Golf Tips: Pace of Play

Did you know that the average round of golf in America is 4 hours and 17 minutes?  Lucius Riccio, Ph.D. did a study of 40,460 rounds of golf and that was his findings… but then why do you keep checking your watch and finding that your round is taking 5+ hours? You’ll also notice that lately the discussion of slow play and actual penalties being given has increased on the PGA and LPGA.  Just a few weeks back even big name Jordan Spieth got hit with a slow play penalty.  …but since we are amateurs, here are some helpful tips on ensuring you and your group stay well within the guidelines and get you to that 4 hour desired round of golf.      Tip #1 – Unless you are playing in an organized type of tournament play as much as possible try “ready play.”  As you approach the tee if you’re ready to hit and the player with the low score on the last hole isn’t, go ahead and hit.  If you are in an organized type of play situation ensure that you are always ready to play and be mindful of club selection as you approach your ball.    Tip #2 – If your pre-shot routine requires a 30 second dip, waggle, set up, and four practice swings consider rethinking the routine and reduce it down to 10 or 15 seconds.  It doesn’t sound like much but after 18 holes and four players the time adds up.    Tip #3 – Once you’ve finished your hole head straight for the next tee box.  By updating your scorecard en route or at the next stop you’ll allow the group behind you to continue their approach to the green without having to wait.    Tip #4 – Unsure if your ball went out of bounds or in the water?  Hit a provisional and don’t worry.  Once you get to your ball it’s no biggie to go hit your first in-play ball and pick up your provisional or simply play your provisional.  This will eliminate having to go back to the tee to re-hit if your ball truly is out of play.    Tip #5 – If the twosome behind you is waiting on you, consider allowing them to play through if the opportunity arises.  In some cases you’ll be waiting on a group in front of you so playing through might not help… but, you can allow them to hit up to you and then continue yourself with your next s hots.    Tip #6 – Consider your equipment.  Does your towel take time to get on and off your bag?  Do you fumble in your pocket looking for a ball marker or divot repair tool?  What is it about items you bring onto the course that could potentially slow you down?  At Frogger we know the value of pace of play which is why we provide several different tools to keep your game leaping forward.   If you could add another tip, what would it be?