Getting serious about the game - so what about the FSGA one day events?

[dpgator33]

I'm in my mid 30s, work 5 days a week and am not independantly wealthy.  As such, I am not likely to become a member at any golf club (there aren't any budget friendly ones near me).  I do, however, love to play and am looking to add some competetive flavor to my newfound hobby/passion.  I typically play either by myself or with a group of 30ish handicappers who I have loads of fun with, but playing with them seems to bring my own game down a notch or two.  (maybe it's the pre-golf cocktail, or the cocktail at the turn, not really sure about that).

I've been working on my game and have ventured out to some nicer courses and played with some guys who are more along the lines of my playing ability (10-12 HCP).  I typically shoot in the high 80s to low 90s with my buddies, but playing on these courses that are in better shape, with more serious players, from the back tees usually, I'm consistently in the mid 80s and occasionally will shoot 82-83 (still haven't broken 80 though).

In looking online on how to find some competition (and how to get an official handicap) I came across these FSGA single day events, where anyone with a handicap who lives in FL and is a member ($50/yr) can register for these one day events at very nice courses, with some modest incentives (gift certificates and whatnot).  Not to mention, it only costs around $50 to play most of them.  There is even a two day event at TPC (one rd on each course), with accomodations, for $375!!!  How cool is that?  Unfortunately, that one is booked, but I'm looking at trying to register for some later on in the year.

I was wondering if anyone has played in these, and what they're like.  I've never played in any type of sanctioned golf event, just a few scrambles a year over time, but nothing really special.  Is there anything that I should know or do before playing in something like this?  Do they check your bag for club count or illegal clubs or is it not that rigid?

Anyhow, any pointers from actual experience, either in Florida or in other states that have these types of events would be greatly appreciated.

[abubacar]

I don't know about anything in FL, but I was considering looking into the Golf Channel Amtour when I feel I am playing well enough.  They have events all over the country including a handful of major events.  From what I can tell it is broken down into divisions based on handicap, so if you are a 10-12 you'll compete against other 10-12s.  Seems like a lot of fun since adding competition to anything makes it a bit more interesting.

[reedf]

My goal for the year is to lower my hdcp to the point I can try to play in the (Wisconsin) WSGA Governors Cup next year (or the year after). Very similar to what you're describing. Haven't played in anything like this, but experience tells me that if you are "competing" there will be alot of competitors whose main stragedy is to DQ their competition for any reason whatsoever. They believe it will help their chances I guess.

[Harmonious]

Originally Posted by dpgator33

In looking online on how to find some competition (and how to get an official handicap) I came across these FSGA single day events, where anyone with a handicap who lives in FL and is a member ($50/yr) can register for these one day events at very nice courses, with some modest incentives (gift certificates and whatnot).

Is there anything that I should know or do before playing in something like this?  Do they check your bag for club count or illegal clubs or is it not that rigid?

I've played in a couple this year. They are a good way to play some really nice courses for a reasonable entry. I'll probably get into a few more this fall.  The 2-day event at Palm Coast looks really neat.

They are supposed to play by the rules, but there isn't an official who checks your bag or GPS, etc. I suppose one of your fellow competitors could do so, but so far I haven't seen it.

Since they are held on weekdays, most of the people on the net side are retirees. The gross side seems to have some younger guys.

[dpgator33]

Originally Posted by abubacar

I don't know about anything in FL, but I was considering looking into the Golf Channel Amtour when I feel I am playing well enough.  They have events all over the country including a handful of major events.  From what I can tell it is broken down into divisions based on handicap, so if you are a 10-12 you'll compete against other 10-12s.  Seems like a lot of fun since adding competition to anything makes it a bit more interesting.

Based on your post, I checked out this tour myself to see if I might be interested.  It's very similar to the FSGA program, but the cost to enter is pretty steep, $200 for a year!!  Might be worth it if you're in a state that doesn't have the population or popularity in the sport to support a program like the one we're lucky to have.  For me it's a pass.

[David in FL]

Tournament golf is an absolute ball, and COMPLETELY different from the casual rounds that you're used to with your buddies. It will really tighten up your game and spotlight the areas you need to work on. FSGA puts on some great tourney's and they're all over the place. Pick and choose the ones that are convenient to you and you're right, the cost isn't bad at all. You can probably find some local city/county tournaments too. Bottom line, get out there. You'll be out of your comfort zone initially, but I promise, you'll have a ton of fun and your game will get better! By the way, you can get your GHIN and handicap through the FSGA too. Do it on-line today. :-D

[gwlee7]

You might want to check into the Jacksonville and/or North Central Florida tours on the Golfweek Amateur Tour.  This is one of the biggest and overall best run "Pre-flighted" amateur tours in the country.  I played on the Downeast NC tour for a few years and had a blast.  Its national championship is in Hilton Head every October.  Check it out: http://www.amateurgolftour.net/