Yeah, we didn't tell you about the secret meetings and the special hats we have to wear to our cult meetings. You oughta see Al T when he's all dressed up in his Grand Poo-Bah Clubmaker costume....Oh, and there's also the secret cult handshake <GRIN>
It is certainly ok to be a hobbyist, or for that matter, anything else you want to do. I'd love to tell you that I'm making lots of money in the golf business, but in general, it just doesn't happen any more than it does in any other business. Golf as a business doesn't make very many people financially rich. More than anything else, it's a passion for the game, and combining that with producing something of value with my hands. This year I'm selling Louisville Gold Authentic American Wood putters with the Naval Academy seal laser engraved on the crown to the Alumni Association. The best part of the whole experience is taking the phone orders from wives, husbands, sons, daughters, and parents who are genuinely excited about how happy they will make the person they are giving it to. I get more job satisfaction out of that than all the years doing my "day job"...which I still do. Like I said...the golf business won't put my kids through college....or support my wife in the manner in which she is accustomed <GRIN> There's room in this "cult" for all kinds of folks... Royce -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Brian Parkinson Sent: Thursday, December 19, 2002 9:05 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: ShopTalk: Origins...was Long Drive swing...was Selling it Bernie, Royce, Dr. Voo, Thanks for the backgrounds. It answered a question I have regarding how do you start into clubmaking and leave the nasty cut and clue stigma behind. After hearing some of the over the top criticisms of the beginning clubmaker, I was wondering what is the appropriate way to go about becoming a legitimate clubmaker. The obvious answer is to go to the schools, leave your wife, family, and employment behind in search of knowledge. Sounds like some sort of cult. Actually, I was interested in something a little more practical. Your stories helped a ton, and I think maybe it is O.K. to be a hobbyist enjoying the opportunity to gain a little knowledge and have some fun. Thanks, Brian
