Avoiding Slow Play

    The "PACE OF PLAY" goal for all 4-somes during HGA tournaments should be to stay within an acceptable distance with the group in front. There are many ways to help accomplish this goal without feeling that we're being "pushed" or "rushing our shots", etc. Your HGA Directors offer the following suggestions to help curb the problem of slow play during our tournaments. Suggestions from members to add to this list are welcomed. Let's all keep up with the group in front and have fun doing it.

* Play "Ready Golf". Hit when it's safe and appropriate for you to do so without fear of hitting into the group in front. Shorter hitters who can't reach the group in front…hit first. Leave "Honors Golf" for Match Play.

* Have your club selected, glove on and be ready to hit when it's your turn.

* Put your "unique" mark on at least 2 sides of your ball with permanent ink to identify it as yours. This will reduce the risk of hitting a wrong ball from the fairway (2 stroke penalty) and enable you and others to identify balls in the fairway and especially in the rough.

* Watch your shot until your ball stops rolling, especially if an errant shot leaves the fairway. Identify a reference point (tree, stake, bush, etc.) to help you search for lost balls in the right location. Do the same for your playing partners.

* Begin your search for your lost ball immediately. If another in your 4-some is searching for theirs, consider taking your next shot first, then go help search for the other ball…especially if your ball is on the opposite side of the fairway.

* Search for lost ball should not exceed 5 minutes (USGA rule). The 5 minute rule begins when you begin your search. Thus, if 2 balls are lost in the same group, each affected player should begin looking for his/her ball immediately. The group cannot spend 5 minutes looking for one ball then an additional 5 minutes looking for a second ball.

* Leave the T-box immediately after all group members have hit and proceed to your ball.

* If you are driving the cart, take your riding partner to his ball, then go to your ball. Each hit when it's safe.

* Plan your next shot as you approach your ball…be ready to hit when it's safe for you to hit.

* If "cart path only" applies to golf cart use, take multiple clubs to your ball if you're unsure of club selection.

* Park your cart or leave your clubs between the green and the next T-box. Do not leave them in front of the green you're playing.

* Study your putting line while others are putting as long as you do not disturb others while they putt.

* Consider putting out, unless your stance affects another's putting line.

* Leave the green immediately after your group has holed out and proceed to the next tee.

* Enter scores into the score card on the way to or after reaching the next tee. Never stand on the green you've just finished to enter scores.

* If you start getting behind, don't hesitate to suggest to your group the need to "pick up the pace".