'I've become a minigolf international at 46'

A man from East Sussex has spoken about his pride in becoming an international athlete at the age of 46, as he is set to represent New Zealand in minigolf.

James Goatley, who grew up in Pevensey and moved to New Zealand 15 years ago, was preparing to take part in the World Minigolf Federation World Adventure Golf Tour Final in Gloucester.

"I get a few funny looks and a few questions. Regular golfers have a bit of a smirk when I mention it, but lots of people have been really supportive," he said.

"We take it seriously, but as seriously as you can with minigolf. It's not the PGA Tour or anything, so we're fully aware of the novelty aspect of it."

The event is set to be played over Friday and Saturday and will see 42 players play five rounds before the top 16 enter the knock-outs.

Explaining the sport, Goatley said: "There's not so much obstacles, but it's more about finding the line and the pace of the putt rather than missing the windmills."

Goatley explained that he started playing golf as a child and first started taking minigolf seriously four years ago when he entered a competition with his young daughter.

"I think like many children initially we wanted to play for England at football and then I played golf and thought: 'Maybe I can make it as a golfer.' But to be able to represent a country is quite cool," he said.

The winner of the competition will receive €3,000 (about £2,600).

"Although it's minigolf, it feels like it's quite a privilege to be able to come over and represent New Zealand," Goatley said.

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