Between the gear, greens fees, and club memberships, golf can be an expensive leisure activity. Bill Rapp bought Hail Ridge Golf Course in Boonville last spring despite the sluggish economy.

"The golfing business isn't as good as it has been in year's past," said Rapp. "With the economy being slow, we knew it was going to be a battle to buy the golf course and make it work as an entity."

The two Columbia municipal courses, L.A. Nickell and Lake of the Woods, experienced an increase in the amount of rounds purchased compared to last year. Columbia Parks and Recreation Supervisor Richard Cole and Bill Rapp attribute their success to the marketability of less expensive courses.

"One thing we're putting a lot of emphasis on is coupons," said Cole. "We're putting a lot of coupons out on our website."

"We feel like we are in a market for an average American to play golf," said Rapp. "It's not as expensive to be a member here as it would be to join a private club. I think it might be easier for us to compete for those entertainment dollars."