S:t Hans Knattebana, a Reversible Course

Did you know that children in Lund, Sweden, have their own golf course where they can play for free and at their own skill level?

S:t Hans Knattebana in Värpinge, Sweden is a specially designed course for children up to 12 years old. The holes range from 35 to 90 meters and include par 3, par 4, and par 5 holes.

Golf course architect Johan Benestam has designed a reversible layout in 2012. One week, the course is played clockwise, and the next week, it’s played counterclockwise. This approach not only adds variety but also helps maintain the course’s condition.

Unique!

The goal of the course is to show that golf is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, socio-economic background, or ethnicity. Everyone is welcome, and most importantly, it’s free for children to play. They use a special "Almost Golf Ball," which weighs only a third of a regular golf ball, reducing the risk of injury. Golf clubs can be borrowed from the clubhouse.

Why did I want to donate my services to the “Children’s Golf Course”?

Golf has given me so much, and I want to give back. To society in general, and especially to those who may not have the opportunity to experience this incredibly enjoyable sport, where nature is an integral part of the experience.

Since most golf courses are located far from cities, playing golf can be a socio-economic barrier. If soccer fields were located far away and golf courses in the middle of cities, the situation would likely be very different.

That’s why I wanted to help ensure more children could experience golf at an early age, completely free of charge. There should be no barriers. Through this project, which I and a group of companies have contributed time and money to, everyone who wants to try golf can do so—without any restrictions.