Trying to get serious about Golf

[HoosierAlum]

Heres my story:

In middle/high school I took up golf as a hobby, but never invested too much time in it because I was involved with other sports. I always enjoyed playing, and would play an average of 3 times a month.

I brought my old clubs from high school when I went away to college, but I rarely played at school. Maybe once a month.
After I graduated I moved to Chicago, and I've been lazy when it comes to going out and playing.

So I want to get back into playing, as I need a hobby because I spend all day on my ass playing poker. When I played I would shoot in the 90s, but I would like to try to get very good at the game. Basically I wanted to ask some knowledgeable guys a few questions:

1)What would be the best irons/driver for me to purchase? (price isn't a big factor)

2)Where should I purchase them? (Do I need to get personally fitted?)

3)Where are nice public courses to play at in both Chicago and Las Vegas?

4) Are lessons necessary? Will they help me improve quickly?


If you guys could add anything else that would be great. Thanks.

[VeryTnA]

YES!!! TAKE LESSONS

Best Clubs at the Best Price are here Callaway Closeouts

[xf1000]

I agree with the above post. Also an awesome book "Swing Like a Pro" by Fred Griffin and Ralph Mann. Ebay has some nice deals as well. When searching for a teacher try to look to someone that has some high level playing experience. There are some world class teachers in Vegas but they can get pricey. Good luck!

[TxRedMan]

I only read your title, but i'd like to give you a bit of advice from 18 years of golf experience (i'm 24);

It's easy to become obsessive with golf, and it will take the fun out of it. I can't stop this cycle i'm in. I play everyday and focus on my game for months on end until I get so frustrated that I can't shoot <75 and I end up taking the fun out of the game.

Don't take the game too seriously.