Mark
Given the option I would keep the R&A but I want its accountable to the clubs. I want to see it more assessable to the likes of the professional bodies, be they the Golfers, Designers or Clubs. Pre an AGM I would like to see an open week for a Conference (Convention, I believe is the word in the States) where interested parties voice opinions or propose actions, so by the AGM the Governing Body has a serious understanding of what others think and feel. This in turn may generate small association of interested parties which feed the feeling of the great unwashed back to the Governing Body. A Governing Body working with its people is nearly unheard of in this modern world of ours
Working Bodies set up to really take into account the feelings of those interested in the game. I would also personally like to see some emphasis on GCA being included, as from my experience many golfers do not even understand what it stands for let alone what it represents.
I am not seeking a simple kick up the bum, but a proper re organisation. They has assets that they have done zero with, which just shows, let’s just call it the slowness of their minds.
As for the finances, are you taking the piss, you know the money in the game. The finances are not the problem nor do I see any problems there, just a case of money going to the right causes.
The current regime have had years of opportunity and money to resolve some of the minor issues. We have moved into the 21St Century with an organisation still trying to understand its own identity, let alone decide its direction.
I am a one man band seeking to look at the problems of the game and try to inject first a debate on the subjects, then if possible groups of interested people willing to try to take things further. My moans and groans are there for a constructive purpose, not just joyfully banter or a simple rant. For all my faults I am at least willing to try to do something. I had hoped that this site might have had the people with balls enough to stand up for what they believe in. Ran’s given us the site and subject, but all we seem to do is attack each other for daring to have an opinion that differs from others.
I do not have all the answers, far from it but we have enough interesting Members who can do something from simple organising to actually suggesting certain forms of action to generate interest and publicity.
I hope, for what its worth, that the above has answered your question regards my thoughts re The R&A.
Melvyn
PS Hi Bob,
I welcome most Royals but in Andrew we have the wrong one and he should never have been elected Captain of The R&A, IMHO.