Golfer's Number One MELTDOWN

Let me spit it out right now. S-L-O-W play is the number one reason golfers go ballistic and meltdown on the course. At least, according to a discussion group I initiated and moderated on LinkedIn last fall. Hundreds of golfers worldwide opined on the reasons and remedies.

Here are the top four reasons this nasty behavior manifests on some of the most beautiful places on the planet:

1) Slow play       2) Cheating         3) Lack of etiquette          4) Getting hit into

Slow play accounted for 51% of all votes. The other three pulled about equal respones, each accounting for another 15-18% of the responses. Clearly, slow play was the biggest winner, or should I say biggest looser. I will comment further on the last 3 in future posts. But for now, here are some of the offered remedies from the study:
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 Understand how to play ready golf. Each player needs to be responsible for getting to their ball and ready to execute their shot, even if it's not their turn. If you are ready to hit your ball, go ahead. As long as no one is in front of you, grip it and rip it.

Pick up you ball when your score on any hole is becoming embarrassing. It is good for clearing your mind and provides you with a fresh start.

In match play, when you are hopelessly out of the hole, take the high road and concede the hole.

Give up the "Pro Golfer" approach to reading putts by looking at it from five angles.


Add your score on the NEXT TEE, not the green just finished.

Upon reaching the green, position your cart or golf bag in the walk off area toward the next tee. Never go backwards to get your cart or bag.

Here is one I contributed: When playing with your little and inexperienced youngsters, have them tee off from 50 -100 yards off the green, instead of the tee. This way you do not hold up players behind you waiting for your youngster to chase their ball down the fairway. The kids like this too and they do not have to compete with your tee shot.

A sage course marshal told me the first 6 holes of every course set the tone for pace of play for the remaining 12 holes. If the course is clogged on these holes, it is going to be a very long day. Be ready to play at a good pace on your first 6 holes to keep it all moving.

 I am sure you also have some valuable advice on how to ameliorate slow play. Please offer your remedies for slow play by adding your comments to this post.

Thanks for playing your round in no more than 4:10.