Joining Hands with Xi’an Peihua University to Promote the Flourishing Development of Minigolf

2025-04-25 12:47:39 China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC)

At 14:30 on April 2, 2025, a meeting of great significance was held in the office of the Chairman of Xi’an Peihua University. Representatives from the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC), including Wang Zhihui, Chairman of Suzhou SmartPutt Sports Technology Co., Ltd., gathered with Jiang Bo, Chairman of Xi’an Peihua University, Professor Xu Guofu, Wang Zhiqiang, Dean of the School of Physical Education, Ma Dehou, Vice Dean, and others. Together, they strategized for the promotion and development of Minigolf and explored new pathways for cooperation in sports projects.

At the beginning of the meeting, representatives from the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee provided a detailed introduction to the development history of Minigolf. Originating in the United States in 1936, Minigolf is a popular outdoor recreational sport beloved by the masses. In its early years, it was widely promoted across various regions through national sports work conferences. In 2016, Minigolf was officially introduced to China, quickly attracting numerous enthusiasts with its unique appeal. In 2019, China successfully hosted the 16th World Championships, marking a solid foundation for the sport’s development in the country.

During the discussion, Wang Zhiqiang, Dean of the School of Physical Education at Xi’an Peihua University, shared valuable insights based on preliminary research. He pointed out that for social sports projects to gain widespread popularity, they must balance both physical activity and entertainment. If Minigolf could further enhance its fun elements while increasing the intensity and frequency of participants’ engagement, it would undoubtedly become an ideal choice for sub-healthy populations. Dean Wang also expressed the university’s willingness to collaborate in selecting suitable venues and improving related facilities to actively promote the integration of Minigolf into campus life.

Professor Xu Guofu elaborated on the unique value of Minigolf from the perspective of its sport characteristics. He noted that Minigolf, as a scaled-down version of golf, skillfully combines fitness and entertainment. Introducing this sport independently on campus would not only highlight the qualities of an elegant sport but also help build a distinctive campus sports brand, enriching the cultural essence of campus sports.

In his concluding remarks, Jiang Bo, Chairman of Xi’an Peihua University, outlined a clear direction for the collaboration. Chairman Jiang emphasized the importance of determining the scale of the venue, arrangements for competitions and training, and the required supporting facilities. He proposed adopting an "experiential" model as the primary operational approach to ensure the project’s sustainable development. Additionally, he highlighted the need to explore the social impact of Minigolf, focus on participation from diverse groups, promote the integration of university graduates into employment, and expand community sports scenes. With the core goal of "National Fitness, Healthy China," he stressed the importance of continuously enriching the project’s content, facilitating the deep integration of campus sports and social sports, and ultimately achieving both social and developmental benefits.

This cooperation and exchange meeting with Xi’an Peihua University marks a new beginning. Through in-depth discussions, the two parties reached a high degree of consensus on various aspects, including venue cooperation, operational models, and the extension of social value. In the future, the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee will work closely with Xi’an Peihua University, leveraging their respective strengths to fully promote the widespread adoption of Minigolf both on campus and in society. This collaboration will contribute to the innovative development of China’s sports industry, allowing more people to experience the charm and joy of Minigolf and supporting the "Healthy China" initiative.

Minigolf + Jiangnan Cuisine: Creating a New Model of Integration

2025-04-08 20:27:14 China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC)

During the Qingming holiday, the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC) and Suzhou SmartPutt Sports Technology Co., Ltd., actively implemented the spirit of the "Enjoy Exciting Events, Savor Chinese Cuisine" initiative by the General Administration of Sport of China (GASC) and the Ministry of Commerce. By combining "Minigolf + Jiangnan Cuisine," they created a consumption feast in Zhouzhuang, Kunshan, blending Song Dynasty culture, modern sports, and regional cuisine. This initiative successfully explored a new model of integrating culture, sports, and tourism, characterized by "promoting cuisine through sports and revitalizing tourism through cuisine." Through innovative practices such as sports-driven visitation, consumption linkage, and cultural empowerment, it contributed to promoting local economic development.

I. Embedding Culinary Experiences in Sports Events: Creating a "Culinary Sports Carnival"

The CMPC collaborated with Zhouzhuang Town to set up a "Water Town Food Market" in the Minigolf area, pioneering the integration of "specialty cuisine into sports events" and creating a model where "sports serve as the scene, and cuisine becomes the experience." After visitors challenged the Minigolf "hole-in-one" activity, they could use experience vouchers to enjoy discounts at the market, forming a "sports-cuisine" consumption loop. Data shows that 80% of participants made purchases at the market, with per capita spending 40% higher than that of regular tourists. Additionally, the CMPC innovatively launched "sports supply packs," combining barbecued skewers, baked cakes, and other snacks, with packaging featuring Minigolf and Jiangnan cultural elements, making sports a vehicle for cultural dissemination.

II. "Sports + Cuisine": Consumption Linkage Activates Dual Industry Momentum

The CMPC partnered with the scenic area to promote the linkage between sports and dining consumption. A two-way incentive mechanism was introduced: "sports check-ins for dining rewards" and "dining consumption for Minigolf ticket draws." During the event, dining consumption increased by 35%, and Minigolf experience bookings surged by 200% compared to regular days.

III. Cross-Industry Collaboration: Unlocking the Fusion Code of "Cultural IP + Sports + Cuisine"

Centered on Song Dynasty cultural IP, the CMPC promoted deep cross-industry integration of sports and cuisine. Elements from the Along the River During the Qingming Festival painting, such as the Rainbow Bridge and taverns, were incorporated into the Minigolf area, immersing visitors in Song Dynasty cultural experiences while they played and dined.The event created over 200 temporary positions, 60% of which were filled by local villagers as food stall vendors and activity guides, with daily earnings exceeding 300 yuan per person. Some vendors reported that the influx of visitors from the sports activities enabled them to achieve sales in three days equivalent to a month during the off-season, even attracting distributors from other regions. The model of "sports-driven visitation → culinary monetization → industry income growth" implemented the policies of "stabilizing employment and benefiting livelihoods." The CMPC also trained local workers to enhance their skills, supporting the sustainable development of the regional economy

IV. From Policy Blueprint to Practical Model: Integrated Innovation

Against the backdrop of the national strategy to expand domestic demand and promote consumption, the vitality of sports and the allure of cuisine converged. Visitors swung their clubs in scenes reminiscent of Song Dynasty marketplaces and lingered at stalls offering intangible cultural heritage foods, with sports and dining merging into "scenes of happiness." This people-centered innovation activated cultural and tourism consumption, contributed to rural revitalization and high-quality industrial development, and provided a replicable "Jiangnan model" for the integration of "sports + cuisine."

When the richness of traditional culture resonates with the convenience of modern consumption, it not only unlocks the industrial value of "1+1>2" but also writes a contemporary answer to "benefiting the people through industry and revitalizing the city through enterprise."

Notice of Public Announcement on the Review Results of Event Activities for Fitness Yoga, Sudoku, Rubik's Cube, National Physical Fitness, and Minigolf in 2025 by GASC

2025-04-07 21:29:18 China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC)

To All Relevant Units:

Our center recently issued calls for proposals for seven event activities:

· 2025 National Fitness Yoga Segment Promotion Official Review Course

· 2025 National Fitness Yoga National-Level Coach Review Course

· 2025 National Sudoku National-Level Coach Training Course

· 2025 National Rubik's Cube National-Level Coach Training Course

· 2025 National Physical Fitness Competition Tour

· 2025 National Minigolf National-Level Coach Training Course

· 2025 National Minigolf National-Level Referee Training Course

Following comprehensive review, the results are publicly announced as follows:

1. 2025 National Fitness Yoga National-Level Coach Review Course

Host Unit: Anhui Jiarun Sports Culture Communication Co., Ltd.

2. 2025 National Rubik's Cube National-Level Coach Training Course

Host Unit: Jiangsu Kusiwei Sports Club Co., Ltd.

3. 2025 National Physical Fitness Competition Tour

Host Unit 1: Beijing Municipal Social Sports Management Center

Host Unit 2: Nanjing Jianye District Culture and Tourism Bureau, Nanjing Municipal Sports Competition and Social Sports Guidance Center

Host Unit 3: Shanghai Municipal Social Sports Management Center, Shanghai Yangpu District Sports Bureau, Shanghai Physical Fitness Association

4. 2025 National Minigolf National-Level Coach Training Course

Host Unit: Suzhou SmartPutt Sports Technology Co., Ltd.

5. 2025 National Minigolf National-Level Referee Training Course

Host Unit: Suzhou SmartPutt Sports Technology Co., Ltd.

6. No eligible host units were identified for the following courses:

· 2025 National Fitness Yoga Segment Promotion Official Review Course

· 2025 National Sudoku National-Level Coach Training Course

7. Public Announcement Period: April 3, 2025, to April 9, 2025

During the public announcement period, any objections to the results may be submitted via telephone, written correspondence, or other means to the General Administration of Sport of China Leisure Sports Administration Center. Objections submitted on behalf of a unit must bear the official seal of the unit. Objections submitted by individuals must be signed and include contact information or be presented in person.

Contact Person: Teacher Wu

Telephone: 010-87183980

Address: No. 9 Tiyuguan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing

General Administration of Sport of China Leisure Sports Administration Center

April 3, 2025

A New Era for Outdoor Sports: Minigolf Embraces Opportunities

Justin Lee

Recently, the General Office of the State Council formally transmitted the Guiding Opinions on Building High-Quality Outdoor Sports Destinations, jointly formulated by the National Development and Reform Commission and the General Administration of Sport. This landmark policy document not only charts the development path for the outdoor sports industry but also brings unprecedented historical opportunities for the promotion and development of Minigolf!

Overall Goal: Building One Hundred High-Quality Outdoor Sports Destinations

According to the Guiding Opinions, by 2030, approximately 100 high-quality outdoor sports destinations will be established across the country. These destinations will integrate complete facilities, high-quality services, diverse events, and international recognition, serving as core engines to drive the high-quality development of the outdoor sports industry. As promoters of Minigolf, we feel a profound sense of responsibility and are filled with anticipation!

The Unique Charm and Opportunities of Minigolf

As an emerging outdoor sport that combines leisure, competition, and entertainment, Minigolf is beloved by people of all ages due to its compact and flexible nature, ease of learning, and strong adaptability. The introduction of these Guiding Opinions undoubtedly provides a broader stage for the popularization and promotion of Minigolf.

We will actively respond to the policy call by leveraging the construction of high-quality outdoor sports destinations to advance the improvement of Minigolf facilities and service standards. Simultaneously, we will strengthen cooperation with internationally renowned outdoor sports enterprises, introduce advanced event resources and technical expertise, and enhance the professionalism and influence of Minigolf competitions.

Integrated Development for a Shared Future

The Guiding Opinions also emphasize the integrated development of outdoor sports with related industries. For Minigolf, this means opportunities to deeply integrate with sectors such as tourism, culture, and wellness, developing more creative and appealing products and services. For example, we can create themed Minigolf tourism routes by combining natural scenery and cultural landscapes, or collaborate with educational institutions to introduce Minigolf into schools, fostering interest and passion for the sport among young people.

Safety and Prevention: Ensuring a Secure Environment

While embracing the benefits of the policy, we are also keenly aware of the importance of safety and prevention. Therefore, we will strictly adhere to the requirements of the Guiding Opinions by establishing and improving a comprehensive safety and prevention system for Minigolf. This includes strengthening safety supervision and emergency response capabilities for events and activities. Additionally, we will enhance safety education and training for participants, raising their safety awareness and self-protection skills.

Moving Forward Together: Opening a New Chapter for Minigolf

Looking ahead, the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC) will join hands with partners from all sectors to seize the opportunities presented by the policy and promote the nationwide popularization and development of Minigolf. We believe that in the near future, Minigolf will become a beloved choice for more people, contributing to the prosperous development of China's outdoor sports industry!

"Stay in Kunshan, Build Dreams Together" — The 2025 3rd Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association Minigolf Invitational Successfully Concludes

Justin Lee

In the lush and vibrant month of May in Kunshan, the "Stay in Kunshan, Build Dreams Together" 2025 3rd Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association Minigolf Invitational was successfully held at the Minigolf course in the Mijing River Central Water Corridor Park. Numerous scholars and returnees gathered to sweat on the course, showcase their skills, and partake in a grand feast of sports and dreams.

Organized by the United Front Work Department of the Kunshan Municipal Committee of the CPC, hosted by the Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association (Kunshan Overseas-Educated Scholars Association), supported by its various branches, and co-organized by Suzhou Zhiji Sports Technology Co., Ltd., the event attracted nearly 100 participants from 11 competing teams. Coming from different branches, they brought their unique styles and high spirits, competing for honor.

The event kicked off with each team making their entrance and passionately shouting their team slogans, creating an exceptionally lively atmosphere. Cai Hongtao, Executive President of the Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association, delivered an inspiring opening speech, infusing the upcoming Minigolf competition with energy and encouraging everyone to strengthen friendships and build solidarity through sports.

Following this, the head referee detailed the competition rules and precautions. Representatives of the referees and athletes solemnly took their oaths, laying a solid foundation for the fairness, impartiality, and orderly conduct of the event. The journey of passion and dreams in Minigolf officially began as the Executive Deputy Minister of the Kunshan Municipal Committee United Front Work Department and six presidents of the Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association jointly launched the event on stage. A group photo captured this wonderful and unforgettable moment.

Throughout the competition, participants adhered to the spirit of "friendship first, competition second," showcasing their exquisite skills. The event was filled with highlights: players from all teams demonstrated their prowess with precise putting and solid technique; female competitors exhibited fluid and graceful swings, proving their mettle. While enjoying the charm of Minigolf, everyone deepened their friendships through collaboration.

After intense and exciting competition, the event drew to a close. The refereeing team carefully tallied the scores and announced the final results. At the closing and awards ceremony, the winners of the Outstanding Team Award, the top three teams, and the top three male and female individual players were revealed. Gu Ying, Executive Deputy Minister of the Kunshan Municipal Committee United Front Work Department, presented awards to the top three team and individual winners, amid thunderous applause and warm congratulations for their outstanding performances.

This invitational was not only a sporting event but also an important platform for interaction and exchange among overseas-educated scholars. On the course, everyone witnessed the sweat of hard work, the power of teamwork, and the sincerity of friendship. The successful hosting of the event fully demonstrated the positive spirit and vibrant outlook of the members of the Kunshan Western Returned Scholars Association. It is believed that the scholars will carry this passion forward, continuing to shine in their respective fields and contributing their wisdom and responsibility to the development of Kunshan and the prosperity of the nation. We look forward to reuniting at the next edition to write another brilliant chapter!

Minigolf Competition in Kunshan 13th Sports Games Concludes Successfully

Justin Lee

On October 12, amid the vibrant golden autumn, the Minigolf competition of Kunshan City's 13th Sports Games concluded successfully at the Zhouzhuang Wangyuan Valley International Minigolf Course. This marks the second consecutive time that Minigolf has been included as an official event in the Kunshan City Sports Games. The competition featured 11 participating teams from three districts and eight towns of Kunshan City. Adopting a team stroke-play format, each team's five athletes completed two rounds of 36 holes (one round each on the "Flying Field" and "Sprinting Field"). The team's total score was calculated by summing the individual scores of all members, with lower scores indicating better rankings.

During the competition, all teams demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and competitive spirit. Players either crouched to aim or swung their clubs with ease, skillfully guiding the colorful Minigolf balls along graceful trajectories and accurately into the holes. Cheers and applause resonated throughout the venue, fully showcasing the unique charm of Minigolf.

After a full day of intense competition, six teams emerged as winners. The Zhouzhuang Town team clinched the championship with stable team performance, while the Zhangpu Town team and the Zhoushi Town team secured the second and third places, respectively. The Bacheng Town team, Qiandeng Town team, and the Development Zone team ranked fourth to sixth in order.

In 2025, with the continuous efforts of the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC), Minigolf has flourished across China. The national-level Minigolf coach and referee training session held at the end of August has expanded the pool of professional talent and standardized the sport, laying a more solid foundation for its nationwide promotion and development. During the National Day holiday, the successful hosting of the 2025 "Qingxi Cup" National Minigolf Championship in Yiyang, Hunan, set a new benchmark for the integration of "culture, sports, and tourism" and marked a new phase in the sport's development.

To provide a higher-quality platform for competition and exchange for enthusiasts, the National Minigolf Open (Kunshan Station) will be held in November 2025. By standardizing event organization and elevating operational standards, the goal is to attract more people to learn about and participate in Minigolf, continuously injecting new vitality into enriching national fitness offerings and promoting the high-quality development of sports. Stay tuned!

2025 "Qingxi Cup" National Minigolf Championship Concludes Successfully: Integration of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Writes a New Chapter for Sports Empowering Rural Revitalization

Justin Lee

Bathed in the warm autumn sun and the soothing fragrance of osmanthus, the two-day 2025 "Qingxi Cup" National Minigolf Championship successfully concluded on October 2 in Qingxi Village, Heshan District, Yiyang City, Hunan Province. The inaugural championship brought together 14 teams from six provinces and municipalities across the country. Featuring both team and individual stroke-play competitions, the event infused new vitality into rural revitalization through the integrated model of "Sports + Culture and Tourism."

Qingxi Village in Yiyang City, Hunan Province, is the hometown of modern writer Zhou Libo and served as the prototype for his novel Great Changes in a Mountain Village. Leveraging the power of literature, Qingxi Village has transformed its landscape, delighting residents and attracting visitors from afar, offering a vivid example of how literature can drive rural revitalization. Today, building upon this fertile literary ground, the village is harnessing the power of sports and the concept of national fitness, allowing the vision of "integrating culture, sports, and tourism" to take root and flourish. During the National Day holiday, Qingxi Village launched a series of themed activities that showcased local characteristics. Beyond the national minigolf championship, these included lawn concerts, immersive performances, parent-child activities at book houses, special exhibitions at the collection hall, and festive events at Zhou Libo's former residence. These offerings allowed visitors to experience a poetic holiday amidst the rice fields, on the competition grounds, inside book houses, and on the lawns, fully appreciating the charm of Qingxi Village.

The event received unanimous praise from professional referees and athletes for its competition design and overall experience. Chief referee Shen Jianxin noted that the 18 standard holes on the course were each ingeniously designed. A steep slope track with a 30-degree incline tested players' precision, while an "S-shaped" winding track with consecutive turns challenged their shot-making skills. Players needed to flexibly adjust their club selection and strategy based on the terrain of each hole, making the competition both intensely competitive and highly entertaining and spectator-friendly.

"It's my first time playing minigolf surrounded by the scent of osmanthus; even the air is sweet," said Wei Zichun, a young player from the Hubei team, with excitement. On the fairways filled with the fragrance of osmanthus, the white ball sometimes found the hole with precision, eliciting cheers, and other times navigated clever turns, creating suspense. "The scenery here is beautiful, the people are warm, and I've made many like-minded friends. It's been a truly rewarding experience," said Hou Zhankai, captain of the Kunshan team, after the competition. Blending sporting passion with pastoral charm, the event added a vibrant festive atmosphere to Qingxi Village's National Day holiday, enriched the experience for tourists, and allowed participants of all ages and backgrounds to fully appreciate the joy of sports and the meaning of travel. "How could one know the osmanthus of the southern hills, with green leaves hanging from fragrant roots?" Accompanied by Li Bai's Ode to the Osmanthus, strolling across a grassy lawn amidst Qingxi's landscape, learning the story of the great changes in the mountain village, and experiencing the combined joys of nature, culture, and minigolf made this competition an unforgettable memory for all.

After intense competition, the Kunshan City Migao Team won the team championship, the Suzhou City Migao Team placed second, and the Hunan Golf and Tourism College Migao Team secured third place. The host team, the Yiyang City Migao Team, delivered a strong performance, finishing fourth. In the individual events, Li Jiasheng from Shenzhen won the women's title, and Li Chuang from Kunshan won the men's title.

The event was hosted by the Social Sports Guidance Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, co-organized by the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC), the Yiyang Culture, Tourism, Radio, Television, and Sports Bureau, and the People's Government of Heshan District, Yiyang City. It was implemented by units including the People's Government of Xielingang Town, Heshan District, Yiyang City, and Hunan Qingxi Cultural Tourism Development Group Co., Ltd. This collaboration established a model of "government guidance, professional promotion, and market operation," accumulating valuable experience for the standardized and scaled development of minigolf events.

Moving forward, the China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee (CMPC) will continue to use events as a catalyst. On one hand, it will deepen the "Sports + Culture and Tourism" integration model, seeking out more venues with both natural and cultural appeal to make minigolf a "window" for showcasing local charm. On the other hand, it will further develop the talent cultivation system. Following the national minigolf referee and coach training session held in Suzhou in late August, which has already built a reserve of professional expertise for promoting the sport, subsequent efforts will include campus promotions, community programs, and public training to make the sport more accessible. The aim is to transform minigolf from a "niche sport" into a "nationwide favorite," promoting an active, healthy lifestyle for more people and contributing to the deeper integration of sports development and rural revitalization.

National High-Level Competition Reignites Water Town Passion - 2025 National Minigolf Open (Kunshan Station) Successfully Held

Justin D. Lee

From November 15 to 16, 2025, the 2025 National Minigolf Open (Kunshan Station) was successfully held at the Invengo Minigolf International Stadium in Zhouzhuang, Kunshan City, Jiangsu Province. As the closing event of this year's Minigolf calendar, following the inaugural China Minigolf League (Kunshan Station) in 2024, the southern Yangtze River water town of Kunshan Zhouzhuang once again welcomed the grand staging of this national sporting event.

This tournament attracted 33 high-level teams from across the country, including representatives from Shanxi, Jiangsu, and Fujian. This year marked the first inclusion of 11 youth teams and 22 adult teams, setting a record high for participant scale. Nearly 200 competitors presented a high-level duel showcasing both professionalism and spectacle at the Zhouzhuang Invengo Professional Minigolf Stadium. The competition saw experienced veteran teams and debutant squads contend against each other, adding extra brilliance to the event.

The tournament was hosted by the Social Sports Guidance Center of the State General Administration of Sports. It was co-organized by the National Minigolf Sports Promotion Committee, the Jiangsu Provincial Social Sports Management Center, and the Kunshan Culture, Sports, Radio, Television, and Tourism Bureau. The event was co-sponsored by the Jiangsu Social Sports Instructors Association, the Suzhou Social Sports Instructors Association, and the Zhouzhuang Town People's Government, with operation and execution handled by Suzhou SmartPutt Sports Technology Co., Ltd.

At 9:00 a.m. on November 15, the opening ceremony commenced in a solemn and warm atmosphere. Attendees included Huang Qiang, Deputy Director of the Social Sports Guidance Center of the State General Administration of Sports; Li Wenyong, Director of the Third Sports Department of the Social Sports Guidance Center; Cai Ying, Deputy Director of the Jiangsu Provincial Social Sports Management Center; Zhu Yehua, Vice Mayor of the Kunshan Municipal People's Government; Su Peilan, Director of the Kunshan Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau; Jin Lei, Deputy Director of the same bureau; Ye Jianhong, Chairman of the Zhouzhuang Town People's Congress; Li Zhiping, Deputy Director of the National Minigolf Sports Promotion Committee; along with leading guests from social departments, universities, enterprises, and institutions across over 20 provinces and cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Heilongjiang, Anhui, Guangdong, and Fujian.

Over the two-day competition, players competed fiercely on the 18-hole flying disc standard lanes and 18-hole flying disc standard ways. On various fairways with challenging obstacles, players stabilized their center of gravity, controlled their breathing, locked onto the hole cup direction, and used both hands to gently push the ball out with their clubs. When the ball accurately entered the hole along the intended path, the venue erupted with cheers and applause. Players responded calmly, aimed with focused momentum, and executed precise shots, all striving for a winning stroke.

After intense competition, each group's events concluded smoothly. The competition referee took the stage to announce the final results for individual and team competitions.

In the adult team competition, the Kunshan Minigolf Association Dragon Team secured first place with excellent performance. The runner-up and third place were won by the Shenfeng Minigolf Team and the Kunshan Zhizhun League Minigolf Team, respectively.

In the adult individual stroke play competition, the men's title was won by Dai Wenbo from the Zhongsha Minigolf Team. The runner-up and third place were awarded to Zhao Zhongzheng from the Shenfeng Fan Minigolf Team and Zhang Jingcheng from the Kunshan Minigolf Association Dragon Team, respectively. For the women, the champion was Li Jiasheng from the Kunshan Minigolf Association Dragon Team. The runner-up and third place went to Sheng Yuhong, also from the Kunshan Minigolf Association Dragon Team, and Wu Min from the Shenfeng Minigolf Team.

In the youth group, the Jinxi Senior High School Fan Minigolf Team clinched first place in the team competition with outstanding performance. The runner-up and third place were secured by the Zhouzhuang Primary School Minigolf Team and the SuperStar Fan Minigolf Team, respectively.

For the youth individual competition, the men's championship was won by Wang Wentao from the Zhouzhuang Primary School Fan Minigolf Team. The runner-up and third place were Liu Haoran from the Jinxi Senior High School Minigolf Team and Gu Ziyu from the SuperStar Fan Minigolf Team. The women's champion was Li Xinyi from the SuperStar Fan Minigolf Team. The runner-up and third place were Li Zixuan from the Zhouzhuang Primary School Fan Minigolf Team and Li Jiaxin from the Jinxi Senior High School Fan Minigolf Team, respectively.

The successful hosting of the National Minigolf Open (Kunshan Station) not only provides a platform for Minigolf players to continuously showcase their skills and exchange expertise but also further promotes the popularization and development of Minigolf in China. On November 22, the first 2025 Shanghai City Minigolf Amateur Challenge is also set to commence. We look forward to the wonderful performances of Minigolf enthusiasts in Shanghai, the "Magic Capital"!

Finally, we extend our sincere gratitude to all relevant functional support units, referees, staff, volunteer teams, and sponsoring enterprises such as Yin Sumei Biological, Zhencai, Kunshan Shuangxia, and Shengdexin Packaging for their strong support.

[Related Introduction]

Minigolf refers to a global sport played on a very small course (approximately 1-10 mu, or 1000-6600 square meters) featuring different types of lanes (9-18 holes). Using a putter and a Minigolf ball, the objective is to hit the ball into the hole cup at the end of each track with the fewest strokes. Combining coordination, concentration, and intelligence, it possesses both competitive and leisure characteristics. Popular in Europe and the United States since its inception in the early 20th century, it has no age restrictions and is deeply loved by the public.

In recent years, with the continuous flourishing development of national fitness initiatives, many emerging sports beyond traditional ones have gradually entered public life, attracting increasing attention and enthusiasm. "Minigolf" is one of the representative sports among them.

The promotion and popularization of Minigolf in 2025 has progressed steadily. In August, the first national referee and coach training course was successfully held in Kunshan, Suzhou, establishing a professional talent team of nearly 200 individuals. In early October, the 2025 National Minigolf Championship concluded successfully in Yiyang, Hunan Province. That event attracted 14 teams from 6 provinces and cities, garnering nationwide attention. With the successful hosting of the 2025 National Minigolf Open (Kunshan Station), the "Minigolf fever" continues to rise.

Under the guidance of the Social Sports Guidance Center of the State General Administration of Sports, the National Minigolf Sports Promotion Committee in 2026 will actively cooperate with partners from all sectors to continuously improve the competition service system, strengthen the training of referees and coaches, increase publicity and promotion for events, and facilitate the entry of Minigolf into communities, campuses, enterprises, scenic spots, and other settings. The aim is to make it a national fitness project that the public "loves to participate in, can participate in, and frequently participates in." Simultaneously, using competitions as a link, stakeholders will jointly chart a new blueprint for the development of Minigolf and contribute further to the cause of national fitness!

Departure Ceremony and Pledge Meeting of Organization Committee&Staff of China's First Minigolf League Match Was Held

On June 19, the departure ceremony and oath meeting of 2024 China Minigolf League Organization Committee&Staff, which was sponsored by the Social Sports Guidance Center of the State General Administration of Sport, was successfully held in Zhouzhuang Invengo Minigolf International Club. This is another highlight event in Kunshan after the 16th Minigolf World Championship in 2019. At the same time, it marks the official launch of the preparatory work for the 2024 China Minigolf League Match.

In 1896, the first modern Summer Olympic Games were successfully held. The Olympic motto of "Faster, higher, Stronger, more united" has been passed down for centuries and has far-reaching influence. Guided by the Olympic spirit, China Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee is committed to promoting and popularizing Minigolf sport in China, making Minigolf sport into blossom all over the country, and becoming a beautiful local sports business card.

At the ceremony, Li Zhiping, deputy director of Chinese Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee, delivered a congratulatory speech, in which he expressed his ardent expectations and best wishes for the team. He said that Minigolf sport was introduced into Kunshan through the 16th World Championship, this time, from Kunshan to the country, I hope that the Committee will work together, go all out to win the first "battle" of China Minigolf League Match, and successfully complete the preparatory work.

Wu Liancai, deputy director of Kunshan Culture, Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau, highly affirmed the work of Chinese Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee and introduced the origin of Minigolf and Kunshan. He pointed out that this ceremony is an important milestone in the development of Minigolf Sport in China. It is of positive significance to promote the popularization and development of Minigolf and improve the competitive level of this sport.

At the ceremony, the Chinese Minigolf Sport Promotion Committee invited Zhao Zhongcheng, Xu Meixiang and other members of the Chinese National team of the 16th Minigolf World Championship to give flags to the staff of the cities stage race of the China Minigolf League Match, hoping that they can carry out the important task of the development and promotion of Minigolf sport with firm faith and successfully complete the task.

In addition, Organization Committee of 2024 China Minigolf League Match took an oath, and the representatives of the cities stage race of 2024 China Minigolf League Match signed a military warrant, full of confidence and determination for the victory of the campaign.

The leaders who attended the ceremony came on stage and beat drums for the warriors who went out to encourage them, hoping that the team went out all the way to flower and bear fruit.

The President of SmartPutt Jane Wang pointed out : The wind is rising, the drums of departure are thundering! The horn of the expedition has sounded, I wish the warriors of the to ride the wind in June, break the waves, and cast a new chapter in the promotion and development of Minigolf Sport in China!

Minigolf League Match Kunshan European and American Alumni Association and Yangtze River Delta Region opened

Justin Lee

On the morning of September 9, the first Minigolf League Match Kunshan European and American Alumni Association and Yangtze River Delta Region was opened. Sponsored and organized by Suzhou Smartputt Sports Technology Co., Ltd.,this match was hold in Invengo International Minigolf Club. Zhu Jun, Secretary-General of Jiangsu European and American Alumni Association, Wang Yan, Deputy Director of Suzhou Overseas Chinese Office, Zhong Wei, Secretary-General of Suzhou European and American Alumni Association, Hu Zhiwu, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Japan Branch of Shanghai European and American Alumni Association, Zhang Jun, Executive Vice Minister of the United Front Work Department of Kunshan Municipal Party Committee, etc. attended the event.

Li Zhiping, executive president of the Kunshan European and American Alumni Association, delivered a speech, hoping to deepen the exchange and cooperation between overseas returnees in the Yangtze River Delta through the competition.

In his speech, Zhang Jun expressed his good wishes for this event, and hoped that the majority of overseas students would give full play to the advantages of both international vision and double-innovation spirit, be rooted in the local, international-oriented, integrate cross-regional and cross-cultural resources, and provide strong support for Kunshan's economic transformation, upgrading and innovative development.

Subsequently, nearly 200 athletes and referees from 16 teams from Shanghai, Suzhou, Kunshan and other places gathered at the world's largest full-category Minigolf International Club and opened a wonderful Minigolf competition feast.

After a wonderful and fierce competition, Zhang Hongkai of the KNSSA won the first place for men, and Yuan Ziqin of the children's school team for Canadian foreigners in Kunshan (Kunga Wolves) won the first place for women.

The contestants have said that this is not only a sports competition, but also a gathering of friendship. Sports has built a bridge of friendship, enhanced mutual understanding and communication, and established a deep friendship, and are more looking forward to continuing to compete in the competition on September 16.

It is reported that on September 17th. Group competition will also be held in Kunshan which will decide the group champion, runner-up and third runner-up

Let's look forward to it together!

Olivia Prokopova Wins Her Third Green Jacket

14 Oct 2021 at 14:14

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - A lot may have changed for Olivia Prokopova since the last time she won the USPMGA Master's green jacket in 2013 but one thing that didn't is her putting in the clutch. With three aces in the final four holes of the 2021 Master's, she closed out the grueling event to become a three-time winner and the first mom to grab the jacket.

Just in the past year, Prokopova got married to fellow putter Wade Sahmel, who finished 11th in the Master's, and saw the birth of their daughter Amelie. It was not the easiest of years though as Amelie was born prematurely and Olivia had various complications during birth, but her focus as a putter and the love and support of her family helped overcome the odds the past week.

The 2021 edition of the Master's was a twelve round competition played over three days and three courses. The first two days saw a third of the field work their way through three rounds each at Hawaiian Rumble, the Pineapple course at Hawaiian Village and the Aloha course. With the best players spread across those courses, there's a lot of mental gymnastics happening to figure out where people are going to land before the whole field comes together for the tenth round at Aloha. This year it was even more so because that round start was moved up due to threat of thunderstorms in the afternoon on Friday so there was no re-pairing during that round. It wouldn't be until the end of the tenth round where we would see how the field shook out from the week.

At that point, Prokopova, who had started the tournament on the hardest of the three courses, Pineapple, trailed by two strokes to Joey Graybeal (2109 champion) and one stroke to Rainey Statum (2020 champion). She had kept it tight by posting a 25 on her second round at Aloha, which tied Gary English for the lowest round of the tournament. It would then be off to the races for Prokopova who would post four-straight 30s across Aloha and Rumble.

What everyone didn't know was that the Top 35, who had made the "cut" to play later on Saturday morning for their final two rounds, were in for some weather for those rounds. After adjusting to new carpet on the Rumble course it would now be a case of who could adjust to the carpets speed in rain, a condition which hadn't really been seen much in practice that week. With the top ten only separated by eight strokes and it being a group of accomplished putters and Master's winners, everyone was in for a treat.

The first moves were made in round eleven as Statum would post a respectable 32 but Prokopova's 30 would slide her past him for the top spot as Graybeal carded a 34. It was then a matter of holding on for 18 holes, which was a tough feat as Statum posted an even better 31 in the final round. Once again given the threat of weather, there was no re-pairing for the final round so Prokopova found herself ahead on the course of Statum and Graybeal coming down the final stretch. So when she aced the easier hole one and then the more difficult, with the new carpet, hole 2, the field knew the pressure was on. However, she all but sealed it with an ace on hole 4, which until then had only 7 aces for the entire tournament. When Statum hit a deuce on three it was over and Sahmel got to celebrate with her family. It also clinched the women's title for her and with Graybeal as her doubles partner there was no doubt about them winning that title as well. Statum would finish 2nd and Graybeal would finish in a tie for 3rd with Matt McCaslin who was also inducted into the USPMGA Hall of Fame in 2021. He is the 14th inductee.

Taking the stop spot earned Prokopova $5,500 (~4755 EUR). This year's tournament paid down to 35th, which took home $125 (~108 EUR). Full results and more information can be found at the links below.

Sheridan Hangs on to Win at Matterhorn

24 Sep 2021 at 16:36

Top 8 of the Pro Division

Canton, Connecticut - In the 5th year of his organization, The Putting Penguin, running the Matterhorn International Pro-Am, Pat Sheridan pushed his way up the leaderboard, outlasted the competition and grabbed his first win at the tournament. It was a beautiful September day as 18 pros and 20 amateurs teed up for the tournament looking to see if they could best a course known for its scant aces and handful of daunting holes. This year the pro division had been reduced from five rounds to three rounds and everyone knew this meant scores would be tight and every mistake would stand out. 

Sheridan was up against some formidable competition that day as two of the past winners, Mark "Highlighter" Novicki and Justin Seymour, who was also coming off wins in Maine and Maryland, as well as local young-gun Jonah Hurley all were in the field. Seymour, Hurley and Sheridan would all come off the tee box strong, carding 38s in the first round. Dave Vayda, new to the tournament in 2021, also carded a 38 in the first round. The scores remained hot as the weather warmed up with Matt Liles joining the 38 club in the 2nd round while Hurley and Sheridan matched.  This set up an intense final round with Sheridan and Hurley matched at 76, Seymour at 77 and Liles at 78.  Randy Rice and Jacob Yale weren't far behind with 79s. In the 3rd round, Sheridan would sneak out to a 2 stroke lead at one point having gotten through the front nine with all twos.  Seymour had slipped leaving a showdown between Sheridan, Hurley and Liles. Two bad mistakes left Hurley and Sheridan tied going into the 18th hole, a long and tough par 3 that Hurley had gotten a two on in the previous two rounds.  It wouldn't be third time's a charm as he recorded a three and Sheridan just barely missed final hole glory as his second putt from 20 feet away had a bit too much pace on it and rimmed out.  His tap in three meant it was playoff time. Liles would end up in third place. 

Hurley and Sheridan are no strangers to playoffs at Matterhorn.  In the first year of the tournament, Hurley, as a 11 year old, took 3rd place from Sheridan, then 37, with an aggressive ace on the first hole.  Just earlier in the week this year, they had a 15 hole playoff for second place in the weekly league.  Prior to that though, Sheridan had to take a few minutes to get the amateur prizes awarded. 

This year the amateur division was dominated by Caleb Smith who at 15 set an amateur record of 120 for the 3 rounds along with a record low round score for an amateur of a 38. Caleb's dad Darren came in second with a 128 and Josh Hayes would hang on to finish on the podium by one stroke over Elizabeth Marsh with Hayes shooting a 133.  The amateur division were awarded a variety of prizes and paid down to 8th place. 


Amateur Division Top 8

With that out of the way, the question was what the playoff for the top spot in the pros would bring.  This time around Hurley played more conservatively on the first hole and he and Sheridan matched 2s for the first two holes.  On hole three, Hurley caught a crack in the bricks on his first shot leaving a tough second shot which he missed.  Sheridan's tee shot fared much better, leaving him a tap in 2 for the win.  It was a bit apt that Sheridan won on the hole named "Holey Moley" after his time on Season 1 of the popular American minigolf show.  

 
Sheridan on Hole 11

Sheridan had this to say about this year's tournament, "First I'm very happy that Mandy [Ranslow] forgoed playing in the tournament to help administer the tournament.  That helped me focus a bit more on the putting and overall made sure we had another successful tournament. This year saw the most pros we had playing, which is exciting and I hope we can grow on that in 2022. 

"As far as my play went, I was a bit surprised I started off as strong as I did. Normally it takes me a bit to get into the groove after the administrative parts, so I was happy it was a hot start.  That final round was super stressful with really any of the four of us in that group having a chance to win.  When I messed up on 17, I thought I had blown my chance because Jonah was playing really well, especially on hole 18. I really thought I had won it with my second shot on 18 and then needed to reset for that playoff.  My goal there was just no mistakes and it played out well for me.  I'm very happy to get this trophy on my shelf." 

This year The Putting Penguin also sponsored a skins match after the tournament where 4 pros were randomly selected to play a skins round for $10 a hole.  Seymour was selected, along with Rice, Vayda and John O'Leary. O'Leary would end up the big winner netting skins of $80 and $20, with Seymour earning a $70 skin and Vayda a $10 skin. 

Seymour Three-Peats in Maine

15 Sep 2021 at 12:23 | Published by: PatPenguin

Top 6 - Sheridan, Tiberio, Seymour, Jones, Goodkowsky, Novicki

Boothbay, Maine – Continuing a hot streak that has already earned him three wins in the northeast United States this summer, Justin Seymour showed what he had for the third year in a row at Dolphin Mini Golf. In 10 rounds, Seymour never scored above a 37 and that consistency on a course where aces are out there but 3’s and 4’s can loom large on some holes, was enough to breakaway from the competition and hold onto a commanding lead through the final round.

The 28th year of the tournament saw 19 putters tee it up for two days on September 11 and 12, an increase over the previous couple of years’ fields. The tournament, which has gone through some format changes over the past few years, was back to a 10 round marathon with 8 on Saturday and 2 on Sunday. With several former winners in the field, it’s always tough to place a favorite on who will pace themselves the best, but Seymour would have been the betting favorite coming off victories in Maryland and Connecticut the previous two weekends.

It looked like it would be a challenge right out of the gate though, as round one saw the lowest scores of the day with 2016 champion Pat Sheridan shooting a 32 and Evan Goodkowsky scoring what would be a tournament-low 31. However, the scores would start to even out as the morning progressed and Seymour’s 37-35-33 was enough to put him on top of the field, a position he would then keep the rest of the tournament. By the end of round six his lead was up to four strokes over Sheridan and it would never shrink the rest of the way.

Thus, the battle was on for the rest of the paying spots. This year the tournament paid down to the 6th position and there was movement up and down the leaderboard. Sheridan would drop from 2nd down to 4th and then 6th by the time the tournament was over, while Caleb Jones and Josh Tiberio made their charge to the top. By the start of the last round, it was pretty certain they would finish two-three in some order and then there were three players – Sheridan, Goodkowsky and Mark “Highlighter” Novicki with a four-way tie for 4th. Behind them chomping at the bit were John O’Leary and Peter Burr but neither of them could sneak into the top six by the end. With a solid combo 34 and 35 in the final two rounds, Novicki would break the tie and grab 4th place with Goodkowsky settling in 5th.


Justin Seymour putting on hole 7 in the night rounds

Seymour would drop his round average by over a stroke from his 2020 win, finishing with a 35.5 average over the 10 rounds. The win captured him $500. He would also win the “first hole-in-one on Bobbin Buoys” prize, which is an annual tradition for the 15th hole given it’s the least aced hole on the course. Goodkowsky would grab an additional $100 as the only competitor to aces 18 during the annual hole-in-one competition after the tournament.

This event also doubles as a fundraiser for the Lee Stoddard Scholarship Fund. In addition to funds raised throughout the year at the course and the connected Ice Cream Hut, $1,250 (~1,058 EUR) was raised for the scholarship. The 2022 running of the event will be held the weekend of September 10-11, 2022 with similar expected buy-in and prize money.

Top 6

Justin Seymour – 355 ($500)
Caleb Jones – 365 ($250)
Josh Tiberio – 366 ($200)
Highlighter Novicki – 368 ($150)
Evan Goodkowsky – 370 ($100)
Pat Sheridan – 371 ($50)

Past National Champion wins TN Pro Mini Golf Open

31 Aug 2021 at 06:17 | Published by: PatPenguin

efferson City, TN - The US Pro Mini Golf Association’s TN Pro Mini Golf Open was held Saturday, August 28, at Mossy Creek Mini Golf. Joey Graybeal (Bristol, TN) won the six-round event after acing the first four out five holes in the final round of competition. Graybeal had 15 aces on the day only behind runner-up Kenny Jarnigan (New Market, TN) who aced 18 holes for the entire tournament.

Jarnigan’s opening round 34 (-2) had him tied for 1st place with Gary Hester (Calabash, NC). Another round of 34 (-2) in the second round left the local in sole possession of the lead at (-4). Graybeal opened his tournament with rounds of 37 (+1), 37 (+1), and 34 (-2) leaving him at EVEN for the morning session. A five bogey, including one double, round for Jarnigan also left him at EVEN par after three rounds.

With temperatures in the low 90s, scoring went up in the afternoon session. Graybeal and Jarnigan pulled away from the 23-player field both shooting 35 (-1), the only under par scores for round four. Graybeal shot his third under par round of the day in round five with another 35 (-1). Jarnigan had three aces and three bogeys in round 5 for an even par score of 36. Graybeal extended his one stroke lead going into the 6th and final round with aces on holes 1, 2, 3 and 5. Bogeys on holes 7 and 16 brought Graybeal back for a score of 34. Graybeal final scores were 37, 37, 34, 35, 35, 34 (212, -4). Jarnigan finished runner-up with a final round 36 to shoot (215, -1) three shots behind Graybeal. Gary Hester shot his final three rounds at even par to finish in third place at (+4).

Joey Graybeal has won both USPMGA national championships. He was the winner of the 2016 USPMGA US Open in Pennsylvania and the USPMGA Masters in South Carolina. The TN Open is his first title of the 2021 USPMGA Season. The next major USPMGA event will be the USPMGA Masters held in North Myrtle Beach, SC October 7-9.

This was Kenny Jarnigans second career pro tournament and top finish. For the win, Joey Graybeal took home $600 of the $2000 purse. The tournament paid out to the top 11 players. Defending TN Pro Mini Golf Champion Fred Stewart (Richmond, VA) finished 5th at (+9).

Mossy Creek Mini Golf will host the 2022 USPMGA US Open on May 20-21, 2022. The tournament will be 10 rounds have a $15,000 purse.

Robinson picks up first USPMGA title in the Smoky Mountain Match Play

The top 16 players from the TN Pro Mini Golf Open were invited back on Sunday, August 29, for the Smoky Mountain Match Play. After two rounds, the final four players remaining were #3 Gary Hester, #4 Travis Robinson (Bristol, TN) , #7 Rick Baird (Landis, NC) and #8 John Kropanik (Gladstone, MO)

The first semifinal match between Hester and Baird required four sudden death playoff holes to decide the winner. A par on the difficult hole 4 propelled Hester to the final match. In the second semifinal, Robinson defeated John Kropanik 3 & 1. Robinson road to the finals was not easy. Robinson was two holes down going into the last two holes against the 2020 TN Pro Mini Golf Champion Fred Stewart. Robinson aced holes 17 and 18 to force a playoff where he defeated Stewart.

For Hester, this was back-to-back years making the finals of the Smoky Mountain Match Play. The match started with both Hester and Robinson acing hole 1. Robinson followed his ace on hole 1 with another ace on hole 2. The ace gave Robinson a 1UP lead on the match. A bogey on hole 3 by Robinson brought the match back to all square. On hole 4, Hester made an ace to win his second hole in a row to take the lead in the match 1UP. Par on the difficult hole 6 was good enough for the win for Robinson.

The players remained all square through hole 11. On hole 12, Robinson bogeyed to give Hester a 1UP advantage. Both Robinson and Hester had pars on holes 13, 14 and 15. Hester aced hole 16 to expand his lead to 2UP. Hester’s par putt on hole 17 lipped out. Robinson was able to get his par. Leaving him 1 DOWN going into the final hole. Robinson parred 18. Hester’s tee shot on 18 went long leaving a difficult deuce putt. Hester’s putt missed the target forcing playoff holes. After pars on hole 1, Robinson aced hole 2. Hester was unable to follow-up with an ace of his own given Travis Robinson the 2021 Smokey Mountain Match Play Final.

This is Robinson’s first USPGMA Victory. The prize for 1st place was $500 of the $1000 purse. Hester took home $250 as the runner-up. Rick Baird was victorious in the third-place match and won $150. John Kropanik who $50 for making it to the final four.

Dr. Zimmermann Re-Elected AIMS Secretary General

14 Nov 2021 at 14:04 | Published by: PatPenguin

AIMS General Assembly took place on the virtual platform with one main agenda point being the AIMS Council re-election from the period of 2021-2025. President Stephen Fox, who has been leading AIMS since 2015, made an extensive report highlighting the achievements of AIMS over the last five years. 

During this meeting Stephen Fox was re-elected as President. In addition, Dr Gerhard Zimmermann, President of the World Minigolf Sport Federation, was re-elected as the Secretary General during this same assembly. Dr. Zimmerman has been in this position since 2015. 

AIMS has become a credible and respectable member of the Olympic family receiving full IOC recognition as an IF umbrella body for sports striving towards Olympic recognition in 2020. 

Other highlights of the meeting included discussion of the AIMS members who have received full IOC recognition and the UTS World Virtual Youth Festival. Other results from the AIMS election included Panagiotis Theodoropoulos elected as the 1st Vice President and Dr Julie Gabriel as the 2nd Vice President, Treasurer Kei Izawa, and council members, Mike Thomas, Helen Lundberg, Sabine Shanahan, Gaston Parage, Marius Vizer Jr and certainly Michal Buchel. 

For the full press release from AIMS, see the link below.

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