[Lou L]

The physical requirements of the non-competitive folks are virtually zero. That is a strong draw for many who have no other physical/athletic/sporting options... which includes a LOT of people, all over the world.

I'm not entirely certain how you mean it, but you seem to dismiss golf as a boring sport for the non-athletic type of person. I disagree. There's a good deal of athleticism, skill, and coordination to play well at golf. It's not a sport that provides instant gratification. Perhaps there's such a draw for the amateurs because they realize how much skill is required for what the pros do, and how effortless they make it appear.

[JBW1949]

“...how effortless they make it appear...”

Watching on TV, these guys are 180 yds out and hitting an 8 iron onto the green...

180 yds, I’m hitting a 4 iron....