In a recent post by user 23redvsblue, the frustrations of experiencing slow play on a golf course were brought to light. The poster and their wife had a rare opportunity to enjoy a round of golf together after dropping off their son—only to find themselves stuck behind an incredibly slow-moving group of two couples in their mid-50s. Initially optimistic, the pair quickly became disheartened as they watched the group struggle to make any headway, while also contending with the growing number of golfers waiting behind them. The poster, frustrated with the lack of awareness and common courtesy shown by the slow group, shared their experience to highlight the importance of etiquette in golf and, perhaps, to vent about a day that could have been spent enjoying the game instead of waiting to play it.
Summary
- The original poster and their wife faced significant slow play behind a couple of groups on the course.
- Despite having no groups behind them, the slower players showed no intention of letting anyone through.
- Responses highlight varying advice on handling slow play and whether the group should have been asked to let others play through.
- The conversation emphasizes the importance of basic golf etiquette and the potential impact on others’ experiences on the course.
The Struggle of Slow Play
Every golfer has experienced it at some point: the agonizing wait behind a group that seems like they’re playing in slow motion. In this particular situation, 23redvsblue’s round was turning into a test of patience as the slower group barely made it off the tee on hole two while they anxiously awaited their chance to move forward. Golf, which should be a peaceful escape from daily life, can quickly become an exercise in frustration when a golfer’s rhythm is upended by slow play. As the user noted, over ten minutes had passed by hole three, and it was clear that the group ahead had little awareness of those waiting behind them. Such scenarios breed stress on what should be a relaxing outing.
Golf Etiquette and Courtesy
Golf is as much about etiquette as it is about skill. When out on the course, there’s an unspoken rule: if you’re slowing down play and know others are waiting, it’s courteous to let them play through. This sentiment caught the attention of multiple commenters on the original post, many of whom echoed the same idea — that “basic golf etiquette” should have prompted the slower group to allow the faster players, like 23redvsblue, to proceed. In fact, one commenter underscored that the slower players might have been completely unaware of these standards, particularly if they were new to the sport. This opens a discussion about whether the responsibility for maintaining a steady pace of play lies solely with seasoned players—or if there’s also an expectation of growth and learning for newer golfers as they join the game.
Handling the Situation
The comments also illuminated the various strategies employed by seasoned golfers when confronting slow play. One user, brickylouch, humorously suggested that if things got unbearable, they would “just drive past without asking and skip the hole.” This tactic might offend some, yet it speaks to an alternative mindset—avoiding confrontation while prioritizing one’s enjoyment of the game. Others, like Small_Grocery1562, advised taking a par or a bogey and moving on. Either route offers practical ways to navigate potentially awkward confrontations on the course, where the tension of slow play can unexpectedly sour the mood. However, this brings up another point: Should faster players speak up, or should they merely adapt?
The Role of Golf Course Management
Another layer to the conversation came from comments highlighting the golf course itself. Users pointed out that it’s not just the players at fault for slow play—it’s a shared responsibility. As one commenter noted, “A lot of blame goes to the course for allowing such slow play.” Factors like staffing during busy seasons and management of tee times can significantly affect pace. Golf courses can create better player experiences by instituting systems that encourage smooth transitions and reinforce public etiquette. Fairness for all players hinges on open communication from the course staff to the players; after all, no one enjoys the feeling of getting stuck behind a bottleneck when they could be out on the green enjoying their game.
The experience shared by 23redvsblue is a testament to the importance of patience and communication in golf, showcasing both the challenges and the nuances of playing on a crowded course. It’s a good reminder that, while we all want to enjoy our rounds, being cognizant of other players enhances everyone’s experience. We’ve all been there, staring down a long line of golfers ahead—let’s just hope that we continue to play through gentlemanly, as we admire the beauty of the sport.