Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/68546
GOLF'S NEW REALITY BY JEFF SUTHERLAND For golf, the last few years have been challenging ones to say the least. Too many courses, falling numbers of rounds, recession and a Tiger found to be human have all contributed. But to be honest, a somewhat complacent and non-progressive golf course industry is just as responsible. Engaging a new generation and re-engaging with a busier older generation has become a necessity. Finding out ways to provide an appropriate product at an appropriate price is even more important. Thankfully, this is happening. There have been recent symposiums where industry heavy- weights have gotten together to figure out solutions. Golf associations are recognizing that not everyone is interested in keeping an official handicap let alone always playing by the official rules of golf. Still where the changes really need to happen is at your local track. Courses need to react to what golfers want, not what they want to offer. Good value, shorter rounds and a greater appreciation of the customer... these will be the hallmarks of successful courses in the coming decade. iG gives writers a fair degree of latitude and without any specific intent, this issue has turned into a discussion of this new reality. Andrew Penner's humour column could be a blueprint for the successful everyman's course in the 21st century. Final Word guest columnist Chris McGrath presents the new role for what an amateur organization will be. Yours truly found out about a course in Saskatoon, Greenbryre G&CC, that is being converted from eighteen holes into a 12-hole track with two sixes. Things are starting to change and for the first time in ten years, I see the pendulum starting to swing in a more positive direction. The Rickie Fowlers of the world are attracting a new generation of fans. Progressive courses are figuring out what customers want. The industry is starting to change and you as a golf consumer are going to have to adapt a little as well. Like every business these days, courses are having to do more with less. If prices remain as competitive as they are currently, a slightly longer wait at the counter and a little less maintenance of the areas where you are not supposed to hit it will be part of that new reality. But I think the great values and experiences that will be part of this reality will more than make up for it... especially if you can keep it in the short grass. Jeff Sutherland has been iG's publisher for the past 19 years. He can be reached at publisher@insidegolf.ca 12