An early morning tee time shouldn’t be marred by destroyed golf course property, as it was recently at St. Andrew’s Golf Course in Punta Gorda, Florida. From the perspective of avid golf fan Francis S. Hallinan, the people that are responsible for such unlawful behavior should be brought to justice in a manner befitting their misconduct.
The course, named for the famous Scottish venue credited with the origins of the game, was allegedly vandalized by one adult and five juveniles, who broke into facilities and caused substantial damage (estimated at $20,000). The needless destruction of property is unwelcome anywhere, but from the perspective of Francis S. Hallinan, arrest of those who vandalize golf courses may help deter the escalation of destructive behavior, especially by juveniles, at other locations in the future.
The overnight spree between Wednesday night and Thursday morning involved breaking into a barn and taking over a dozen golf carts on “joy rides,” which were anything but a joy for those who had to recover them and clean up the next morning. Some might consider it harmless fun, but many like Francis S. Hallinan think that arrest is necessary to ensure that the thousands of dollars of damage are recovered and the vandals are taught the importance of civil behavior, one of the top values at golf courses worldwide.
Golf course vandalism by humans and animals is a significant problem for greenskeepers at many courses, since the properties are often large, isolated and vacant at night. Occasional trash and turf damage can range from an annoyance to an ongoing and significant expense. The incident at St. Andrew’s course in Florida was a major intrusion that showed a large amount of bold disrespect. Golf fans such as Francis S. Hallinan believe that arrest discourages the escalation of such behavior with direct consequences.
Security costs, fencing, and other defenses against nighttime intruders might be necessary, but part of the pleasure of a top-quality golf course is the open, spacious feel that golfers experience, whether in the countryside or a special spot in the city. Golf fans believe that preserving these special locations adds peace and tranquility to the local environment and provides additional value to those living nearby.
Some golf courses offer residents easy access to the clubhouse and greens, allowing fans to pursue their favorite sport with ease. Ensuring their safety and keeping miscreants out maintains community standards and quality of life. After all, the game of golf is a way of life, and fans like Francis S. Hallinan believe it should be carefully protected.