Never been out on a golf course

65bl

I,ve had a few lessons on a golf range with a pro. I,ve got a starter set of clubs. I,m ready to start playing golf. But i,m nervous of playing a round for real on a golf course. What is the etiquette involved. Do i turn up at a course, pay my money and work away or is there a protocol for a first timer. I dont want to offend any regular players or hold up play etc. I would prefer to play my first few rounds on my own, at my own pace just to get the feel of it and without an audience.
I am looking to play golf for both exercise and for its socialable side so i,m not expecting nor do i want to be a star player but i would like to be just competent enough not to feel self consious or that any regulars would feel i shouldnt be on a golf course.
Any advice on getting started would be much appreciated
Can anyone recommend a course in the north east suitable to start on.


BL

Adiaga 2

If you've never been out on a course before I'd recommend playing a couple of rounds of par-3 golf first. There's a decent enough course in Balheary, Swords where you can just turn up and play. It will give you a good feel for the game and you can certainly play at your own pace there.

f22

I would recommend playing with others regardless. It's the only way you will learn the rules and etiquette of playing the game. Golfers are generally quite tollerant of beginners, once their own game isn't infringed on.

Good luck and enjoy yourself

WHIP IT!

f22 wrote: »

I would recommend playing with others regardless. It's the only way you will learn the rules and etiquette of playing the game. Golfers are generally quite tollerant of beginners, once their own game isn't infringed on.

Good luck and enjoy yourself

I second that - I would definitely go and play in a group... The thing sometimes with beginners is, they often assume that regular golfers are out there every week firing four-under par rounds and hitting the ball miles and they feel like they won't compare... There's plenty of people out there playing golf twice a week who rarely break 100... Remember that and remember that as long as you respect the rules, etiquette and people you play with, you've as much right to be there as anyone - whether you shoot 68 or 108...

I read a good quote somewhere before, something to the effect of: "You playing partners won't remember how good or bad you were or how many great shots you hit - they'll just remember you were good company..."

bigtimecharlie

I think the par 3 9 hole (go around twice) idea is a good one, try to get another player to go along with you. Then try a pay-as-you-play to get used to the lenght of 18 holes, not sure of any club's that you could play in the north east.

Best of all, go out to enjoy it and most people will be willing to help you as your game evolves.

65bl

Many thanks for all the replies

As a matter of interest what would your opinion be on booking a first round in the company of a teching pro or would that be a waste of money?

bigtimecharlie

65bl wrote: »

Many thanks for all the replies

As a matter of interest what would your opinion be on booking a first round in the company of a teching pro or would that be a waste of money?

I've heard a few people run that idea into the ground, everyone had their own opinions. For what you will pay, you will get little back. You may pick up some course etiquette but from a golf point of view, you will learn more on the driving range.

stockdam

If you are going by yourself then try to go out when the course is very quiet. Always be aware of who is behind you and keep looking back.....you don't want to hold anyone up. If somebody does come up behind you and you haven't anyone immediately in front of you then step to one side of the fairway and wave them through........a big clear wave otherwise they won't see you.

Replace your divots, repair your pitch marks on the green, rake any bunkers you go into (after you hit out). It's ok to hit maybe two balls at each hole but don't stand there and hit a dozen balls onto the green otherwise the greenkeeper will be annoyed.

If you do come up to a slow group then if they wave you through then sometimes it's better to lift your ball and walk through thanking them on the way.......I suggested lifting your ball because if you aren't confident then it can be daunting with people watching you as you duff your way through. Just tell them that you are a beginner and you don't want to hold them up unduly.

Play slowly and enjoy it but always keep a look behind you as I said.