History of Golf to Help You Understand the Game Better

Golf is an interesting sport in which the player uses many types of clubs like irons, putters or drivers to hit a ball into the holes in golf course. Many people believe that the sport originated in Scotland in the12th century. However, there are many debates about the history of golf. Some scholars claim that the sport was invented by ancient Egyptian Pharaohs. In Chinese records, there is a reference about a sport, which involves driving a ball with a stick into holes in the ground.

A Chinese Professor named Ling Hongling argues that only Mongols in 12th or 13th century brought the sport to Europe. However, modern golf had its origin in Scotland only. The Scots started playing the game with some rules in the middle of 15th century. King James of Scotland issued a ban on the game in the year 1457. His successors re-issued the ban in 1471 and 1491. The golf history shows that despite the ban, the game continued to flourish in Scotland. The rules of golf were first written in Edinburgh in the year 1744.

Golf is rich in history:

The first golf club was formed in Scotland and the first golf course was established with 18 holes. The tournaments were arranged between different cities in Scotland. Gradually the game spread to England. The oldest golf course is the Musselburg old links golf course. The golf course has links with the glorious history of golf. Mary, the queen of Scotland played in the course in 1567.

You can view great many developments throughout the golf history. The game was played in course with 18 holes initially. However, it was common to see golf courses with 12, 15, 19 or holes until the early 1900s. The standardization of 18 holes in the course was followed only after 1900s.

The game established its roots steadily in North America in 18th century. In 1873, Royal Montreal club was formed for golf players. The first golf course was opened in 1895 in New York City. Due to the efforts of a Scottish golfer John Reid, the game became a national pastime in United States.

Reviewing the golf history can give you some fascinating news. The balls that were used in this game initially could travel even 180 yards, but wet conditions provided a hindrance for its performance. Modern balls are made up of durable cover of balata and synthetic balls are becoming more popular now.

The First World War ruined the game to a larger extent. However, some players managed to survive simply because of their passion to the game. The game had its emergence again after the two world wars. American golf had come into maturity in 1960s. The game now becomes a multi-million dollar industry. Media coverage ensures star-status to many golfers.

The splendid days of Scottish golf return now. The championship events are held every year and cash prizes and gold medals are awarded to the winners. Learn and pursue the game of golf as it can truly enhance the quality of your life and give you something to be passionate about.