Mike and his dog, Jack walk the 7 km regularly playing golf. Jack, a bitser is 14 years old and a living testimony to the benefits of playing 18 holes often! Health Benefits of Golf Numerous publications expound the health benefits of playing golf versus a simple walk in the park. 1. Findings show that golf is likely to improve cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic health. 2. Playing golf could also help those who suffer chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colon and breast cancer and stroke. 3. The physical benefits of golf increase with age. 4. Balance and muscle endurance in older people are improved by playing the sport. It is crazy that the local board would deprive thousands of Aucklanders of a public facility at Chamberlain Park, a fabulous 18 hole golf course that allows many financially conscious and aging Aucklanders to get regular exercise, and mental and social stimulation. Viewing the profile of the many Aucklanders that play there would also suggest the board is being ageist, racist and just a little sexist. The majority of players are older males, the very young and Maori and Pasifika men. Dr Andrew Murray, from the Physical Activity for Health Research Centre at Edinburgh University reviewed 5000 studies into golf. He reported "We know that the moderate physical activity that golf provides increases life expectancy, has mental health benefits and can help prevent and treat more than 40 major chronic diseases”. A Swedish study by the Karolinska Institute led by Professor Anders Ahlbom, found that golfers have a 40% lower death rate, which corresponds to a 5-year increase in life expectancy. Golfers live longer. An 18 hole round of golf, involves walking 5-7 kilometres, usually pushing a cart and considerable upper body rotation. This activity increases heart rate and blood flow, can lower hypertension and harmful cholesterol thereby contributing to a reduction in the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The average round of golf can burn up to 1000 calories, an ideal outcome for those with obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Researchers also found that regular golf provides stress relief and reduces the risk of anxiety and depression, and that constant exposure to green areas relaxes the body. The pleasure of walking in an open and natural environment while spending time with friends or those who share your interest puts golfers in a positive mood. A round of golf provides an ideal opportunity to keep in touch with friends, meet new people and have a sense of community connectedness. Psychological health relies on these factors.