Walking on to a course you have never played can be a little intimidating, especially if you are alone. You may not feel like chatting up the other players to get some tips and some course’s score cards leave a lot to be desired. However, there are some great ways that you can minimize the amount of stress that comes naturally with playing a golf course for the first time.
1. Study the scorecard.
Again, this may not be much help, depending on the pictures that are provided. Some give just numbers, while others will give you a rough idea of what to expect. Take some time to carefully look at the card and start to formulate your strategy.
2. Learn about the course before you go.
Some courses are known for their water hazards, others for their bunkers. Take the time to learn all that you can about the course before you get there. In many cases, you may even be able to find a walk through of the course online, and this can be incredibly helpful. Now, many courses are also adding video tours, so in the future, it should be a lot easier to go to a brand new course and know what to expect.
3. Learn about course designers.
Most of the courses in California were designed by the big three, Bell, Trent-Jones and Muir Graves. Each one has their own signature style. It really pays to learn a little about the courses they have designed in the past. Then, when you arrive at the course, find out how designed it. This should give you some important clues as to what you’ll need to know about playing it.
4. Try to get in two rounds.
It is very helpful to go for a first round that really doesn’t matter, and then play the second one when you are more informed. However, this may not always be possible, depending on your schedule and the amount of the green fees. If you can do this however, it’s the easiest way to get a good feel for the course.
5. Ask around the pro shop/club house.
One of the absolute easiest ways to learn more about the course you are on is simply by asking other players and the people that work in the pro shop. Remember, golf is a social sport and this is a great way to make new friends. Don’t be shy, they were once in the exact same position you were in.
6. When in doubt, work on accuracy.
Most courses can be surmounted simply by paying attention to accuracy. Do your best to get a good tee shot that is straight down the line and everything else should fall into place. It may not serve you well on doglegs, but overall, hanging to the center of the fairway and hitting it hard is generally the best approach on a foreign course.
Finding new golf courses should be fun – and you never know what great experiences are waiting for you unless you try!
Photo Credits: 1
Originally posted 2008-09-08 05:32:30. Republished by Old Post Promoter
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Robert Muir Graves, Robert Trent Jones, Tips and Tricks, William Bell
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