zoot2012

I really don't think that a test is necessary, however, anyone who wants to play the game SHOULD know the rules, etiquette and proper course behavior. I find that ignorance and lack of respect for the game is about the same whether playing on private or public courses. Just because someone pays more or less to play does not mean they are entitled to a vacation from the rules. Public or private, I have followed more than my share of idiots and repaired more than my share of ball marks, divots, scuff marks, etc. If someone cannot demonstrate at least a basic working knowlege of the rules and etiquette, perhaps they should find another hobby. Having said all that, how would you make certain that a player knows? Maybe the course(s) could offer classes so that people could LEARN.

The best golfer? That's easy, it's Annika. She has won more tournaments for a longer period of time than any golfer out there. Tiger's a great golfer, but until he has posted the same winning percentage, he's second to Ms. Sorenstam.

In the world of racing, they had the IROC series...identical cars that were set up exactly the same. The end result was that the "best" driver would emerge as the champion. What about the same format for the PGA Tour? Eliminate all of the technical advantages one piece of equipment has over another, and you level the playing field. For example, everyone uses the exact same ball in one tournament (a titliest built to 1985 technical specs or maybe everyone uses the same TrueTemper shafts from the same period). Give them all the same equipment and let's see who's the best golfer!