The oldest miniature golf course in existence can actually be found in Scotland: The Ladies’ Putting Club of St. Andrews was formed in 1867 as a members-only green for women golfers.
The club was created as it was deemed improper for a lady to “take the club back past their shoulder.” There may not have been any windmills or loop-the-loop obstacles on this course, but the green was and remains one of the most prestigious miniature golf courses around.
In 1916, James Barber designed a miniature golf course in North Carolina called “Thistle Dhu.” The course was compact and featured a classical design, with fountains, gardens, and geometrical walkway patterns. In 1926, a few innovative designers created miniature golf courses on the roof of a New York City skyscraper, and other buildings followed suit – around 150 rooftop courses were in existence by the end of the decade in New York City alone.
One of the first UK miniature golf courses was on the rooftop of Selfridges London, back in the 1930’s. The creation by Bompas and Parr rooftop crazy golf course was part of the Big British Tea Party and is coming to a close on September 2nd. I have unfortunately not had the pleasure of playing this cake inspired crazy golf course this Summer, but have read many reviews and am sure it has entertained many in a quirky British fashion.
Although if I had I would probably have licked the obstacles and sniffed the cherry bakewell scorecard!
The Bompas and Parr Championship Final was held on the rooftop crazy golf course on 29th August 2012 and was won by Richard Gottfried, playing alongside nine other competitors. Richard won with an 18 hole round of 31 (-7).
His wife Emily, finished in a very respectable 3rd place tie – doing it for the girls!
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Happy Golfing!
