[Don Plumley]

I played a fair amount for a lot of years. The track has strongly replaced any interest I used to have in "A good walk spoiled."

+1 on most of the advice above. Here are my suggestions:

1) Used Clubs from a Golf Store. Tell the pro you are a beginner, set a budget. Most have a 30 day return policy so if you hate them, you can swap for a different set. Having well-made, basic clubs now with a big sweet spot and shafts matched to your natural swing speed is all you need. Make sure the grips are in good condition. Stay away from the big box discounters.

2) Learn proper etiquette (please). It's easy to forgive (and enjoy) playing with a beginner golfer if they understand and respect the basic rules of the game. Don't walk across someone's line on the putting surface. Be quiet (don't jingle change, wash clubs, etc.) during your fellow-competitor's address and swing. Turn your cell phone off. Play Ready Golf - always be prepared to hit with the right clubs handy. And as a beginner, the last 3 foot put after 11 strokes getting there is not going to win the Masters. Learn when to pick up and move to the next hole.

3) Become a student of the game. If you are going to do it, do it right. It's all about fun, being outside, being challenged, camaraderie, 19th hole, etc. But having a little appreciation for the history of the game will separate you from the louts.

4) The harder you try, the worse it will be. "I'm going to kill the ball" (it goes 10 yards). "If I just swing a little faster" (big bannana slice). Think slow and steady - a smooth, quiet backswing starts off a smooth and powerful swing. A quick violent backswing brings on a Benny Hill moment.

5) Enjoy it. It's a very frustrating (okay, call it challenging) game to learn. There's a steep learning curve and many plateaus. So every time a ball goes astray or you find yourself wanting to throw a club (don't), take a big deep breath, look at the trees and grass, and remind yourself you are doing this for fun, not for a shot at the Tour.

Have Fun!