Our Locations

From the CEO

The YMCA and Golf

21st April 2011

These days are not the best days to own a golf course. The economic times in the last few years has hurt the game. The River Bend YMCA Golf Course, like most other courses have seen their rounds played decrease the last few years. Worldwide, equipment sales are down and some have predicted that golf is becoming less and less relevant.

The YMCA and others that are in the golf business are doing more than just wringing hands and watching our hair turn gray. Have you seen my hair lately? At River Bend, we have been trying to figure out the one question that we feel is the answer; How do we make golf an activity that fits in with life as it is lived today?

The pessimists say golf doesn’t fit in, that golf is too expensive and too time consuming. Recently I read an article where the author championed the strength of spending four uninterrupted hours with friends. Enjoying the time out on the course away from all the distractions of life, with friends, is a perfect afternoon. Even I check the blackberry while I play, but golf at its best is played without the interruptions. No phones, no computers and no worries.

Our First Tee program has been a bright spot and has offered us some excitement for the future of the game. First Tee is built on honor, values and character. It is foundational to the rich history of the game. But that is not what sells to most people. Golf Course designer, Rees Jones says, “Pushing golf like that is like a mother pushing vegetables.”

I think the future of golf has to be more family friendly. I think there is great opportunities for a family to come out together and walk 9 holes. There you have fitness, family and fun. I think golf will grow when parents and children spend time side by side on the driving range. For me, I feel guilty being away from family for 4 hours on the weekend, but four hours with my son, with my dad, my brother, my nephews or nieces makes for a QUALITY afternoon.

I think golf needs to become more about couples. I can see the die-hard golfers gasping for air, but there can be great appeal for a husband and wife sharing the game together. Walking 9 holes or even time in the cart creates more benefits than just a lower handicap. Golf with friends has been the foundation of the sport, but when couples come together on a beautiful afternoon, well that is a good day.

When you drill down on it, it is not that expensive. Throw in a coke and a hot dog and you are paying roughly the same cost as a dinner and a movie. River Bend will throw in the sunshine and fresh air!

The future of golf will soon be pictures of families playing together and posting these pictures on Facebook. New personal bests or beautiful courses experienced will continue to be shared. A day of golf is always re-hashed and retold in dramatic fashions.

Come back to your friends, your family, to the great outdoors and to an experience that which can be spiritual if you let it. Turn away from the 24/7 plugged in life that we lead every day. Golf is coming back and you and your child can be first in line!

See you on the Tee-Box,
CAM

 

 

View more posts &»