By Tim Kelly
Margate's newest attraction made its official debut Friday with rousing cheers, not polite golf claps.
Congo Falls Adventure Golf is the latest addition to the Downbeach scene, and one of the first major new family entertainment venues to come to Margate in years.
Mark Benevento, the President and creative voice behind the new 18-hole layout proudly declared the site open for business in a lively ceremony emceed by Philadelphia Flyers broadcaster Steve Coates and attended by a large crowd of approximately 150 onlookers.
Located at 9312 Ventnor Avenue, behind the Margate Wawa, the jungle-themed mini-golf course features waterfalls and ponds, a cave and rope bridges, among other highlights.
A free game machine at the conclusion of play gives customers a chance to win another round, which ordinarily costs $10.95.
Mini-golf is a Jersey Shore amusement staple, on the par with carousels, roller coasters and tossing Frisbees, but has been absent from the scene in Margate for years. The last one was located on Jefferson Avenue, Margate officials said. Congo Falls fills that void and is expected to be a big hit with families all over the Downbeach area.
I am excited to bring my brand of family fun amusements and recreation to Margate City, Benevento said. I've been designing mini-golf courses for more than 30 years and with the experience comes improvements, Benevento said. I truly believe Margate has the best one.
That's not faint praise, as Benevento's company's Congo Falls Golf in Ocean City has been voted number one in South Jersey for 24 years in a row by a major local newspaper.
Benevento, an Ocean City resident, said he grew up playing mini-golf at the Jersey Shore, from Wildwood Crest all the way to Seaside Heights.
But when I saw (a golf layout) in Myrtle Beach that had rocks and a waterfall, it really inspired me, he said. That lead to the Congo Falls course in Ocean City, and the rest is mini-golf history. The company also has layouts in Avalon, and Sea Isle City
In a town previously known for its great restaurants, night clubs, and of course Lucy the Elephant, Congo Falls Adventure Golf provides a great a new family entertainment option.
I am grateful the Mayor, Council and community in Margate shared our vision and we were able to make this a reality, Benevento said,
He mentioned the first nine holes of the course are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, meaning mini-golfers of all ages with special needs will have access as well. Golfers in this category may play the front nine twice in order to enjoy an 18-hole experience.
My dad has MS and I'm looking forward to him playing against me in his wheelchair, Benevento mentioned.
The facility is located in the heart of Margate's business district and will infuse that area with families and visitors who might not otherwise stay in the area, Benevento said.
Although Friday's event commemorated the official grand opening, the course has been open for two weeks and has enjoyed a wonderful response, Benevento said.
(Congo Falls) will enhance the business district by entertaining thousands of visitors every year as a premier destination attraction just blocks from Lucy the Elephant, he remarked.
The grand opening celebration was also attended by Margate Mayor Mike Becker, Public Safety Commissioner John Amodeo and Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian. Aversa's Bakery, a business neighbor of the new attraction presented a sheet cake to welcome Congo Falls to the neighborhood.
The event also featured an appearance by a Mummers string band.
For more information about Congo Falls Adventure Golf, call 601-8500 or visit www.congofallsgolf.com.
