While golf has had an elitist component since its early evolution, the opportunity for a go by the common man has always been present. Those that caddied, kept the greens, made the clubs and balls etc. , were rarely of the upper class, yet they were critical in sustaining the game and fostering golf.
The first true professionals, in the main, were the caddies. They in fact, quickly became the best players, once they had more opportunity and time to play and hone their respective games. This was quite irritating to the monied gents, so to thwart the coarse interlopers from making off with the hardware, they instituted rules and conditions, for those that derived their living from the game, that prevented them from playing in amateur compeitions. This shameful practice continued until 1940 in the U.S., when the USGA finally recinded the pathetic ban, of those that worked as caddies after 20, from competing in amateur competitions.
While the top tier, great clubs will always have a proud air about them to some degree, it does seem to have dissipated some. It is the "poser" clubs that really rankle; they don't have the true goods of greatness, but try, with futility, to foist themselves as something special.
Public golf has always been available in some form. Long may it continue! To me, the idea that affordable golf automatically implies lesser quality is nonsense. That is the challenge for our game in the future. Create the best we can... without breaking the bank. That is why I would encourage all GCA'er's to attend the November event being hosted by Richard, Ran and the gang. If we really give a damn, this topic should be as desired of our attendence as the superb Muccifest held recently. I hope to meet some more cronies, from the wonderful GCA band, that recognize we all can learn and contribute something to this most pressing issue facing golf.
Cheers, Kris
