How to Become a Professional Golfer
Every amateur golfer’s dream is to one day become a professional in the sport, to showcase their talent on major national and international courses.
Nearly every current or former golf champion started out on the amateur circuit, just like any amateur, so in theory, every enthusiast has the chance to “make a career”. However, as we shall see, this is a far from an easy path, which only a few true talents have a consistent chance of success.
Contrary to what many believe, the passage to the professional level is not automatic once one’s playing ‘handicap’ has been reduced to zero or has even become negative. In fact, if a player with a handicap of -4 who wants to undertake a professional career, must pass the same tests as all amateurs with a positive handicap.
From amateur to professional
Today, there are two ways to change one’s status from ‘amateur’ to ‘professional’:
- The first comprises gaining a ‘card’ for a professional circuit during the dense network of pre-qualifications that precedes the start of each professional championship. This qualification phase is open to those who are already professionals with a handicap of less than 3. Still, statistically, it is improbable to qualify for the championship if you have a handicap of more than 0.
- The second opportunity for promotion is winning one of the annual pre-selection tournaments held at the National Golf Club. Entry is open to all amateurs with a handicap of less than 4.4. Still, the drastic selection process rewards only the best 8 players with promotion.
There is actually a third possibility for changing status: being promoted directly by the Golfing Federation thanks to one’s results on the course, but this method of advancement is rarely applied.
The History of golf
Golf is a sport whose origins are still obscure. Considered an elegant and elite sport, in reality it hides many advantages and benefits.
It is said to have originated in Scotland in the late Middle Ages, when two peasants threw a stone at each other with two wooden sticks. Since that distant period, the strange game has evolved. The rudimentary sticks have given way to sophisticated clubs and the stone has been replaced by a perfect white ball.
Suitable for all ages
It is suitable for all ages, and can be practised from 6 to 99 years of age, but is particularly recommended for the over-aged for its cardiovascular benefits.
Long walks of 4 hours or more on beautiful trails add to the appeal of this sport, which originated in green Scotland. The eyes and mind are filled with natural beauty, while the body is challenged by carrying the heavy bag of irons. Better than treadmills and barbells in the gym. Finally,there is the swing, the circular movement of the shot that requires a lot of training.
A great physical preparation
Golf is anything but a static sport, as you can burn up to 200 calories per hour, and you can exceed 1000 calories in 18 holes. Obviously, it requires good physical preparation in order to execute precise and powerful strokes and to prevent injuries.
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