LETTER OF THE MONTH
IDEAS TO GROW THE GAME As I settle in for some night reading and Euro PGA golf viewing on a cold Melbourne night, I must concur with Ken Lockery and the substance of his Letter to the Editor (GA August 2018).
So to expand on his final words, how can we grow the game?
For me, the key is encouraging younger players to take up the game. So what incentives can be offered to our youth to play the game, become members and consolidate a solid future for the best sport in the world?
Intermediate memberships for those under 35, which cost half that of full memberships are a winning recipe with my son and his mates. They give younger players access at a good price and over time the game will do the rest.
More stableford events on weekly competition days. They speed up play and still provide a chance to post a score for those learning the nuances of our great game.
Golf is such an addictive activity. Introducing our children to it without trying to turn them into another Tiger or Anika does work. My 30-year-old constantly talks about the imagination required to hit the shots required on any given hole. His enthusiasm is growing by the week.
Let’s also work on ensuring that equipment is affordable and appealing to younger generations. Rickie Fowler is a classic example of a player who makes golf fun. His dress sense, flair and relaxed personality sees him setting trends amongst our youth – our future.
Finally golf needs more time on free-to-air television. I know that watching our pros in action is all I need to get the juices flowing. Because golf gives us so much we all have a part to play in ensuring it prospers for future generations. Bruce Wemyss Narre Warren LESS WATER FOR BETTER GOLF I couldn’t believe some of the rubbish that was getting around Twitter and Facebook during The Open Championship, in relation to the colour of the Carnoustie course. One person even had the ignorance to call the great layout a goat track and questioned why they were playing the British Open on such a course. It is people like this that unfortunately sometimes find their way onto the committee of a golf club and are then making decisions about their golf course. The fact is every course should be using less water and we, as golfers, should enjoy playing on good quality turf that is not necessarily lush. It might be burnt off but still good to play off. Who cares what colour the grass is? Darren Hodges Via email [Darren, you will no doubt find Mike Clayton’s story, starting on page 48, to your liking. Enjoy!]