There is an obsession within the sport of golf about reducing the average age of those who play the game.
For the love of God, will somebody please explain why?
I fully understand that we need to safeguard the future of golf but why on earth do we seem to be so against marketing ourselves and our game to older people?
What Older People Bring to Golf
I am a member at Dunston Hall Golf Club on the outskirts of Norwich. It is a club with an active senior section of 115 golfers. I know of another club in the county that has a staggering 600 senior members.
These are individuals who, almost without exception, have retired. It means they have plenty of time on their hands, not to mention lots of disposable income.
Most of the guys I play with spend a great deal of money on new equipment. They think nothing of forking out £400-£500 on a new driver or heading to their local pro for a custom-fitting session. Why would you not want to embrace these people?
And guess what? They most definitely have more fun out on the golf course than their younger counterparts. When I am out on the course playing in seniors events I hear laughter and plenty of banter. And it continues in the clubhouse. I love it.
It also has to be said that when compared with many sports, golf is not especially physically demanding.
If you are able to put one foot in front of another then you are going to be able to play. Even if you struggle with your mobility, you will be able to hire a buggy. Many of the guys I play with are in the their 70s and early 80s and I am here to tell you that most of them still get it out there, and enjoy doing so. The summer that we enjoyed last year also meant that they were hitting the ball 250 yards. We saw some incredible scoring, and it was a joy to behold.
I play with people who have returned after receiving new knees and hip replacements. Indeed, it is one of the main subjects for discussion in the clubhouse. I have suffered with my own share of injuries over the years. I am still far from being what you would describe as the perfect physical specimen but I am capable of playing three rounds of golf a week to a reasonable standard.
And then there is the social side.
Older golfers have time. In theory, this means they turn up to play in plenty of time, often heading to the clubhouse first for a coffee and a bacon sandwich. When they come off the 18th hole they don’t have to rush off to get back to a young family. Once more, they head to the sanctuary of the clubhouse with their friends where they will spend more money.
There are plenty of people who may have played football, rugby or cricket and suddenly find the demands of those sports too much. Many will decide to try their hands at golf. But we should be actively marketing the sport to those who don’t.
What Golf Offers Senior Players
(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)
You don’t need me to tell you about the benefits – it may not be physically demanding but it does keep you in shape. It allows people of all ages to compete against others of all abilities. It is an activity that encourages social interaction – if you want to make new friends you really should be joining a golf club.
For those who are nearing retirement age or have already given up work, this is a sport that is addictive, that will get you out in the fresh air. I have never played an ugly golf course – there are always beautiful views and wildlife to be seen somewhere.
Don’t just take my word for it.
This is what Norse Care has to say about the benefits of golf for older people:
Golf is a low-impact sport that delivers an excellent opportunity for older people to engage in regular physical activity. Walking the course, swinging the club, and carrying or pushing the golf bag all contribute to cardiovascular fitness, improved muscle strength, and enhanced flexibility. The outdoor setting and exposure to sunlight promote Vitamin D synthesis, supporting bone health.
Golf is a mentally stimulating game that requires concentration, strategy, and problem-solving. It challenges the brain with complex shot selection, calculating distances, and adjusting to differing course conditions. The mental engagement involved in playing golf can help enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus, providing a mental workout for seniors.
One of the greatest benefits of golf is its social aspect. Golf courses provide a welcoming and friendly environment that encourages interaction and socialization among players. Joining a golf club or participating in group outings allows seniors to build new friendships, connect with like-minded individuals, and foster a sense of community. These social interactions contribute to overall happiness, well-being, and a sense of belonging.
Spending time in nature and engaging in physical activity is known to alleviate stress and improve mood. Golf provides an excellent opportunity for seniors to unwind, enjoy the beauty of the surroundings, and escape the pressures of everyday life. The combination of fresh air, green spaces, and the focus required during the game can have a calming effect, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Somebody might want to remind Tyrrell Hatton of this!
Longevity & Quality of Life
Regular participation in physical activity, such as playing golf, has been linked to increased longevity and improved overall quality of life. The physical, mental, and social benefits derived from playing golf can contribute to better overall health, enhanced well-being, and a higher quality of life in older adults. Golf is a sport that can be enjoyed well into the golden years, allowing seniors to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Golf offers a multitude of advantages for the elderly, ranging from physical fitness and cognitive stimulation to social interaction and stress relief. By taking up golf, seniors can reap the benefits of an enjoyable sport that promotes physical and mental well-being. So, grab your clubs, head out to the course, and discover the joys of golf for a healthier and happier life in your golden years.
Derek Clements is a seasoned sports journalist and regular Golfshake contributor, specialising in tour coverage, opinion pieces, and feature writing. With a long career in national newspapers and golf media, he has reported on the game across Europe, the United States and Australia. A passionate golfer, he has played and reviewed numerous renowned courses, with personal favourites including Pebble Beach, Kingsbarns, Aldeburgh, Old Thorns and the K Club. His love of the game informs his thoughtful commentary on both professional golf and the wider golfing community.
