Pace of Play Tips and Solutions
To actually “play” 18 holes of golf takes about one hour. The balance of the time on the course is spent getting to your next shot with the right equipment. Unfortunately the pace of play on the course is determined by the slowest group with the problem magnified when the slower group is early in the day. The first group out actually sets the pace for the groups that tee off in the afternoon.
Our rangers have an objective set of criterion that guides their interaction with groups, and each ranger has this ranger overview in his packet when he is on the course.
Rangers are to work the course backward and are to acknowledge each group as they pass.
1) They look first to see if the group is impeding the group in front of them
2) Then they look in front of the slower group to see if there is “space” between them and the group in front of them
3) If either #1 or #2 are present rangers look at their timing sheet (rangers work with starters so that they know the exact starting time)
4) If rangers find that groups are out of place with either position on course or time they work on a solution that includes asking group to pick up pace, assisting with their pace of play and as a final measure asking groups to pick up ball and go to next tee.
Here’s how players can assist the golf staff with regard to pace of play.
ü Members of a group should work independently in working with pace of play not traveling in groups to each ball but working on their shot while others work on theirs
ü When two players are in a cart they should drop off the first player with a choice of clubs. The second player should proceed (safely) to their ball. After the first player hits their shot they should walk toward the cart as the second golfer is playing.
ü Mulligans are NOT allowed in the rules and should never be played
ü Begin reading the green as soon as you reach the green. Never wait your turn 0- you should be ready to putt (and play any other shot) as soon as it is your turn
ü Never delay a stroke due to a conversation, hit your shot then you can talk
ü Always take more than one club with you to any shot, this way you have a backup if your first club choice is wrong
ü After putting out groups should leave the green immediately and take their carts to the next tee prior to scoring the hole
ü Never park your cart in front of the green pull to the side and the back of the green
ü Save playing tips for the driving range
ü Remember that in stroke play there is no penalty for hitting out of turn. If you are waiting for the group in front allow the shorter hitters to hit first while the group in front clears for the long knocker
ü Work on a consistent pre shot routine that includes no more than one practice swing.
ü When in tournaments, if your ball is out of the hole for the team score, please pick up at your posting limit
ü Don’t worry about marking lag putts, go ahead and putt out if it is short enough and you will not be standing in another’s line.
ü Cell phones and good pace of play do not mix!
ü Walk at a good pace – you don’t need to jog but exercise IS one of our goals in golf
ü Carry extra tees, ball markers and an extra ball in your pocket so you don’t have to return to your cart over and over
ü When chipping carry your club you are chipping with and your putter with you
ü Play ready golf – when you are ready you may hit out of turn when it is safe – just let your playing partners know your intention
ü Watch the group in front and behind you – it is your responsibility to keep pace with the group in front of you and if the group behind is faster you need to pick up the pace or let them through
ü NO BALL HAWKING – if it is not readily retrievable chalk it up as a bad shot
Fighting slow play is the responsibility of everyone on the course, staff and players. Heritage Bay is committed to this effort.