What Makes Golf One of the Most Expensive Sports
Golf as we know it now, originated in Scotland, and was played by royal families and the elite. Fast forward to today the sport is still enjoyed by the wealthy, but is gaining ground with those of average income as well. With the sport being used in vacation packages and charity events, many people are becoming interested in playing this game. However, this is not a sport you just up and decide that you are going to go play when and wherever you would like. One of the reasons that golf is expensive is due to the golf course itself.
A golf course is not simply a large area of grass that you hit a ball around on. Golf courses now are impeccably designed by golf architects, who in turn consult with Masters and PGA winners. Once designed, these courses have to be kept pristine and maintained through all seasons. Due to the high cost of maintenance and design, golf memberships at country clubs help to offset the cost. Unfortunately, with initial memberships starting in the thousands accompanied by monthly dues, not everyone can afford to play at a top-notch course.
Equipment and rental cost are the next two things that make golf one of the most expensive sports. If you can afford a membership or you are invited to play on a popular course, the rental of the golf cart is not usually included in the playing fees. Also, if you are invited, most country clubs do not allow you to borrow golf clubs from your fellow players. So if you have not invested money into your own set of clubs and bag, then you will probably have to rent them there at the country club.
Setting out and putting money into the purchase of a good, set of golf clubs will typically start at around $500 and go up to $1200. These are good for getting you started in the sport, but you will eventually find that you will want individual clubs for specific play. Buying clubs separately, can be quite expensive, not to mention all the other accessories like clothes, shoes, and balls.
Although golf can be expensive, once you get past the start up costs, everything else can be budgeted and bought when needed. Also, depending upon how much of an enthusiast you are or have become, will depend on how much time and money that you will invest into the sport of golf.