Golf has long been cherished as a game of tradition, patience, and respect. Yet, as the sport evolves, so do its practices. Enter “ready golf,” a modern approach designed to speed up play without disrupting the rhythm of the game. While the concept is well-intentioned and often necessary on today’s busy courses, its informal nature can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or even breaches of etiquette.
Far from being a free-for-all, ready golf requires a nuanced understanding of both the rules of the game and the social dynamics among players. Missteps—whether rushing to the green ahead of your group or interrupting another player’s pre-shot routine—can erode the very camaraderie and decorum that make golf unique.
To ensure ready golf achieves its goal of efficiency without compromising the spirit of the sport, it’s essential for players to familiarize themselves with its unwritten rules. These guidelines strike a delicate balance between maintaining pace and honoring the traditions that make golf a game of courtesy and respect. Let’s explore the key principles every golfer should follow to embrace ready golf the right way.
1. It’s Not a Free-for-All
Ready golf doesn’t mean you can hit whenever you please. The basic principle is simple: if the player with the honor (typically the one furthest from the hole) isn’t ready to play, the next most prepared golfer should take their shot. However, this isn’t an excuse to disregard turn order entirely. Always confirm with others before proceeding, ensuring you’re not stepping on toes—figuratively or literally. This is in line with basic golf etiquette, and it should be expected from every group.
2. Respect Pre-Shot Routines
If you’re searching for a ball in the woods and signal for another player to take their shot, it’s crucial to respect their concentration. Pause your search for a moment to avoid distracting them. This brief act of courtesy—stepping away from the rustling and noise for 15 to 20 seconds—demonstrates that ready golf is about mutual consideration, not just speed.
3. Ready Golf Stops on the Green
Once everyone is on the green, traditional golf rules take precedence. The player furthest from the hole retains the honor of putting first, barring special circumstances. For instance, if someone has just escaped a difficult bunker or flubbed a chip, allowing them to regroup before putting is a thoughtful gesture. The green is where golf’s emphasis on etiquette shines, so it’s worth exercising patience and preserving the spirit of the game. This shouldn’t stop you from reading the green. Start that process while you’re waiting to putt.
4. Know Your Place on the Course
Ready golf doesn’t give you a license to get ahead of your group. Driving up to the green while others are still making their approach shots is not only rude but potentially dangerous. Golf is still a group activity, and respect for your playing partners is paramount. Maintain awareness of your group’s position and avoid rushing the pace unnecessarily. And the same rules apply for push cart etiquette.
5. Honor the Spirit of the Game
Even within the framework of ready golf, it’s good practice to honor traditional customs when possible. Offering the tee honors to the player who earned them—especially after a birdie—upholds the respect and decorum that define golf. Though most players will waive the honor to maintain pace, the gesture matters.
Ready golf strikes a balance between efficiency and tradition, but its success relies on players adhering to these unwritten rules. By respecting each other’s routines, taking turns thoughtfully, and staying mindful of group dynamics, golfers can enjoy a faster pace of play without compromising the game’s timeless etiquette.
As ready golf continues to evolve, its foundation remains clear: respect for the course, the game, and fellow players. It’s this balance that keeps golf enjoyable for all—whether you’re chasing birdies or just searching for your ball in the woods.