Few things derail a round of golf faster than slow play, and while we are on the topic, let’s make this clear: there is little correlation between skill and pace of play. Don’t believe me? Watch PGA and LPGA Tour players take five hours to shoot 68.
If you want to keep your Myrtle Beach golf trip (or any round) on time, here are simple tips to ensure your group keeps the pace without sacrificing the enjoyment of the game.
– Start on time to finish on time. Falling behind early creates a ripple effect for everyone on the course. Even if you catch up later, the damage is done. Be the group that gets off to a clean, timely start.
– Play the proper tees. It’s been said a million times, but it’s true: choosing the right tees makes golf faster and more fun. Prime examples: Caledonia and Pine Lakes are both par 70s, and both have tees in the 5,700-yard range that golfers reflexively bypass in favor of playing from 6,150+ yards. Those 5,700-yard tees play more like 6,000, ideal for most players. Pay attention to the tees and the challenges they present.
– Don’t sit down on the job. Few things waste more time than sitting in the cart while your partner locates his ball, lasers the flag, selects a club, and hits the ball, before moving on to your ball. Take the lead on this: drop your partner off at his ball and go to yours or walk to your next shot and be ready to hit when it’s your turn. Encourage your playing partners to do the same.
– Limit ball searches. USGA rules say you have three minutes to find a ball. Don’t exceed that time. If the ball is that hard to find, you likely won’t have much of a shot anyway. Extended searches are pace-killers, especially when a group does it multiple times per round.
– Remember: you aren’t on tour! Don’t be afraid to concede short putts. When your buddy has made back-to-back triples and has a three-footer for double, give it to him. Also, you don’t need to mark an 18-inch putt and look at it from all four sides. Whenever possible, finish the hole after your first putt without making a production of the effort.
A few simple habits like these—along with playing ready golf—can keep your group moving and ensure a more enjoyable round for everyone.
