Playing Ready Golf - What Does That Really Mean? 🏌️‍♀️

If you have spent any time on a golf course, you have probably heard someone mention "ready golf." But what does this term actually mean, and why is it so important for the pace of play?

Ready golf is a simple concept that can make a huge difference in how quickly your round moves along. In traditional golf etiquette, the player farthest from the hole plays first. While this is still the formal rule in competition, ready golf encourages a more practical approach: whoever is ready to hit should go ahead and play their shot, as long as it is safe to do so.

What Ready Golf Looks Like in Practice ⛳

Ready golf means being prepared when it is your turn. This includes having your club selected, your yardage figured out, and being mentally ready to execute your shot. It does not mean rushing or playing carelessly. It simply means being efficient with your time.

Here are some examples of ready golf in action:

• Walking to your ball while others are playing theirs, as long as you are not in their line of sight
• Taking your practice swings while waiting for your turn
• Playing your tee shot first if the honor player is still searching for a club
• Putting out when you have a short putt remaining, rather than marking and waiting
• Heading to the next tee while the last player finishes putting

Why Ready Golf Matters 💚

Slow play is one of the biggest frustrations in golf. A round that should take four hours can easily stretch to five or more when players are not practicing ready golf. This affects everyone on the course, not just your group.

By being ready to play, you show respect for your playing partners and the groups behind you. You also keep your own rhythm going, which can actually help your game. Standing around waiting can cause you to lose focus and get cold between shots.

Safety First, Always 🚨

While ready golf encourages efficiency, safety must always come first. Never hit when someone is in range of your shot or when they might be distracted by your movement. Communication with your playing partners is key. A simple "go ahead" or "you are good" lets everyone know when it is safe to proceed.

So the next time you head out for a round, keep ready golf in mind. Be prepared, be aware, and be considerate. Sometimes us ladies get a bad rap on the course for perceived misconceptions of our capabilities and our knowledge of the game and its nuances related to pace of play. Understanding and following through on playing ready golf keeps foursomes moving along the course more efficiently and your fellow golfers will thank you! 🌸