I've been playing since last summer and still have the starter set because I can't "buy" the better clubs. The "offers" that allow you to get credits usually require buying something or are surveys that most of the time you won't qualify for . That being said I agree that you simply cannot reach many of the greens on Bethpage with the starter set even when it appears that you should. Most of time the clubs hit short of what they say they'll reach. The only courses can do okay on with starter's are Kiowa and St. Andrews. You can reach many at Oakmount but the greens are difficult to say the least. It is very frustrating to someone that can't afford the upgrades that is for sure!!!
I play the Tiger Woods 2010 still cause it's less stressful and offers more courses as well as different golfers.