TIPS FOR AVOIDING SLOW PLAY

• Tee off as soon as enough members have arrived and the starter approves. Waiting for specific player delays others' tee times and you might miss the opportunity to meet new people.
• Play "ready golf". Ready golf means:
• Do not wait for others before approaching the tee box.
• Proceed to your ball as quickly as possible.
• On every shot, whenever it is safe to hit, the first person in your group to address their ball should proceed.
• When on the green, putt out whenever possible instead of marking the ball.
• The first person that putts out should tend and replace the pin for other players.
• Emphasize speed of game instead of handicap requirements.
• Take no more than 2 practice swings.
• Keep an extra ball, tees and a ball marker in your pocket.
• Watch other shots, as well as your own, to help pinpoint the position of their ball.
• If walking, lay your bag on the green side toward the next tee box.
• If riding, take the clubs you may need from the cart so you are prepared when you get to your ball.
• Maintain your position on the golf course; try not to let a hole get open in front of you.
• Count strokes and write down your score after you get to the next tee.
• Reserve giving instruction for the driving range, not on the course.

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  Determining your skill level
  New Golfer
  Does not play regularly, Has had group lessons only, Scores over 120 regularly (18 holes) May not keep score; picks up often Is uneasy with experienced golfers Has not established a handicap

  Advanced Beginner
  Plays regularly, but weekly at most Practices rarely, Sometimes picks up, Scores 111-120 regularly (18 holes), Has an official USGA handicap, Handicap is 39 or higher (18 holes)

  Intermediate
  Plays regularly, 1-2 times a week Practices occasionally Still uncomfortable in competition Scores 101-110 regularly (18 holes) Has an official USGA handicap Handicap is 29-38 (18 holes)

  Advanced Intermediate
  Plays regularly, 1-2 times a week Practices fairly often Plays comfortably in competition Scores 85-100 regularly (18 holes) Has an official USGA handicap Handicap is 13-28 (18 holes)

  Advanced
  Plays regularly, 2-3 times a week Practices regularly, 1-3 times a week Plays competitively Scores less than 85 regularly (18 holes) Has an official USGA handicap

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  Short Game Clinic Inverrary