At 46 years old, James Goatley has achieved a dream many sports fans only joke about: becoming an international athlete. Originally from Pevensey in East Sussex, Goatley now calls New Zealand home—and he's proudly representing the Kiwis at the World Minigolf Federation World Adventure Golf Tour Final in Gloucester.

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

Make no mistake: while minigolf might bring to mind plastic windmills and family outings, the competitive scene is no joke. "We take it seriously, but as seriously as you can with minigolf," Goatley explains. "It's not the PGA Tour or anything, so we're fully aware of the novelty aspect of it."

The tournament runs over Friday and Saturday, featuring 42 players battling through five rounds before the top 16 advance to the knockout stage. Unlike the putt-putt courses of seaside arcades, this is adventure golf with a twist. "There's not so much obstacles," Goatley notes. "It's more about finding the line and the pace of the putt rather than missing the windmills."

Goatley's journey to the world stage began with a childhood love of golf—and a special moment with his 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,'" he recalls. "But to be able to represent a country is quite cool." He started taking minigolf seriously four years ago when he entered a competition with his young daughter.

The winner takes home €3,000 (about £2,600), but for Goatley, the prize is already won. "Although it's minigolf, it feels like it's quite a privilege to be able to come over and represent New Zealand," he says.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just love a round with friends, Goatley's story is a reminder that it's never too late to chase a sporting dream—even if it comes with a few smirks along the way.