Every week I write articles about hunting and fishing, but as much as I enjoy these two sports, they are not my favorite. I believe that golf is, hands down, the greatest sport or game ever played.

There are several reasons that I feel this way and today I am going to share a few of them with you in hopes that you may decide to take this game up as well.

1. It is comparatively inexpensive
Golf has always been thought of as a rich man’s sport, but that simply isn’t the case. With the exception of the extremely elite course membership, golf is very affordable. Many courses in our area can be played for a green fee of less than $30.

A set of great golf clubs can be bought for less than $1,500 and a beginner set can be bought for around $100. This sounds like a lot of money but it really isn’t compared to all of the equipment necessary to participate in other outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. (Think: boats, four wheelers, stands, feeders, decoys, etc.)

2. Golf course are beautiful
Even the bad golf courses are beautiful. In fact the prettiest place in almost any town is at the golf course. The landscapes, ponds, and lush green grass are aesthetically appealing and seem to help calm the soul. There is often an ample amount of wildlife to view and there is just something that feels good walking down the fairway as the sun begins to set.

3. Golf is great exercise
Keep in mind that golf was meant to be played while walking. Walking on the course and carrying your bag on your bag is an excellent form of exercise. However, the extreme Texas heat and high humidity often make this impossible. Even when using a golf cart, you will get in plenty of steps and plenty of chances to swing a club. This activity helps burn calories and keep you in shape.

4. It is a great social sport
Golf is best when played with friends. The game is most often played with a group of four golfers. During the round there is plenty of time for chit-chat and plenty of bonding. Many friendships and business deals have been forged on the golf course.

5. It mimics life
It has often been said that golf is a lot like life. Sometimes you get good breaks and sometimes you get bad breaks. In golf you have to play it where it lies and make the most of the opportunities that you are given. Golf can teach a person how to deal with adverse situations and conditions without giving up.
I could go on and on about the benefits of playing golf but it would be best for you to try it out for yourself. If you do, be careful because it has been known to be very addictive!

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Brian Johnson, originally of Port Neches, is pastor of First Baptist Church of Winnie, owner of DuckDogTrainer.com and outdoors writer for The News.