I find golf clubs to be fascinating places. Often, it’s like stepping back in time, whether that’s the outdated decor in the clubhouse or the attitudes of some members – emphasis on some – who feel they should get the best tee times, juniors should be seen and not heard and visitors are a scourge.
At these clubs, conversations around whether visitors should be treated as equals are almost as common as debates on dress codes, the World Handicap System and slow play (I should point out these topics are also oft-discussed at clubs that move with the times, too).
I’ve always found some members’ attitudes towards visitors perplexing. Obviously they should be treated as equals – as everyone should – and obviously they should be welcomed – as everyone should.
I’m not sure if they’re seen as an existential threat, or whether it comes down to some members wanting the place all to themselves and believing it should be cordoned off to outsiders.
I understand wanting a controlled environment and to feel comfortable in your surroundings with people you recognise, but visitors bring far too much to exclude them. They should be sought out, encouraged and welcomed with open arms. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a case of the more the merrier.
I appreciate it’s hard to accommodate more visitors from a planning and logistical point of view, especially at clubs where members turn up to the first tee and put a ball down. Maximising paying guests and releasing last-minute tee times is far easier at clubs with electronic tee-booking systems.
But, as far as I see it, if the course isn’t full, let them come, even if it’s a Saturday or Sunday.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Numerous benefits
The benefits of visitors are numerous. First and foremost, every tee booking is revenue for the club. Rising costs across the board – everything from cooking oil and fertiliser to greenkeeping equipment and wages – mean this money is most welcome. It’s very difficult to…
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