A player’s starting time and finishing time must be recorded. Report to the scoring table or Pro Shop IMMEDIATELY upon completion of the round. Verify scores, sign cards, and turn in completed scorecard(s).
If you go to your car, change your shoes, etc., your scorecard will reflect an incorrect finish time and subject your group to a “slow play” penalty. Players who finish more than 15 minutes behind the group in front of them will receive a warning after the first occurrence. A second occurrence will result in a penalty. EACH golfer in the group will be penalized. (Your position in the field will be taken into account. If you finish 20 minutes behind a twosome, but played in 4 1/2 hours, on a par 72 course, you would not be subject to a warning or a penalty. This is based on the USGA assuming 15 minutes for each par 4, 18 minutes for each par 5 and 12 minutes for each par 3.
For example, Links at Lang Farm is a par 60 and should be played in 3 hours and 54 minutes.) The first infraction results in a warning. The second infraction results in a “turtle” designation for 4 weeks. The third infraction results in the “turtle” designation for an additional 8 weeks. A “turtle” prevents you and any golfer in your group from receiving a tee time before noon. Where tee times don’t extend that late, you will receive one of the last tee times.
Tips to Speed Up Play
Playing at a better pace is not about hurrying up or rushing around the course. It is simply about being more efficient with your time. Two minutes saved per hole will save thirty-six minutes per round.
- Follow the flight of all tee shots, not just your own.
- Play a provisional ball if you think your original ball might be lost or out of bounds.
- Keep up with the group in front of you. Your correct position on the course is immediately behind the group in front of you, not immediately in front of the group behind you.
- Before reaching your ball, take note of distance and think about club selection. Take 2 or 3 clubs to your ball. Be at your ball and ready to play when it is your turn.
- Study the line of your putt while others are preparing to putt out.
- Record scores at the next tee, not at the green.
- Pay attention to the location of your cart. Don’t leave it behind.
- When sharing carts, don’t wait in the cart while your cart mate hits. You can do as much early preparation for your turn as possible. This might include taking a couple of clubs and walking to your ball.