Pace of Play Tips

One thing that will get golfers riled up fast is slow pace of play. If you're new to golf, pace of play means how quickly your group moves through the course. Golf courses set tee times based on an average pace. When a group falls behind that pace, everything on the course backs up behind them.

The people on the tee can't hit because the people in the fairway haven't hit their second shots. And the fairway group is waiting because the group on the green is still putting. Nobody really wants to hold other people up. And if you've played much golf at all, you know that getting stuck waiting to hit every shot breaks your rhythm and makes the whole round less fun.

Here are three simple tips to help keep your group moving at a good pace.

1. Pick Up When You Need To

If you've already hit four or five shots and you're still not on the green, it's time to pick up and move on. Taking a max score on a hole is not a big deal in casual play, and it keeps the round flowing for everyone. If someone else in your group is struggling on a hole, suggest they drop near the green and chip in from there. Nobody will think less of you for it, and everyone will appreciate the gesture.

2. Don't Go Searching for Lost Balls

At Redlands Mesa, we ask that if you hit out of bounds or lose a ball, you take your penalty strokes and play on. Please don't spend time searching in the out-of-bounds areas. Beyond slowing things down, those areas can have unseen hazards like rocks and snakes. If you don't spot your ball within a few seconds, take your drop and keep moving.

3. Let Faster Groups Play Through

If the group behind you is a twosome and they're waiting on every shot, wave them through. A par 3 hole is a great spot to do this. You can tee off and then step aside to let the group behind tee off before you all walk to your balls. It takes almost no time and means everyone finishes their round in a better mood.

Keep Golf Fun for Everyone

Keeping a good pace doesn't mean rushing your swing. It just means being ready when it's your turn, making quick decisions, and staying aware of what's happening around you. A few small habits go a long way out there.

Ready to get out on the course? Book your tee time at Redlands Mesa Golf Course by calling (970) 255-7400 or visit us at 2325 W Ridges Blvd, Grand Junction, CO 81507.