Strange and quirky golfing facts

Let’s dive into some of the more unusual aspects of the sport we love.

Wooden golf balls: Back in the 14th century, golfers were using balls made from hardwood, like beech and box trees. These balls were heavy and didn't travel far, making the game quite different from what we know today.

Golf was banned: In Scotland, where golf is thought to have originated, the government actually banned the sport three times between 1457 and 1744. They believed that golf interfered with military training. Can you imagine a world without golf?

A young prodigy: The youngest golfer to ever make a hole-in-one is Coby Orr from Littleton, Colorado. He achieved this incredible feat at the tender age of five in 1975.

The odds of a hole-in-one: If you’re slightly older than five and still dreaming of sinking that elusive hole-in-one, don't get too discouraged. The average golfer has a 12,500 to 1 chance of making the shot.

The longest putt ever made: The longest putt ever recorded was an unbelievable 375 feet (or about 114 metres), made by Fergus Muir on the 125-yard par 3 5th at St Andrew's Eden Course in 2001.

Golfing on the moon: In 1971, astronaut Alan Shepard famously hit two golf balls on the lunar surface during the Apollo 14 mission. We can’t say we’ve got space golf here, but at our golf course in Hertfordshire we do offer a beautifully spacious course, giving you that wide-open feel without having to leave Earth.

Tiger’s incredible comeback: During the 2008 US Open, Tiger Woods won his 14th major title despite playing with a broken leg and a torn ACL.

Golf’s distance evolution: Did you know that today’s golf balls travel nearly three times farther than their early 20th-century counterparts? With advancements in materials, the modern golf ball flies through the air like never before, making those long drives a reality.

Little Hay: The facts

As one of the top choices for a golf course in Hertfordshire, we pride ourselves on offering a welcoming environment, a fantastic course layout, and great value for money. Here's the Little Hay facts:

• Affordable golf: We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the game of golf, which is why we offer competitive rates.
• Pay-and-play: No need to commit to a membership. Simply pay as you play and enjoy a round of golf on our course.
• Year-round driving range: Whether you’re practising your long game or fine-tuning your swing, our driving range is open all year round, even during those brisk winter months.
• Beautiful Hertfordshire scenery: Our course is nestled in the rolling hills of Hertfordshire, offering stunning views.
• Friendly atmosphere: Our friendly staff are always happy to welcome you and make your visit enjoyable.
• Supporting charity: As a charity-managed golf course, all our profits go directly towards supporting families with children and young adults who have additional needs, through the incredible work of Absolutely Together.

We look forward to seeing you out on the greens – and remember, no wooden golf balls allowed.