Playing with other golfers can be a lot of fun — but it can also be a little intimidating at times. Any time you tee it up with golfers you don’t know, you might be the best player in the group … or you might be the worst.
Being the best is certainly more comfortable, but how do you handle it when you’re actually the worst?
That scenario played out recently for one golfer, whose son was scheduling a practice round for a tournament and invited him to join. The opportunity to play alongside his son was too good to pass up.
However, the scheduled playing partners didn’t show, leaving him to play with three of the top junior golfers in the country. While admittedly intimidating, the experience ultimately proved enjoyable. It highlighted a common situation for many golfers – finding themselves paired with players of significantly higher skill.
Navigating these rounds requires a blend of etiquette, self-awareness, and a positive mindset. Here are a few suggestions for handling the situation when you find yourself playing with better golfers.
1. Don’t play slow
Maintaining a reasonable pace of play is paramount. It’s the most important thing you can do to fit in and show respect for your playing partners’ time. If you’re consistently holding up the group, it will create frustration for everyone involved.
Recognize that you may be taking more shots, so efficiency is key. Move quickly to your ball, choose your club promptly, and keep your setup and routine simple and consistent. Anticipating club selection can also save valuable time. As you walk towards your ball, consider what club you might need and grab it from your bag. While you won’t always be right, this proactive approach can streamline the process.
2. Know when to pick up
Unless you’re competing in a tournament where every stroke counts, prioritize keeping pace with the group. This might mean strategically picking up your ball when you’re no longer in contention on a hole. There’s no need to continue hitting shots when it’s clear the hole is lost, especially if it’s delaying the group.
The same principle applies to putting. After your first putt, consider picking up if you’re far from the hole and the group is waiting. While you might not post a “true” score, you’ll still enjoy the experience of playing alongside better golfers without hindering their round.
3. Choose the right times to socialize
Golf is often as much about the social interaction as It’s about the game itself. A fun round is often defined by good conversation and camaraderie. However, be mindful of timing. Avoid lengthy conversations while others are preparing to hit or while walking onto the green.
Waiting on the group ahead or walking off the green towards the next tee are ideal opportunities to connect without disrupting the flow of play. These moments allow for relaxed conversation without causing delays.
4. Keep trying
Throughout the round, focus on your own game and do the best you can. A basic understanding of your tendencies and how to make small adjustments is helpful. Use the on-course experience as a chance to improve and self-correct. With the right mindset, you might even find yourself playing better as the round progresses.
5. Use it as motivation
Playing with skilled golfers can be incredibly inspiring. They often make the difficult shots look effortless. Observing their technique, course management, and mental approach can provide valuable learning opportunities.
The best players typically dedicate themselves to hard work and consistent practice. Their skill isn’t simply innate; it’s earned through dedication and effort. Witnessing this firsthand can be a powerful motivator to improve your own game.
As one golfer noted, playing with better players can sharpen your focus and guide you toward becoming a better golfer yourself. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy the game alongside those who excel at it.
remember that golf is a game. While competition is part of the fun, enjoying the experience and learning from others are equally important. Embrace the challenge of playing with better golfers, and use it as a stepping stone to elevate your own game.
