Traditionally golf is played in nine hole segments and most every golf course in our area is eighteen holes made up of two nine-hole segments. Did you know the first Open Championship (aka The British Open) was played on a twelve hole golf course? Prestwick Golf Club in 1860. Eight professionals turned the twelve holes three times in the same day. It continued in this manner until 1892 when it was doubled in length and played on an eighteen hole golf course.
Is there some reason why we cling to the nine hole or eighteen hole tradition? If golf takes too long, why wouldn't we consider fewer holes? The time commitment to eighteen holes is typically five hours or more when you factor in travel time, warm up time, etc. We've come to believe that we have to stick to these "standards" for some reason. So why not six holes? Twelve holes? Shorter and easier golf courses would likely speed up play and make it more attractive as a recreational activity again. May even be more fun! What is on your mind?
About Me
- DingPGA
- I am a PGA Member Professional and I have been in this area for over seventeen years, the last twelve as a Bonita Springs resident. I pride myself on being a leader rather than a follower. I am passionate about the golf industry and always want others to enjoy the game that I love so much. It's time we introduce this game to more and maintain it for those who have played it for a lifetime.
2 comments:
Dan, enjoyed your comments and agree with most of them. Check out our website at www.Flogton.com and feel free to post. Our goal is to suggest games and develop a scoring system so players looking for an alternative to USGA golf have a place to go. This is evolving and we encourage input. The truth is that far more people are playing versions of this now than USGA golf. We are finding great interest from the guys with the most " skin in the game": course owners and equipment companies who have no organization looking out for them. We hope to do that with their help.
We have hit an exposed nerve in the golf world and are encouraged by that.
Pat Gallagher, CEO, Alternative Golf Association, Palo Alto, CA
Thanks Pat. You guys are certainly thinking outside the box out there in Cali. It's all good. Anything to spur on new interest in our game is not only helpful but necessary. I'm not sure how many really consider what golf will look like 10 years from now. We need to act rather than talk about it. Thanks for your input. Spread the word!
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