FOOTGOLF has come to Bolton and two Whites legends took to the course to try their feet at making par.

One of the fastest growing sports in the UK, the hybrid of golf and football is now available to try at Regent Park Golf Centre.

And among the first to the tee were former Wanderers Tony Kelly and David Lee, trying their feet at the club, which sits a decent three wood’s drive away from the Macron Stadium.

“The boys were fantastic when they came down, they put on a really good show and bonded well with everyone,” said the club’s head professional, Neil Brazell. “We had about 30 people coming to try the sport and we were happy to welcome Tony and David.

“Both were full of chat and bonhomie, it was a pleasure to have them here and to see them find out just how difficult the sport is.

“On one hole I think they had six putts from about 10 feet between them before they got the ball in.”

Those taking part in what is considered a precision sport use a regulation size five football on the club’s £200,000 investment, the par-three family course, which opened earlier this year.

The rules correspond largely to those of traditional golf though the target hole is much bigger, at 21 inches in diameter.

And Neil feels many first-time footgolfers will be surprised at how challenging the game is.

“It is difficult to get the pace just right when putting,,” he said. “Too hard and the ball simply bounces off the flag, too soft and obviously it won’t reach the hole.

“It’s tricky at first but it’s a lot of fun. Tony said they would look to bring the academy boys down for a bit of a bonding session while getting them to use their other feet. Mind you, when the two of them tried it with their wrong feet just to see how close to the pin they could get David sent it almost out of bounds, so Tony definitely won that nearest to the pin contest.

“Both were great lads and good sports and the good thing about the game is its inclusivity, it’s an important aspect and makes it so appealing.”

Those looking to try out Footgolf can do so after noon on Fridays, Saturdays on Sundays. For a limited period Regent Park are offering reduced rates at £5 for a nine-hole round and £8 for 18.

Call 01204 495421 or visit regentparkgolfclub.net for more information. Online bookings can be made at ukfootgolf.com