Misogyny, racism, anti-semitism, exclusionary private clubs run by boards(male) need to be gone!! I know, worked for Long Island clubs-the WORST! The dress code is the least of the problems going forward.But, yes the dress codes are antiquated and meant to be exclusionary and to be snobbish.
I'm a12 handicap senior who used to play 100 rounds/year, but grew tired of slow groups ahead with 2 empty holes in front of them and they never wave you through. These are the same people who drive at 60mph in the left lane and figure that's fast enough for anyone. I seldom play more than 10 rounds a year, takes too long. BTW does anyone ever replace divots or fix ball marks any more?
I recognize the club you mentioned about Jackets only in the clubhouse. Upon arrival we were given a sheet of rules we had to follow. I'm sure it was because some jackass before us took a dump on their putting green and ran around the clubhouse naked. There's always one that ruins it for the rest of us.
Yo Jason - this is why they are called "private" clubs. They can enforce any rules they deem necessary. So the key is to find a private club that has rules that you like. I am fortunate to belong to a very fun and exciting private club. And yes, we have rules, but we stay within them, and still have a blast. FYI - you need to take a chill pill.....relax
If you cant play in under 4 hours as a 4 ball you shouldn't be playing. Slow play is one of the things killing the game. I know the club you are referencing and they are right in enforcing that rule.
The bad experience is in your group
I have had the pleasure of playing golf for over 50 years and have experienced a major change in attitude and approach regards the type of club being described. My own cub which is in the top 100 of England has gone from a very male oriented club to one of equal status, we still have rules, a suggestion regards dress that is acceptable but most important it is the course that matters.
If you wish to go to certain clubs and they call a tune you have to abide by their rules and regulations, after all it is the members who pay the fees that provide the course that your desire to play.
I have been fortunate to play many top courses around the world some totally closed unless invited and have never found an issue. If invited or allowed be prepared to accept a few regulations after all you are their guest.
If this is to demanding then as pointed out there are many gems that are happy for you to visit and perhaps need your support more than the ‘elite courses’.
Enjoy your game wherever you are there are plenty pushing up the divots who would love to be in your place.
Why do the people who write rules describe their golf courses as "top-tier?" If they write stupid rules, I would call them lower class, unworthy of being called a golf course for all, just for snobs. Personally, I think golf courses that do not allow women members, require you to play in four hours and 10 minutes are not worthy of joining associations with golf clubs that espouse openness, the good of the game, and a fun time. I would also argue that such courses never be allowed to host a tournament. Do I think private courses are too stuffy for the 21st century? Yes, but not all
I'm okay with reasonable on-course dress policies, but Bel-air does not allow shorts. You must wear long pants for four hours outside in sunny LA!?!?
if you play at LEOPARD CREEK in South Africa you can only play with white socks ; some golf club around Johannesburg , stilll today do not allow to walk at the bar or have drink on the terrasse wearing shoes without socks . don't make any difference on the course .....
Some private courses in GB, to comply with council requests, had to have a couple of open days a week, which they didn't like.
A friend of mine wandered into the bar for a drink, on a hot day. Asking a Colonal Blimp character who was sitting on a stool at the bar, my friend enquired about getting a drink. Not recognising my friend, he said, are you public, to which he replied, yes. Colonal Blimp replied, there's a tap out the back for public. Public weren't allowed in the bar.
