Perpetual Golf opened at 1050 E. Duane Ave. in April and ever since has been offering golf fanatics the chance to perfect their swings using the center's state-of-the-art technology. Large simulators offer virtual rounds on courses such as Pebble Beach, and the staff on-site will custom fit putters for each individual golfer. This was the aim of founder David Balbi, the 1999 Northern California Professional Golfers' Association Teacher of the Year.

"Perpetual Golf is David's creation," says Jody Dartez, one of two PGA instructors on staff at the Sunnyvale location. "The name symbolizes consistency. Once you acquire a good swing, it'll stick with you."

He says instead of treating the symptoms of a bad golf game, Perpetual Golf will get to the cause. Dartez even says that the company's 3-D Motion Analysis system, which evaluates a swing via electronic sensors placed on the golfer's body, uses magnetic fields much like an ultrasound or an MRI does.

But the name could also refer to another facet of the center. Perpetual Golf offers 12-month memberships starting at $95 a month, which includes keycard access to the facilities 24 hours a day.

The Sunnyvale location, chosen for its convenience to South Bay and Peninsula golfers, opened simultaneously with the other Perpetual Golf location at Dan Gamel's Health & Racquet Club in Fresno. Balbi also operates a smaller studio near his home in San Carlos. The popularity of his program pushed him to open the larger facilities.

"David—he is the draw," Dartez says. "He gives lessons to a junior player who recently hit a 66 [which is six below par]. She's only 8 years old. She could be the next Michelle Wie."

Balbi built the studios and brought in PGA professional instructors like Dartez, who previously worked at Silver Creek Valley Country Club and Pasatiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz. In addition to the 3-D Motion Analysis system, which Dartez says is only one of about a half dozen in the world, Perpetual Golf will also videotape a golfer's swing for more thorough analysis and fit putters and clubs to maximize each golfer's performance.

The back of the center also has a large-screen television and a lounge area for member parties, much like the one that kicked off Perpetual Golf's grand opening over the weekend of the Masters Tournament.

This comprehensive style of service is Balbi's goal. "You can't learn by going to the driving range. And simulators and video are popular, but we have all of this under one roof," Dartez says. "We even have a money-back guarantee if your game doesn't improve."

So far, a number of local workers have taken advantage of their services, as well as sports celebrities such as Bernie Nicholls, formerly of the San Jose Sharks. Dartez hopes to increase his customers and grow the membership base. He plans to fill monthly tournaments and leagues.

After all, the name does refer to a third meaning, that nothing will stop golfers from teeing off, including inclement weather. "It's not possible to get rained out in here," Dartez says.

For more information, visit www. perpetualgolf.com or call 408.773.1330.