Juniors Only

Have a plan for slow play

 One of the major distractions for many competitive players is related to either slow play and/or delays during a round of golf. There are times when inclement weather creates a delay at the first tee or causes a stoppage of play in the middle of the round. As well, slow play can cause a back up on the first tee or on any successive shot throughout the course. This is a recurring reality for most golfers, yet few golfers have a clear plan on how to manage themselves and their time when confronted with a delay. Wise golfers are prepared for a delay and have a set plan for what to think, what to do, and how to keep their mind and body in the optimal state so that they are prepared to play once it is their turn to hit the next golf shot.

Here are some tips and some suggestions:

1. Recognize that the pace of play in front of you and/or the weather are completely out of your control. With the exception of notifying a marshal or rules official to monitor the slow players, there is absolutely nothing that you can do about it other than make a choice about how you will respond.

2. Make sure you keep your body loose during the delay. This strategy will require adjustments depending on the length of the delay. If it is only a few short minutes, then making sure that you swing a club a few times before it is your turn to go may be enough. If the delay is of greater length, say a three-group wait on a par 3 tee box, it may make sense for you to get off your feet for ten or 15 minutes and then start a light stretch and body warm up just in advance of your group being on the tee.

3. Mentally, recognize that there is nothing you can do about the delay. Employ the strategy that works best for you. Some like to chat with their playing partners. Others prefer to go off by themselves and have some quiet time with their eyes closed or observing their surroundings. Still others like to do some imagery and visualization exercises as they play the holes in front of them in their mind. One of the tour players with whom I work actually puts a book in her bag so that she can read during delays. It works for her!

Make sure you have a strategy thought out in advance, and stick to your plan so that you can create the best internal and physical environment so that you are sharp and ready to hit a quality shot when it is your turn. Remember that YOU are in control of how you react when you face a delay on the course!

Jeff Troesch's biography and past articles