In the beginning of the game of golf, players would play with cut branches from trees, however through time golf club has been changed completely. Under the rules of golf maximum of 14 clubs is allowed. The actual length of each club depends on the distance the club will shoot the ball. Woods, the longest clubs, are used for long-distance fairway or tee strikes. The biggest wood is called the driver. Next shorter in length are the irons, the most universal class, designed for a wide diversity of shots. They are used during the middle of each hole off the roughs, fairways or sand traps. Wedges are used for a various short-distance high accurate strokes, so-called "lay-up" shots. Last but not least, putters are designed directly to roll the ball across the green into the cup.
Each participant endeavors to reach the green and strike the ball into the cup using as few strokes as possible. After finishing 18 holes, the player with the lowest number of strokes becomes the winner.
Only recently the countries with most golf courses were: England, Scotland, Australia, Canada, the United States and Sweden. But nowadays there are fast expanding the game in new territories. The most obvious example is China, where the first golf course was set up in 1984, but by the end of 2009 there were above 600 in the country.
The sport that has so many millions of devoted participants and over 30 000 courses worldwide, must have something attractive. So, why golf is such a popular sport around the world?
Golf is a great activity for people of all ages as it joins fitness, skill, fun, being outdoors and the social aspects of the game as well.
Whether you are a kid, or if you have just retired and want something to fill your leisure, then golf may be the sport for you. Golf is unique game that gives an opportunity for older players. There are some senior tours for men above 50. Also, there is a special "executive" golf course designed for beginner or older participants. Golf is available to people of all levels of fitness. In fact, golf in itself will aid you to keep fit, particularly in later years.
Golf assists you to escape from routine of modern urban life providing you a temporary return to rural surroundings with fresh air and pleasant scenery.
Finally, golf is a very social sport as it allows conversation among the participants with different backgrounds. Also, you can relax with friends while playing. What is more, the game becomes popular in business circles, where negotiations often are conducted in more relaxed surroundings.