The Golfer’s Creed by David R. Forgan
I’ve had the Golfer’s Creed by David R. Forgan framed and hanging on a wall for many years. From time to time I will pause and read it again. I don’t know how many times I have read the Golfer’s Creed. Each time I do read it, I’m reminded of why I’m a golfer. Golf is the greatest game.
Golfer’s Creed
It is a science-the study of a lifetime, in which
you may exhaust yourself but never your subject.
It is a contest, a duel or melee, calling for
courage, skill, strategy and self-control.
It is a test of temper, a trial of honor,
a revealer of character.
It affords the chance to play the man, and
act the gentleman.
It means going into God’s out-of-doors, getting close
to nature, fresh air, exercise, a sweeping away of the
mental cobwebs, genuine recreation of the tired tissues.
It is a cure for care-an antidote to worry.
It includes companionship with friends, social
intercourse, opportunity for courtesy, kindliness
and generosity to an opponent.
It promotes not only physical health but moral force.
–David R. Forgan
Scotland, 1899
