the main point being that if I join a game with a free ball, as I usually do.
If I end up I the lead player ... I have no opportunity to grab a ball or change a club, IF I think I need one.
Depending on the quality of players joining after me. They get the chance to change any gear to suit the course (which was randomly selected)
all other players do have this chance as they come into a game forming to edit gear.
so really my only option is to just bailout on this situation and ruin the game ... or just be stuck with the rock.
I don't think that's fair to the 1st player into a game .