.

He said Troon generated 90 percent more revenue in greens fees.

Laughlin said he knew of Coolwell for approximately one year, but he wanted to make sure it was engineered well and worked properly before he made the investment.

“A salesman from Coolwell took me out, and we played six holes of golf,” Laughlin said. “I liked the device; I liked that it kept me cool.”

Orchid Comitz, the club's director of marketing, said, “Laughlin Ranch is always looking for the best for its golfers.”

Despite the added comfort, Laughlin Ranch's golfers will not feel the pinch in their wallets. “There is no extra cost,” Laughlin said. “The green fees are the same.”

Comitz said golfers can golf for the regular summer fee, which includes either a breakfast burrito or a hot dog as well as pool privileges. “It makes summer golf a lot better,” she said.

Laughlin said he received immediate feedback from one of the club's golfers who played 36 holes in 100-degree temperatures, and he said he was not overheated.

Comitz said someone promptly said “it's cool” upon utilizing the more comfortable cart.