LI Golf Newbie

[BrianV]

Hello all,

New here and new to the game.

My story: I own an out-of-the box beginner's set of Top-Flite clubs. Over the past 3 years, since becoming interested in golf, I've taken 2 dozen or so private lessons, a 1-day ESPN Golf School, and I've spent a fair amount of time at local driving ranges. I've yet to step on a golf course and attempt to play a round of golf. (My friends are all too advanced and impatient to drag me along and ruin their day). I'm thinking a playing lesson with a pro will be the way to go.

Anyway, I'm glad I found this website and I'm already enjoying reading the posts here by experienced players. I'm looking forward to learning more about the game here.

[Jayel]

Hey there, I'm from Long Island as well. Where on the island do you live? You should go play a round at one of the cheap courses there by yourself and see how it goes, 9 holes goes for about $7-9 at some places that I went to

[cilos2]

I'm also from LI and agree. There's a few 9 holes courses around here and many of the players are beginners so you will feel comfortable. Right now it's an ideal time to play because of the courses are not as full as in the summer. Get out there and play and enjoy yourself.

[LuciusWooding]

I'm from LI as well, and I recommend Spring Lake when you're good enough to play rounds at more challenging courses. Start out at Gull Haven or Mill Pond, they're both pretty easy courses, or Heatherwood which is mostly par 3s.

If you have a hard time driving the ball, especially if you can't get it over 200 yards consistently, then there's no shame in playing from the white tees. The greens will probably be a bit unfamiliar the first few rounds, so don't worry about losing strokes. Try to hit greens in regulation. And take someone with you who's played before your first time; be prepared to embarrass yourself score wise. And believe me, if you can drive well it won't help much. I speak from experience.

On your first round, unless you have a really solid and well rehearsed game already, be prepared to shoot a score of 120-150 including penalty strokes. If you can break 100 in a year, consider yourself talented. Many never do. If they assigned scores based on hitting it at the range, believe me I'd be a lot better. Even an easy course can rack up the strokes if you lose focus.

Just go out and have fun, don't get discouraged and ignore your actual score the first few times on a course, or if you play an unfamiliar course. You'll know what parts of your game need work without keeping notes.

[BrianV]

Thanks for the words of encouragement guys. I truly appreciate it. Perhaps I'll try one of the local 9-hole courses on a cold, rainy day before the season is in full swing. That way I know I'll be on my own. Less embarrassing.

I also have this paranoia drilled into me about holding other players up. I guess I just have to jump in and take my lumps.