Golf Etiquette Essentials: How to Play Ready Golf
Golf etiquette goes beyond being polite on the course; it’s a fundamental aspect of the game that enhances enjoyment for all players. One crucial element of golf etiquette is the concept of “ready golf,” which aims to speed up play and reduce waiting times. By understanding and implementing ready golf principles, players can save time, improve the flow of the game, and make their golfing experience more enjoyable. This is especially important considering that on average, a round of golf for 2 players can take around 4 hours for 18 holes. Knowing how to play ready golf can significantly reduce that time.
This article delves into the essentials of ready golf and how to put it into action effectively. We’ll explore the key principles that underpin this approach, including taking your shot when you’re ready, preparing in advance, and being aware of your surroundings. Additionally, we’ll discuss how these practices can lead to a smoother, more efficient round of golf, benefiting both individual players and the broader golfing community. Implementing ready golf can make a big difference in how long it takes to play 9 holes of golf or a full 18 hole round.
Understanding Ready Golf
Definition of Ready Golf
Ready golf is a concept in stroke play that encourages players to hit when they are prepared, rather than strictly adhering to the “farthest from the hole plays first” rule [1]. This approach aims to improve the pace of play and reduce waiting times on the course. It’s important to note that ready golf is not appropriate for match play or matchplay golf rules, where the order of play is strategically significant [2].
Benefits of Ready Golf
The primary advantage of ready golf is its potential to enhance the pace of play. A survey conducted by Golf Australia revealed that 94% of clubs promoting ready golf experienced some success in improving play speed, with 25% reporting “satisfying success” [3]. This approach can help prevent groups from losing touch with those ahead, particularly on less busy courses [3]. Ready golf can significantly reduce the average round of golf time.
When to Apply Ready Golf
Ready golf can be applied in various situations:
- When a player farther away faces a challenging shot and needs time to assess options
- Allowing shorter hitters to play first if longer hitters must wait
- Hitting tee shots if the player with the honour is not ready
- Playing a shot before helping to search for lost balls
- Putting out even if it means standing close to another player’s line
- Playing a shot when a player who just played from a bunker is still raking it [1]
However, it’s crucial to apply ready golf in a safe and responsible manner. Players should ensure that playing out of turn does not endanger, distract, or interfere with other players [4]. Additionally, if the player whose turn it is indicates they want to play first, others should generally wait [4].
By understanding and implementing ready golf principles, players can contribute to a smoother, more efficient round of golf, benefiting both individual players and the broader golfing community. Ready golf can make a big difference in how long it takes to play 9 holes of golf or 18 holes.
Key Principles of Ready Golf
Preparing in Advance
Ready golf emphasises the importance of thinking ahead and being prepared to play when it’s one’s turn. Players should survey their shots, select their clubs, and stand ready at their balls while waiting to hit [1]. This approach applies to all areas of the course, including fairway play and on the putting green. Golfers should read their putts and clear loose impediments from their line while others are putting, timing their pre-putt routine to be ready as soon as it’s their turn [1]. Preparing in advance is a key way to maintain a prompt pace of play.
For cart drivers, ready golf means dropping off their partners, allowing them to choose their clubs, and then driving to their own balls to prepare for their shots. Drivers should not wait for their partners to hit before moving to their own ball [1].
Playing Out of Turn Safely
While the traditional “farthest from the hole plays first” rule still applies, ready golf encourages players to hit when they are prepared, as long as it’s safe and doesn’t interfere with other players [4]. This flexibility can significantly improve the pace of play. For example, if a player farther away needs time to assess their options, a closer player who is ready can take their shot [1]. The Committee overseeing play can implement a Pace of Play Policy to encourage playing at a prompt pace.
However, it’s crucial to note that in match play, the order of play remains fundamental as it can affect the outcome of a hole. In such cases, playing out of turn could result in the opponent cancelling the stroke and requesting it to be replayed [4].
Continuous Putting and Green Play
On the green, ready golf promotes continuous putting when it doesn’t interfere with other players’ lines or require extensive surveying. If a player misses a putt by one or two feet and has an open stance for the next putt, they should make the putt instead of marking the ball and waiting for another turn [1]. This approach keeps the game moving smoothly and speeds up play on the greens.
Players should also position their golf bags between the green and the next tee box to minimise time spent retrieving equipment after finishing a hole [1]. The second-to-last player to hole out should take responsibility for replacing the flagstick, preparing it as soon as they finish putting [1]. Efficient entering and exiting of greens is key for maintaining a prompt pace.
Conclusion
Ready golf has a significant influence on improving the pace and enjoyment of the game. By following its key principles, such as preparing in advance, playing safely out of turn, and continuous putting, golfers can contribute to a smoother and more efficient round. This approach not only saves time but also enhances the overall experience for all players on the course. Playing ready golf can make a big difference in how long it takes to play 9 holes of golf, with groups often able to finish 9 holes in under 2 hours when playing efficiently.
To wrap up, implementing ready golf is a straightforward way to make the game more enjoyable and less time-consuming. It encourages players to be more aware of their surroundings and to act considerately towards others. By embracing these practices, golfers can help to create a more dynamic and enjoyable atmosphere on the course, ultimately leading to a more positive golfing experience for everyone involved. Ready golf, along with other new golf rules implemented by the Committee, can significantly speed up play and allow golfers to enjoy their rounds in a reasonable amount of time.
References
[1] – https://www.golfzonleadbetter.com/blogs/golf-etiquette/
[2] – https://englandigolf.co.uk/igolf-blog/golf-etiquette-everything-you-need-to-know/
[3] – https://www.reddit.com/r/golf/comments/10b3b7g/definition_of_ready_golf/
[4] – https://blog.golfnow.com/golf-etiquette-rules-for-beginners/
FAQs
1. What does it mean to play "ready golf" on the green?
Playing “ready golf” on the green involves preparing to putt before it’s your turn. While others are putting, players should line up their putts so they can proceed without unreasonable delay when it is their turn.
2. What are the basic rules of golf etiquette for beginners?
Beginners should follow these essential rules of golf etiquette: respect the quiet zone, stay to the side of players, repair ball marks on the green, maintain a good pace of play, rake bunkers after use, allow faster groups to play through, take your shots promptly within 40 seconds, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
3. How should you prepare for a golf game to ensure the best performance?
To prepare effectively for a golf game, especially a tournament, consider these tips: study the course layout, devise a strategic plan, familiarise yourself with the rules including golf rule 5, learn how to properly square the clubface, practice purposefully, play a practice round, work on improving your putting stroke, and ensure your golf clubs are clean.
4. What are some fundamental rules of golf?
Basic golf rules include limiting the number of clubs in your bag to 14, teeing the ball behind the tee markers to avoid penalties, playing the ball as it lies, and understanding that if your ball lands out of bounds, you incur a penalty and must replay the shot. It’s also important to know the differences between stroke play golf and golf match play. The Committee is responsible for setting and enforcing the rules at a given course or tournament.
