A national mini golf tournament is being held this weekend at Monmouth Park racetrack’s Bluegrass course in Oceanport.

A $3,500 cash prize awaits the first place winner of the tournament, which is sanctioned by the U.S. Pro Mini Golf Association.

Specialized golf balls and clubs make the tournament ultra-competitive, and the players come from all over the world.

What started with a love of the classic boardwalk game for some of the players has morphed into a serious competition. 

 “As the further you go, the more the competition increases. Tomorrow during the final two rounds, you'll be able to cut the tension with a knife,” Bob Detwiler, of the U.S. Pro Mini Golf Association, said.

The tournament begins Friday and runs through Saturday when the champion is crowned.