FootGolf:
The One-of-a-Kind Sport that has Swept Across the Nation By Henry G. Lucero Photos Linda Carfagno
By Henry G. Lucero Photos Linda Carfagno
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ootGolf has become one of the fastest growing sports in today’s generation, allowing players to enjoy a friendly, yet slightly competitive, one-of-a-kind sport. While this new craze has taken over 315 golf courses in the U.S. alone, both golf and soccer enthusiasts have joined in on the excitement to test their abilities in hopes of mastering this global sport. Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe is the exclusive listing in the Santa Fe area and is the 316th certified American FootGolf League course within the U.S.
For those not familiar with the game of FootGolf, the golf course does not use regular golf greens. Instead, it uses a special cut on all fairways and roughs. This allows FootGolf patrons to play with a #5 regulation soccer ball, while kicking the soccer ball on shortened holes that have an over-sized, 21-inch diameter cup. While this sport may look relatively easy, its challenge draws from understanding the game of golf. “This sport will test you both mentally and physically, while utilizing your knowledge of each sport,” states Jennifer Romero, golf course manager. “Santa Fe has a huge realm when it comes to golf and soccer enthusiasts, and we are excited to have these individuals play on one course.” Modified rules help combine the games of soccer and golf to create a fun and exciting sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The rules correspond to the rules of golf and are played throughout the world in many different forms. As a sport however, it is regulated by the Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG). The game is played, for the most part, without the supervision of a referee and depends solely on the integrity of the player to abide by the rules.
Originated in the Netherlands in 2009, this sport has also amassed quite a fan base and has set a new trend in both fashion and sports etiquette. “The fashion protocol makes the entire sport engaging and lively at the same time, while staying true to the fashion protocol for both golf and soccer,” says Romero. Fashionable trends, stylish attire and a focused attitude collide to create a fresh new sport that is affordable and family oriented. From knee-high argyle socks to an ivy cap, this sport is following the traditional
norm for golf attire. “We are excited to become a part of this new sports craze and invite the community to come out and experience the excitement,” Romero says. “It’s a one-of-a-kind sport that you just have to try.” Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe 205 Caja del Rio Road Off Highway 599 505.955.4400 Linksdesantafe@santafenm.gov LinksdeSantaFe.com