Golf remains exclusive to wealthy

Chen Long, president of a student golf association at University of International Business and Economics, said golf's development in China is being hindered by class issues.

"Sports shouldn't be divided into different classes as they have an equal value in terms of benefiting the public's health," he told METRO.

Certain sports in China are often regarded as upper-class pursuits because of the large expenses needed to take part. And golf clubs, in particular, are seen as places to conduct business rather than somewhere to practice the sport.