To all,
I wasn't attempting to tie the quote literally to Lancaster's career. Indeed, he has seen his fair share of struggles trying to earn a living on the otherwise cutthroat pro tour. Instead, I was hoping this quote would be measured as a reflection of the state of the game, professional and amateur, its rewards and travails.
I see way too many daily fee players, private-club members and other golfers all too upset and disappointed with their games. As Mike Cirba alluded to, the "enjoyment of the challenge, architecture,scenery, companionship, etc.." is paramount to his game. Same for me! As someone who has seen his game deteriorate, it is interesting that I enjoy it now more than ever. With the exception of mostly purists, I really don't think that is the attitude of many. That is a shame IMHO. Amateurs expectations can and never will be able to match those of the pro's and still remain reasonable.
The pros regularly complain that only Tiger is the full-time success story. Gone are the days that the up and coming Trevinos, Jacobsens, et.al. reflected daily on the enjoyment of their profession. They chased Jack, but didn't do it with the public awe and intimidation they practice today. Back then, the pressure of a major or a first win was vastly different than today's commercial measurement of success.
We here debate the merits of classic architectual defense against modern technology...a near losing battle, but spend little time thinking aloud about the state of the game's philosophy. We must remember in today's nanosecond information dissemination era, GCA has assumed, like it or not, some of the mantle of the H.W. Wind's and others who previously guarded the game.
Again, just a thought provoking question of attitude and priority.