Original Golf Equipment
Modern Golf Equipment
As you can see there are major differences in the equipment used originally and today from wood shafts to graphite. Modern technology has given the player help to control direction and location of the hit ball. Above is a golf club that can control whether you hit the ball with a "fade" which should be used if the fairway curves to the right and a "draw" if the fairway curves to the left.
Significant events in the history of golf would be the immigration of golf to America. Golf reached America in 1888 through a man by the name of John Reid who was a Scottish business man who created the first golf course in New York. Golf's popularity triggered a massive expansion and creation of courses all across America. In 1894 the United States Golf Association was formed (USGA) and still thrives today. Golf is a beautiful sport and faces little controversies and challenges as a sport. The rules have been the same for centuries the only thing that I can possibly think of that would be an aspect that needs improvement would be popularity with the youth in America.
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Excellent blog when it comes to the technicalities of the sport of golf. You asserted that the only real problem with the sport is that it's unpopular with the youth here: why do you think that is?
ReplyDeleteI feel like golf has attained a stigma of being a pseudo-sport for stuffy, wealthy, retired white men in polo shirts and plaid shorts-- what could the golfing community do to change that reputation? Likewise, do you think the cost of playing golf (cost of clubs, balls, membership to country clubs/other places to play) are hindering middle and lower class people from playing? What about minorities?
Emily Connelly
Cool choice with golf. I work at a golf course, so I am constantly surrounded by it. It surprised me that it did not come to America until 1888. Great job with your research. -Sam Winsor
ReplyDeleteI really like how you talked about the stigma of golf as well. I like how you included pictures into your post. I found it very interesting when you were talking about the popularity amongst the youth in america, you would think that a sport that has been around for such a long time would be more popular at the youth ages.
ReplyDeleteAusten Mayemura
I did not know much about golf before I read this. It is very interesting that it has been around for so long. The pictures were a nice way of illustrating how different the clubs are now. You had also mentioned that it lacks in popularity from the youth of America. Do you have any ideas on how to make it more appealing to the youth?
ReplyDeleteGia Porreco
Emily: The only way to change the stereotype in my opinion would be to promote golf in schools, as far as dress maybe removing the requirement of collared shirts that most if not all courses uphold. Costs do hinder play but a lot of courses offer great discounts to students and children where the love of golf can start. If you look at professional golfers you will see that racial diversity in today's sport is not an issue.
ReplyDeleteSam: Thank you, must be nice especially if they let you play some rounds for free!
Austen: I agree, I think lack of promotion in schools or the classic Dad's alone time might be getting in the way.
Gia: One of the most effective ways in my opinion would be for a professional golfer to take on the role as a "hero" by getting involved in media and the community. When 3 kids start playing then naturally the next few friends want to join in on the fun.
Brandon Fukutome
Fantastic Discussion and Great Blog! - Prof Withycombe
ReplyDelete