Is Golf Only for the Rich?

[Golfstinks]

We penned this blog recently: (http://golfstinks.blogspot.com/2009/08/golf-only-for-rich-come-on.html) and we thought it would be a good discussion topic here on The Frugal Golfer. Does the golf industry and media portray golf as a rich man's sport? And if so, what can we do about it?

[Bob Schecter]

In any game where what you pay for is the venue, how aesthetically appealing, and well maintained, and accessorized that venue is, determines the cost. Golf is not unique in that regard. Even paintball costs more to play in the better arenas. It's not the game that's expensive, it's the field of play. What we, being somewhat frugal have to do, is balance form with function. On some level, a cow pasture will suffice. And believe me, I've played a few. There is a give an take to all sports and games, and most often supply and demand is important as well. There are certain parks we just won't go to when seeking out a quick pick up game (basketball), and certain times we won't go as well. How crowded and the type of crowd can be important too.

So you make your choice, and while I know I can't, or never will, I still aspire to a set at Wimbledon, a pick up game at Madison Square Garden, a quick spin around Daytona, and naturally, a round at Pebble Beach. Don't hate the best for being expensive. They give us something to reach for. Rather, embrace the ones you can afford to play, enjoy what they have to offer. And, rather than bitching and moaning, about what the club isn't, support the club for what it is. It'll surely make the round that much better.

And don't forget to tell us all about the good stuff and the bargains you find.

[George Diehl]

I believe the game of golf is more expensive than some other sports but it is still a good value. I've played a lot of tennis growing up (inexpensive) and I've raced motocross (more expensive). Golf is more time prohibitive than cost. Most people are able to squeeze $20-$40 from their budgets to play a round, but with work and family obligations spending 3-6 hours to play the game seems to hold most people from playing more rounds.

The golf industry can do a lot of promoting of equipment which might make the game seem more expensive than it is. Also the courses you see on TV might make the game seem less affordable if you price green fees for these venues. But the average golfer knows he could buy a decent used set of clubs, bag and balls for a few hundred bucks and can find courses in the area for a very fair price.