"Why would there be one fee for all when some may benefit 50+ yrs and others who knows 5,10 15 yrs??"

Don; It's like insurance company actuaries. They bet you'll outlive your premiums paid, and you're hedging your bet in case you don't.

The CC & GTCC Life Membership fee ($300) equals 15 years of regular membership at $20 per year only after a member has had 3 years of continuous membership in the club. So after you turn 80 (in your case) ... you'll be saving money! Go for it!!

Seriously though ... paying the Life Membership fee now at 65, or at any age for that matter, also protects you from paying any projected dues increase later on.