Last month at Sunningdale Heath GC, PGA Member James Hardy stunned the field to lift the British Speedgolf Champion Trophy, just two months after first trying the sport.
A self-confessed “golf geek” who came to the game at 16 before earning a US golf scholarship and completing his PGA training, Hardy has found in Speedgolf the perfect blend of competition, community and fitness.
Golf News caught up with him to hear about his late start in golf, his rapid rise in Speedgolf, and why he believes the format could play a big role in the future of the game.
Tell us how you got into golf at 16 and the path it took you?
I was a late starter, picking up golf at 16 when my dad joined me at the local club. I was hooked immediately.
Within two years I became Club Champion, which led to a golf scholarship in the US.
My game really developed there under my coach and close friend Beau Baugh, who I still visit to this day. Winning the South East Collegiate Championship is still one of my fondest memories.
After graduating, I returned to the UK to complete my PGA, and since then, I’ve been immersed in the game in every way.
How did you hear about Speedgolf and get involved?
I have my partner to thank. She knew I was a golf geek and always first out at Aldwickbury to squeeze in a quick two-hour round.
She entered me into the British Speedgolf Championship and the moment I tried it, I knew it was the perfect fit.
The European Speedgolf Championship in Finland was your first event, how did you get on and what did you learn ahead of the British?
I actually entered the European Open at the last minute, just weeks before the British. As a complete newcomer, finishing 8th was a huge surprise and gave me valuable lessons about preparation and pace.
But what really stood out was the Speedgolf community. From Close House PGA Pro Will Robson’s advice, to running pointers from former Champion Luke Willett and practical equipment advice from others, everyone was so generous with their support.
That sense of family was as important as the competition itself.
You won against stiff opposition at the British Speedgolf Championships. What did this mean to you and what impact has it had on your future ambitions?
I’d only been playing Speedgolf for two months, so my goal was just to finish in the top 10.
Winning with such a large and accomplished field was a complete shock, proof of what happens when you put yourself out there and commit.
But the real highlight for me was raising £3,000 for Parkinson’s UK in honour of my dad, who lives with the condition. That meant more than the trophy. Looking forward, I want to take on more of the International Speedgolf circuit, keep improving, and do my bit to grow the sport.
Speedgolf is about pace and performance. How do you balance golf and fitness, and what could you build on?
Golf is my strength, fitness is still a work in progress. Speed isn’t naturally my strong suit, but I’m determined to improve that side of my game. The beauty of Speedgolf is that it pushes you to keep getting better in both areas.
As a PGA member who didn’t pursue a tour or coaching career, how would you describe your love of golf — and why does Speedgolf fit you so well?
I’m a golf geek at heart, but I’ve always loved fitness too,football, skiing, the gym, running. Speedgolf feels like it was designed for me. It’s quicker, it’s healthier, it builds community, and it’s fun.
Golf is evolving, and I believe clubs will soon start offering Speedgolf tee times.
How does Speedgolf fit alongside managing a business when time is precious?
That’s one of its biggest appeals. You can play 18 holes in under an hour and get a serious workout at the same time.
Even on tough days, you walk away fitter, sharper, and having learned something new.
For anyone balancing work and life, Speedgolf is the ultimate way to keep golf in your routine
