What is the single greatest factor that prevents new players from enjoying the game of golf? Is it fear of failure? The high learning curve? Yes, while those things do play a significant role in someone’s initial avoidance of the game, I believe that there are other factors which are easily solvable.

One of those factors, perhaps the most important, is the high cost of golf clubs.

Someone brand new to the game should not be expected to make a several hundred dollar investment into something he may or may not enjoy. Golf courses should take advantage of this fear while also taking advantage of an additional revenue stream for themselves. Allowing players to rent golf clubs gives them the opportunity to try the game out for the first time, and possibly even become a long-term customer. The benefits to both the player and the golf course far outweigh any negatives, and more courses should rent golf clubs to their players.

Good for the Player

As someone surrounded by people who often have never tried playing a round of golf in their lives, the most common reason I hear is the high cost. Green fees, while sometimes inhibiting, are not solely to blame for this. Many people either don’t have a set of golf clubs, or don’t know someone with access to a set of clubs. Knowing that a specific golf course will rent golf clubs for a small fee per round not only encourages them to try the game out, but also provides a low-risk alternative to investing in a set of their own.

Good for the Course

For golf courses, the option of providing a rental set of clubs should be a no-brainer. The low investment cost of a set of clubs is easily countered by the additional revenue sources it can provide:

• Renting fees. After a while, you’re making pure profit every time someone decides to rent golf clubs.
• Repeat business. For those who might not have the money to purchase a set of clubs, they may rent from you 5 or 6 times before purchasing their own.
• Memberships. Players who are given the opportunity to try the game may decide they enjoy it and purchase a membership. What other club would they purchase at than the one who gave them their first opportunity to play the game?

The risks involved are almost negligible. While there is a capital requirement to purchase the clubs, and a maintenance fee to replace broken or damaged clubs, this can all easily be written into the agreement of someone who decides to rent golf clubs from you. If they break a club, they’re charged a small fee to replace it. This severely minimizes your risk, encourages players to play more safely, and lets you continue to use the equipment long into its profitability.

How to Get Started?

If you have a relationship with a company who may be able to provide you 10 or so sets of clubs at a discounted price, that’s obviously the way to go. If not, try to shop around. There are many golf club providers who are sure to create a relationship with you where you initially purchase several sets in bulk, and then continue to purchase replacement equipment from them. If you have trouble setting up such a relationship, there are several websites that can provide you with discounted equipment.

Players who are new to the game won’t be picky about the brand of clubs they’re using, so don’t be picky for them. Remember, you’re simply creating an opportunity for them to give the game a try at a low cost to them.

Have you had any success in renting clubs at your course? Let us know in the comments!