I would imagine that video streaming would be an excellent next step in widening the reach of Richard's Symposium. That said, from the conversations I've had with him, he feels(and I concur) that the attendee number should grow first to elevate the momentum and profile of the gathering. What is significant to note is the vital need for an engaged, stimulating group of ON-SITE attendees, to ignite and increase the probing discourse this very progressive event generates. It CAN"T be duplicated by a detached, conference call approach. Live, personal interaction of a direct nature is essential for conversations of weight and passion.
Does it require extending oneself to attend? You bet. Is it worth it? Well if one really cares about the game, beyond just what you can extract from it, I would say that it is. Recognizing that we ALL lead busy lives and have different priorities, the quality of what Richard has presented during the first two gatherings was both outstanding and memorable.
NO WHERE at any of the many number of these golf industry, or related events that I've attended, have I found more CANDID, insightful sharing of critical information facing the major issues surrounding the game's overall health. There is little of the PC nonsense troted out elsewhere. The sharing of knowledge and questioning is on a level rarely experienced in larger group settings. I would say that some folks, not used to such frank expectations, have even gotten a little unsettled during the discussions. BEAUTIFUL!
That is exactly what is needed. For too long, to golf's detriment, status quo has been allowed to hold sway. It has proved very damaging and we are just beginning the long shake-out to recovery. Richard and his team are striving to make a difference. FEW have made his level of investment to try and contribute. The least those of us on GCA can do (and some have) is make the trip, at some point, to support his efforts. We advance not only ourselves, but also the postive energy this sport has always been capable off delivering when it is directed from a higher plane.
If you really reflect on the magnitutude of what the Symposium is addressing, from my view, and there are many noble efforts conducted by various members of this site, Richard's annual presentation is right at the top in deserving our commitment. Whenever the call goes out for a GCA golf-playing event of any stature, the rush to participate is generally swift.
This year's Symposium, by Richard's count, has just 3 GCA folk registered. Even allowing for some poor math or late commits...what does that say?
Respectfully,
Kris
