Golf popularity is declining and this trend needs to be reversed. A new culture must prevail in order for it to survive and succeed as a popular sport. A recent Economist article sparked my interest in the challenge and coupled with an inspirational talk from Malcolm Gladwell’s description of the perfect Spaghetti Sauce I believe a shift in perception holds the key to a change in fortunes. The governing bodies need to recognise, embrace and promote the wonderful diversity of golf, while maintaining the traditions where appropriate.

I will make the case for change by explaining why I love golf, what I see is wrong with it now, how I believe the future should look and by finally stating what next step the sport can take to bring reality to the vision.

Golf is a social game, one where friendships are built over a game, a season and many years. The 6-hour affair amongst a fourball allows for deep conversation, time to learn the dreams and plans of a man, there are no other sports that permit this depth of exchange. During the occasion you are able to see the characteristics of your fellow golfers; hard work, concentration and competitiveness are pushed to their limits by golf. Nothing in life has a shortcut, only perseverance and dedication lead to long-term success therefore a game that requires these qualities in heavy doses must be admired. Waiting for the perfection is a sure-fire way to achieve very little and golf exaggerates this to the extreme in every round played, one must learn to quickly identify each day’s weaknesses and then adapt, or cry. Shorter forms (ranges, 9-holes, pitch and put, crazy golf) offer a similar set of challenges and are enormous fun. Living in noisy concrete jungles is too common today; each course offers a manicured display of beautiful flora and fauna in which a diverse range of wildlife goes about it’s daily routine. Admiring the surroundings in peace offers a welcome break from the fast paced tube rides and blue light of the media.

The major challenge facing golf today is the declining number of players, thanks to it’s financial & time requirements as well as the accessibility of the sport and stuffy perceptions. Mr Gladwell’s talk provides a vital clue for the success of new age of amateur golf: it must take on a multi-format nature:

• 18 holes
• 9 holes
• Pitch and putt
• Range golf
• TopGolf
• Crazy golf
• Destination golf

Golf can keep it’s traditions, but it must embrace change from the top. I believe the R&A and USGA hold the key to changing the perception and should publically endorse all formats of the game. Then they must work with the Tours to find ways in which they can invest in the newer formats; I suggest education in state schools and grants for driving ranges would be a good place to start.