First competition

tritriagain

I got my handicap of 18 during the week and now entering my first ever competition over the weekend . it is a singles stableford and I am absolutely sh##ing myself. I played this morning and had 29 points. I am playing with a friend and two strangers but normally only play with family. I am afraid I'm going to really embarrass myself. Any advice.

Glencarraig

If you can manage 29 points you are only a few good putts or chips from shooting a score in the mid 30's, which is in no way a disgrace, just go out and enjoy the day, hopefully the weather will be nice. Remember the etiquette rules, fix your pitch marks and rake the bunkers. Remember that you have a shot at every hole, nobody expects you to hit all the greens in 2 on par 4's or 3 on par 5's. Best of luck and do let us know how you get on.

tritriagain

Thanks for reply. I have trouble with club selection . 3 times today I ran over the green in to trouble which cost me . i know I have to enter competitions to get better but I know it will be nerve wracking for me. Hope for the best I suppose.

Kirk Van Houten

Treat the par 3s as par 4s, par 4s as par 5s and par 5s as par 6s. Mentally it can make a huge difference. Rather than trying to hit a green from way out look to lay up in the best spot to get your 2 points. Tactically plan your way around the course hole by hole to give you the best and safest way to make one over on each hole.

slave1

No harm in a quiet mention to playing partners that it's your first competition, we've all been there and I'd have no problem playing alongside, and don't worry about poor shots etc. again we've all been there and done that, have you seen Tiger recently!
Enjoy, pressure's for tyres!

Dealerz

slave1 wrote: »

No harm in a quiet mention to playing partners that it's your first competition, we've all been there and I'd have no problem playing alongside, and don't worry about poor shots etc. again we've all been there and done that, have you seen Tiger recently!
Enjoy, pressure's for tyres!

Well put(t)!

The key point is everyone, everyone, even low handicap players are nervous on the first tee....embrace it! By the 3rd hole, you will laugh at what you were thinking on the first tee

tritriagain

Played competition today and had 29 points. 11 on the front and 18 on the back. Really nervous and tense on first 4 holes and 2 lost balls overall. Enjoyed the day in the end so hope the experience will stand to me. Seem to struggle to get into the game and then find a bit of rhythm. Have to work on a quicker start.thanks to everyone for advice.

Kirk Van Houten

Even the pros struggle to start well at times.

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jun/12/andrey-pavlov-scores-17-single-hole-austria-open