If you’ve never heard of the game of FootGolf, then you’re probably not alone. But that’s just about to change. The relatively obscure sporting activity has now come to Delaware Park.
Part golf and part soccer, FootGolf is one of the newest rages to sweep America. If you can kick a regulation 5-sized soccer ball around an eighteen hole FootGolf course, then you get the gist of the game. Now that the course has been designed and constructed at Delaware Park, Buffalo FootGolf organizers are looking to start a series of leagues (see Facebook). Play is underway starting tomorrow!
“We’re giving the classic game of golf a new spin by bringing FootGolf to Delaware Park in Buffalo,” said Mayor Byron Brown. “As Buffalo continues its transformation into a 24/7 live, work and play destination, the hybrid sport of soccer and golf adds to the momentum. I look forward to its debut in Buffalo and bringing a whole new group of people back onto the green.”
You can scope out the Olmsted Park Conservancy’s website for FootGolf details and pricing. According to the Conservancy, the game is fun and easy to play, and doesn’t take up a lot of time (like traditional golf). There is no expensive equipment, and the game is accessible to anyone.
“We’re thrilled to bring one of the fastest growing sports in the country to Delaware Park and Buffalo,” said Stephanie Crockatt, Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy’s interim executive director. “The course has the perfect terrain for this new activity, and with such a spirit of adventure found here in Buffalo, we are excited to offer something fun and dynamic to the community’s recreational mix.”
When it comes to FootGolf, there are a couple of twists along the way. First off, there are no cleats allowed. Second, there is a suggested uniform, similar to what you might find on a Scottish golf course, which you can see in the following video.
Delaware Park now features 18 (oversized) holes, that will accommodate the size of a soccer ball. If you’re at all confused by this, then just know that the game is played by adhering to all of the customary golf rules, but instead of using club and golf ball, you use your feet and a soccer ball.
“The distances for the par 3, par 4 and par 5 holes range between 100 yards and 250 yards,” said Dave Hoover, golf operations manager for the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. “We welcome soccer, golf and Olmsted Parks Conservancy fans of all ages to come on out and give it a try.”
To locate the field in Delaware Park (near the golf course), and to learn more about the game, visit Buffalo FootGolf online.
On Saturday, May 16 from 9am to 12 pm, there will be a free clinic for those who would like try out the sport.
Foot golf was named an official U.S. sport in 2011 | Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG) | American FootGolf League (AFGL)