JES II,
I think it's bad for golf because the focus is deflected or diverted from the inherent values and lure of the game to a strictly monetary value scheme.
There are certain golfers that I'd rather beat with no money on the line, than other golfers that I could win considerable sums from.
Ran Morrissett immediately comes to mind.
Our competitions are ferocious, yet, we retain our close friendship and sense of humor.
Having said that, I can't believe his long birdie putt on # 17 at Sand Hills, which was motoring at about 30 MPH, hit that pebble and was deflected toward the hole, which it hit with such velocity that the cup was damaged, before falling into the hole for a 2, while my birdie putt for a half and to prolong the match, was just a hair too fast, just rimming out for one of the most bitter defeats of my golfing career.
When promoters transition "GOLF" from a wonderfully competitive game amongst gentleman to riduculous entertainment for absurd stakes, the game of golf suffers.
The "THRILL" of the game is transitioned from its inherent values and lure to nothing more than a monied extravaganza for the purpose of entertainment.
As Huey Lewis stated, will golfers need a new thrill, a new drug, one that's monetarilly driven in order to perpetuate the interest in the game ?
Playing for a LOT[/color] of money ruins friendships, creates cheats and undermines the inherent values of the game.