Golfers live longer

If you're not a fan of the little white ball, you might want to reconsider. New research reveals golfers simply live longer, with low handicappers the safest. One can assume Tiger will outlive us all. Not only is the guy super fit, prior to his recent knee surgery he was nearly unbeatable.

After analyzing 300,000 Swedish golfers, researchers determined the death rate amongst golfers is 40 percent lower than for other people of the same sex, age and socioeconomic status. This equals a five-year increase in life expectancy. Even golfers who ride a cart end up walking much of a round at a fast pace, and if your slice rears its ugly head, you'll walk even more. Beyond the physical benefits, researchers acknowledge the healthy lifestyles of golfers and inherent social and psychological benefits of the game could also be contributing factors.

I competed on the high school golf team and played quite a bit in my 20s. Having kids has since put a layer of dust on my bag, although there have been a few glorious rounds of golf the past few years and one tourney trophy won, upon which I excitedly exclaimed, "This is better than going to Disney World!" Time to dust off my bag and hit the links for 18 holes. Anyone have $50? It's an investment in a life.