Quote:
Originally Posted by atticusfinch
The rules of golf and the usga and r&a as governing bodies are accepted by thousands of clubs and millions of golfers around the world. You are among a distinct minority who want the rest of us to abandon adherence to them and the rules and thus you are the elitist.
Golf is a more or less a voluntary and self governing enterprise, it does not have to be and is not sanctioned by any superior body or elections by an electorate. It is not a democracy. If you do not like it, do not criticize those of us who do. Just don't ask for opinions on rules situations. If the rules do not apply to you, solve your own problems.
And keep your opinions to yourself. Nothing personal. Where do you play in Sarasota?  |
I've never asked anyone to abandon adherence to USGA/R&A rules, I was simply pointing out that their set of rules are not binding on anyone. The USGA/R&A do not determine what constitutes "golf", they simply provide a set of rules and decisions players may CHOOSE to use when playing recreationally, and which many tournaments and events CHOOSE to implement to govern play. My arguments here have been mostly in the vein of devil's advocate, to bring out the notion that no one is FORCED to play by the USGA/R&A rules, and that maybe there should be another set of rules designed for the recreational golfer that centers more around helping them enjoy the game and improve pace of play. Most of us do such things anyway, might as well make it official for the casual players.
Personally, when playing alone I prefer to keep as close to USGA rules as I know how. Even when playing with others who improve their lie, take mulligans, etc. I choose to play it as it lies, take provisionals, count all strokes and penalties, etc. Of course, I do not wager or play for stakes during such rounds! When friends want to play skins, they usually prefer to allow one mulligan per side, so I'll play along as long as all other rules apply. We're still playing "golf", it's just not a regulation round.
This time of year my play is determined by the specials I can find! May last few local rounds have been at Greenfield Plantation, Rolling Green and Calusa Lakes. Once the high season passes and the Big Summer Card kicks in, I'll play Stoneybrook at Heritage Harbor, River Strand, Greenfield Plantation, Bent Tree, Heron Creek, River Club, Rosedale, University Park, and as many others as I can afford. About half my golf is played out of town with friends, up around Lakeland and some courses around Ruskin and Sun City. How about you? Which tracts do you prefer.