Golf Australia and Speedgolf Australia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together to grow golf participation in Australia.
Speedgolf is a fun, fast, and fitness-based alternative to traditional golf.
With health benefits being a key driver for participation in sport, the game involves playing a round of golf in the shortest possible time and in the lowest possible number of shots.
The sport is believed to have begun in the 1970's when a number of golfers began setting and chasing the world record.
The current world record was established in 2005 when American Christopher Smith shot a five under par 65 in 44 minutes and 6 seconds.
Golf Australia Game Development Director Cameron Wade said innovation in golf was a key pillar of the organisation’s Participation Plan.
“We are always looking to develop new ideas that will improve the way golf does things and assists golf in achieving its participation objectives,” Wade said.
“Speedgolf is a good example of an innovation that may help people who are struggling to find time in their lives to play a normal full round of golf. It may also be appealing for people looking to improve their overall fitness and who enjoy playing golf.”
“We are currently operating in a time-poor society where there are increasing options for people looking for recreational pursuits. Where traditional rounds of golf are not feasible for some people, options like Speedgolf help to promote some different approaches to getting the same enjoyment from the golf course,” Wade added.
Australia will host its first international qualifier on 15 September at Federal Golf Club in Canberra for the World Speed Golf Championships USA.
The 2014 World Speed Golf Championships take place at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon from 25-26 October.
For more information the Australian qualifier visit http://www.speedgolfaustralia.com.au/#!upcoming-events/cq4e