Jackson Reid
Miniature golf, also known as mini golf, crazy golf, putt-putt, and by several other names, is a offshoot of traditional golf that focuses on the putting aspect of the game. The aim is to get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible. Miniature golf courses are characterised by their short length, usually within 10 metres from tee to cup, and often feature artificial putting surfaces and obstacles such as tunnels, tubes, ramps, and walls. The game is designed to be fun and accessible to people of all ages and skill levels, and can be played anywhere and at any time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Names | Miniature golf, minigolf, putt-putt, crazy golf, midget golf, goofy golf, shorties, extreme golf, adventure golf, mini-putt, putter golf |
| Governing body | World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF) |
| Aim | Score the lowest number of points |
| Course structure | A series of holes, usually a multiple of 9 |
| Course length | Short (within 10 metres from tee to cup) |
| Playing surface | Artificial (carpet, artificial turf, or concrete) |
| Layout | Geometric, often requiring non-traditional putting lines |
| Obstacles | Artificial obstacles such as tunnels, tubes, ramps, moving obstacles, walls |
| Props | Themed props like clowns or animals |
| Scoring | Each stroke counts as one point |
| Gameplay | Players take turns to hit their ball into each hole with a putter |
| Accessibility | Suitable for all ages and skill levels, easy to play |
| Course themes | Adventure, pirate ships, caves, etc. |
| Playing time | Can be played anytime, even at night |
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Rules and scoring
Miniature golf, also known as minigolf, crazy golf, putt-putt, and adventure golf, is an offshoot of traditional golf that focuses on the putting aspect of the game. It is played on courses with 18 marked holes, usually within 10 metres from tee to cup, and the aim is to complete each hole in the fewest strokes possible.
Mini golf is played on a course with 18 marked holes, and players must complete each hole in number order, starting from the tee area and aiming to get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible. Each time the putter touches the ball, it counts as one stroke, and accidental contact with the ball does not count as a stroke. The maximum group size for playing mini golf is usually four or five players, and the team with the lowest score after all the holes are played wins.
If a ball goes off the putting area, the player must start again from the tee, and this counts as a stroke. If the ball gets snagged in an obstacle, the player is allowed a free ball and must play from that spot, not any nearer to the hole. This also counts as a stroke.
The order of play on the first hole is decided by the group, but typically, on subsequent holes, the person who scored lowest on the previous hole goes first. If no one scored lower on the previous hole, the same order as the previous hole is usually followed.
Mini golf scoring is unusual in that lower scores are better than higher ones. Each hole has a "par" value, which is the expected number of strokes to finish it. For every stroke under par, the player gets a negative point, and for every stroke above par, they get a positive point. For example, if a hole is a par 4 and a player sinks the ball in 3 shots, they have achieved a "birdie".
Some mini golf courses have bonus 19th holes, where players can win a free game or a discount ticket for another game if they achieve a hole-in-one.
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History
Miniature golf, also known as minigolf, putt-putt, crazy golf, and by several other names, is an offshoot of the sport of golf that focuses solely on the putting aspect of the game. The aim is to score the lowest number of points by getting the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible. It is played on courses consisting of a series of holes (usually a multiple of 9) that are usually within 10 metres from tee to cup. The game uses artificial putting surfaces (such as carpet, artificial turf, or concrete), a geometric layout, and artificial obstacles such as tunnels, tubes, ramps, moving obstacles, and walls.
The origins of miniature golf can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As golf became increasingly popular, cities began building municipal golf courses, starting with New York's Van Cortlandt Park in 1895. However, the traditional golf course requires a large amount of space, which many cities lacked. This is said to have led to the creation of miniature golf, a more whimsical and accessible version of the sport.
The first miniature golf course in Canada was at the Maples Inn in Pointe-Claire, Quebec, which opened to the public in 1914 and added a miniature golf course in 1930. One of the first documented minigolf courses in mainland Europe was built in 1926 by a man named Schröder in Hamburg, Germany, who had been inspired by his visit to the United States. In 1931, Edwin O. Norrman and Eskil Norman returned to Sweden from the United States and founded the company "Norman och Norrmans Miniatyrgolf," manufacturing standardized minigolf courses for the Swedish market.
In the United States, the first standardized minigolf courses to enter commercial mass production were the Thistle Dhu ("This'll Do") course in 1916 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and the 1927 Tom Thumb patent of Garnet Carter from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. Thomas McCullough Fairbairn, a golf fanatic, revolutionized the game in 1922 by formulating a suitable artificial green made from a mixture of cottonseed hulls, sand, oil, and dye. This made miniature golf accessible everywhere, and by the late 1920s, there were over 150 rooftop courses in New York City alone and tens of thousands across the United States. This American minigolf boom of the early 20th century came to an end during the Great Depression in the late 1930s, when nearly all minigolf courses in the country were closed and demolished.
During the 1930s, miniature golf became a national obsession in the United States, with as many as 50,000 miniature attractions across the nation. It attracted people of all backgrounds, including Black golfers who had long been involved in the sport, first as enslaved caddies and then at segregated country clubs and some municipal courses. Miniature golf provided a way for Black golfers locked out of white-owned country clubs to practice their skills. In response to segregation, Black community organizations also built their own mini-golf courses.
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Obstacles and decor
One of the most well-known obstacles in miniature golf is the windmill, which has become synonymous with the game. Other common obstacles include tunnels, tubes, ramps, moving parts, and walls made of various materials such as concrete, metal, or fibreglass. Putt-putt, a specific type of miniature golf, often feature metal rails, pipes, or statues. These courses tend to be simpler but can be more gimmicky, with thematic elements like clowns or animals.
Miniature golf courses can also incorporate natural terrain features such as hills, mounds, slopes, water hazards, caves, and sand traps, adding variety and challenge to the game. The decor and theming of the course can vary widely, from whimsical to adventurous, with some courses featuring pirates, waterfalls, and even live alligators!
The history of miniature golf is filled with creativity and innovation. The earliest courses emerged on rooftops in the early 20th century, and the game has since evolved to include a range of obstacles and decor that make it a beloved pastime for people of all ages.
The obstacles and decor of miniature golf courses are what set them apart, creating a fun and unique experience that differs from traditional golf. These courses encourage players to embrace their creativity and strategy while enjoying a competitive yet lighthearted game.
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Accessibility
Miniature golf, also known as minigolf, putt-putt, crazy golf, and by several other names, is a highly accessible activity. The game is an offshoot of traditional golf, focusing on the putting aspect, and is played on a course consisting of a series of holes, usually a multiple of nine. The accessibility of miniature golf stems from several factors, including its simplicity, affordability, inclusivity, and flexibility in terms of location and time.
Firstly, miniature golf is simple to understand and play. The objective is straightforward: players aim to score the lowest number of points by getting their ball into each hole in the fewest strokes possible. While the game requires some strategy and skill, it is generally easier to play than traditional golf. Miniature golf courses are often shorter in length, usually within 10 metres from tee to cup, and use artificial putting surfaces such as carpet, artificial turf, or concrete. This accessibility is further enhanced by the variety of course designs, with some courses offering themed obstacles, decorations, and creative features that add to the fun and entertainment value.
Secondly, miniature golf is relatively affordable compared to traditional golf. It does not require expensive equipment or memberships, making it accessible to people from various economic backgrounds. Miniature golf courses are often publicly available, allowing anyone to play without incurring significant costs. This affordability contributes to its accessibility, especially for families or individuals on a budget.
Additionally, miniature golf is inclusive and suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. It is a great activity for families, as it can be enjoyed by both children and adults. The game does not require prior golf experience, and its simplicity makes it accessible to beginners. Miniature golf also offers a less physically demanding alternative to traditional golf, as it does not involve long walks on a large course or the need for a golf cart. This inclusivity ensures that people of varying physical abilities can participate and enjoy the game.
Furthermore, miniature golf is flexible in terms of location and time. Miniature golf courses can be found in various settings, including indoor and outdoor locations, and even on rooftops. This adaptability allows people in different geographical areas to access the game without having to travel long distances. Additionally, miniature golf can be played at any time of day, with some courses offering night-time options or glow-in-the-dark variations, providing accessibility for those with busy schedules or preferences for specific playing times.
Overall, miniature golf is designed to be accessible, providing an enjoyable and simplified version of traditional golf. Its simplicity, affordability, inclusivity, and flexibility make it a popular activity for individuals, families, and groups looking for a fun and entertaining experience.
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Mini golf vs. putt-putt
Miniature golf, often referred to as mini golf, is a recreational game similar to golf but played on a smaller scale. It typically involves a series of holes, usually 9 or 18, each with its own unique design and obstacles. The aim is to hit the ball into the hole in as few shots as possible. Mini golf courses can vary widely in terms of theme, obstacles, and level of difficulty, offering a fun and challenging experience for players of all ages and skill levels. When comparing mini golf and putt-putt, there are several key distinctions to be made.
Putt-putt, also known as miniature golf or crazy golf, shares many similarities with mini golf but with some distinct differences. Putt-putt courses often have a standard layout, with a focus on precision and consistency rather than the varied and creative hole designs often seen in mini golf. The holes in putt-putt are typically shorter and the obstacles are generally less elaborate. Putt-putt emphasizes the putting aspect of golf, testing players' ability to make accurate and controlled shots.
One of the most noticeable differences between mini golf and putt-putt is the course design. Mini golf courses tend to be more creative and imaginative, incorporating a variety of themes and obstacles. You might find yourself putting through a windmill, around a pirate ship, or over a miniature bridge. The holes can vary significantly in terms of length, elevation, and obstacles, making each hole a unique challenge. On the other hand, putt-putt courses usually follow a more traditional and standardized design, often resembling a scaled-down version of a regular golf course. The focus is on consistent putting rather than navigating through intricate obstacles.
Another distinction lies in the playing surface. Mini golf courses often feature a variety of surfaces, including artificial turf, carpet, or even concrete, each providing a different playing experience. The variety of surfaces adds to the challenge and keeps players on their toes. Putt-putt courses, on the other hand, typically have a uniform playing surface, usually a well-maintained and closely mown grass or artificial turf, designed to provide a true roll for the ball. This consistent surface emphasizes the precision required in putt-putt.
The equipment used in mini golf and putt-putt can also differ. In mini golf, players may use a variety of clubs, including putters, wedges, and even drivers, depending on the hole design and course rules. The variety of clubs allows for different shot options and adds to the strategic aspect of the game. In putt-putt, as the name suggests, the focus is primarily on putting, and players typically use a putter for the entire course. The putter is designed for shorter, more controlled shots, and the game emphasizes accuracy and touch rather than power.
Finally, mini golf and putt-putt may differ in their target audience and level of difficulty. Mini golf courses often cater to a wider range of players, from young children to adults, and can offer a fun and entertaining experience for all skill levels. The variety of hole designs and obstacles provide a good balance between challenge and playability. Putt-putt, however, often appeals more to experienced golfers or those seeking a more precise and skill-focused challenge. The consistent course design and emphasis on putting accuracy can make putt-putt a more demanding and technical game.
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Frequently asked questions
Miniature golf (also known as mini golf, midget golf, crazy golf, adventure golf, and putter golf) is a miniaturised version of regular golf, focusing on the putting aspect of the game. It is played on courses consisting of a series of holes, usually a multiple of 9, and the aim is to score the lowest number of points.
The rules of miniature golf are similar to those of regular golf. Each stroke counts as one point, and the aim is to have the fewest points at the end of the round. Accidental contact with the ball does not count as a stroke. Miniature golf can be played anywhere and at any time—it is not restricted to the outdoors or daytime.
Putt-putt is another branch of golf but is less traditional. Putt-putt courses often have obstacles like metal rails, pipes, or statues, and tend to be simpler than miniature golf courses. They are more standardised and require less skill, with most holes designed for a "hole-in-one". Miniature golf courses, on the other hand, are more complex in design and theme, making the game more skill-focused and strategy-based.
Miniature golf is governed internationally by the World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF), headquartered in Göteborg, Sweden. In the United States, National Miniature Golf Day is celebrated yearly on the second Saturday of May. While miniature golf can be a fun family activity, it is also a competitive sport.
