Golf: Willis Speedgolf Open's frontrunner

Nick Willis will put his fitness to good use at the upcoming inaugural New Zealand Speedgolf Open. Photo / File

Those frustrated by being stuck behind slow foursomes would do well to check out the inaugural New Zealand Speedgolf Open this summer.

Slow playing times should not be an issue at the Rotorua Golf Club from February 21-22, where the more athletic golfing sect will take on course and clock for the honour of becoming the event's first champion.

The format is simple and allows for plenty of strategy - a player's score being the combination of their gross score and the number of minutes taken.

The tournament is open to all-comers, meaning keen athletes or casual golfers who do not have to be a member of a golf club can enter.

Olympic silver medallist Nick Willis, a well-known proponent of the game who recorded a score of 130.20 (86 gross in 44:20) in the first round of the 2013 World Championship, shapes as one of the frontrunners.

"Speedgolf has become a great passion of mine," Willis said.

"It enables me to get out onto the links for nine or 18 holes without me being away from home for more than an hour - perfect when having a young family.

"It is also a great workout that compliments my running training, and helps keep me fit in the offseason when I need a mental break from athletics."

The event is sanctioned by the international body, meaning the tournament will create a pathway for the winner to overseas competition.

"Thanks to the enthusiasm and support of Nick Willis, Olympic runner and 2-time Speedgolf World Championship competitor, we are thrilled to announce an agreement with Destination Rotorua to host the 2015 Inaugural NZ Speedgolf Open," said Speedgolf International executive director Scott Dawley.

"Speedgolf is beginning to thrive in countries all over the world, and New Zealand is certainly no exception.

"New Zealand Golf have also endorsed this event. This sanctioned event will be held at the spectacular Rotorua Golf Club, and will also serve as an official international qualifier for the 2015 Speedgolf World Championships."

There are a number of other activities planned on the weekend of the Speedgolf Open, including a fun run/exhibition warm up prior to the qualifying rounds on the Saturday, a themed dinner with guest speakers at the Holiday Inn on the Saturday night and the annual Lakeside Concert.