I think the majority of folks on this thread take Tom's grovel comment too literally. In my experience, it is neither good decorum or likely very successful to grovel to get on exclusive courses. Through the course of one's business, friends, understanding and appreciation of the game, one tends to get invited to some of these places eventually. I think Tom meant that these courses are worth going out of your way to play, not try to get on at any cost. I would think that overtly asking or pleading or cajoling even a reasonable aquaintance to get on a very exclusive course would likely be counterproductive. Even if a very close friend asked me to take him out I'd find it offputting. It is solely the members place to do the asking....