Tim,
The first thing that I would suggest is for you make a decision as to just what type of golf writer you want to be.
Do you want to REPORT on golf? That is what the vast majority of golf writers actually do, even those who write columns. If this is the direction you want to go I would strongly recommend that you contact the best golf radio program in the city where you live. Ask about interning for it. You will be amazed at the number of contacts that you will begin making almost immediately that will lead to publishing articles by you. In fact, many of the larger sports radio stations now have websites that have weekly articles "published" on them by their staff. A well-rounded CV will be needed to even get through the door of a newspaper/magazine. Because of how a "name" can be made through interning on a golf radio show, doors are more easily opened.
Do you want to write literary pieces and books about golf? That is something that I believe is sadly missed in almost all golf publications today. Can you name the last time you saw a quality golf poem published in ANY golf journal? What about a piece of quality fiction?
Links magazine had a contest last year where they advertised that they were looking for the "next" Herbert Warren Wind or Bernard Darwin. They asked for articles of 500 words or less to be submitted on the author's favorite public golf course. The winners were to be announced in February. Instead they extended the deadline through April... That is how rare it is to find those whose words inspire and transport the reader rather than simply filling their time with cute anecdotes or witty views on golf happenings.
Remember, you can always simply write to the editor of one or more of the golf journals, telling them of your desire to write about golf and enclose a sample article or column. KEEP doing that and you will certainly get both encouragement and criticism. Learn from both and, most importantly of all, get your name out in front of those who will be hiring the next great batch of writers...
When they are seeking someone they will remember you and what you've written.
Be DISTINCTIVE in whatever fashion that you write and learn to let this show naturally...
Know when to STOP writing. As you can see that is a lesson that I still need to learn...