A round of golf can take as little or as long as you want – but sometimes it errs towards the longer side. This may be due to factors outside your control (think slow groups before you, tricky weather conditions, crowded tee times or unfortunate incidents), but many times there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure you’re not spending half the day out on the course. Here are a few effective ways to speed up your pace of play.
Confirm your tee time and be ready to go
It’s always wise to confirm your tee time in advance and ensure there are no problems that might hold you up. Arrive at the course a little early with your golf equipment ready to play and plenty of time to get your warm up done. Make sure your remember all the essential equipment, like extra balls and tees, your gloves and any extra clothing you’re likely to need for the day’s weather.
Play ready golf
Ready golf is the alternative to the traditional order of play, where the player farthest from the hole plays first. Instead, all players should play as soon as they’re ready to go (within reason of course). This form of play can significantly speed up your round.
Try alternate forms of play
You don’t always have to play the strict form of golf, and every player doesn’t need to hole out on every hole. There are plenty of alternative forms of play that can help speed up your round, such as match play, best-ball, Stableford etc. Take the time to learn some alternate forms of play and try them out.
Play the proper tees
Playing from the back tees is not a good idea if you’re not a long hitter. It’s far better to put your ego aside and play from the appropriate tee box for your driving ability and skill level. This can save you a lot of time.
Plan your shots
Don’t wait till it’s your turn to hit the ball to start thinking about where you want to go with it. Spend the time while you’re waiting to hit determining the yardage (invest in an electronic range finder if it helps you with this), selecting the appropriate club, and planning out your shot. Also make sure your gear is on or ready for when you need it. Then when it’s your turn, you can simply play without disruption or delay.
On the green, mark and lift your ball when you arrive, ready to replace it when it’s your turn to putt. If you can manage it without disturbing your fellow players, line up your putt while others are putting so that you’re ready to go.
Have a short pre-shot routine
Having a pre-shot routine is a great idea, as it helps make your strokes more consistent (click here to find out more). However, you don’t want one that takes you half the day to get through. A good pre-shot routine should consist of one practice swing (two at the most), the set-up of your ball and a cue to remind you what you need to focus on. Then get in and play your ball.
Keep up with the group in front
It’s not enough to merely stay just in front of the group behind you. Instead, you should be just behind the group in front of you. This means you should ideally arrive at your next shot just before the group in front leaves the area in front of you. If you’re not able to do this and big gaps are opening up, allow the group behind you to play through, as this will prevent things getting bogged down.
Be helpful
You’ll get through your round much quicker if you help out everyone in your group as you play. Watch your partners’ shots so you can help them find their ball if necessary. Offer to rake the bunker or fill in a divot to help another player out (and hopefully they’ll do the same for you). Be ready on the flagstick when it’s not your turn.
Use a golf buggy
Using a golf buggy is obviously quicker than walking the course, especially if you have mobility or medical issues. Ride the course in a golf buggy where possible – even a walker will help speed up your round and help you get where you need to go much quicker and easier.
Have a look at Parmaker’s high quality range of both walker and ride-on golf buggies here.
To play efficiently, you don’t have to rush. You just have to be prepared, use the time you have more effectively and be very aware of the pace of play. Doing so will help make your (and everyone else’s) golf experience a much better one.
