Golf Tips: Combating Slow Play

One of the negative parts about golf is the amount of time it takes.  These days many busy people don't have time to play 18 holes of golf in 4-4.5 hours time.  When the play is slow it is even worse; five or even six hours on crowded public courses!  No wonder golf as an industry is struggling.  People don't have time for 5-6 hour rounds of golf.  Lets look at what we can do to help speed up play, and everyone's enjoyment of this great game. Keep Up Many scorecards have printed right on them, "keep up with the group in front of you."  This is one of the most basic concepts.  You should always be on the tail of the group in front of you.  If they're on the green and you're on the tee of a par-4 or par-5, you need to pick up the pace.  If they're on the next hole and you're on the tee you really need to pick it up. Ready Golf "Ready golf" should be played all the time.  Quite simply "ready golf" means that players hit their shots when ready.  It doesn't matter who has the honor or who is farthest out on the hole.  Just go when you're ready. Be Ready Be ready to hit your shot when it is your turn!  While other players are hitting their shots, plan yours.  Get your yardage or make your club decision.  Line up your putt.  Do whatever you need to do in order to be ready to pull the trigger when it is your turn. When approaching the position of your ball, you can save time by getting your yardage as you walk up to it. You can analyze the situation on the way to your ball so you have a good idea of what shot and club to play when you arrive at your ball. Let Quicker Groups Play Through Sometimes no matter how hard you try, your group may be playing too slow.  If you are holding up players behind you, get their attention and wave them through.  It is the right thing to do. You're Not Putting To Win The Masters We see tour pros lining up putts from all sides, discussing them with their caddies etc.  That's fine when you are on tour and the put is to win a million bucks or a huge championship.  But if you're just an amateur golfer, read your putt quickly and let it rip.  You're not putting to win the Masters, though winning $2.00 from your buddy may feel like it. Conclusion - Pay Attention Personally I play better when I play fast.  Waiting around between shots breaks up my rhythm.  Try playing faster and see if your scores improve. Be aware of your position on the course.  If you're behind, catch up.  If you're holding up groups behind you, let them through.