CSANews 133

Golf Golf for Smaller Spaces I was intrigued to read that The R&A – the governing body of golf in the U.K. – recently published a paper entitled Golf for Smaller Spaces. This is an acknowledgment and a reminder that golf does not have to be the traditional 18 holes. R&A CEO Martin Slumbers writes in the introduction, “it’s important that we take golf to where people are, rather than expecting them to take their first steps in the game at established, and often private, golf clubs.” This informative guide filled with case studies and examples of non-traditional golf facilities serves as a reference for course operators, planners and developers and aims to promote the appeal of golf to a broader audience. I’m all for that. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to golf: from four-hole courses to 10-hole layouts, it’s a reminder to me that this is how I can fit more golf onto my calendar in 2025. Instead of focusing on 18 holes, I should realize that sometimes less is more. I’ll look to find more short courses, Pitch & Putts, or putting courses to play, along with the traditional championship layouts. Apologies for my shortness, and my need to end this rumination abruptly, but I have to wrap things up. I’m already long past my deadline. And I’ve got a tee time that I can’t be late for at my local virtual reality golf facility. I’ll just leave you with the following overarching message of the R&A’s report: “golf is golf,” so take time to enjoy the game in whatever form it takes for you this winter. GOLF FOR SMALLER SPACES. A GUIDE CSANews | WINTER 2024 | 41

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MzMzNzMx