Olivia Medical Anthropology

The traditions and etiquette that surround golf are one of the reasons the sport is so unique. Recently, I had the opportunity to travel to the Home of Golf: St.Andrews. Knowing previously through my years of golf experience that there are many aspects of the game deeply rooted in tradition, my awareness of this only grew stronger when visiting. The town is largely populated by individuals who participate in the game, and almost every store lining the streets was golf-related. It was shocking to see with my own eyes just how centered around the game the city was. Evidently, this game brings people together, and many traditions are a part of its legacy. Though, some of these traditions create an exclusionary culture. Many golf clubs were and still are men’s only, where women can’t become members or play the course. Instead of bringing people together, this principle polarizes individuals based on their gender. The culture of golf is evolving as time goes on, and the majority of clubs allow women to play the courses now. Despite traditions such as this, the game is a way for individuals to have a good time and honor the legacy of the game. In St. Andrews, the love and collective honor for the game was prevalent. It provided me with more insight on the distinctive culture of golf and its concentration in one area of the world.