Marc Chapman, the five-time World Crazy Golf champion, is on a mission to etch his name in history books by claiming his sixth title. Nicknamed 'The Force', Chapman is not just aiming for a record-breaking sixth win; he's also seeking to defend his title three years in a row. This ambitious pursuit is set against the backdrop of Hastings Adventure Golf, where the Crazy Golf World Championships will take place from Friday to Sunday. Chapman's journey to the top has been a testament to hard work and dedication, with a decade of practice and experience leading to his first world title in 2018. His success is not just about the technical skills required for mini golf, but also about maintaining a strong mental game, as he explains, 'Ultimately it comes down to having solid technical skills and maintaining a strong mental game on the day.'
Chapman's prowess extends beyond the greens. A former fencing coach, he represents Great Britain in mini golf tournaments, showcasing his versatility and passion for the sport. His achievements include winning all three UK Major Championships, known as The Triple Crown, and the 2011 Masters and British Open. However, it's his return to the World Crazy Golf Championship in 2018 that truly set him apart, with subsequent wins in 2019, 2021, 2024, and 2025. This string of victories has not only solidified his place in the sport but also attracted the attention of filmmaker Hansel Rodrigues.
Rodrigues, who was 'charmed' by the world of crazy golf, decided to make a documentary about Chapman titled 'King Putt'. The documentary aims to celebrate the sport and capture its dual nature as both fun and intense. Rodrigues notes, 'From the outside, it seems comical or insignificant, but you become drawn by the players' passion and dedication.' Chapman's larger-than-life persona, which includes outlandish comparisons to sporting icons, adds to the documentary's appeal, making him a quietly inspirational figure.
The interest in crazy golf is indeed growing, and Chapman's achievements have played a significant role in inspiring this interest. As Rodrigues points out, 'Sports needs larger than life people to draw interest, for example Novak Djokovic and Max Verstappen.' Chapman's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to turn a unique passion into a global spectacle. As he prepares for his sixth title, Chapman continues to captivate audiences and inspire a new generation of crazy golf enthusiasts.
