Hello fellow Park Golf enthusiasts,
“What is park golf?” is by far the question I’ve been asked most often. “Mini golf on steroids”, “Smaller version of traditional golf”, “One club, one ball, fun for all” are my canned responses. All are accurate quick descriptions of the game that is becoming the next “pickleball” of golf, to use the phrase coined Destroyer Park Golf back when they opened in 2013.
Park Golf is much more, though. Yes, recreational, but also competitive! A game that can be enjoyed by multiple generations at the same time. A game that levels the playing field across gender and age. A game that can be enjoyed by both physically and mentally handicapped children and adults with their families. Groups that golf in leagues together but want a place they can bring their own beverages, finish a round in under 2 hours, and then sit, talk, and laugh. Now that is a sport I wanted to embrace!
I am one of 13 founding members of the nonprofit IPGAA.
It was important to establish the IPGAA, the officially recognized governing body of Park Golf in America (and currently Canada), as a Non-Profit. Governed by a distinguished volunteer Board of Directors, we believed that the spread, education, and development of Park Golf must be focused on PEOPLE and THE GAME – not money or individual pockets. We are funded by donations and membership. We are committed and passionate about the game and what it can do for individuals, families, and communities.
So “Why ‘Park Golf’?” Simple – courses were originally laid out in underutilized park space. Golf in a Park! In American, we are developing the private sector, available vacant land, campgrounds, golf courses, country clubs, and municipalities. The real beauty lies in being outside, enjoying nature, laughing with friends, families, and dates. It lies in seeing golfers and non-golfers meet and finally enjoy something together!
Finally, I am, we are committed to fair play with rules and standards that protect the populations I just mentioned. Safe, tested, specifically designed equipment and course layouts ensure Park Golf can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities! A course owner myself, following the standards, has lightened liability concerns for our business. I don’t like to drive 55 in a 55 either, but the ‘rules and standards’ are there for a reason. Park Golf deserves the same respect. It is growing fast and furious. Sometimes it is hard to keep up. But we will be here with you on the journey; educating, helping and sharing.
Let’s grow Park Golf together!
God Bless, Kris Beyer Jones
Founding Chairman 2014 – 2025
