Comments on: Slow Play Cures

By: Jumiry

Jumiry — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:56:35 +0000

We have to fix this huge problem. Golf is a sport, but too many golfers think it is something else. Courses encouraging heavy drinking and failing to do their jobs are a major source of the problem. Golfers should have to demonstrate they understand the etiquette before being allowed to play. I propose players having to pass a test of knowledge of the game and its etiquette. I know that sounds draconian, but we have to get times well under four hours. A simple guide could be distributed just as driver license bureaus give out to would be drivers. It is not too much to ask for people to know what they are doing when they play. Having said that, the worst offenders are males who have been playing forever. These guys are never ready, are plum bobbing for a nine on every green and would not let anyone play through for fear to do so would threaten their masculinity. It is time to fix this problem!

By: Steve in Vegas

Steve in Vegas — Sun, 06 May 2007 08:47:58 +0000

We all hate getting up before the sun rises but if you can get out on one of the early tee off times most of the wanna bee golfers and hackers are still in bed. When my Dad taught me the game we were up at 5:00 am teed of a day dreak and were back home in time for Mom to have breakfast ready.
Plus the dew helps the greens stick. Doesn't help the putting though.

By: tbjohnston

tbjohnston — Sat, 05 May 2007 15:41:28 +0000

Great points here and elsewhere.

David Baker's comment about walking is right on.

Some folks (my dad), can't walk 18. Those who can, should. And shame on designers who build courses with tees 100 yards from the previous green.

The points about using the time when your partner, opponent or fellow competitor is playing his ball to determine what you're going to do are excellent.

One note - I don't think that waiting for a group to clear the green on a par 5 is as big of an issue as its been made out to be. I've been putting on a green when some guy rolls the ball onto the dance floor, and it is a distraction. When he comes up and says - "Sorry, I didn't think I could hit it 250 on the roll with a 3 wood," I would rather he have waited until we had cleared the green.

Yesterday morning we played 18 (walking) in 3 hours 20 minutes. Not the fastest time, but we never rushed a shot, never once hurried, but were always ready to play. Much more fun.

By: David Baker

David Baker — Sat, 05 May 2007 04:22:12 +0000

Good article Jeff!

If I was to add another one is to eliminate the cart and enforce walking. Not only is it good for the game but is good for our growing society.