JULY 2009 - Press Release

Some would argue that the greatest advancement in golf over the last 20 years was square grooves, trampolining drivers or golf balls that fly further and stop on a dime. However, in my opinion it was the landmark decision to permit the wearing of short socks on courses.

A major challenge facing golf administrators and club executives is the decline in participation and membership. While the builders (70+) and baby boomers (50-70) continue to take to the fairways in their droves, it is generation X (30-50) and gen Y (20-30) where participation rates are at record lows.

While I am reluctant to stereotype the generations, for the purpose of comparison it is necessary to make some generalisations. Married to a blonde, I know it is prudent to tread carefully when stereotyping.

Over the course of the past 20 years I have been a member of a club, a social golf club and as the founder of Go Golfing I have been involved in the running and sponsorship of golf days for juniors, social players, corporate, ladies, singles, seniors and veterans. We also host amateur tournaments and events, golf tours to all parts of the globe, golf tuition schools, discount golf and our tag line ‘everything under the sun for amateur golfers’ pretty much sums up our business portfolio. Our offices are also based at a premier resort course and so suffice to say I have had significant exposure to golfers of all ages.

There are fundamental differences between the generations when it comes to their golfing experience.

The veteran golfers turn up at sparrows, all in matching shirts, tailored shorts and many still sporting long socks. Oh yeah, and a club pin and optional name badge on their hat. They are proud to have re-soled their golf shoes twice. Their buggies have extra pieces welded on for practicality and comfort. They own their own home, their car and have bundles tied up in super. Their stimulus package was most likely used to top up their super. They play for a lotto ticket. On course etiquette is observed, bunkers are raked and nearest on the green holds the pin. Post golf debate still rages on why the price of a pot went straight from $1.60 to a $1.80, when $1.70 would have been a reasonable compromise.

Gen X, those in their 30’s and 40’s turn up for golf in their leased or company car. They have a standard buggy while some prefer to limit the rigours of the game by taking a motorised cart. Their golf shirt is crisp and new and sports a resort course logo. The stimulus package went straight on the mortgage or credit card. They play for a round of drinks or dinner. They are aware of on-course etiquette. First on the putting surface will place the flag on the edge of the green and bunkers are raked only after a good shot. In defiance they bring a cooler bag full of beers for on course consumption, while after golf they pay for their drinks and don’t bother checking the change.

Gen Y, those in their 20’s, have a totally different golfing experience. They turn up in their pulsating stereo on wheels which is their prized and only asset. Their golf attire is long shorts or short longs (difficult to differentiate) and their shirt, which they are quick to point out has a collar, is emblazoned with fashion labels. Their designer belt, which serves no functional purpose, cost more than pop’s whole outfit. They play in carts, as still hung over from the night before. Not raking bunkers is mistaken by older players for laziness, when really it is a statement on preserving the natural environment. The pin is propelled as a missile away from the greenside action. Their stimulus payment paid for a bloody big weekend. They play for bragging rights which are worth more than gold. They buy their drinks and are chuffed to get change out of a twenty, which in their lingo is a ‘lobster’.

Now all generations will attest to playing the same game and for similar reasons. Mateship, exercise, competition and the electric sensation that runs through your body after a great shot transcends all ages. Most golf club committees are still made up of our elders and staunch supporters of golf’s many great traditions. I just wonder what the club scene will look like in 20 years. What about 50 years from now?

Peter McCarthy is the managing director of Go Golfing, Australia’s biggest organiser of events, tours and holidays for amateur golfers www.gogolfing.net.au