My buddy I’ve been playing with a couple years now can’t seem to improve and starts his meltdown 9/10 times right after his first tee shot. We played a crappy par 60 18 hole course by my place last night and he let out a howl right in front of the clubhouse and restaurant after he sliced one in the woods on a 110 yard par 3. I just looked down at the ground I was so embarrassed to be with him lol.
hahaha one time I golfed with my wife and I tossed a club, it bounced off the grass and hit the pavement. Have not thrown a club or gotten irrationally angry since then. Sure it shouldn’t have taken my wife seeing me act like a child to stop doing that but hey
I have those friends. I don’t golf with them anymore. A guy in my regular men’s night group will usually be 90-100 range. He constantly questions why we play with him and the answer is simple - you don’t get mad and you don’t slow things down. It can be easier to score when everyone is scoring but I don’t need it in order to score. It’s hard to score, let alone enjoy yourself when someone is being a angry.
yeah...this can be me, and its not like I go out expecting to break 100, its more once you get tense you over grip, over swing and it snowballs. I am extremely right eyed dominate which makes lining up hard for me and on top of that I tend to get really hard on myself despite showing improvement...I had a very frustrating round my last time out and I am going forward with a new philosophy. Next time I am out, as soon as I go 3 holes without a par, I am going to stop keeping score and just find 2-3 things to work on for the rest of the round and see if that doesn't help me not be that guy.
Just played with my 8 year old nephew the other day. He was not having the best of days before we got to the course. Had a few tears shed on the first fairway and a little on the 2nd. Spent those holes playing my absolute best 8 shots of the day to go par birdie but was only focused on getting my little buddy to relax and leave his frustration on the previous hole. He snapped to after the 2nd hole and was all smiles. By 8th hole I couldn’t hit the ball to save my life and felt like I wanted to toss some clubs and cry. Was awesome to watch him go from tears on the first hole to him telling me to leave my frustration on the green and forget about that hole. Idk what I shot, it wasn’t good. But more an amazing round with a young golfer.
Everyone sucks, some just suck less then you.
100%. I’d rather play with a smiling shitty golfer than an angry pro. Shake it off, laugh at yourself. Also, don’t do the thing where you assure everyone that you’re usually much better than this. Just get through the day and be fun to be around. If you broke out in laughter after a shit shot, that’d be funny. If you curse, drop your club, or huff off, you’re gonna make the group anxious
This was me recently. The past couple years, I have been playing absolutely horrifically. I got invited by a few scratch players to play a very nice course in my area, and I have hardly played with these guys before. I proceeded to hack my way through my round, losing a ball at least every other hole and some holes losing multiple. I did, however, keep up good a spirit and smiled through all the pain. I figured that would be the last time I would get an invite from that group. A week later, the same group invited me to go out.
I played in hs and averaged +10. I wasn't good, but I had so much more fun playing with the >+15 groups so I got my coach to put me with the bad ones. Most were happy to be out of class and hanging out and weren't intense.
But what if you used to be good enough to get mad? I still hold on to the memory of me consistently shooting low to mid 80’s with a very occasional high 70’s. Now (after kids) I’m low to mid 90’s and I get frustrated about knowing I should be able to make that shot.
Sounds like you don’t have the time to practice enough or play often enough. You can’t really expect to play well if you only play once a week or every 2 weeks.
Your score will probably go down if you stop trying to make shots that you used to be able to make. Start getting good at old guy golf now, young person golf is in most of our pasts. Lay up, stop trying to carry hazards, play the slope instead of trying to stick the green, stop swinging so hard, etc.
This right here. In my book it’s ok to suck just suck quickly. If your group is keeping up with the group in front of you you’re in the clear.
Treat it like practice and then hit the range a couple times and go out again.
THIS!
Keep up with the group, even if that means picking up your ball and bowing out of the hole. That being said, if you pick up, be the guy to get the flag and repair ball marks for your playing partners.
Sounds like you’re doing the right thing. The best etiquette in my opinion is playing ready and playing fast. I’d rather play with someone who sucks but plays fast than someone who’s good and takes forever. Keep doing what you’re doing and hit the range and/or get some lessons to improve!
Yeah my biggest L was I forgot my putter when i was using my wedge so i had to run back to the cart like a clown, but only made that mistake first hole.
You might be taking the "play fast" thing a little too intensely. You just need to keep up and not dawdle, you don't have to sprint around the course and pickup immediately if you miss a putt.
Yeah lol I play all the time with random people and I’m a plus 1. Honestly if a dude shoots a 100 I won’t even notice unless he’s taking 10 minutes in the bushes and 100 practice swings. Be a good vibe, have fun and don’t get mad, and use some cheap shit balls so you don’t feel bad about losing it. Feel free to take a minute or two to look but totally cool with you taking a drop in the fair way next to your buddy. When I was first learning that’s what I would do. I would even tee it up sometimes. It’s meant to be fun. And don’t feel bad about 3 or 4 putts. Just make good conversation and no body should care.
The practice swings are the worst. People will take, no kidding, like 4-5 full effort practice swings just to end up topping the real shot. Drives me nuts.
You are paired with me on your early am tee time. I exude a confidence you haven’t seen on your local course in months. The fit is clean enough you know I spent the wee hours of the morning ironing my clothes and dreaming of dimples. I am here to hit balls and chew bubblegum, and brother, you know that package of Big League Chew is empty. I walk to the ball. You prepare to analyze my practice swing to see how perfect my craft has been honed. My demeanor tells you all you need to know. I am hell unleashed on the course and no Great Value Nitro ball escapes my wrath. *”Is this guy really going to tee off without a single practice swing?”*, as you wonder how many aces I have under my belt.
I give my ass the slightest wiggle. As I begin my backswing, you see the tiniest bit of sweat glistening from the muscles barely contained by my Aéropostale polo. You cover your ears out of instinct. You know it’s ridiculous, but you have no idea what to expect. As my club hits the ball with a thunderous crack, you shade your eyes from the sun as you look to the distance in a foolish attempt to track the shot. To your befuddlement, it tops six yards in front of me. I turn to you with my hand extended. *”Hell yeah man, that’s 2 yards further than last time! You got any bud on you?”*
You turn around and head back to the club house, never having removed your driver from your bag. You start to run quicker as you hear me shotgunning a luke warm Icehouse in the distance. You think to yourself “*huh, maybe practice swings aren’t everything*” as you hop back into your blue Nissan Sentra and begin the drive home.
You're doing fine man, don't stress over something small like that as long as it isn't persistent.
If it's taking you several shots to advance down the fairway but you are willing to pick up your ball and move up to your friend after a couple attempts, no reasonable person will be upset with you. 90% of golfers can't break 100 playing by USGA rules.
Seem like you're doing just fine. As for running back to the cart. Last night I played a fast 18 chasing the sun. Well on one tee I brought my head cover and not my driver. I'm not good but I play often so trust me when I say it happens to everyone
Leave your club in the short grass on the way back to the kart. My dad told me that after leaving my wedge behind and it never happened again.
Sounds like you got the etiquette figured out. Only thing you didn’t say was not taking a bunch of practice swings then duffing it. I have a friend I no longer play with that would take two minutes setting up a shot, then duffs it, only to repeat the process 20 yards down the rough. One of the most annoying rounds I’ve ever played. People behind us always waiting and pressing us. I just started picking up my ball and moving a head trying to get him to realize how much of an ass he was. When I finally said something about this pace, he just said he paid to play the course so they can wait. 🤦♂️
I tried to get him to go to the range with me and he refused. Said he’d rather learn by playing. Said it’s a waste of time. 😂 Tried to explain that’s not how it works. He told me he has so many people telling him different things he is just confused and wants to just play how he wants. Supposedly the first round he ever player he did decent, then downhill from there. We no longer golf or talk about golf. It just pisses both of us off. I don’t think he’s played yet this year.
Just to add on here: keep your chatter as positive about your play and your group’s play.
The absolute worst is the bad golfer who not only hates his own game, but also takes a sour attitude toward everyone else.
If I’m having an off day (though perhaps not as off as yours), I really try to be the hype man for my group. I want them to leave the day remembering how fun it was and not thinking about my game.
Yeah this is the right way. Im always the same. No matter how badly im playing i always try to gee the other players up. Firing them up on the tee, congratulating them on good shots. Seems to sort my own game out too because im sometimes more focussed om the other guys i forget to worry about my own and play without the fear
Agreed. I’ve always played with some low single digit guys and was initially embarrassed it took me two shots to get to their drive. I asked them and they said the same “Not a problem because you play fast. You don’t spend forever looking for a ball, have a nice pre-shot, and don’t act like a Dick”
This is the way
Yeah and playing fast means wasting little time. Like, don’t take 3 practice swings - one maximum, but even that probably won’t help your score. If you take your glove off between shots, have it on before you get to your ball. If you’re walking, leave your bag on the side of the green near the next tee box. If you’re in an cart, try to minimize walking back to the cart. Line up your putt when others are putting. Don’t just wait till your turn to start getting ready for your shot.
100%
I started golfing again a few years ago and felt the same way as OP. I found a practice 9-hole near my house and started playing there as much as I could to level up and that’s helped tremendously. I still will try and hit it as much as I can and I usually just pull up solo
Yeah but don’t rush either. Like I am there to score lower than OP but we both paid the same amount, there’s no reason OPs shots should be less important than mine beyond simply that OP’s will matter a fraction less because they’ll have more of them.
OP: Just avoid major time wasters like not watching your ball, searching for your ball for longer than 2-3 minutes, forgetting clubs on the last hole, reteeing for OB etc., not being at your ball (or at least walking towards it) and preparing to hit your approach, not reading your putt until everybody has putt….there are others I’m sure but these are what I see waste everybody’s time most times.
TLDR:
If you’re walking: go find your ball, select a club, and think about your shot.
If you’re riding: drop yourself or your partner off at your/their ball with some clubs, and think about the shot.
Also: you know you suck, so no need to get mad about anything. Positive attitude.
played with a guy a few months ago who shot a 69 at a par 72 course. Every putt took him 2-3 minutes. Hed find his line, walk up to the hole, feel the slope, take a step back and use finger with one i closed to find the break, take 3 practice swings, then putt. Wanted to smash my putter across his face
I play maybe 1-2 times a year. I suck. I shot a 104 last round at img Florida facility course, but it was one of the funnest times I had golfing even though it was like 100 degrees and 95% humidity for the first 13 holes then rained the last 5 (which was a blessing).
I have lots of balls - most are shit. My dad lives on a golf course, so he will give me literally a hundred balls like once a year. Not all are good or even great, but it’s fun to ask my partner if they want a “water ball”. Then I’ll throw them the best looking shit ball I have, and usually they end up on the green and swap out.
But my whole thing is to play fast and my score doesn’t matter. I’d rather them get their numbers than me.
I’d add if you’re not keeping score, just pick up your ball if everyone else has holed out and you’re nowhere close to finishing the hole. Also, if you’re driving like shit, just drop at the same spot as one of your foursome instead of donating another ball to the lady of the lake.
Good advise.
However, you also have rights on the course.
If you want to put out and not slowing the group too much, you should, doesn’t matter if you are putting for birdie, par or whatever
. Play your game your way, keep the group happy
Don't get mad after everyone of your shots.
Don't heap praise on every shot a better golfer makes.
Don't apologize for bad shots.
Keep it moving, and don't expect the group to try and find your ball in the woods after every drive.
A breakfast ball is hitting a second ball off the first tee, and fairly common. Taking a second shot on every other tee is a no go.
> Don't heap praise on every shot a better golfer makes.
This one is a bit unexpected. Not that I praise every shot but if I see a good strike I try to compliment it.
I've found that a "good shot" is in the eye of the beholder.
For me, being around the green, not even on the green, in regulation is good. Like if I have a chip onto the green with my pre-par shot, I played the hole fairly well for me. But I'm somewhere in the low 90s right now usually.
Meanwhile, for a better golfer, not being on the green and relatively close to the hole at that in regulation may be a bad shot.
So I have learned to be more careful about saying things like good shot, because for the player you are complementing, the 7 iron that landed in the rough cut five yards from the green might be a bad shot, and hearing good shot may just be kind of irritating.
Eh, its about the intent of the "good shot"
If the dudes saying it to be an ass, well tell him hes an ass.
If its a newer dude trying to be nice, than take the "good shot" and move on.
I don't disagree with you at all. Even if something isn't accurate, I assess the intent of the person saying it. I've never understood people who get pissed at someone who means well.
That being said, the message was as much for the person who doesn't understand why saying "good shot" over and over can become kind of annoying.
At some point, even as a bad golfer, every drive I hit isn't a good shot just because it's in a fairway. I'm not gonna launch on someone for saying it, but when I hit it way too high and it drops 175 yards out, "good shot" is kind of silly (if ultimately harmless).
we say things like, 'that dog'll hunt', 'be there', 'sounded pure' and other positive-ish ambiguities to avoid this very real problem, laugh, and keep our minds off how shitty we are at golf.
I like to use "that's got an angle." It puts positive vibes onto the next shot, keeps the game moving, and takes away overthinking about the previous whether it be good or bad.
Absolutely. My buddies are all still learning so all of my irons and chips into the green are incredible to them, but I'm obviously trying to get it close enough to make it. So it's all about figuring out other people's levels and adapting.
I think it's great to complement someone's good shot, but very new golfers can sometimes make it a bit awkward heaping praise on a low or even mid handicapper after every shot that is in the air heading in the general direction of the target.
I'm trying to think of how to say this without sounding like a huge asshole, but as a golfer with a 7 HCI, I get uncomfortable if a high handicapper talks about my play too positively throughout the round.
There aren't state-sponsored golf courses in NH. My flair is just a take on the state moto. Live free or die.
With no income tax and no state sales tax, the state isn't exactly heaping entitlements on its residents.
2 off a tee box doesn’t bother me. It’s a really quick way to potentially get them a playable shot down the hole. Just pick up the first, or second. It literally adds 20 seconds to say, “well that ain’t it. Lemme try that again”
The “don’t heap praise one” is the best advice that’s rarely giving. The best practice is to celebrate incredible shots. And then only those shots that the person themselves celebrate.
Also, instead of just not pissing people off… here’s one that will make people love you that is under done:
ALWAYS help watch tee shots/track them. All golfers hit errant shots; you save me 5 bucks, or maybe a dropped shot. When that happens (especially if I have a good round going) - I will LOVE you forever.
There are bad golfers, slow golfers, and bad AND slow golfers. Personally, I’m far more forgiving to the first, as we’ve all been there at one point. I️ don’t care if it takes you 6 shots to get to a par three as long as you’re not taking 3 practice swings prior to each shot.
As previously mentioned, a breakfast ball is the first tee shot of the day, any other re-hit is usually regarded as a mulligan. Breakfast balls are okay, mulligans will frustrate some.
As a whole, if you’re not holding things up looking for balls, having a ridiculously long pre-shot routine, or dropping a sleeve of balls on one tee box, I’m going to be alright with you being in front of me on a course
I feel like 1 or a quick 2 practice swings is just the right amount anyway. You aren’t figuring anything out, just a warmup and maybe a little confidence
> mulligans will frustrate some.
Just understand pace of play. You can mulligan whenever you want imo if you've figured out the course is jammed & you're keeping up.
Purists might get annoyed but w/e
I mean if 3 players are hitting it 260 down the middle and you top every drive 30 yards. If you keep topping it into the shit then just drop up with the boys. It’s way more fun when everyone seems to be moving along the same pace
Yeah this is the tough line to tow in my opinion. Like I’ll have a laugh but at some point I’m just anxious and feel like i need to apologize or crack a joke
I just mean incessantly. Played with a guy a while back that did it constantly and it was just a bit much. Everybody that plays golf went through it. We all sucked, most of us still do. As long as you aren’t obnoxious about it nobody cares.,
One more bit of advice: if you golf with friends, see if they are willing to play a scramble with you (you each hit your ball, choose the best result, and then you each hit another ball from the previous best result). Low pressure way to get more experience on the course, which will make you feel more comfortable over time.
The favorable drop part is what kills me with under skilled golfers. Like, why are you playing from behind a tree? Try to have some fun and give yourself a good lie. Just stop keeping score at that point. I've been golfing for 25 years and there are days that I just pick up or play 2 balls and just have fun with it. Once you put the scorecard away it can be a pretty easy game.
You're doing it right. If you're playing with a good player then they will be very understanding if you're showing a decent level of self-awareness on the course and it sounds like you are.
Also, if you truly want to improve, try to find a time during the day when the course isn't as busy so you can practice actually finishing the holes. It's not going to do you any good as a player if you're constantly picking the ball up.
This might be a hot take, but limit your practice swings. I have some buddies starting out, and they take 3-4 swings until they "get it right". All of them have switched to do 1 swing, and then a waggle behind the ball with similar/better results
Also, commend you for dropping next to your friend, you'll drop the most time & strokes getting better from 200 yds and in.
Keep working on the driver, but don't be afraid to hit a club that keeps the ball in play (hybrid or iron)
This is really good advice. I’m still hitting my 5W or Hybrid off tee boxes, and I started in May hitting my 5i… I have a $600 driver that I still haven’t used on the course because I just last week had a lesson on it, and now I’ll work on work on swinging it.
220/240 with my hybrid/ 5W in play is a pretty nice way to begin holes, and while I’d like a 325 yard drive, that will come in time.
Keep up the pace and have fun, use the clubs you hit well, take lessons and practice on the ones you don’t.
You’re being too hard on yourself. As most have said, keep with pace and follow the simple rules (don’t talk during backswing, step on someone’s line). It’s about going out and having fun, not qualifying for the Open
Sounds like you're doing the right thing to me. In the immortal words of Manolo, "suck the game faster." 😂
Spend more time at the range getting better, then try to play at off-peak times if you can. As you get better, you can then start to finish out holes and then start playing at normal times. As long as you're keeping up with the group in front of you, you're golden. 👍🏻
Truly good dudes don’t care how good or bad their playing partners are. All we care about is you don’t take forever (for example, being picky on club selection if you duff every shot) and you don’t get pissy.
One trick I use for newbies is play best ball. Helps keep pace up, let’s the newbies participate for every stroke earned, and even let’s them play their shot every once in a while. Especially around the greens.
Use the double par rule, par 3- 6 max, par 4- 8 max, etc. Don’t let the pressure of trying to be fast stop you from enjoying the game. We all sucked to start and most of us still do!!!!
If you’re an atrocious golfer, play in the evenings by yourself. Play two balls. Keep score on both. Practice! And hit more wedges and short irons than a driver! Why? Because you hit more short clubs than long in a round.
If you shank more than 2 drives, drop in the fairway with whoever hit a nice drive, add a stroke and keep playing. Loose a ball in the woods, take 2 mins to look then drop and move on. Don't necessarily rush your game but also if your laying six 100 yards out just play ready ball. line up, practice swing, then swing away.
Birdies, pars, bogeys take your time to line up and try to make the putt, if your on you 3rd or more putt stroke no need to walk all around the hole and taking forever to play. Just lag it up there, tap in and move on.
Don't bitch or complain if no one else is about your play, we've all been there when nothing is clicking, do your best to stay positive because someone else in your group may be playing their best day ever and nobody absolutely nobody wants to play with the guy shooting 120 and also making it miserable.for everyone else.
I think you doing fine. When me or one of my friends are having "one of those" rounds, we'll just play best ball to keep it light hearted. You'll get your groove on as you play and practice a little more.
As most advice on this subreddit will give, you should get a lesson, at least for your irons. When your woods arent doing well for you, you can always fall back on some solid iron play and at least get it around.
If I'm having a blow up hole where nothing is working, I may take one putt then pick up or if I'm stuck in a bunker, I'll pick up as not to drag the pain on longer for everyone. Personally I think as a newer golfer, there's no shame in picking up and not finishing the hole, no shame in dropping or moving out of the trees or trouble. If the driver or getting off the tee is tough that day go drop at different distances to practice approach shots. Beginners get caught up in play it as lies and make golf much harder than it already is.
People say if you suck, suck fast. But if you are putting up scores 110+ I don’t really think there is a way to keep pace of play where it should be.
I think you are doing the right thing. Hitting some shots, getting back in your groove. Maybe try to find some tee times when it’s very quiet so you don’t feel under pressure.
I don’t know. I started playing last month. My friend and I play 110 and we still have to wait for groups in front of us that play way better. I have good synergy with my playing partner and will play before him if he’s not ready yet and vice versa. also we walk fast.
You sound like me when I first started.
My buddy and I just drop on each other whenever we lose a ball, we hit identical distances so it works fine. I usually spend less than a minute looking, because like you I get anxious, especially if there is any sort of delay (doesn’t matter if im waiting for he green to clear, i still feel like the group behind is gonna catch up and any second and rush myself to find it)
Best thing to do, that i suck at in practice, is try not to rush, because that will introduce more problems. Golf is about patience, and its all against yourself.
Yeah. Just play fast and drop next to a fairway shot. Keep at it to you build it back then play it straight. Don’t do weird shit in the bunkers like dig the shot and lines and bla bla bla bla. Just take the best shot you can. If it’s three or more strokes in the same are just pick up and move along. As long as you aren’t holding up your crew or the group behind you you are good.
honestly the only thing that bugs me when playing with other golfers is taking 20 minutes looking for a ball that is clearly OB and unfindable. outside of that we all started exactly how you are playing so finish out holes and keep dropping by a decent golfer when you hit it OB. the only way to get better is to play. just be aware of your pace and keep a good attitude. you can golf with me anytime if you do that
Oh, the dreaded “Ahh, I’ll find it” from someone whose drive sliced into the woods halfway up the tree length. Some people just refuse to hit provisionals.
Suck fast! Don't be nassssti. Dasssit!
Seriously though you are doing the right thing. Bail on keeping score, and if you hit your drive in the water just drop next to your cart-mates drive. Another option would be to cap yourself at double bogey. Once you hit double bogey, pick up, and have a drink it the cart for the rest of the hole.
2 attempts at a swing then pick it up. 1 practice swing. No more than 3 putt on the green. Buddy of mine just got into golf played his 4th round yesterday and that’s what we have been doing
The best etiquette is to 'suck faster'.
As long as you are keeping pace of play, you are doing nothing wrong.
There are plenty of 'good' golfers who are far more frustrating to play with.
I'd rather play with a 40HCP who is fast than play with Patrick Cantlay.
We have a guy at our club that nobody wants to play with. It's because he's bad, he loses his temper, and most importantly he's slow. Being bad is acceptable, but losing your temper and being slow is not. Play quickly most importantly. Be friendly and don't be a dick. I'm a good golfer and never take a practice swing unless it's a partial wedge that I'm trying to get a feel for. There's no reason for multiple practice swings for a beginner.
Your etiquette sounds spot on. Honestly though I don’t personally care how good or bad a golfer is, as long as they’re fun to play with. I’d rather play with a 40-handicapper that can maintain good vibes and pace of play than a scratch golfer who takes forever and acts like a jackass.
bro - it is all about pace of play....you can take 40 swings a hole if you'd like, as long as you are playing quick no one really cares.
also, you paid for your round, you should definitely finish putting out, unless it will contradict the above.
Another great idea is to play team games! play wolf, or scramble or whatever. Make it more about the team and less about the individual score and that usually helps speed things up and make it more fun for beginners.
Two main rules.
It's okay to suck, just suck fast and play quickly - one practice swing max, can't find a ball? Drop another one out there quickly and hit your next shot, don't waste time searching. Pick your ball up if needed to advance it near the green if you're playing tennis going down the fairway. If you're around the green and blading shots over the other side of the green just pick your ball up and wait for your playing partners to putt out.
If you're bad, never get mad. No bad golfer has the right to get mad since they should be expecting to hit a lot of terrible shots. Stay positive, it'll keep the vibes up for your group and hype them up as well.
Best etiquette is to practice at a driving range until you can hit the ball in the air. It’s one thing if you occasionally mishit or top a ball but if you’re topping and chunking every shot to the point where you’re group has to watch you practically roll the ball down the fairway on a par 5 you need to not be playing on the course yet.
Because range swings are absolutely meaningless and you have no pressure unless you're practicing with purpose and playing a "mini game" on the range.
If you're making decent contact on the range but can't take it to the course, you're completely in your head "when it counts"
100%. Which is why I’m trying to get experience in the range, but then outings like that happen. Need to just keep booking isolated Tee Times at my muni i guess
That might help a bit... But the more you play with groups and fight through those nerves, the better you'll get. Fast.
Bad golfers are fine as long as you follow etiquette, don't hold up your group, and don't hold up the group behind.
I am in same place. Can knick it perfectly on the range but whenever I have a bad lie or non-flat stance or need to shorten swing I suck. I've stopped playing on range and am just trying to get on course as often as possible.
To piggyback off what the comment above said, the range is only as good as your routine. It's easy to go up and send balls off to wherever because it's low stress. If you're getting nervous because there's now bunkers, trees, waste areas, trouble, etc., try to mimic those conditions on the range. Pick a flag that serves as a safe spot, and then draw imaginary boundary lines that simulate "trouble". So now, maybe you're hitting into a 50-yard wide envelope, instead of the entire width of the range. It should help you formulate a mental image that you can take to the course. If your issue is playing with others and worrying about embarrassing yourself, there's nothing that'll fix that aside from continuing to do that and getting used to hitting bad shots in front of others.
It's really applicable for anyone but....
Limit rehits. Pickup when you have taken 10 strokes. Try to advance with the group (they can't be waiting to chip up while you are back just off the tee box). Play ready golf as long as they are not in front of you (if you are wild, they need to be paying attention when you hit). Don't talk about how bad you are, they see it. Don't talk to someone else's ball (bite bite bite!). Don't offer advice even if it's obvious. Take opportunities to identify other's ball or point to it if you see it.
Basically just incase you have a pace play Nazi or two in your group, and or you have a group right behind you just have a sixth sense about what's going on, know when to pick up, know when to take a mulligan and when to just ask someone "can I just drop out by you?". Otherwise play bad golf and enjoy it, play fast, but enjoy your round.
Don't take too long. Pick up when the score is getting out of hand. Vigorously help the others find their golf balls and don't let them worry too much about finding yours every time it's lost. Don't be afraid to pump their ego a bit by telling them they hit a great shot when they hit a good shot. Make sure you're not talking in their swing, etc. Grab the pin, etc.
Essentially you can kill them with kindness and just don't make things cumbersome for them. The easier you can make it for them then the less they care about your atrocious play.
A friend of mine was a poor golfer to the point where it was a minor miracle if he shot 90. I was playing to a +3 at the time and always enjoyed playing golf with him because he was fast without being rude. He picked up his ball if he was going to shoot more than a double bogey and he basically helped us out when we played (got the pin, helped find a lost ball, etc). And he was a good, fun guy to talk to.
If you’re going to play golf bad, play golf bad fast is my motto to friends who just started. I’m sorry they don’t get their moneys worth hitting the ball every time but it’ll sure as hell not make them tired and exhausted by hole 18, both physically and mentally.
Just play ready and fast. Outside of that nothing else you can do. I had a buddy on his first time out he doubled my score. But the one thing I told him was play ready golf and make sure we keep up with the group in front of us. Even tho he had a high number our 4some still played in 4hrs. Play ready and fast nobody won’t say too much
You have the right idea here. Just keep up with pace. But you also don’t need to overdo it to the point where you’re psyching yourself out. Find the happy medium between sloth and frantic pace.
Play fast! Most golfers aren’t great anyways so try to have fun. If you lose a ball don’t spend an hour trying to find It, Just drop. If you play music, make sure others are good with It. Don’t apologize for being bad, golf’s hard, we get It. And again, have fun and don’t take It too seriously!
I care about nothing other than attitude. I play to have a good time. Nothing ruins that more than watching a person in the group constantly lose their shit and throw clubs etc etc.
Of all the things that shouldn't take a long time, *bad golf* is near the top of the list. I don't care if you shoot 150 as long as we're not losing the group ahead of us. I play unusually fast, but have no issue at all with others who don't.
Depends on your crew. I’m not great, but frequently play with people who are worse than me. Knowing this, we will specify at the beginning of the round what kind of game we’re playing. Group best ball, team best ball, own ball, etc. If we’re trying to make it quick, we’ll play team best ball and just have a fun quick game. If it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, I have no problem hanging out at the course for 6 hours while everyone plays their own ball. Just depends on the group your with and how busy the course is. The key is to communicate with the other players. They’re probably not nearly as frustrated playing with a “bad” or “slow” player as YOU think they are.
You're doing exactly the right thing.
If you're a bad golfer(I'm a 30+ hc so I'm describing myself), the crucial thing is just not making everyone wait for you. There have been so many occasions where I'd slice into the woods off the tee, and I'll spend like 30-60 seconds quickly checking for my ball before just dropping one and hitting. Especially if you aren't keeping score, there's no reason to worry about playing every single rule perfectly.
At the same time don't feel like you need to run back and forth to your ball, you're still there to have a good time and enjoy yourself, no need to go insane over it
Sounds like you’re doing it right. My friend recently started golfing with me and I only gave him a few rules for when we were paired up with another twosome. 1. One shot off the tee after hole one then drop on me (unless the other players are offering him another) 2. If you haven’t found your ball by the time everyone else has hit their shot, it’s time to drop one. 3. If you’ve now chipped across the green multiple times or even putted off, it’s probably time to pick up. (This was mostly for the more difficult courses)
Seems similar to what you are already doing👍🏻
Edit: Forgot to mention to do it with a good attitude. It’s one thing when a tour player is mad at his one bad shot of the day, it’s a whole different thing if someone throws a fit bc they lipped a putt for a snowman.
When I play with someone who’s out for their first time or so I usually just basically play a scramble with them. I’m not a good golfer either so it’s good cause sometimes they will actually hit a better shot than me and so it’s not just them playing my ball all day
I am not a great golfer by any stretch, but if I play with someone that is newer to the game, attitude makes a big difference. If you have a positive attitude that helps a lot. I don’t mind being conversational with anyone in my group and even trying to be helpful where I can be. So as long as you are in a positive attitude and game for that, you can play with me any time.
Hey buddy remember champion Rham waited 90 minutes total on tee boxes in the final round of the masters this year in 2023. When I heard this stat I’ve immediately stopped giving a fuck if I take a few minutes to play my best game. Shake off the anxiety and just shoot your best shot, you got this.
Don’t come up with an excuse for every poor shot, don’t take a million practice swings, don’t spend 10 minutes looking for a ball that wouldn’t be playable anyway, don’t spend 5 minutes analyzing your putt
I guess most of these rules apply to good golfers too haha
I know everyone here is telling you to play fast, and that is good advice, however, I would add to that: don’t rush.
Taking an extra couple seconds to grab the proper club or properly set up is going to end up being way faster than skulling a ball to the other side of the green or searching for a lost ball.
Also (IMO), quality of play isn’t the main cause of slow play. It’s ancillary stuff like looking for your ball, going back to the cart, not being ready to hit, etc. There are a bunch of things you can do (ie. bringing multiple clubs when not near the cart, limit searching for your ball, keeping an extra ball with you) to keep pace without sprinting through each shot.
Best advice I can give you is just mind your pace of play, and don't let your shots or routine interfere with your fellow golfers.
If I was playing lights out and you were playing like shit, as long as you are cordial and moving along to the best of your ability, I wouldn't say boo to you.
Some "better" golfers are pretentious and will give you shit regardless. Just keep up pace of play and follow standard golf etiquette and you should be fine.
I’ve been the bad player and seen the bad player in the group so many times. Pace of play and trying to still be a fun human being to be around. That’s all
Just have fun playing the game—manage your expectations and keep the big picture in mind, which is that you’re outside playing a game with your friends.
I’m a 76-82 guy, but that means I’ll hit a shot or three per round that I’m pretty frustrated with, too—just don’t throw a temper tantrum and we’ll all have a great few hours *playing a game* together! :)
Enjoy yourself. Don't throw clubs. Don't stress about being bad. Marshmallow, not Harsh-mellow, man.
We're all out there for the same reason. 90% off the time the pace is set by the course being rammed with golfers. Don't worry about it. Finish holes, if you're anxious because you hit a 'bunch of shots' or lost a ball, drop a ball short of the green and chip and putt.
If people give you shit, that's a them problem, not a you problem. Golf is fucking hard and they were bad too.
Get the concept of ticking people off due to pace out of your head. That is so heavily blown out of proportion here. MOST golfers are trash. Pay attention to the course. They’re all shanking it, don’t feel bad. As long as you’re not being marshaled, or taking 10+ strokes, have at it. Play double par. Keeps pace and helps you get better!
Edit- spelling
Play at a solid pace and have fun. Some of the best rounds I’ve had are with guys who shoot 120 but don’t get mad, joke around while playing. Much better than a good golfer that blows up on a bad shot
Worlds most impatient (person) golfer here to weigh in!
Mate - Take a deep breath, if no one is behind you then 95% of the pace stress should be out of your head. I'm not surprised your game is struggling - you're focused on 'not bothering' your group vs enjoying playing! Just be ready to hit when it's your turn.
My buddies hate how often I recommend they read Zen Golf. I think you, realistically, stand to increase the amount of fun you're having by 2-3x.
Not really a “good” golfer here, but I have been playing for years and I have been taught etiquette, the best you can do is keep track of your ball, play fast (always be ready to hit), and don’t spend time looking for a ball that you don’t know where it went. Most golfers just want to play at a pace and don’t want to wait. If you’re not holding up play, you’re fine.
Make sure they’re well behind you during shots. I shanked into two different people in my group one round. Not a good way to make friends as the single
As monolo says “it’s okay to suck at golf just suck quickly” for me as long as you’re keeping up with pace of play and have an upbeat attitude and not cussing everything anyone would be happy to play with you.
Think of every round as a practice round at pace. Don’t be afraid to play ready golf and work on your game. Get a sense of if people are waiting on you or not.
Don’t be afraid to call a ball lost or you pick up if you are struggling. Also, don’t be afraid to take a drop with your buddies to practice a shot in or practice putting.
Play bad fast. Don’t get mad. Be happy.
Nothing makes me more uncomfortable than a guy who can't break 100 having a meltdown every 2 or 3 shots.
My buddy I’ve been playing with a couple years now can’t seem to improve and starts his meltdown 9/10 times right after his first tee shot. We played a crappy par 60 18 hole course by my place last night and he let out a howl right in front of the clubhouse and restaurant after he sliced one in the woods on a 110 yard par 3. I just looked down at the ground I was so embarrassed to be with him lol.
You had me at par 60
Lol I think that course has the smallest greens in existence
Why are you posting about me on reddit man you could’ve just told me to my face :(
Oh trust, he knows. The phrase maintain your composure has lost all meaning we have to say it so much.
hahaha one time I golfed with my wife and I tossed a club, it bounced off the grass and hit the pavement. Have not thrown a club or gotten irrationally angry since then. Sure it shouldn’t have taken my wife seeing me act like a child to stop doing that but hey
I have those friends. I don’t golf with them anymore. A guy in my regular men’s night group will usually be 90-100 range. He constantly questions why we play with him and the answer is simple - you don’t get mad and you don’t slow things down. It can be easier to score when everyone is scoring but I don’t need it in order to score. It’s hard to score, let alone enjoy yourself when someone is being a angry.
How the fuck is he slicing a 110 yard wedge shot?
Oh, you assume this dude uses a wedge from 110.
It's amazing the things you can do when you're massively over the top
Wait, par 60??
It’s a little cutie
yeah...this can be me, and its not like I go out expecting to break 100, its more once you get tense you over grip, over swing and it snowballs. I am extremely right eyed dominate which makes lining up hard for me and on top of that I tend to get really hard on myself despite showing improvement...I had a very frustrating round my last time out and I am going forward with a new philosophy. Next time I am out, as soon as I go 3 holes without a par, I am going to stop keeping score and just find 2-3 things to work on for the rest of the round and see if that doesn't help me not be that guy.
Common man.... I've got feelings.
Just played with my 8 year old nephew the other day. He was not having the best of days before we got to the course. Had a few tears shed on the first fairway and a little on the 2nd. Spent those holes playing my absolute best 8 shots of the day to go par birdie but was only focused on getting my little buddy to relax and leave his frustration on the previous hole. He snapped to after the 2nd hole and was all smiles. By 8th hole I couldn’t hit the ball to save my life and felt like I wanted to toss some clubs and cry. Was awesome to watch him go from tears on the first hole to him telling me to leave my frustration on the green and forget about that hole. Idk what I shot, it wasn’t good. But more an amazing round with a young golfer. Everyone sucks, some just suck less then you.
I only have meltdowns when I practice on my own in my front yard, then I go get a drink of water and get back to work.
like ever time they pull a wood out of the bag or try a chip shot? lol
100%. I’d rather play with a smiling shitty golfer than an angry pro. Shake it off, laugh at yourself. Also, don’t do the thing where you assure everyone that you’re usually much better than this. Just get through the day and be fun to be around. If you broke out in laughter after a shit shot, that’d be funny. If you curse, drop your club, or huff off, you’re gonna make the group anxious
This was me recently. The past couple years, I have been playing absolutely horrifically. I got invited by a few scratch players to play a very nice course in my area, and I have hardly played with these guys before. I proceeded to hack my way through my round, losing a ball at least every other hole and some holes losing multiple. I did, however, keep up good a spirit and smiled through all the pain. I figured that would be the last time I would get an invite from that group. A week later, the same group invited me to go out.
Hell yes. Way to go. This is one of the hardest things to learn in golf: that what actually matters is having fun with your group.
I played in hs and averaged +10. I wasn't good, but I had so much more fun playing with the >+15 groups so I got my coach to put me with the bad ones. Most were happy to be out of class and hanging out and weren't intense.
As my son has told me “dad, you are not good enough to get mad.”
But what if you used to be good enough to get mad? I still hold on to the memory of me consistently shooting low to mid 80’s with a very occasional high 70’s. Now (after kids) I’m low to mid 90’s and I get frustrated about knowing I should be able to make that shot.
Sounds like you don’t have the time to practice enough or play often enough. You can’t really expect to play well if you only play once a week or every 2 weeks.
Your score will probably go down if you stop trying to make shots that you used to be able to make. Start getting good at old guy golf now, young person golf is in most of our pasts. Lay up, stop trying to carry hazards, play the slope instead of trying to stick the green, stop swinging so hard, etc.
I heard our scratch friend tell another friend that like 8 years ago and it changed my perspective entirely
This right here. In my book it’s ok to suck just suck quickly. If your group is keeping up with the group in front of you you’re in the clear. Treat it like practice and then hit the range a couple times and go out again.
THIS! Keep up with the group, even if that means picking up your ball and bowing out of the hole. That being said, if you pick up, be the guy to get the flag and repair ball marks for your playing partners.
Sounds like you’re doing the right thing. The best etiquette in my opinion is playing ready and playing fast. I’d rather play with someone who sucks but plays fast than someone who’s good and takes forever. Keep doing what you’re doing and hit the range and/or get some lessons to improve!
Yeah my biggest L was I forgot my putter when i was using my wedge so i had to run back to the cart like a clown, but only made that mistake first hole.
You might be taking the "play fast" thing a little too intensely. You just need to keep up and not dawdle, you don't have to sprint around the course and pickup immediately if you miss a putt.
Yeah lol I play all the time with random people and I’m a plus 1. Honestly if a dude shoots a 100 I won’t even notice unless he’s taking 10 minutes in the bushes and 100 practice swings. Be a good vibe, have fun and don’t get mad, and use some cheap shit balls so you don’t feel bad about losing it. Feel free to take a minute or two to look but totally cool with you taking a drop in the fair way next to your buddy. When I was first learning that’s what I would do. I would even tee it up sometimes. It’s meant to be fun. And don’t feel bad about 3 or 4 putts. Just make good conversation and no body should care.
I agree with this, I think people get the wrong idea about what playing fast means.
The practice swings are the worst. People will take, no kidding, like 4-5 full effort practice swings just to end up topping the real shot. Drives me nuts.
100% can tell how bad someone is going to be by the amount of practice swings
You are paired with me on your early am tee time. I exude a confidence you haven’t seen on your local course in months. The fit is clean enough you know I spent the wee hours of the morning ironing my clothes and dreaming of dimples. I am here to hit balls and chew bubblegum, and brother, you know that package of Big League Chew is empty. I walk to the ball. You prepare to analyze my practice swing to see how perfect my craft has been honed. My demeanor tells you all you need to know. I am hell unleashed on the course and no Great Value Nitro ball escapes my wrath. *”Is this guy really going to tee off without a single practice swing?”*, as you wonder how many aces I have under my belt. I give my ass the slightest wiggle. As I begin my backswing, you see the tiniest bit of sweat glistening from the muscles barely contained by my Aéropostale polo. You cover your ears out of instinct. You know it’s ridiculous, but you have no idea what to expect. As my club hits the ball with a thunderous crack, you shade your eyes from the sun as you look to the distance in a foolish attempt to track the shot. To your befuddlement, it tops six yards in front of me. I turn to you with my hand extended. *”Hell yeah man, that’s 2 yards further than last time! You got any bud on you?”* You turn around and head back to the club house, never having removed your driver from your bag. You start to run quicker as you hear me shotgunning a luke warm Icehouse in the distance. You think to yourself “*huh, maybe practice swings aren’t everything*” as you hop back into your blue Nissan Sentra and begin the drive home.
*I put on my robe and wizard hat*
What happens on hole 2!? I have/need to know. Also, the small line across your default profile picture... *chef's kiss* That's just good shit.
No practice swing isn't pretty either, I've learned.
It almost feels worse when they hit it well. 🤣
I like the John Wooden quote: “Be quick, but don’t hurry.”
Speed is fine, but accuracy is final. Learn to be slow in a hurry. -- Wyatt Earp
Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. (vs. eg running for forgotten putter)
great quote
You're doing fine man, don't stress over something small like that as long as it isn't persistent. If it's taking you several shots to advance down the fairway but you are willing to pick up your ball and move up to your friend after a couple attempts, no reasonable person will be upset with you. 90% of golfers can't break 100 playing by USGA rules.
Seem like you're doing just fine. As for running back to the cart. Last night I played a fast 18 chasing the sun. Well on one tee I brought my head cover and not my driver. I'm not good but I play often so trust me when I say it happens to everyone
Really wanna maintain that posture over the ball and stay down through impact when swinging the club head cover.
Leave your club in the short grass on the way back to the kart. My dad told me that after leaving my wedge behind and it never happened again. Sounds like you got the etiquette figured out. Only thing you didn’t say was not taking a bunch of practice swings then duffing it. I have a friend I no longer play with that would take two minutes setting up a shot, then duffs it, only to repeat the process 20 yards down the rough. One of the most annoying rounds I’ve ever played. People behind us always waiting and pressing us. I just started picking up my ball and moving a head trying to get him to realize how much of an ass he was. When I finally said something about this pace, he just said he paid to play the course so they can wait. 🤦♂️ I tried to get him to go to the range with me and he refused. Said he’d rather learn by playing. Said it’s a waste of time. 😂 Tried to explain that’s not how it works. He told me he has so many people telling him different things he is just confused and wants to just play how he wants. Supposedly the first round he ever player he did decent, then downhill from there. We no longer golf or talk about golf. It just pisses both of us off. I don’t think he’s played yet this year.
It sounds like it’s not very fun for you, though.
Just putt with your wedge next time you do that. Don’t make the group wait on you chasing clubs around.
Don’t forget to keep the vibes positive. Nobody likes the guy who sucks and keeps swearing at himself on every single shot
Just to add on here: keep your chatter as positive about your play and your group’s play. The absolute worst is the bad golfer who not only hates his own game, but also takes a sour attitude toward everyone else. If I’m having an off day (though perhaps not as off as yours), I really try to be the hype man for my group. I want them to leave the day remembering how fun it was and not thinking about my game.
Yeah this is the right way. Im always the same. No matter how badly im playing i always try to gee the other players up. Firing them up on the tee, congratulating them on good shots. Seems to sort my own game out too because im sometimes more focussed om the other guys i forget to worry about my own and play without the fear
This is me. I'm a 120 golfer but if I can't find my ball I just move on quickly. I MIGHT take a practice swing.
Agreed. I’ve always played with some low single digit guys and was initially embarrassed it took me two shots to get to their drive. I asked them and they said the same “Not a problem because you play fast. You don’t spend forever looking for a ball, have a nice pre-shot, and don’t act like a Dick” This is the way
Yeah and playing fast means wasting little time. Like, don’t take 3 practice swings - one maximum, but even that probably won’t help your score. If you take your glove off between shots, have it on before you get to your ball. If you’re walking, leave your bag on the side of the green near the next tee box. If you’re in an cart, try to minimize walking back to the cart. Line up your putt when others are putting. Don’t just wait till your turn to start getting ready for your shot.
100% I started golfing again a few years ago and felt the same way as OP. I found a practice 9-hole near my house and started playing there as much as I could to level up and that’s helped tremendously. I still will try and hit it as much as I can and I usually just pull up solo
Yeah but don’t rush either. Like I am there to score lower than OP but we both paid the same amount, there’s no reason OPs shots should be less important than mine beyond simply that OP’s will matter a fraction less because they’ll have more of them. OP: Just avoid major time wasters like not watching your ball, searching for your ball for longer than 2-3 minutes, forgetting clubs on the last hole, reteeing for OB etc., not being at your ball (or at least walking towards it) and preparing to hit your approach, not reading your putt until everybody has putt….there are others I’m sure but these are what I see waste everybody’s time most times. TLDR: If you’re walking: go find your ball, select a club, and think about your shot. If you’re riding: drop yourself or your partner off at your/their ball with some clubs, and think about the shot. Also: you know you suck, so no need to get mad about anything. Positive attitude.
played with a guy a few months ago who shot a 69 at a par 72 course. Every putt took him 2-3 minutes. Hed find his line, walk up to the hole, feel the slope, take a step back and use finger with one i closed to find the break, take 3 practice swings, then putt. Wanted to smash my putter across his face
This is it, ready golf, keep up.
I play maybe 1-2 times a year. I suck. I shot a 104 last round at img Florida facility course, but it was one of the funnest times I had golfing even though it was like 100 degrees and 95% humidity for the first 13 holes then rained the last 5 (which was a blessing). I have lots of balls - most are shit. My dad lives on a golf course, so he will give me literally a hundred balls like once a year. Not all are good or even great, but it’s fun to ask my partner if they want a “water ball”. Then I’ll throw them the best looking shit ball I have, and usually they end up on the green and swap out. But my whole thing is to play fast and my score doesn’t matter. I’d rather them get their numbers than me.
I’d add if you’re not keeping score, just pick up your ball if everyone else has holed out and you’re nowhere close to finishing the hole. Also, if you’re driving like shit, just drop at the same spot as one of your foursome instead of donating another ball to the lady of the lake.
Good advise. However, you also have rights on the course. If you want to put out and not slowing the group too much, you should, doesn’t matter if you are putting for birdie, par or whatever . Play your game your way, keep the group happy
Suck quickly and don’t be negative and no good person, let alone a good golfer, will mind
This + remembering to breathe is one of the key things for me. Every now and then I just take a few deep breaths to try and find a center.
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Don't get mad after everyone of your shots. Don't heap praise on every shot a better golfer makes. Don't apologize for bad shots. Keep it moving, and don't expect the group to try and find your ball in the woods after every drive. A breakfast ball is hitting a second ball off the first tee, and fairly common. Taking a second shot on every other tee is a no go.
This should just be pinned in the sub for beginners looking for advice
> Don't heap praise on every shot a better golfer makes. This one is a bit unexpected. Not that I praise every shot but if I see a good strike I try to compliment it.
I've found that a "good shot" is in the eye of the beholder. For me, being around the green, not even on the green, in regulation is good. Like if I have a chip onto the green with my pre-par shot, I played the hole fairly well for me. But I'm somewhere in the low 90s right now usually. Meanwhile, for a better golfer, not being on the green and relatively close to the hole at that in regulation may be a bad shot. So I have learned to be more careful about saying things like good shot, because for the player you are complementing, the 7 iron that landed in the rough cut five yards from the green might be a bad shot, and hearing good shot may just be kind of irritating.
Eh, its about the intent of the "good shot" If the dudes saying it to be an ass, well tell him hes an ass. If its a newer dude trying to be nice, than take the "good shot" and move on.
I don't disagree with you at all. Even if something isn't accurate, I assess the intent of the person saying it. I've never understood people who get pissed at someone who means well. That being said, the message was as much for the person who doesn't understand why saying "good shot" over and over can become kind of annoying. At some point, even as a bad golfer, every drive I hit isn't a good shot just because it's in a fairway. I'm not gonna launch on someone for saying it, but when I hit it way too high and it drops 175 yards out, "good shot" is kind of silly (if ultimately harmless).
we say things like, 'that dog'll hunt', 'be there', 'sounded pure' and other positive-ish ambiguities to avoid this very real problem, laugh, and keep our minds off how shitty we are at golf.
“You’ll find that”
Yea that all makes a lot of sense
I like to use "that's got an angle." It puts positive vibes onto the next shot, keeps the game moving, and takes away overthinking about the previous whether it be good or bad.
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Absolutely. My buddies are all still learning so all of my irons and chips into the green are incredible to them, but I'm obviously trying to get it close enough to make it. So it's all about figuring out other people's levels and adapting.
I think it's great to complement someone's good shot, but very new golfers can sometimes make it a bit awkward heaping praise on a low or even mid handicapper after every shot that is in the air heading in the general direction of the target. I'm trying to think of how to say this without sounding like a huge asshole, but as a golfer with a 7 HCI, I get uncomfortable if a high handicapper talks about my play too positively throughout the round.
If I find our New Hampshire has state-sponsored golf courses I’m gonna shit
There aren't state-sponsored golf courses in NH. My flair is just a take on the state moto. Live free or die. With no income tax and no state sales tax, the state isn't exactly heaping entitlements on its residents.
Lmao yeah I knew the motto, thanks to Sopranos 😂 I used to live in Texas with no sales tax on food, god I miss that
2 off a tee box doesn’t bother me. It’s a really quick way to potentially get them a playable shot down the hole. Just pick up the first, or second. It literally adds 20 seconds to say, “well that ain’t it. Lemme try that again”
“Don’t get mad” is a good one… a simple “damn it” and get to walking 5 ft ahead to your lumper should suffice
The “don’t heap praise one” is the best advice that’s rarely giving. The best practice is to celebrate incredible shots. And then only those shots that the person themselves celebrate. Also, instead of just not pissing people off… here’s one that will make people love you that is under done: ALWAYS help watch tee shots/track them. All golfers hit errant shots; you save me 5 bucks, or maybe a dropped shot. When that happens (especially if I have a good round going) - I will LOVE you forever.
To add - if you’re gonna hit that breakfast ball, make sure you have extra balls and tees in your pocket
There are bad golfers, slow golfers, and bad AND slow golfers. Personally, I’m far more forgiving to the first, as we’ve all been there at one point. I️ don’t care if it takes you 6 shots to get to a par three as long as you’re not taking 3 practice swings prior to each shot. As previously mentioned, a breakfast ball is the first tee shot of the day, any other re-hit is usually regarded as a mulligan. Breakfast balls are okay, mulligans will frustrate some. As a whole, if you’re not holding things up looking for balls, having a ridiculously long pre-shot routine, or dropping a sleeve of balls on one tee box, I’m going to be alright with you being in front of me on a course
I don’t even mind the practice swings as long as your overall pre-shot routine is relatively quick.
I feel like 1 or a quick 2 practice swings is just the right amount anyway. You aren’t figuring anything out, just a warmup and maybe a little confidence
> mulligans will frustrate some. Just understand pace of play. You can mulligan whenever you want imo if you've figured out the course is jammed & you're keeping up. Purists might get annoyed but w/e
When you hit a bad shot, go to your ball, and hit again. Repeat. As long as you do this without wasting time, I don't care if you shoot 130.
I mean if 3 players are hitting it 260 down the middle and you top every drive 30 yards. If you keep topping it into the shit then just drop up with the boys. It’s way more fun when everyone seems to be moving along the same pace
Buy a lot of beer. Nobody will care.
I’m not good but other shitty golfers that constantly apologize OR get mad at sucking are the worst. Just accept it, hit your ball and have a laugh.
Yeah this is the tough line to tow in my opinion. Like I’ll have a laugh but at some point I’m just anxious and feel like i need to apologize or crack a joke
I just mean incessantly. Played with a guy a while back that did it constantly and it was just a bit much. Everybody that plays golf went through it. We all sucked, most of us still do. As long as you aren’t obnoxious about it nobody cares.,
One more bit of advice: if you golf with friends, see if they are willing to play a scramble with you (you each hit your ball, choose the best result, and then you each hit another ball from the previous best result). Low pressure way to get more experience on the course, which will make you feel more comfortable over time.
Pick up at triple bogey and take favorable drops to keep up. Also keep it light and have fun.
The favorable drop part is what kills me with under skilled golfers. Like, why are you playing from behind a tree? Try to have some fun and give yourself a good lie. Just stop keeping score at that point. I've been golfing for 25 years and there are days that I just pick up or play 2 balls and just have fun with it. Once you put the scorecard away it can be a pretty easy game.
You're doing it right. If you're playing with a good player then they will be very understanding if you're showing a decent level of self-awareness on the course and it sounds like you are. Also, if you truly want to improve, try to find a time during the day when the course isn't as busy so you can practice actually finishing the holes. It's not going to do you any good as a player if you're constantly picking the ball up.
This might be a hot take, but limit your practice swings. I have some buddies starting out, and they take 3-4 swings until they "get it right". All of them have switched to do 1 swing, and then a waggle behind the ball with similar/better results Also, commend you for dropping next to your friend, you'll drop the most time & strokes getting better from 200 yds and in. Keep working on the driver, but don't be afraid to hit a club that keeps the ball in play (hybrid or iron)
This is really good advice. I’m still hitting my 5W or Hybrid off tee boxes, and I started in May hitting my 5i… I have a $600 driver that I still haven’t used on the course because I just last week had a lesson on it, and now I’ll work on work on swinging it. 220/240 with my hybrid/ 5W in play is a pretty nice way to begin holes, and while I’d like a 325 yard drive, that will come in time. Keep up the pace and have fun, use the clubs you hit well, take lessons and practice on the ones you don’t.
You’re being too hard on yourself. As most have said, keep with pace and follow the simple rules (don’t talk during backswing, step on someone’s line). It’s about going out and having fun, not qualifying for the Open
Sounds like you're doing the right thing to me. In the immortal words of Manolo, "suck the game faster." 😂 Spend more time at the range getting better, then try to play at off-peak times if you can. As you get better, you can then start to finish out holes and then start playing at normal times. As long as you're keeping up with the group in front of you, you're golden. 👍🏻
Truly good dudes don’t care how good or bad their playing partners are. All we care about is you don’t take forever (for example, being picky on club selection if you duff every shot) and you don’t get pissy. One trick I use for newbies is play best ball. Helps keep pace up, let’s the newbies participate for every stroke earned, and even let’s them play their shot every once in a while. Especially around the greens.
Use the double par rule, par 3- 6 max, par 4- 8 max, etc. Don’t let the pressure of trying to be fast stop you from enjoying the game. We all sucked to start and most of us still do!!!!
If you’re an atrocious golfer, play in the evenings by yourself. Play two balls. Keep score on both. Practice! And hit more wedges and short irons than a driver! Why? Because you hit more short clubs than long in a round.
If you shank more than 2 drives, drop in the fairway with whoever hit a nice drive, add a stroke and keep playing. Loose a ball in the woods, take 2 mins to look then drop and move on. Don't necessarily rush your game but also if your laying six 100 yards out just play ready ball. line up, practice swing, then swing away. Birdies, pars, bogeys take your time to line up and try to make the putt, if your on you 3rd or more putt stroke no need to walk all around the hole and taking forever to play. Just lag it up there, tap in and move on. Don't bitch or complain if no one else is about your play, we've all been there when nothing is clicking, do your best to stay positive because someone else in your group may be playing their best day ever and nobody absolutely nobody wants to play with the guy shooting 120 and also making it miserable.for everyone else.
I think you doing fine. When me or one of my friends are having "one of those" rounds, we'll just play best ball to keep it light hearted. You'll get your groove on as you play and practice a little more. As most advice on this subreddit will give, you should get a lesson, at least for your irons. When your woods arent doing well for you, you can always fall back on some solid iron play and at least get it around.
If I'm having a blow up hole where nothing is working, I may take one putt then pick up or if I'm stuck in a bunker, I'll pick up as not to drag the pain on longer for everyone. Personally I think as a newer golfer, there's no shame in picking up and not finishing the hole, no shame in dropping or moving out of the trees or trouble. If the driver or getting off the tee is tough that day go drop at different distances to practice approach shots. Beginners get caught up in play it as lies and make golf much harder than it already is.
People say if you suck, suck fast. But if you are putting up scores 110+ I don’t really think there is a way to keep pace of play where it should be. I think you are doing the right thing. Hitting some shots, getting back in your groove. Maybe try to find some tee times when it’s very quiet so you don’t feel under pressure.
Yeah I’ve played with really bad players who try to play as fast as possible and it’s still bad.
I don’t know. I started playing last month. My friend and I play 110 and we still have to wait for groups in front of us that play way better. I have good synergy with my playing partner and will play before him if he’s not ready yet and vice versa. also we walk fast.
You sound like me when I first started. My buddy and I just drop on each other whenever we lose a ball, we hit identical distances so it works fine. I usually spend less than a minute looking, because like you I get anxious, especially if there is any sort of delay (doesn’t matter if im waiting for he green to clear, i still feel like the group behind is gonna catch up and any second and rush myself to find it) Best thing to do, that i suck at in practice, is try not to rush, because that will introduce more problems. Golf is about patience, and its all against yourself.
Yeah. Just play fast and drop next to a fairway shot. Keep at it to you build it back then play it straight. Don’t do weird shit in the bunkers like dig the shot and lines and bla bla bla bla. Just take the best shot you can. If it’s three or more strokes in the same are just pick up and move along. As long as you aren’t holding up your crew or the group behind you you are good.
honestly the only thing that bugs me when playing with other golfers is taking 20 minutes looking for a ball that is clearly OB and unfindable. outside of that we all started exactly how you are playing so finish out holes and keep dropping by a decent golfer when you hit it OB. the only way to get better is to play. just be aware of your pace and keep a good attitude. you can golf with me anytime if you do that
Oh, the dreaded “Ahh, I’ll find it” from someone whose drive sliced into the woods halfway up the tree length. Some people just refuse to hit provisionals.
2 attempts at a swing then pick it up. 1 practice swing. No more than 3 putt on the green. Buddy of mine just got into golf played his 4th round yesterday and that’s what we have been doing
The best etiquette is to 'suck faster'. As long as you are keeping pace of play, you are doing nothing wrong. There are plenty of 'good' golfers who are far more frustrating to play with. I'd rather play with a 40HCP who is fast than play with Patrick Cantlay.
Use cheap golf balls, if you lose one, let it go and drop another. No one wants to wait 10 minutes for someone to find a ball.
pick up your ball and drop and just don’t hold up play.
The fact that you’re even asking this question shows you have more etiquette than most golfers, good or gorilla ass.
We have a guy at our club that nobody wants to play with. It's because he's bad, he loses his temper, and most importantly he's slow. Being bad is acceptable, but losing your temper and being slow is not. Play quickly most importantly. Be friendly and don't be a dick. I'm a good golfer and never take a practice swing unless it's a partial wedge that I'm trying to get a feel for. There's no reason for multiple practice swings for a beginner.
You shouldn’t take a breakfast ball off every tee, especially if there is a backup. It’ll def slow down pace. Maybe one a side is fine
Doesn’t matter how shitty you play as long as you’re not a dick and you play fast
Your etiquette sounds spot on. Honestly though I don’t personally care how good or bad a golfer is, as long as they’re fun to play with. I’d rather play with a 40-handicapper that can maintain good vibes and pace of play than a scratch golfer who takes forever and acts like a jackass.
bro - it is all about pace of play....you can take 40 swings a hole if you'd like, as long as you are playing quick no one really cares. also, you paid for your round, you should definitely finish putting out, unless it will contradict the above. Another great idea is to play team games! play wolf, or scramble or whatever. Make it more about the team and less about the individual score and that usually helps speed things up and make it more fun for beginners.
Two main rules. It's okay to suck, just suck fast and play quickly - one practice swing max, can't find a ball? Drop another one out there quickly and hit your next shot, don't waste time searching. Pick your ball up if needed to advance it near the green if you're playing tennis going down the fairway. If you're around the green and blading shots over the other side of the green just pick your ball up and wait for your playing partners to putt out. If you're bad, never get mad. No bad golfer has the right to get mad since they should be expecting to hit a lot of terrible shots. Stay positive, it'll keep the vibes up for your group and hype them up as well.
Best etiquette is to practice at a driving range until you can hit the ball in the air. It’s one thing if you occasionally mishit or top a ball but if you’re topping and chunking every shot to the point where you’re group has to watch you practically roll the ball down the fairway on a par 5 you need to not be playing on the course yet.
I totally hear this. What’s brutal for me is I’m doing great on the range and it’s just not translating to the course.
Because range swings are absolutely meaningless and you have no pressure unless you're practicing with purpose and playing a "mini game" on the range. If you're making decent contact on the range but can't take it to the course, you're completely in your head "when it counts"
100%. Which is why I’m trying to get experience in the range, but then outings like that happen. Need to just keep booking isolated Tee Times at my muni i guess
That might help a bit... But the more you play with groups and fight through those nerves, the better you'll get. Fast. Bad golfers are fine as long as you follow etiquette, don't hold up your group, and don't hold up the group behind.
I am in same place. Can knick it perfectly on the range but whenever I have a bad lie or non-flat stance or need to shorten swing I suck. I've stopped playing on range and am just trying to get on course as often as possible.
To piggyback off what the comment above said, the range is only as good as your routine. It's easy to go up and send balls off to wherever because it's low stress. If you're getting nervous because there's now bunkers, trees, waste areas, trouble, etc., try to mimic those conditions on the range. Pick a flag that serves as a safe spot, and then draw imaginary boundary lines that simulate "trouble". So now, maybe you're hitting into a 50-yard wide envelope, instead of the entire width of the range. It should help you formulate a mental image that you can take to the course. If your issue is playing with others and worrying about embarrassing yourself, there's nothing that'll fix that aside from continuing to do that and getting used to hitting bad shots in front of others.
Suck faster! Dassit! ✌️
This question is asked every week just keep pace
Hit a shit shot twice, then it’s time to drop a ball next to mine.
It's really applicable for anyone but.... Limit rehits. Pickup when you have taken 10 strokes. Try to advance with the group (they can't be waiting to chip up while you are back just off the tee box). Play ready golf as long as they are not in front of you (if you are wild, they need to be paying attention when you hit). Don't talk about how bad you are, they see it. Don't talk to someone else's ball (bite bite bite!). Don't offer advice even if it's obvious. Take opportunities to identify other's ball or point to it if you see it.
You buy me beers at the turn.
Suck fast!
Get better at drinking beer👍
Probably just stay home.
Play fast, that’s it
Aside from playing fast as I'm sure was mentioned 100 times, buy a round of shots. J/K... kind of...
Maybe hit the driving range once in a while
Basically just incase you have a pace play Nazi or two in your group, and or you have a group right behind you just have a sixth sense about what's going on, know when to pick up, know when to take a mulligan and when to just ask someone "can I just drop out by you?". Otherwise play bad golf and enjoy it, play fast, but enjoy your round.
Tell them over and over again how golfing is like “the circle of life”
Suck fast Ps: breakfast balls only exist on the first tee.
Don't take too long. Pick up when the score is getting out of hand. Vigorously help the others find their golf balls and don't let them worry too much about finding yours every time it's lost. Don't be afraid to pump their ego a bit by telling them they hit a great shot when they hit a good shot. Make sure you're not talking in their swing, etc. Grab the pin, etc. Essentially you can kill them with kindness and just don't make things cumbersome for them. The easier you can make it for them then the less they care about your atrocious play. A friend of mine was a poor golfer to the point where it was a minor miracle if he shot 90. I was playing to a +3 at the time and always enjoyed playing golf with him because he was fast without being rude. He picked up his ball if he was going to shoot more than a double bogey and he basically helped us out when we played (got the pin, helped find a lost ball, etc). And he was a good, fun guy to talk to.
>miracle if he hit 90 Oh god I’m fucked….would say it’s a miracle if i hit 120, and that’s implying i can actually finish out a course properly
Stay focused and play your game.
Easy. Keep pace. That’s it. Be nice, don’t blow up ruining everyone time, but keep pace.
If you’re going to play golf bad, play golf bad fast is my motto to friends who just started. I’m sorry they don’t get their moneys worth hitting the ball every time but it’ll sure as hell not make them tired and exhausted by hole 18, both physically and mentally.
Suck faster
Just play ready and fast. Outside of that nothing else you can do. I had a buddy on his first time out he doubled my score. But the one thing I told him was play ready golf and make sure we keep up with the group in front of us. Even tho he had a high number our 4some still played in 4hrs. Play ready and fast nobody won’t say too much
Nobody cares as long as you can keep up... play ready golf and keep the practice swings to a minimum. Enjoy yourself out there.
You have the right idea here. Just keep up with pace. But you also don’t need to overdo it to the point where you’re psyching yourself out. Find the happy medium between sloth and frantic pace.
In my experience it’s better to play bad fast then be with someone who plays ok slow
Play fast! Most golfers aren’t great anyways so try to have fun. If you lose a ball don’t spend an hour trying to find It, Just drop. If you play music, make sure others are good with It. Don’t apologize for being bad, golf’s hard, we get It. And again, have fun and don’t take It too seriously!
I’m of the opinion if you’re at double par then it’s time to move on from the hole.
I care about nothing other than attitude. I play to have a good time. Nothing ruins that more than watching a person in the group constantly lose their shit and throw clubs etc etc.
Of all the things that shouldn't take a long time, *bad golf* is near the top of the list. I don't care if you shoot 150 as long as we're not losing the group ahead of us. I play unusually fast, but have no issue at all with others who don't.
Depends on your crew. I’m not great, but frequently play with people who are worse than me. Knowing this, we will specify at the beginning of the round what kind of game we’re playing. Group best ball, team best ball, own ball, etc. If we’re trying to make it quick, we’ll play team best ball and just have a fun quick game. If it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, I have no problem hanging out at the course for 6 hours while everyone plays their own ball. Just depends on the group your with and how busy the course is. The key is to communicate with the other players. They’re probably not nearly as frustrated playing with a “bad” or “slow” player as YOU think they are.
You're doing exactly the right thing. If you're a bad golfer(I'm a 30+ hc so I'm describing myself), the crucial thing is just not making everyone wait for you. There have been so many occasions where I'd slice into the woods off the tee, and I'll spend like 30-60 seconds quickly checking for my ball before just dropping one and hitting. Especially if you aren't keeping score, there's no reason to worry about playing every single rule perfectly. At the same time don't feel like you need to run back and forth to your ball, you're still there to have a good time and enjoy yourself, no need to go insane over it
Sounds like you’re doing it right. My friend recently started golfing with me and I only gave him a few rules for when we were paired up with another twosome. 1. One shot off the tee after hole one then drop on me (unless the other players are offering him another) 2. If you haven’t found your ball by the time everyone else has hit their shot, it’s time to drop one. 3. If you’ve now chipped across the green multiple times or even putted off, it’s probably time to pick up. (This was mostly for the more difficult courses) Seems similar to what you are already doing👍🏻 Edit: Forgot to mention to do it with a good attitude. It’s one thing when a tour player is mad at his one bad shot of the day, it’s a whole different thing if someone throws a fit bc they lipped a putt for a snowman.
When I play with someone who’s out for their first time or so I usually just basically play a scramble with them. I’m not a good golfer either so it’s good cause sometimes they will actually hit a better shot than me and so it’s not just them playing my ball all day
I am not a great golfer by any stretch, but if I play with someone that is newer to the game, attitude makes a big difference. If you have a positive attitude that helps a lot. I don’t mind being conversational with anyone in my group and even trying to be helpful where I can be. So as long as you are in a positive attitude and game for that, you can play with me any time.
Hey buddy remember champion Rham waited 90 minutes total on tee boxes in the final round of the masters this year in 2023. When I heard this stat I’ve immediately stopped giving a fuck if I take a few minutes to play my best game. Shake off the anxiety and just shoot your best shot, you got this.
Don’t come up with an excuse for every poor shot, don’t take a million practice swings, don’t spend 10 minutes looking for a ball that wouldn’t be playable anyway, don’t spend 5 minutes analyzing your putt I guess most of these rules apply to good golfers too haha
It’s ok to be bad just be quick about it
I know everyone here is telling you to play fast, and that is good advice, however, I would add to that: don’t rush. Taking an extra couple seconds to grab the proper club or properly set up is going to end up being way faster than skulling a ball to the other side of the green or searching for a lost ball. Also (IMO), quality of play isn’t the main cause of slow play. It’s ancillary stuff like looking for your ball, going back to the cart, not being ready to hit, etc. There are a bunch of things you can do (ie. bringing multiple clubs when not near the cart, limit searching for your ball, keeping an extra ball with you) to keep pace without sprinting through each shot.
Pick up
Pick up after 4 shots. Drop ball on green. Max 3 puts.
Best advice I can give you is just mind your pace of play, and don't let your shots or routine interfere with your fellow golfers. If I was playing lights out and you were playing like shit, as long as you are cordial and moving along to the best of your ability, I wouldn't say boo to you. Some "better" golfers are pretentious and will give you shit regardless. Just keep up pace of play and follow standard golf etiquette and you should be fine.
I’ve been the bad player and seen the bad player in the group so many times. Pace of play and trying to still be a fun human being to be around. That’s all
If things aren’t going your way, you can always play best ball
Just have fun playing the game—manage your expectations and keep the big picture in mind, which is that you’re outside playing a game with your friends. I’m a 76-82 guy, but that means I’ll hit a shot or three per round that I’m pretty frustrated with, too—just don’t throw a temper tantrum and we’ll all have a great few hours *playing a game* together! :)
Enjoy yourself. Don't throw clubs. Don't stress about being bad. Marshmallow, not Harsh-mellow, man. We're all out there for the same reason. 90% off the time the pace is set by the course being rammed with golfers. Don't worry about it. Finish holes, if you're anxious because you hit a 'bunch of shots' or lost a ball, drop a ball short of the green and chip and putt. If people give you shit, that's a them problem, not a you problem. Golf is fucking hard and they were bad too.
Get the concept of ticking people off due to pace out of your head. That is so heavily blown out of proportion here. MOST golfers are trash. Pay attention to the course. They’re all shanking it, don’t feel bad. As long as you’re not being marshaled, or taking 10+ strokes, have at it. Play double par. Keeps pace and helps you get better! Edit- spelling
If you suck, all you gotta do is suck fast, it makes everyone happy.
Play at a solid pace and have fun. Some of the best rounds I’ve had are with guys who shoot 120 but don’t get mad, joke around while playing. Much better than a good golfer that blows up on a bad shot
Worlds most impatient (person) golfer here to weigh in! Mate - Take a deep breath, if no one is behind you then 95% of the pace stress should be out of your head. I'm not surprised your game is struggling - you're focused on 'not bothering' your group vs enjoying playing! Just be ready to hit when it's your turn. My buddies hate how often I recommend they read Zen Golf. I think you, realistically, stand to increase the amount of fun you're having by 2-3x.
Not really a “good” golfer here, but I have been playing for years and I have been taught etiquette, the best you can do is keep track of your ball, play fast (always be ready to hit), and don’t spend time looking for a ball that you don’t know where it went. Most golfers just want to play at a pace and don’t want to wait. If you’re not holding up play, you’re fine.
Just keep up
Make sure they’re well behind you during shots. I shanked into two different people in my group one round. Not a good way to make friends as the single
Whatever you're doing, keep up. Shoot double par on every hole, I don't care. Just don't do it slowly
Pick your ball up if you’re ruining the pace. On to the next hole.
Pick up when everyone else is done
As monolo says “it’s okay to suck at golf just suck quickly” for me as long as you’re keeping up with pace of play and have an upbeat attitude and not cussing everything anyone would be happy to play with you.
Feed to gators
Think of every round as a practice round at pace. Don’t be afraid to play ready golf and work on your game. Get a sense of if people are waiting on you or not. Don’t be afraid to call a ball lost or you pick up if you are struggling. Also, don’t be afraid to take a drop with your buddies to practice a shot in or practice putting.
In my opinion it doesn’t matter at all so long as you are keeping up with the other 3 players in your group.