History of the game
The history of golf and in particular the origin of golf is unclear and open to debate. Various forms of playing 'stick and ball' games have been around for centuries, players would hit a pebble around a natural course of sand dunes, rabbit runs and tracks using a stick. The most widely accepted theory is that playing golf as we know it today, playing 18 holes, clearly originated in Scotland.
The first permanent 18 hole golf course, golf club membership, written rules of golf, official tournaments and competitions between Scottish cities all originated in Scotland. The oldest playing golf course in the world is The Old Links at Musselburgh Racecourse, Scotland.
The R&A produce the rules of golf and is the development body and organiser of The Open Championship. Named from The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, which has continuous records dating back to its foundation in 1754, and although the Club continues its long history with 2,400 members, The R&A has become a separate entity to focus on its governance role.
History of golf for women
Mary Queen of Scots was playing the game in 16th century some called her the first women to play in the history of golf. It is also said that she coined the term “caddy” from calling her minions cadets. Mary grew up in France where le cadet is French for youngster of the family also military cadets carried golf clubs for royalty.
The Rules of Golf and Golf Etiquette are also consistent throughout the world and the unique Golf Handicap system allows players of different abilities to play with and against each other.