Dear Members,
We all enjoy our golf most when the game flows smoothly, and one of the most important elements of that is pace of play… pace of play is covered under Rule 1 of the Rules of Golf… golfers are required to play at a Prompt Pace!
Our target for a round of golf is four hours for a fourball or Club Competition three ball. Unfortunately, we are seeing an increasing number of rounds taking significantly longer than this. Slow play affects not only the group that is taking longer, but everyone behind them and, ultimately, the enjoyment and experience of the entire days play.
It is absolutely unacceptable to approach golf with the attitude that I am here to enjoy my game, not rush and I’ll take the time that I need. This results in not only slower rounds, but complaints made by playing partners (to the extent that a Member will withdraw from a competition if they are drawn with a player that they have experienced as slow or are playing behind them).
Signing up to play a Wisley competition is signing up to play under the aforementioned Rules of Golf… playing at a prompt pace. Whilst the majority of Members are rarely asked to speed up there’s a second group that when asked to speed up do a good job of moving back into position, however there’s a smaller but meaningful group that appear to make no attempt to speed up resulting in being asked by the marshal to move back into position (close the gap on the group ahead) many times during a round, it is this group of players that would most benefit from understanding that they are the cause of the slow play, as well as much frustration to their fellow Members.
Simple ways we can all help:
Be ready to play.
While your playing partners are preparing to play, use the time to get your club, glove, ball and other equipment ready.
Move efficiently between shots.
Once you have completed a shot, begin moving towards your next position rather than remaining around the previous shot… You do not and should not wait until everyone has played their approach shots before beginning to walk to your ball.
Plan your next shot.
Think about club selection, yardage and strategy while others are playing, so you are ready when it is your turn.
Keep up with the group ahead.
Your position on the course should be determined by the group in front, not simply by the group behind. If you have a clear hole ahead of you, make every effort to close the gap.
Play ready golf where appropriate.
In general and competition play, and where it is safe and considerate to do so, players should be encouraged to play ready golf.
Be efficient around the greens.
Park your golf bag or trolley in a sensible position and be prepared to move on once the hole is completed. When appropriate, the player who holes out first can begin making their way to the next tee.
Keep an eye on the clock.
Please be conscious of your position in the field and the time after the first few holes, setting the right pace early in the round is the best way to maintain a good pace.
Let’s make enjoyable, efficient golf the standard for everyone.
Kind regards,
Ian Cox
Director of Golf