With the experience to judge, one need not pre-judge.
The true athlete should have character, not be a character
Be at your best when your best is needed.
How you run the race - your planning, preparation, practice, and performance - counts for everything. Winning or losing is a by-product, and aftereffect, of that effort.
I found golf was too time consuming, but I did enjoy it.
Don't whine, complain, or make excuses.