Speedgolf Offers Faster Alternative to Traditional 18-Hole Rounds

The fitness-focused sport allows players to complete a round in about an hour instead of four to five hours.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Speedgolf, a faster version of golf that combines running with the sport, is gaining attention as players look for ways to complete 18 holes in around an hour instead of the typical four to five hours for a traditional round. The sport uses a unique scoring system that adds playing time to golf strokes, and players typically carry only four to five clubs instead of a full set.

Why it matters

Speedgolf provides a more time-efficient and fitness-focused alternative to traditional golf, appealing to players who have busy schedules or are looking to incorporate more physical activity into their game.

The details

Speedgolf eliminates golf carts, pull carts, and extended breaks, requiring players to carry a limited number of clubs while moving quickly between shots. The sport's scoring system adds a player's completion time in minutes to their golf score, with typical rounds taking 40 to 60 minutes to complete.

  • Speedgolf has been around since the late 1970s.
  • In November 2024, three Missouri golfers represented the United States at the World Speedgolf Championships in Japan.

The players

Garrett Holt

A golf pro at Horton Smith Golf Course in Springfield, Missouri, who started playing speedgolf in 2015 while looking for alternative ways to attract people to golf.

Nic Goodin

A former employee at Horton Smith Golf Course who initially dismissed the concept of speedgolf but later embraced it as a fitness activity.

Tim Shryack

A speedgolf player of more than two decades who appreciates the health benefits of the sport.

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What they’re saying

“Instead of four to five hours, you're looking at 40 minutes to 60 minutes.”

— Garrett Holt, Golf pro (1011now.com)

“I ate for two during my wife's pregnancy, and so it was time to get in shape. And sure enough, I played three holes out here with a couple of clubs and was exhausted and had a blast.”

— Nic Goodin, Former Horton Smith Golf Course employee (1011now.com)

“It's good to just get out, breathe some fresh air. You're not sprinting, I mean, sometimes you do. You get the momentum and you go on a par three, you know? And if you can knock the par three off in a minute, you've saved time.”

— Tim Shryack, Speedgolf player (1011now.com)

What’s next

Golf professionals recommend contacting local courses to inquire about speedgolf availability or groups in the area rather than showing up unannounced.

The takeaway

Speedgolf provides a time-efficient and fitness-focused alternative to traditional golf, appealing to players who want to complete a round in about an hour instead of the typical four to five hours. The sport's unique scoring system and requirement to carry a limited number of clubs while moving quickly between shots make it an attractive option for golfers looking to incorporate more physical activity into their game.