Golf world has gone mad with consumerism

Unfortunately we live in a world gone mad with consumerism. And it’s unbridled consumerism that’s killing golf. To those making the big bucks in golf, everything looks rosy. That’s probably what Nero thought before he saw the flames devouring Rome.

Equipment companies are having a feast, though they probably feel more like junkies - “wish we could stop this technology madness but I don’t think we can live without it.” Golf ball manufacturers are in the midst of the “Great Golf Ball Wars of the 21st Century.” Pretty soon, even us slugs will be able to manage a 410 yard drive. Our old par-71 course will be reduced to a par 50 or maybe just 7 holes averaging about 600 yards.

And only a few have been brave enough to standup and say anything. Some who should be listened to, like Jack Nicklaus, are politely ignored. TV commentators, some so painfully honest that they’ve never seen a really great golf shot, can’t be bothered. Or, maybe they fear for their jobs.

I like technology. I like my perimeter-weighted clubs and I like golf balls that are really round. I enjoyed my first big bomber driver when I gained an extra 15 yards to offset my age. But we don’t know how or when to stop anymore.

Where are the governing bodies? Has someone gotten to them - told them to bury their heads if they know what’s good for them. There have to be some limits somewhere. Limits are good for you. I’m most disappointed by the R&A. I’ve always assumed that they have a much better appreciation of “tradition” than the USGA. America has been clearly about money since the end of WWII. But doesn’t “old Europe” have a bit more common sense?

At any rate, let’s have a dialogue - you know, a friendly discussion of the situation. Let everyone express themselves, hear all sides - amateurs, tour pros, club pros, retailers, equipment makers, and organizations.

Amateurs, let’s not forget that we are the driving engine. It’s our money that pays for everything else including the tour pros. Without us the whole thing sinks like a ‘55 Caddy in a peat bog. Go to the forum sites and make yourself heard and to the blogs. It’s not just about saving ourselves some money, or saving courses, it’s about saving the game we love. If the governing bodies won’t do it, then we’ve got to do it ourselves fighting hand-to-hand combat.

John Diekmann
www.golfdash.com