And really, not for the worries of the precedent the feared ruling would set. Golf is a game that includes walking. Professional golf for touring pros, who are playing golf as a career, being in good enough shape to walk 72 holes in four days can make a difference. Marco Island resident and CBS Sports golf analyst Ken Venturi is remembered for his battle with exhaustion during the 36-hole final day of the 1964 U.S. Open. The penalties of walking aren't as evident as in other sports.
Golf also is a mental game, and fatigue can play a factor on that facet.
Walking plays a part in that. But this is different. Casey Martin doesn't have a bad back, a bad hip, a broken foot, or an injury. That was the crux of his legal battle. The deteriorating condition of his leg affected him to the point he could not compete and walk 18 holes.