Golf on the go

A portable mini-golf course adds fun to parties and events

BARON OBATA carries a golf course around in the back of his van. It's a portable miniature course that will fit in a range of settings -- from back yard to banquet hall -- adding another choice to the rent-a-party repertoire of clowns, jumpers and games.

Obata grew up on the golf course and was looking to incorporate the sport into a business venture. Thus, Minigolf2U was born. "It is a party concept that is great for all ages," he said.

The cost of a minigolf setup starts at $275 for five holes for five hours. It takes about 500 square feet to accommodate the full nine holes. Setting up and breaking down take about a half-hour.

"Hard surfaces work best, but outdoors on grass is also an option," Obata said.

He offers themes such as carnival, zoo or dinosaurs. Different layouts, bunkers, water hazards and obstacles can be incorporated to test abilities or just to have fun.

"Logistically, it can be a challenge," said Obata, noting that one of his goals is to create a more lightweight product. Each hole measures about 4 by 10 feet and is quite heavy. "It's a really good workout," he added.

Elevators create a huge challenge. "I have to make three or four trips," he said. Once his cart broke, but the hotel had a freight elevator and a dolly and staffers were willing to help.

Obata first set up a full nine-hole course at June's Family Sunday event at Bishop Museum, and more than 200 "golfers" played. "We had 15 putters and always ran out," he said. "Some of the adults and kids couldn't get away from it."

He said he books groups both large and small. Central Pacific Bank used his equipment to hold a tournament during an employee picnic.

"We wanted to have more than just food," said Joann Shigeta, assistant vice president and assistant to the CEO.

One of the biggest draws was convenience. Setup and breakdown were fast, she explained. "We were able to provide an activity at our own facility instead of going somewhere else."

On a smaller scale, Strawberry Shortcake was the theme at Kaliyah Roe's first birthday party. "It was a great challenge for both the children and the adults," said her mom, Dionne. "It really kept them entertained."

Fundraisers are another option. Cathy Leong was first exposed to the mobile golf at a recent product show, when she was considering ideas for a student fundraising event for the Institute of Transportation Engineers' annual meeting.

"We raised a good amount of money for our endowment fund," she said. "Adults enjoyed it more than the kids."

Obata says his staff is continuing to develop new course designs, and he hopes to expand Minigolf2U on a national and possibly international level.