Jackson Reid
Pitch and putt is a variation of golf where the holes are shorter, typically 90 metres or less. The Federation of International Pitch and Putt Associations (FIPPA) considers it a separate sport, while the International Pitch and Putt Association (IPPA) classifies it as a golf speciality. The sport has its own handicap system, and players can use a maximum of three clubs, one of which must be a putter.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hole length | 90 meters or less |
| Course length for 18 holes | 1,200 meters or less |
| Clubs allowed | Maximum of three, one of which must be a putter |
| Governing bodies | Federation of International Pitch and Putt Associations (FIPPA), European Pitch and Putt Association (EPPA), International Pitch and Putt Association (IPPA) |
| Rules | FIPPA and EPPA have their own rules; IPPA uses Rules of Golf with two major variations |
| Tee balls | Must be played from a tee that stands a minimum of 5 millimeters off the playing surface |
| Origin | The first P&P track was built in Portsmouth, England in 1914 |
| Style of play | Players capitalise on loft and have a unique swing style compared to traditional golf |
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What You'll Learn
Pitch and putt is a type of golf
The first pitch and putt course was built in Portsmouth, England, in 1914, and it quickly became popular, especially in Ireland, which is now considered the home of the best pitch-and-putt courses and players in the world. The style of play and approach to shots in pitch and putt differ from traditional golf, with players capitalising on loft and adopting a unique swing style.
While pitch and putt shares similarities with golf, some consider it a separate sport. The Federation of International Pitch and Putt Associations (FIPPA), along with the European Pitch and Putt Association (EPPA), view pitch and putt as a distinct sport, maintaining their own set of rules and relations with golfing bodies. However, they acknowledge the shared roots with golf.
The International Pitch and Putt Association (IPPA), on the other hand, considers pitch and putt a "golf speciality". They follow the Rules of Golf with some variations, focusing on shorter distances between holes. The game has evolved over time, and today each country can devise its own rules while adhering to the fundamental guidelines set by governing bodies.
Pitch and putt golf has its own dedicated competitions, such as the Pitch and Putt World Cup and the World Strokeplay Championship, organised by the respective governing bodies. These competitions showcase the skill and passion of pitch and putt enthusiasts worldwide, contributing to the growing recognition of this unique variation of the traditional game of golf.
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It has unique rules and style of play
Pitch and putt is a variation of golf with unique rules and a distinct style of play. While it is considered a separate sport by the Federation of International Pitch and Putt Associations (FIPPA), another governing body, the International Pitch and Putt Association (IPPA), classifies it as a "golf speciality".
The game is played on shorter holes, typically up to 100 yards or 90 meters in length, with a total course length of 18 holes not exceeding 1,200 meters. Players are restricted to using a maximum of three clubs, one of which must be a putter. The holes are played from raised artificial teeing surfaces using a tee, and the ball must be played from a tee that stands a minimum of 5 millimeters off the playing surface.
The approach to shots and the swing technique in pitch and putt differ significantly from traditional golf. Pitch and putt players tend to focus on maximising loft and employ a unique swing style. The skill set required for pitch and putt does not directly translate to golf, and proficiency in one game does not guarantee expertise in the other.
The original rules of pitch and putt, which originated in Ireland, have evolved as the game spread internationally. Today, each country can devise its own rules for the game. For international competitions within the IPPA framework, the Rules of Golf published by the Royal and Ancient and the USGA are followed. Meanwhile, countries operating under the FIPPA/EPPA framework adhere to their shared rules.
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There are two governing bodies
Pitch and putt golf is a variation of golf played on shorter holes, usually up to 100 yards. The style of play and approach to shots in pitch and putt golf differ from those in traditional golf, and players tend to focus on maximising loft.
The FIPPA was formed in March 2006 in Barcelona by representatives of 17 pitch and putt associations. Its original members included Ireland, Catalonia, Norway, Great Britain, Switzerland, Australia, Chile, Andorra, and the United States. Canada, China, and Germany were associate members. The FIPPA organises a biennial Pitch and Putt World Cup and the Pitch and Putt World Strokeplay Championship.
The IPPA was formed in 2009 when France, Italy, San Marino, and Denmark left the FIPPA and EPPA to establish a new organisation, along with Spain and Portugal. The IPPA follows the Rules of Golf published by the Royal and Ancient and the USGA, while the FIPPA and EPPA use their shared rules.
In addition to these international governing bodies, pitch and putt golf has various national and regional associations around the world. For example, pitch and putt in India is governed by the Indian Pitch and Putt Union (IPPU), a member of the IPPA, while pitch and putt in the United Kingdom is managed by the British Pitch and Putt Association (BPPA).
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It originated in Portsmouth, England
Pitch and putt golf is a fun and accessible version of the traditional game of golf. As the name suggests, it involves pitching and putting your way around a course, usually consisting of 9 or 18 holes. The game is designed to be played on smaller parcels of land than traditional golf courses, making it ideal for urban areas and spaces where a standard course wouldn't fit. This unique and exciting variation on the traditional game originated in Portsmouth, England, and has since spread worldwide, gaining popularity for its simplicity and the skill it demands.
The game was invented in the 1920s, and the first official pitch and putt course was established in Portsmouth. The aim was to create a version of golf that could be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, and that could be played on the city's limited open spaces. The creators wanted to make golf more accessible to the working classes, many of whom could not afford the time or money required to play the full game at a traditional course. By creating a shorter version that could be played quickly and cheaply, they opened up the sport to a whole new demographic.
Portsmouth's pitch and putt courses were initially set up in public parks, often alongside other leisure facilities like bowling greens and tennis courts. These courses were designed to make the most of the available space and often featured unique layouts with creative hole designs. The first courses had natural grass surfaces, and players used traditional golf clubs and balls. Over time, the courses became more specialized, with synthetic grass and custom-designed holes, but the fundamental principles of the game remained the same.
The game quickly gained popularity in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. Its social aspect was particularly appealing, as it provided a casual and fun way for friends and families to spend time together outdoors. The shorter game length also meant that players could easily fit a round into their busy schedules, and the lower costs compared to traditional golf made it an affordable pastime for many. The game's simplicity meant that beginners could quickly learn the basics and enjoy the satisfaction of improvement, while the skilled precision required to master the game ensured that experienced golfers also remained engaged and challenged.
From its humble beginnings in Portsmouth, pitch and putt golf has now spread worldwide, with courses popping up across the globe. The game has evolved and adapted to different cultures and locations, with various course designs and playing styles emerging. However, the core principles of accessibility, simplicity, and skill remain at the heart of the game, ensuring that players of all backgrounds can enjoy the unique challenges and pleasures of pitch and putt golf, no matter where they are. So, the next time you step up to the tee, remember the rich history of this fun and engaging sport, which began on the public parks and green spaces of Portsmouth, England.
Portsmouth's contribution to the world of golf is indeed remarkable, and the city continues to be a hub for pitch and putt enthusiasts. The game has not only left its mark on Portsmouth's leisure and sports culture but also showcases the city's innovative spirit, creating a fun and accessible activity that has enriched the lives of people worldwide.
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It's popular in Ireland
Pitch and putt is a variation of golf played on smaller courses with holes no longer than 100 yards, or 90 metres, and a par of 54. It originated in Cork, Ireland, in the 1930s and gained popularity due to its accessibility when golf was not widely accessible to most people. The sport is played with a maximum of three clubs and has its own unique style and approach to shots, with players capitalising on loft and a distinct swing.
Ireland is considered the biggest player in pitch and putt, with 100 clubs, 98 of which are affiliated with Pitch and Putt Ireland. The sport has seen a resurgence in recent years, with memberships surging by 200% amid the coronavirus restrictions. Some clubs experienced their biggest rise in numbers in decades, with people opting for pitch and putt due to its shorter playing time compared to golf, and its volunteer-based nature.
The Federation of International Pitch and Putt Associations (FIPPA) was created in 2006 with Ireland as one of its original members. FIPPA stages a biennial Pitch and Putt World Cup and the Pitch and Putt World Strokeplay Championship. The original rules of pitch and putt, which have been subject to variations, were developed in Ireland.
The unique style and approach of pitch and putt, as well as its shorter course lengths, have contributed to its popularity in Ireland. The sport offers a distinct experience that requires a different set of skills compared to traditional golf. The shorter holes and quicker playing time make it a more accessible and fast-paced option for players.
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Frequently asked questions
Pitch and putt is a variation of golf where the holes are up to 100 yards long. It is recognised by the R&A and has its own handicap system.
Pitch and putt players have a unique style, opting to capitalise on loft and using a different swing. The approach to shots is also very different.
Players may use a maximum of three clubs, one of which must be a putter. The course length for 18 holes must be 1,200 meters or less and everyone must play from the same tees.
The first pitch and putt course was built in Portsmouth, England in 1914. It was introduced as "miniature golf". Today, Ireland is considered the home of the world's best pitch-and-putt courses.
