Speedgolf

In speedgolf, you run the round instead of walking it. Your score is calculated from the strokes played plus the minutes taken. A round with 80 strokes in 50 minutes therefore gives a score of 130, and the lowest total wins. The format combines golf with endurance sport and often takes only about half as long as a normal round. It is always played as stroke play, only against the clock. The Rules of Golf apply in full, penalty strokes are counted as always.

In practice, you drastically reduce your equipment. Five to seven clubs in a light carry bag or on a belt are usual. One example: after your tee shot, you put the bag down beside the hole, jog at a relaxed pace to the ball, hit without lengthy preparation and keep running. On the green, you usually putt with the flagstick left in the hole to save time. Etiquette still applies despite the pace: replace divots, rake bunkers and let other groups play through when you catch up.

The biggest misconception: speedgolf is not sloppy golf. It is about efficient pace of play, not frantic rushing over the ball. Anyone who hurries worsens their stroke count more than they gain time. Opportunities to try it out are more likely at special events or on short facilities, because normal course flow rarely makes allowance for runners. As training for everyday golf, the idea is still worthwhile: less pondering before the stroke, more rhythm.