The accuracy of your golf simulator setup boils down to the calculations that the launch monitor computes. Launch monitors, such as the GCQuad and Trackman 4, are highly accurate. For example, Trackman suggests that their device can accurately detect the landing point of your golf ball by 1½-yards.

I’ve personally found these premium launch monitors to be incredibly accurate. This provides detailed insight into my golf game and helps me better understand my club selection, swing path, and launch angle.

However, this level of accuracy is not found in more affordable home golf simulators. That is because they measure fewer data points. For example, the OptiShot 2 measures your club speed, path, and face angle at impact. This helps you determine the apex, distance, and direction of each golf shot.

Conversely, the Trackman 4 measures detailed club and ball data to receive a clearer picture of your shot. Naturally, the added data points help the Trackman provide more accurate readings. As opposed to its affordable competitor.

That is understandable and something to keep in mind when planning your golf simulator setup. As an average golfer, you need golf simulation software to enable you to play on a virtual golf course and driving range at any time.

Your mission is to improve the mechanics of your swing and ball striking. You do not need to focus on highly accurate data. Your mission is to learn how to consistently strike a ball with your golf clubs first.

Golf Simulators vs. Launch Monitor

The majority of golf simulators require a launch monitor for operation. However, launch monitors can be used independently of the simulator. Launch monitors are portable and can be employed on the driving range, the course, or as part of your home golf simulation setup.

Launch monitor technology calculates output for your shot. Therefore, it measures your clubhead and ball speed, face angle at impact, and launch angle. This information is then calculated to provide the direction and distance results. Golf simulators partner with launch monitors to provide a virtual experience.

Golf simulator software allows you to play a virtual course, practice on the range or undertake different challenges. The simulator provides a visual representation of your ball flight, direction, and distance on the screen.

An accurate golf simulator gives you the experience of a life-like round, showcasing your distance and direction. Less-accurate devices may present a few yards less or more than their premium competitors. However, this is no train smash for the average golfer.

Let me use a car analogy for the motorheads. The launch monitor is the engine, and the simulator is the chassis. It brings the work of the launch monitor to life, displaying your shot results on the screen.

There are a couple of golf simulators that do not require launch monitors. They are entry-level products that are easy to use. One that I have already mentioned is the OptiShot 2. It uses optical sensors to measure club data, eradicating the need for a launch monitor.

In addition, there is PhiGolf Mobile Home Simulator, where a motion sensor stick detects your club data. The results are displayed on your TV screen through the WGT golf game. Although I love what they are doing, I find this more like playing Nintendo Wii than using a home simulator.

How Golf Simulators (Should) Improve Your Game

Golf simulators give you the platform to improve your game. If you transform your garage or basement into a home simulator, you can practice every day of the week. You can still get some training in, on days where it is impossible to make it to the range.

They help your game because they provide detailed insight into your shot to help you take corrective action. A simulator allows you to practice with purpose instead of aimlessly whacking balls at the range and achieving the same outcome.

Understanding your average ball speed, smash factor, face angle, and launch angle empower you to improve your game. Once you identify your ideal backswing and angle of attack for a shot, you can consistently practice it and awaken your muscle memory.

Recommended Golf Simulators

I recently unveiled my top 10 golf simulators under 00. They are ideal for casual golfers to practice and play virtual tournaments. I recommend looking at the post to get an idea of what setup is best for you.

But if you want something quicker, I’ve compiled a mini-review of my top 3 home golf simulators below, including entry-level, mid-range, and premium products.

SwingLogic Home Golf Simulator

Pros

• Super affordable
• The sensor clips onto your shaft
• The set includes a swing stick
• Measures 5 data points
• It includes a license to E6 Connect

Cons

• Inaccurate data
• The price does not include a complete simulator setup.

The SwingLogic Home Golf Simulator is an entry-level simulator that is easy to operate and is suitable for beginners and high handicappers. A sensor clips onto your shaft below the grip, and measures distance, backspin, sidespin, face angle, and swing tempo.

It records fewer data points than premium models resulting in less accurate information. However, it is not a train smash for the average golfer who can live with imperfections.

Although it is an affordable golf simulator, it does not include a mat for your hitting surface, nor an impact screen or net. It does include a subscription to E6 Connect software, enabling you to play virtual rounds of golf and practice whenever you have a moment.

Ultimately, it is an ideal product to consider if you are not willing to pull the trigger on a complete setup at this point.

OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box

Pros

• It includes a net
• Easy to setup
• Measures club data
• The set provides a hitting mat
• Affordable

Cons

• It does not measure ball data.

The OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Simulator is the best value for money simulator that you can get. It works for mid and high handicappers looking for entertainment and a platform to train. For less than $1000, you can take home a complete set.

This simulator includes a hitting net, mat, and impact pad, packed with 16 sensors that respond to infrared light. The sensors track your club path, clubhead speed, and face angle to calculate the outcome of your shot. Naturally, the lack of ball data leads to inaccurate results. But again, this is not the end of the world for casual golfers.

The OptiShot 2 Simulator lets you play on 15 renowned golf courses as you work to lower your handicap. Call 3 buddies over for a couple of beverages and a night of fun on the simulator. You can play 18-holes or tackle challenges to see who is the best in your group.

Foresight Sports Sim-In-A-Box

Pros

• Highly accurate data
• Access to 21 world-renowned golf courses
• It measures ball and club data
• The package includes hitting mat, impact screen, PC, and access to the FSX software

Cons

• Too expensive for the average golfer

I understand that it is difficult for the average golfer to justify dropping more than $16,000 on a golf simulator. However, I want you to see why a premium launch monitor costs thousands of dollars versus an entry-level model.

The Foresight Sim-In-A-Box Birdie Package is one of the more affordable (believe it or not) premium simulator setups. It includes a GC3 launch monitor, a gaming optimized PC, an impact screen, and hitting turf. Plus, the set is sold with a frame to provide the appearance of an enclosure around the screen.

Besides the robust features of this set, it also provides access to the company’s FSX 2020 software. It contains 21 world-class golf courses and a virtual practice range and gives you the chance to compete against other golfers across the globe.

The GC3 launch monitor measures 10 ball and club data points to increase the accuracy of the measurements. Therefore, its superiority in this field makes it an ideal option for low handicappers and serious golfers.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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Split tees refer to scenarios when a golf course starter sends the players off the 1st and 10th tees. Golfers with a tenth tee block time will finish their round on the 9th. Conversely, those playing their first tee shot on the first hole end their long

The main objective is to increase the number of golfers who get through 18-holes on scheduled long days. Two sets of tee boxes are helpful when there are 140 plus golfers in a field, and there is limited daylight for everyone to tee off the 1st.

It is an effective way to increase the field’s capacity, leading to a growth in revenue from green fees and other tournament-related revenue.

In addition, more foursomes of golfers get to tee off on a scheduled day. Given its rise in popularity, a starting time has been hard to come by at some clubs. This is one way to ensure more of us get to play.

Furthermore, a two-tee start alleviates a backlog if bad weather leads to a delay. It enables competitors to complete their rounds without being affected by less daylight.

As a junior, I played many Provincial 36-hole strokeplay league events. The field usually consisted of 80 odd players.

Where I grew up on the East Coast of South Africa, we had plenty of sunlight. However, getting all those youngsters to finish up 36-holes in a day required serious logistics. That is why split tees were employed.

Especially since we were traveling from across the province, which was a 3 to 4-hour drive for some.

The tournament couldn’t start excessively early because of the long-distance travelers, nor could it end at sundown. Somehow, the organizer managed to pull it off and throw prize-giving into the mix.

When Professional Tournaments Use Split Tees

You typically see split tees used in professional tournaments where fields reach as many as 156 professionals. This is commonly found in National Opens. These events extend invitations to International stars and amateurs.

If you watched the PGA Championship last weekend, you would have noticed that split tees were employed on Thursday and Friday. You will also witness this in the upcoming British Open. They use two tees to maximize daylight, and the first group is penciled in for an early tee time.

What Are Double Tees?

Double tees refer to when a golf course sends groups of players off the 1st and 10th tee simultaneously during an allotted period. For example, the starters assign a tee time between 7 and 9am to the 1st of 10th holes.

A challenge that arises with this setup is the pace of play. If players complete the back 9-holes faster than those on the front, you experience delays at the turn. However, when foursomes of golfers are playing at a consistent speed, it flows seamlessly.

What Is The Average Tee Time Interval?

The average schedule allows for 7 to 10-minute intervals. This is determined by the local club and is often based on the time it takes for the group ahead to play their second shot and clear the fairway or green.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some courses increased the interval time to 12 minutes, ensuring social distance protocols.

Other Start Types in Golf Tournaments

Standard

The standard start is where every golfer tees off the first and completes their round on the 18th. This is common in instances where fewer golfers are on the tee sheet, and there is ample time to complete 18-holes.

You will find that regulation PGA Tour events follow this procedure because the tournaments are restricted to exempt players. The only major tournament to use this start is the Masters. The system works differently at Augusta National compared to the other majors.

Shotgun

A shotgun start is an efficient approach for 72 golfers to complete 18-holes simultaneously. Each fourball is assigned to different tees around the golf course at the same starting time.

For example, the organizer decides that the event starts at 1pm. So, you meet your foursome at the clubhouse and walk over to your assigned tee box.

When you hear the starter’s horn, you commence your round and follow the layout until you have completed 18 holes. If you start on the 4th hole, your 18th will be the 3rd.

Every shotgun start I have played in has been a charity event with a post-round auction. The idea is that everyone finishes simultaneously to keep the participants around for the auction.

A standard start or split tees leads to some players finishing hours before the rest of the field. As a result, some participants leave early, and organizers limit their upsell potential.

Besides extracting cash from the field, a shotgun start works wonders during the time of year with less daylight.

Double Shotgun

A double shotgun start is the same as a single, except that every tee box is assigned two groups of foursomes. Let us call them group A and B. The 18 foursomes from group A tee off at 8:00am, while those in group B hit the links at 12:00pm.

Reverse Shotgun

Reverse shotgun is based on the premise of the original idea. However, it is crafted to cater to fewer players. Instead of the participants teeing off on every hole simultaneously, golfers are assigned to holes 18 and backward. For example, If there are 9 foursomes, they will tee off simultaneously on holes 10 through 18.

This frees up non-tournament players to enjoy a round of golf without being held up or interfering with the pace of play.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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The duration of a golf tournament varies depending on the format and whether it is for professionals or amateur golfers.

I’ve played in tournaments ranging from 9-hole team match play events to 72-hole amateur tournaments.

The duration of a tournament depends on the format, size of the field, and the tournament profile…

How Long Golf Tournaments Last

Club Competitions

The standard Wednesday or Saturday competition at your local golf course typically lasts one afternoon or morning. However, serious events such as club champs are often played over 2 days. It is up to the club to make that decision.

State or Provincial Amateur Tournament

A state amateur tournament is generally scheduled for 3 or 4 days, giving the top amateurs a taste of the stamina required for professional golf.

National Amateur Championship

National Amateur Championships vary in length depending on the format. For example, the U.S Amateur is played over 5 days, as it combines stroke play and match play. In 2021, over 312 golfers secured tee times for the medal portion of the event. After 2 days, the field is cut to 64, who battle each other in match play for the title.

Another example dearer to me is the South African Amateur Championship. It is a pure match play tournament contested over 4 days. Naturally, this event does not attract the magnitude of players found on the tee sheet at the U.S Amateur.

Pro Am Tournament

The average Pro-Am tournament lasts for one day. These are often held on the Wednesday preceding a professional golf tournament. However, there are Pro-Am events where amateurs compete alongside professionals for 4 days.

The most famous 4-day Pro-Am events are the AT&T Pebble Beach and Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. These tournaments follow the best ball format, where you take the lowest score from your pairing on each hole.

Pro Am’s offer the average golfer a chance to test their skills against Tour Pros. Sometimes, you may get lucky and play with legends like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson, or Bryson DeChambeau.

Professional Tournament

Tournaments for professional golfers usually last 4 days, excluding practice rounds and the Pro-am. This is the case at the British Open, PGA Championship, US Open, the Masters, and most regulation events.

However, there are exceptions to the rule. The WGC Dell Technologies Matchplay is contested over 5 days. Conversely, team events such as the Presidents, Solheim, and Ryder Cup last 3 days.

Although the US Open is scheduled for 4 days, it previously reserved an extra day for ties after 72-holes. The USGA changed this rule in 2018 to a 2 hole playoff. The golfer with the lowest score after 2 holes wins. If the scores remain deadlocked, they proceed to the 3rd hole for a sudden-death playoff.

The idea before 2018 was that tied players would return on day 5 for an 18-hole playoff. 3 of my compatriots successfully weathered the playoff to claim the U.S Open. Gary Player did it in 1965, and 29 years later, Ernie Els lifted the trophy. Retief Goosen added to the tally when he defeated Mark Brooks in 2001 by 2 shots.

This is exciting for fans who can never get enough of the majors, but most of us have to work on a Monday, leading to fewer viewers. The last memory we will cherish of an 18-hole U.S Open playoff is the 2008 edition at the Torrey Pines South Course.

Tiger Woods played with a torn ACL and 2 stress fractures in his left leg and still managed to beat Rocco Mediate. Although he required reconstructive surgery, it propelled the big cat to his 14th major victory, 4 shy of Jack Nicklaus’ record:

The Number of Rounds Played in a Golf Tournament

Club Tournaments

The majority of club tournaments consist of one round of 18-holes. However, Club Championship events could consist of two 18-hole rounds. Obviously, this assumes that the event is stroke play or Stableford. If it is match play, you may play 36 holes per day. Therefore, if the tournament is scheduled for 2-days, you could play 4 rounds of 18 holes.

State Or Provincial Amateur Tournaments

Provincial or state amateur tournaments range from 3 to 4 rounds of 18 holes if it is a strokeplay tournament. Should it function as a matchplay event, the winner may play 7 rounds of golf. Every match is 18-holes, except for the final, which is reserved for 36-holes. This counts as one round or match.

National Amateur Championship

National Amateur Championships tend to follow the same procedure as State competitions. Every round, except for the final, is contested over 18-holes, and winners of the morning match proceed to the afternoon. This repeats until the semi-finals.

The winners of the semis proceed to the 36-hole final, which counts as 1 round. Therefore, the finalists play in 7 rounds during the tournament.

Pro Am Tournament

The standard Pro-Am tournament lasts for a single round of 18 holes. The chief exceptions to this norm are the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Dunhill Links Championship. Players that make the cut for Sunday will play a total of 4 rounds of 18-holes.

Professional Tournament

PGA and DP World Tour events are contested over 4 rounds of 18 holes. This is the standard, and the events run from Thursday to Sunday. However, the structure differs when there are special match play tournaments.

Participants play 36 holes a day, resulting in two 18-hole rounds. Every match is decided over 18-holes, except the final contested over 36-holes. In these events, the finalists play 9 rounds of golf. Despite being a 36-hole final, it is viewed as one round.

Team events such as the Ryder Cup are contested over 5 rounds. Days 1 and 2 see teams play a total of 4 rounds. In addition, every team member is drafted for singles matches over 18 holes.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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4 years ago, I thought I had played my last round of golf.

Nothing went according to plan. Even though I struck the ball well, my luck had dried up. The frustration with my scorecard led to me taking time away from the game. In this post, I share my experience of quitting golf and why you shouldn’t.

Besides sharing my personal experience, I will discuss the top reasons why golfers quit the sport. In addition, I have provided ways to make golf more enjoyable to ensure that you love the game for as long as you live.

If your confidence is low and your performance makes you want to quit, don’t do it. Read our guide on how to play golf and go back to the basics before making your decision.

Why So Many People Quit Playing Golf

Expensive

Aside from injuries, the cost of golf is a key reason why people give up the game. Admittedly, it is not the most affordable sport on the planet. A new entry-level set of clubs sets you back around $500, while green fees are $50 to $100 a pop.

As much as one loves the game, golf expenditure may not fit into your budget when times are tough. However, you do not need to completely give up the game. There is still the option of visiting your local driving range, Top Golf, or pitch and putt course. It may not be first prize, but if you can still enjoy the game, why not make the most of it.

Challenging Sport

The reality is that golf is a challenging sport, and it can break the calmest individuals. You need to know how to aim at your target, swing a golf club, and judge the power of the shot.

The inability to combine these factors leads to erratic distance, accuracy, and an inflated scorecard. Not to mention that it adds to your frustration and drives you insane. Even those with the biggest egos are not immune to the wrath of the Golfing Gods. This humbling experience can cause some to outright quit the game.

Issues With Swing Mechanics

Golfing professionals make swinging a club look like a breeze. However, executing a shot is another story. Casual golfers struggle with accuracy because of damaged swing mechanics that produce hooks and slices.

When players struggle to grasp the concept of rhythm and tempo, they never produce the intended result. This leads to much time spent searching for golf balls in the woods. In addition, your scores are too high to fit onto the scorecard.

You can forgive this a couple of times, but after a while, it gets old, and the frustration overtakes your enjoyment of the game. This is when the average golfer decides to hang up their golf clubs.

Impatient

Golf is a complicated sport, and you do not become good overnight. It takes years for some to achieve and requires constant practice and dedication. Once you reach that level, you need to continue working on your game. Otherwise, your hard work quickly unravels.

The issue I see with some golfers is impatience. They want to be a solid golfer instantly, and their inflated expectations only increase frustrations. Instead of taking the small wins, players feel hopeless if they do not break an unrealistic score.

Breaking 100, 90, or 80 has to be earned, and if you remain patient and work hard, those days will come. Unfortunately, many quickly give up and choose to wallow in self-pity instead of training at the driving range.

Injuries

I acknowledge that injuries may be out of your control, but it is a chief reason why people stop playing golf. Common golf-related injuries spring up in your back, knees, and forearms. Although most injuries will not end your playing career, they may hamper your swing and the ability to optimize rotation.

If players feel like they cannot play the game the way they previously did, it might propel them to hang up the bag.

Limited Golf Courses In The Area

A buddy of mine moved to Montenegro 2 years ago for work and has effectively given up the game. The nearest golf course to him is in Dubrovnik, Croatia, which means he would need to cross the border for a round. When he adds the 3-hour travel time to the round, it is a full-day affair.

Naturally, if it becomes a mission to get a round of golf in, it could push you to quit the game.

Why You Shouldn’t Quit Playing Golf

Best Sport In The World

Golf is the best sport on the planet. Sure, I love rugby, soccer, cricket, American football, and tennis, but there is no sport like ours. It is challenging, frustrating, rewarding, and the ideal way to spend 4 hours and 30 minutes.

In addition, it offers a way for you and your buddies to get out and enjoy the fairways well into your old age.

Health And Wellness

My non-golfing buddies always joke that golf is not a sport, and you get no exercise. That couldn’t be further from the truth. When possible, able-bodied individuals are encouraged to carry their clubs and walk around the golf course.

Most amateur golf courses measure around 6000-yards, which is 3.4 miles. That excludes the extra distance you walk searching for your golf ball. The R&A reckons that the average golfer walks 4 to 5 miles in a round, and burns 2000 calories.

Then there is the added workout of swinging a golf club. The Titleist Performance Institute explains that your forearm muscles, latissimus dorsi (back), gluteus maximus (posterior), pectoralis major (chest), and core impact your golf shot.

Consistently playing the game, and activating these muscles, is one way to keep them operational when you move to seniors tees.

Besides physical wellbeing, golf helps you keep your mind active. The game requires planning, strategy, and the ability to aim correctly. These factors force you to think and analyze each shot. This keeps your mind working and healthy long after retirement.

Networking

Golf offers a way for you to make lifelong friends. Although it is an individual sport, it builds a community around the game. If you stop playing golf, you begin to miss out on this camaraderie. While networking is good for business, it also helps you build close ties with buddies who will have your back through thick and thin.

You will also feel left out of all the war stories your buddies share from their day on the links. This creates a detachment from the group and can lead to a lonely feeling.

Ways to Make Golf More Fun and Less Frustrating

Pick Days With Nice Weather

One way to enjoy your game more is to pay attention to the weather forecast and pick clear days to play on. If you play in the rain, heavy wind, or severe heat, it is a miserable experience that won’t entice you to hit the golf course anytime soon.

There are countless weather apps to use. However, my farming buddies put me on to Windy a few years back, and it helps me plan my rounds of golf in advance.

Stretch Thoroughly

I know that you would rather shoot the breeze with your buddies before you tee off. Instead, I suggest taking 10-minutes before your round to thoroughly stretch your shoulders, chest, and gluteus maximus.

Michael Breed from the Golf Channel provides 3 simple stretches that you can do in the below video. This reduces the risk of you pulling a muscle or inducing a herniated disc:

Not all golf courses have a range for you to warm up on before your round. In that case, hit the chipping and putting green and get a feel for the course. Next, take your 2 longest irons, hold them together and take a few practice swings. That will loosen the muscles.

Don’t Play For Score

I went through a patch where I focused on my score so much that the game became unenjoyable. I was not looking at any positives. Instead, I beat myself up over my net scores if they were higher than the previous round.

I started to hate the sport and forgot that it was only a game. I eventually came to my senses and began playing without scoring. It relieved self-induced pressure and made me appreciate every shot.

I suggest heading out to play without a scorecard. Focus on the minor wins, such as better ball striking or more fairways and greens in regulation.

Take A Cart

Now, I prefer walking over a cart because it gives me added exercise. However, I recognize that golf courses are long, and some players struggle to carry a bag, walk and swing their clubs. This leads to fatigue and makes the player wish the round would end rather than enjoying the journey.

If mobility is becoming a challenge, and you feel like you cannot walk 18-holes, take a cart. It does not need to end your golfing days.

Use Forgiving Clubs

This is an easy fix. Please, I urge casual golfers to use game improvement golf clubs. They provide the forgiveness and consistency needed to enjoy the game of golf. Your golf ball still gets into the air and travels an adequate distance, even on mishits.

Golf is hard. There is no need for you to play with unforgiving clubs that make the endeavor more challenging.

Play Off The Front Tees

Last year I spoke with a senior at my home club in Cape Town about his love for golf. He explained that he almost quit as he entered his 70s. In his prime, he was a scratch golfer. So, it was difficult for him to accept that his body was changing, and he no longer produced the same distance.

However, his group encouraged him to put those days behind him and embrace his situation. As a result, they encouraged him to tee off the forward tees, and he started to enjoy the game again.

The club tees were too far back, and the gentleman struggled to make pars on holes he previously birdied with ease. Fortunately, the forward tees enable him to keep playing and enjoy the game with his buddies.

With That Said… When It Might Be Time to Quit Playing Golf

There are only 2 instances where I can accept individuals quitting golf.

1. The first is injury. If your doctor suggests never playing again, you should take their advice. There is nothing you can do to get around that.
2. The second reason boils down to finances. Some golfers cannot balance the game on top of their everyday expenses. When you reach this point, survival comes first and leisure later. Get your finances in order and work towards a day when you can play the sport again.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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Golf’s popularity is at an all-time high.

Even though the year 2020 was ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Golf Foundation reported that over 24.8 million people played golf during that year. This was the sport’s most significant boom in participation in 17 years.

Brands like Callaway and Titleist are seeing an increase in the overall sales volume of their golf clubs. The popularity of golf should continue to increase. Here are 10 reasons why:

1. Golf is a Fantastic Stress Reliever

Life can be full of stress. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a possible recession, there are always things that cause anxiety.

So folks have to find ways to blow off steam. Playing golf is great for that, as multiple studies have shown how spending time on the golf course can have a positive influence on a person’s mood.

Reducing stress helps lower anxiety, decreases the chances of depression, helps improve sleep, and improves blood pressure. Simply put: when life gets tough, find the first tee because golf is a fantastic stress reliever.

2. Playing Golf is a Great Way to Meet New People

With more people working from home than ever before, the need for in-person social interaction is at an all-time high. Folks who play golf get the opportunity to meet new people from all parts of the world. These types of social experiences help ward off feelings of loneliness and depression.

A few years ago I got to play a couple of rounds of golf with a gentleman from The Netherlands and we are still friends to this day. That kind of stuff just doesn’t happen as often with other sports. The social nature of golf is a huge plus!

3. Golf is Good Exercise

Many folks falsely assume that most golfers have the physique of John Daly (no offense Big John, we all love you!). That couldn’t be further from the truth. Most players on the PGA Tour are quite fit.

Believe it or not, golf is good exercise. This is especially true if you walk the course instead of using a golf cart. According to a study by Golf Digest, the average golfer walks between 2 to 6 miles during an 18-hole round, depending on whether they choose to ride or walk.

All of that walking is a huge boost to the cardiovascular system. Several studies have shown that a person’s mortality risk severely decreases just by walking a few hours a week. One particular study at Edinburgh University showed that playing golf could extend a person’s life by as much as five years because of the positive impact it has on the heart and lungs!

The golf swing itself works a variety of muscle groups. Completing a full golf swing works the legs, hips, glutes, shoulders, chest, and arms. It also works the lower back and oblique muscles to a larger degree.

4. Golf is Incredibly Fun

One of the simplest reasons for golf’s popularity is that it’s fun! Ask any new golfer who has recently caught the bug for the game and they’re likely to tell you that golf is so fun that it’s addictive. For most of us, life can get too serious at times, so golf is a great way to add some much-needed fun back into our lives.

It’s almost impossible to describe just how much enjoyment a golfer gets by hitting a good approach shot near the pin or sinking a few putts. Or, how about striping a titanic drive right down the middle of the fairway? There’s just nothing like it!

Contrary to popular belief, you also don’t need a huge bank account to enjoy golf. Some of my best memories were when I was learning to play the game on a 9-hole course that only cost $9 to play. Who says you have to have lots of money to have a good time?

5. In Golf, Age Really is Just a Number!

One amazing thing about golf is that it can be played by people of all ages. There are very few sports that you can safely play at 80 or 90 years old and golf is one of them.

For that reason, more and more seniors are taking up the game. No wonder lots of retirement communities are on or near golf courses! Playing golf is a terrific way to stay active during the retirement years and lead a much more fulfilling life.

On the other end of the spectrum, golf is also a fantastic sport for young kids to play. Even if your children aren’t quite old enough to play, most will still enjoy riding in the golf cart with you and learning the basics of the game. Making golf a family outing can create lots of fond memories.

6. Golf is Business Friendly

A golf course is a fabulous place for business professionals to network. Many lucrative business relationships start with two or more folks playing a casual round of golf. Prospective clients are usually much more receptive to business proposals after sinking a long birdie putt than in some stuffy boardroom.

Many professionals find that their customers and colleagues are more likely to open up while playing golf. This is probably because the golf course provides a neutral setting where everyone can get relaxed and comfortable. If your business just isn’t growing as fast as you’d like, the answer may be to play more golf!

7. Golf Teaches Us Many Life Lessons

Sports, in general, can teach us a bunch of life lessons. However, no sport builds character or teaches integrity and patience like golf. Since golf can be insanely frustrating, it can teach a person to be more in control of their emotions and actions.

While it may be tempting to throw (or break) a club after a tee shot into the water or a wicked slice into the sand trap, this shows a lack of emotional maturity. It’s much better to try to laugh it off or take just a deep breath and realize that frustration is simply part of the game. It’s also a huge part of life!

Golf is a journey of self-improvement. It takes a great deal of character, determination, and hard work to consistently hit good shots and take strokes off your handicap. Developing these types of traits will help you build a better life off the course.

8. Golf Provides a Great Opportunity to Connect With Nature

There’s just something special about being outdoors and getting some fresh air. It’s good for the mind, body, and soul. Playing golf allows folks to enjoy the beauty of nature while also getting a healthy dose of vitamin D, which has been shown to help our bodies fight off viruses and other types of illnesses.

Just how important is spending time outdoors? Studies have shown that spending time outside strengthens the immune system, improves digestion, and improves circulation. That’s just the physical benefits of spending some time outside.

The mental health benefits of being outdoors include enhanced creativity, better concentration, stress reduction, and better overall mood. All of these positive statistics about being outside should make us want to set more tee times on a weekly basis.

9. Golf Can Be Enjoyed With Friends or By Yourself

Very few sports can be played both with others or by yourself. Golf is one of those rare sports that offer this type of flexibility. You can play 18 holes with three of your best friends or you can choose to enjoy the solace of playing a round all on your own.

A beautiful thing about golf that some spectators may not know is that the golfer’s main opponent is himself. That may sound a bit weird but it’s true. Even most amateurs aren’t worried about beating their buddies, they are simply just trying to shoot their best-ever score.

Team sports are great for building camaraderie but there are certain restrictions involved. A power hitter in baseball can’t work on his swing unless he has a friend that will throw him some batting practice pitches. Golfers don’t have that type of problem.

10. Golf Can Be Enjoyed on Vacation or at Home

Have you ever taken a golf vacation? It’s an exhilarating experience and we highly recommend it! There’s something refreshing and invigorating about traveling around to different venues and playing different golf courses.

Some of my favorite vacations have been quick weekend getaways to play a couple of new golf courses. Whether you’re a fan of exquisite golf resorts or a quick visit to a new course in a different city, playing golf is a great way to spend a vacation.

Are you more of a homebody than a mover and shaker? That’s okay too! There’s nothing wrong with enjoying all of the pleasures that your local municipal golf course has to offer.

Mike Noblin

Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He’s been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.

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4 Things Golf Towels Are Typically Used For

Perhaps no other item in your golf bag serves more purposes than a golf towel.

While I used to try to save a few bucks by using a regular towel on the course, I quickly realized that investing in a high-quality golf towel was a wise move. This was only one occasion where I realized that taking the cheaper route in golf isn’t always the best idea.

If you’re new to the game of golf, you may be wondering about the many ways a golf towel can be used on the golf course. We’ll address that in this article and let you know our top choice of golf towel.

Common Uses for Golf Towels

1. Clean Your Clubs After Each Shot

The main use of a golf towel is to clean your golf clubs while on the course. While you may be able to get by with not cleaning your driver, all irons must be cleaned after each shot. That’s because with each iron shot the clubface hits the ground with a high amount of authority.

After making firm contact with the ground, the grooves in your irons get all sorts of debris like mud, sand, grass, and dirt stuck in them. If these particles aren’t removed from the grooves with a club brush and a golf towel, your next shot with that golf club may be affected in a negative way. That’s why when you are watching a PGA Tour tournament on TV that the caddies seem to constantly be scrubbing golf clubs.

Many golfers have found that they can’t generate as much spin on their iron shots if the grooves of the club are the least bit dirty. Who would have thought that simply taking the time to clean the grooves of your irons would help improve your handicap?

2. Wipe Off Sweat

Another obvious function of a golf towel is to wipe off sweat. Golf is often played in hot weather and any type of exercise in hot weather can cause excessive sweating. Golfers often use their golf towels to wipe the sweat off of their hands, arms, and forehead.

Moisture from your hands can also build up on your golf clubs so it’s a good idea to wipe down the grip of your club before hitting a shot. The last thing a golfer needs is for his hands to slip off the club during the swing, which will severely affect his accuracy. You also don’t want the sweat to build up on the grips over time because it can make your clubs feel a little bit heavier.

3. Clean Your Golf Balls and Other Accessories

Your clubs aren’t the only golf accessories that get dirty during a round. Golf balls take a beating from the grass, dirt, and sand. Cleaning your golf balls with a golf towel is a great way to keep them looking brand new.

Did you know that a dirty golf ball won’t travel nearly as far as a clean one? Don’t make the game harder than it has to be. Check your golf ball before each hole and shine it up at the ball washer station if needed.

Another ideal time to clean your golf ball is when you are on the green. Many golfers use a greens towel with maximum absorbency to remove any type of debris from their golf ball. Anything that is stuck on the golf ball can hinder a golfer’s putting performance so this step is very important.

The best golf towels are good for not only cleaning golf balls but other golf accessories as well. Golf towels can be used to wipe off your divot tool, tees, or your golf glove. This just goes to show that golf towels are incredibly versatile.

4. Dry Your Clubs During a Rainy Round

Let’s face it, mother nature doesn’t always cooperate while we are on the golf course. Even a beautiful sunny day can be derailed by an annoying popup shower that comes out of nowhere. We’ve all been there and it is less than ideal.

When these showers happen, it’s a good idea to dry your golf clubs with your golf towel before and after every shot. As we’ve mentioned before, the last thing you need is any type of moisture on the grips of your clubs.

Our Top Golf Towel Pick

There are lots of high-quality golf towels out there but our favorite happens to be this 3 pack from Favritt. Not only do you get two premium golf towels for an incredibly low price, but you also get a heavy-duty carabiner clip that attaches to your golf bag. The clip includes a retractable zip-line that has two feet of reach so you shouldn’t have to remove your golf towel from your bag.

These golf towels are made with premium quality microfibers that are durable and non-abrasive. This means you won’t have to worry about these golf towels leaving scuff marks on your clubs or balls. The waffle pattern fabrics aren’t as absorbent as cotton but this helps the towel stay lightweight throughout an entire round of golf.

Favritt completes this 3-pack by throwing in a black golf club brush to make sure that the grooves in your irons always stay pristine. This handy little tool can also be used for cleaning the spikes on your golf shoes. One side of the brush has nylon bristles while the other side is made up of the sturdier aluminum bristles.

Pros

• Low Price for a Complete Set
• Makes a Perfect Gift for any Golfer
• Highly Rated with a 4.6 rating on Amazon through nearly 800 total reviews
• Both the Towels and Club Cleaner are Remarkably Durable
• Available in 4 colors: black, blue, navy, gray

Cons

• Some have said the carabiner clip and retractable zip line break easily
• Towels aren’t as thick as some folks would like

Mike Noblin

Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He’s been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.

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Filthy golf gloves are a common sight for amateurs who pay no attention to them. The dirtier a glove grows, the less traction it provides and the shorter its lifespan.

In this article, I will teach you how to clean golf gloves to help you look the part and improve friction.

The majority of designs do handle machine washing as they are fragile creations. Therefore, you typically need to hand wash golf gloves. I will take you through each step to execute this delicate cycle without damaging your property.

Can You Wash Golf Gloves?

Yes, you can wash gloves. However, they are delicate products, requiring most to be hand-washed with care. Although some designs allow for machine washing, it is suggested you induce a delicate cycle. Otherwise, it can lead the material to rip or peel, reducing the lifespan of even a new golf glove.

In addition, your washing machine may swamp your golf glove with excess moisture, which reduces traction and flexibility.

Furthermore, you can prolong the lifespan of your golf gloves, if you maintain, clean, and care for them.

How to Clean Your Golf Gloves in 9 Easy Steps

Step 1: Brush Off Surface Dirt

Before adding soap and water to the equation, you must prep your glove for cleaning. Grab a soft-bristle brush and gently remove top layer debris, dust, and grime. The most effective approach is to wear your glove so that it is totally outstretched, to reach every nook and cranny.

This clears the path for you to thoroughly remove the deep-seated mud, perspiration, and grime mixture on the glove.

Step 2: Rub Dirt Stains With Mild Detergent

Once the top layer of dust is removed, turn your attention to the visible dirt marks on the material. Apply a light dosage of liquid soap to the stain, and activate your elbow grease to remove it.

I find that it is easier to execute this step while you are wearing the glove. If it fits on your left hand, use your right index finger to rub the detergent. In the event that your fingers prove futile, employ an old toothbrush. The bristles will work the soap into the dirt and remove glazed filth from the mark.

Should the detergent fail, there is always the option of coating the glove in a cocktail of vinegar and water. Others suggest salt or baking soda, but vinegar remains my most reliable backup plan.

Another trick my wife taught me is to add a dash of mild bleach to a damp cloth and rub it into the stain. Alternatively, you can squeeze a touch of bleach onto your fingertip and work your elbow grease.

Step 3: Fill A Bucket With Cold Water and Soap

Some golfers forego the bowl of soapy water and simply throw a glass of cold h20 onto the glove while wearing it. Then, you rub your hands together like you’re washing them with sanitizer or soap. In addition, some players brush their gloves to loosen deep-rooted dirt.

This technique helps remove elements of dirt and sweat, but like any shortcut, it does not offer a long-term fix.

I suggest conducting a thorough cleaning for optimal results. Pour approximately 8.5-ounces of cool water into a bucket, sink, or bowl. Never use hot or warm water because it can damage the golf glove’s shape, size, and traction. Source the mildest of cleaning detergents, and stir in approximately 2-tablespoons of the product.

Step 4: Swish Your Glove Through The Soapy Warm Water

Now that my cool soapy water is ready, it is time to bust some grime. I have witnessed many peers suggest soaking the glove in the water, which I do not recommend. My main gripe boils down to the excess moisture that builds up on the glove because of this method.

It increases your washing time because you need to thoroughly squeeze out the water from the palm and fingers of the glove. Failure to remove this water can impact its texture and fit in the long run.

I hold the bottom of the glove between my index finger and thumb and gently splash it through the soapy concoction. This layers my mitt with sufficient liquid and detergent to get the job done. Swish it through the water until it is damp and soapy enough to execute a clean.

Step 5: Rub The Glove Gently Against Your Other Hand

There are two ways to initiate this step. The first is to put your glove on while the other sees you hold it in the palm of your hand. If you are a lefty, place the glove on your right hand, then splash your left mit across the water.

Rub your hands together as if you were washing them. This helps you dislodge underlying grime and ensure clean golf gloves.

The second option is to hold the glove in the palm of your hand and rub it against your other palm. As with the first approach, this loosens deep-rooted debris and sweat. If dirt remains, pull out a toothbrush or soft-bristled brush and tenderly scrub the area to lift the remaining gunk.

Step 6 – Press The Remain Water From The Fingers and Palm Area

Cease the washing process, and focus on removing additional water from the interior of your golf glove. Start from the top of the pinky finger, and press all the way down, repeating the process for each finger.

When the fingers are cleared of excess moisture, turn your attention to the palm area of the glove. Ensure that the glove is no longer soaking, and prepare for the drying process.

Step 7: Place It on a Towel

Open a dry hand or golf towel, and place your clean glove in the middle. Fold the towel twice, and squeeze it between your palms, to extract any remaining water or soap. Then rub the towel in your hands mildly to dry the surface of the mit. Unfold the towel, and remove the glove for the penultimate step.

Step 8: Turn Fingers Inside-Out

Once the first round of drying is complete, you need to turn your glove inside out. This step is purposed to drain water that may be hiding in the glove’s interior. The easiest way to execute this task is to put the glove off and dislodge it from the wrist area upwards.

Press the glove between your two palms and extract the remaining moisture from the inside. Once it is no longer soaking, you can proceed to the final task.

Step 9: Pull The Fingers Down

The final step, post-cleaning, is to return the glove to its original form. Insert your hand, and lift the material from the wrist up. Turn the glove outside-in to achieve the original shape, and ensure that the glove is outstretched as if you were wearing it.

You are ready to enter the drying process at this stage, which I will touch on below.

Tips for Drying Your Golf Gloves

Air Dry

There is only one way to dry your glove without impacting its feel, fit, and traction. This is the good old air dry approach. That means you must leave your glove in a room overnight to dehydrate. You can add a fan into the mix if you wish to speed up the process slightly.

Although you may feel tempted to throw the glove in the tumble dryer, I forbid you from such reckless behavior. The dryer will speed up the process, but it can damage the composition of the glove, causing it to shrink in some cases.

While a hair dryer is less damaging to a glove, I recommend avoiding this shortcut as well. Excess heat on the glove may shrink or damage its texture and feel.

Leave the glove out overnight, and allow the air to get to work. Make sure that you plan in advance to clean your glove. Do not do it the morning before a round. Because it will likely remain damp during your round of golf.

Furthermore, do not leave your glove in the sun to dry, as the UV rays can induce color disfiguration. That leaves you with a glove that looks like it should be in a museum.

FAQ

How Do I Stop My Golf Glove From Smelling?

Frequently following the steps in this guide, and washing your glove, will prevent foul odors from overrunning it. In addition, you can always sprinkle a dash of baby or foot powder into your glove after your round. It has worked to freshen up my glove in the past.

The reason most gloves smell bad is because of sweat build-up. My advice is to search for a glove that encourages maximum breathability. In addition, take off your glove in between shots to air the hand out.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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In a recent post, I provided lag putting drills to undertake on the practice green.

However, this article takes a step back to better understand what lag putting is and how you can better execute them on the golf course. In addition, I will explain why lag putting is an effective technique to combat the dreaded 3-putt.

Following these steps will enable you, as an amateur, to confidently navigate the putting green and reduce your overall golf scores. Furthermore, I will teach you how to read grass grains and use them to your advantage in lag putts.

What is Lag Putting?

Lag putting is the art of getting the ball close to the cup on long putts. Your intention is not to sink the first putt but rather rest it within a couple of feet of the cup. This puts you in a prime position to drain the second putt. If you hit a green in regulation, that would see you card a par.

You typically pick to lag your putt when you are more than 20 feet from the hole. The majority of golfers, especially beginners, will not sink this putt. Therefore, you should set yourself up for a short putt on your next shot.

Tips on How to Hit Better Lag Putts

Soft Grip

Lighter grips are best suited for lag putts which rely on feel and judgment more than anything else. A looser grip gives you a superior putting feel for two reasons. Firstly, it allows you to feel when the putter head is veering off-path, giving you a chance to pause and correct the issue.

Secondly, a golfer who employs lighter grips for longer putts can better feel the top of the backstroke for optimal distance control. A firm grip reduces feedback, limiting your ability to judge power and putter head path.

Golf Pro Rory Hie suggests not controlling the pendulum motion. Instead, allow your grip to provide the feel of the putter’s weight in your hands. In addition, a lighter grip helps you better judge the speed of the putt to prevent you from over-hitting your putts:

Start Small

The 15, 20, 40, and 50-footer drill is one you should consistently apply in your practice sessions. Lay down five balls at each interval and start from the closest mark.

Putt all 5 balls, and do not progress to the following distance until all balls are within 3 feet of the hole. Keep going until you achieve a 100% success rate from the furthest mark. This helps you achieve a superior feel for the ideal putter length on the backstroke for each distance.

When you get onto the course, you will not fear 60-footers, as your muscle memory will take over and boost your long putting game.

Look at The Cup During Practice Strokes

Coaches often grill into high handicapper golfers, the idea of looking over the ball at address. While this is correct at setup, I discourage it during your practice stroke.

This is problematic on a lag putt where you need to judge the distance to the cup and break of the green. You cannot analyze the layout correctly if you are not focused on what lies ahead. Zero in on the hole during your pre-shot routine and take a few practice strokes to judge the required strength.

Do this as often as you need until your putting stroke replicates the shot you are about to hit. Remember your training from the Start Small drill and employ that feel for proper distance control.

Read The Green

Learning to read greens takes practice, but the faster you learn the ropes, the easier a long putt becomes. Occasionally, you may have a 50-foot downhill putt that breaks left to right. Instead of employing the same length backstroke as I would on a flat surface, I reduce my power.

In addition, I use the break of the green to take my ball towards the vicinity of the cup. Amateurs struggle with this element of the green, as the undulation is confusing and startles the average golfer.

Rickie Fowler explains that he reads the green as soon as he walks up to it. This gives him an understanding of which direction it is sloping and the level of undulation:

Once he has marked his ball, he approaches the hole from the other side to envision how the ball will travel down to the cup. Then he reads the green from behind his ball and correlates the two findings.

Once he feels the line of the putt, he can now turn his attention to the weight of his stroke. This helps him optimize his speed control for better lag putter results.

Read The Grain

Another significant factor to consider is the grass grain and the direction of its growth. Golf instructor Stefany King shows a simple trick to reading the growth direction of the grass. This helps you identify the speed of your putt and the path of your ball roll:

She suggests inspecting the cup and identifying the area that is browned out around the edge. This is the side where the grass is growing with the green. That means if you putt from that side, it will be a slower putt and a straighter line.

Conversely, if you putt from the opposite side, the ball will roll faster and gravitate to the brown side of the cup. This is a good start for beginners willing to go the extra mile for a good lag putt. Over time you will learn about the impact of Bermuda, poa, and bentgrass. But for now, this is an ideal introductory lesson.

3-Foot Radius

The key to your first long-range putt is to get it into a zone of 3-feet around the cup. Work on getting the ball past the cup, especially on downhill putts. You cannot overhit the ball, as it may roll off the green.

However, if you leave your first putt short, you will face a tricky downhill second putt, which you want to avoid as much as possible.

My advice is to position an alignment stick 3-feet behind the cup to encourage you not to pass this point on your first putt. You can follow the same procedure as the start small drill, where you hit 5 putts from different distances.

In addition, there is the option to add scores into the equation to make your practice time more exciting. If you sink your first putt, you put yourself down for a birdie. However, a ball that passes the cup but remains within 3 feet equals a par.

Anything beyond the alignment stick or short of the hole is a bogey. After your 5 practice putts from each distance, tally up your score before moving to the following interval.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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My non-golfing buddies have often mocked me for playing what they consider a seniors’ game.

They think golf is boring and a terrible way to spend half of your daylight. However, the game is challenging, carries various forms, and can be played deep into old age. To disprove the haters, I have compiled 11 little-known reasons why golf is actually fun.

This list explains why golf is a rewarding game that challenges everyone who attempts to play it. Plus, I mention why major golf provides entertainment and intensity that few sports events can replicate.

1. It’s Rewarding

Although golf can frustrate amateurs and professional golfers, it also ranks high among rewarding sports. That is because it requires consistent practice, patience, and all-around performance from tee to green.

Golf can deliver rewards in various forms. On bogey days, a welcome par or a good shot stops you from feeling sorry for yourself and brings joy. Better rewards include your first par, birdie, or eagle.

However, nothing beats breaking a barrier for the first time. For example, you break 100 for the first time by shooting a 99. After that, your next goal is to break 90 and then 80. If you are good enough, breaking 70 should be a goal.

These are long-term goals. They are most fulfilling to a golfer, besides a hole-in-one. Considering the odds of carding an ace, we will sidestep that topic for now.

2. You Get to Be Out In Nature

Getting out into nature is vital for clearing your head and disconnecting from the noises that distract our daily lives. It is a chance for us to relax and think about nothing other than the beautiful day and how to approach your next shot.

3. The Game of Golf Is a Marathon

Golf is a marathon. What I mean by that is that it requires constant practice and improvement. You do not strike a ball like Tiger Woods after a couple of coaching sessions. There is always something to improve to lower your total strokes and hit more consistent golf shots.

Handicaps help us determine our overall progress, but they do not indicate the individual elements of our game. However, the end goal of any golfer is to lower their handicap to a target number. Ideally, you will aim to play off a scratch, but realistically, that is a pipe dream for most amateurs.

Furthermore, there is no time limit to achieving your goal, take all the time you need. You determine how quickly you want to improve. Those hoping to fast-track the process should prepare for an intensive schedule of lessons, practice, and playing.

The reason that practice, patience, and perseverance make golf fun boils down to the rewarding feeling when the mission is accomplished.

4. The Handicapping System Evens The Playing Field

A handicap reflects the average number of strokes you finish over par every round. For example, golfers who shoot 86 on average on a par 72 course are roughly a 14-handicap. Conversely, golfers who consistently card 72 on the same course are scratch handicaps.

The importance of handicaps is that it enables all golfers to compete against each other as equals. Therefore, if the 14-handicapper shoots a gross 82 and the scratch golfer cards 71, the higher handicap player wins.

14 subtracted from 82 gives a net of 68. The scratch golfer deducts 0 from 71, resulting in a 71 net score. Therefore, the 14-handicap player had a lower net score and defeated their opponent by 3 strokes on net. This structure is typically applied in stroke play tournaments.e

The beauty of handicaps is that no matter their skill level, golfers can compete as equals in any tournament.

5. It Strengthens Friendships

Golf builds friendships for life. Playing 18-holes with your buddies every week forges stronger friendships. It also brings 4 hours and 30 minutes of laughs, especially when one of your friends is having the worst round of their life.

You can grab a couple of beers or your beverage of choice and carry them in your bag around the course. This brings about a relaxed environment with minimal anxiety and maximum fun.

If you recently moved to a new city, invite your colleagues for a round of golf. They could be the ideal group of new friends and future golfing buddies.

6. The Majors Are Exciting

Let me change the scope for a moment. Playing different golf courses is not the only way to enjoy the game. Watching the world best is another way to experience the fun and excitement of golf. Majors provide the ultimate test for the finest players in golf.

Besides the pressure of playing in one of these events, the layouts are brutal. The US Open and PGA Championship are my two favorite tournaments because the course is long and hard, and the pin placements are sadistic.

Now, it is horrible being a professional golfer, but it is fun for us amateurs to watch names like Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson struggle to return bogey-free rounds. In addition, most tournaments are never won until the very end, which keeps fans on their toes and biting their nails.

Then, there is the ultimate excitement. A playoff. When two or more players return the same 72-hole score, the event proceeds to a playoff, either sudden death or over 3-holes. This is the golf version of a soccer penalty shootout.

You can see for yourself in this epic playoff between Haotong Li and Thomas Pieters at the 2022 BMW Championship.

7. There Are Different Scoring Formats

There are multiple scoring formats in golf to keep the game interesting. Most rounds follow the Stableford format, which uses points. This system carries a shot limit, which varies depending on your handicap and the stroke of the hole.

My favorite format is match-play because you could hit a bad shot and still halve or win the hole. But, if you had a blowout and carded a triple bogey on the first hole, you only go one shot down. That allows you to walk to the next hole, hit your tee shot, and make a solid recovery.

Other formats include foursomes, better ball, scramble, and the classic stroke play. In a foursomes format, you team up with a buddy, and each player hits the alternate shot. Therefore, you hit the tee shot, your partner hits the approach, and you finish with the birdie putt. This format tends to employ Stableford scoring.

As the name suggests, better ball takes the lowest score of the players in your group on each hole. This is either played in groups of 2 or 4-balls. Scramble is arguably the funniest format. Each player hits their tee shot, and you take the best result. Then every player in your group lines their ball up from that mark and plays their second shot.

8. There Are Different Forms of Golf

Golf on an 18-hole course is not the only way you can enjoy the game these days. Short courses are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to a decrease in disposable free time. You can tackle 6-hole courses or 9-hole par 3 golf courses.

If you do not have an hour and a half for a short golf course, you can enjoy the game at an establishment such as Top Golf. Alternatively, you can play miniature golf and test your skills with a putter in hand.

The point is that there are multiple ways for you to enjoy the game of golf without spending hours in the sun. Although, I highly recommend getting a natural tan and enjoying time in nature.

9. You Can Win Prizes in Tournaments

I understand that many amateurs prefer to play casual rounds of golf with their buddies. However, if the opportunity arises, play in some charity or club competitions. You can win fantastic prizes such as golf clubs, footwear, vacations, and the odd bottle of liquor.

It is a rewarding feeling to win a prize. It offers a sense of accomplishment and means you do not go home empty-handed.

10. You Get to Drive Golf Carts

Personally, I enjoy walking around the golf course. I prefer the exercise and silence it brings. However, I am aware that many golfers are also closet gearheads and enjoy fast-moving machines.

Well, golf courses limit the speeds of golf carts, but they are still fun to drive. Be careful anyway, as golf cart injuries are not uncommon.

11. It Helps Forge Business Relationships

You may not think that this factor ticks the boxes for fun. However, the fun comes after a large payday from the business relationship you forged on the golf course. It helps if you are a consistent golfer who can wrangle the upper hand over your opponent and potential client.

But no matter the outcome, you can bond a lot with an individual during a round of golf. The calming conditions give you the platform to get to know one another, which can be a challenge in the boardroom.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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A semi-private golf course have both paying members and are open to the general public. However, members typically get priority on tee times and access to certain facilities.

That means the club generates revenue from golf membership dues and green fees from members of the general public. This enables the establishment to hire more experienced staff and maintain the course and facilities. Semi-private golf courses are far better manicured, making them a pleasure to play on. They may not be perfect like private clubs, but they offer the average golfer excellent value for money.

These courses have variable and invariable revenue streams compared to a private membership club. When the links are quiet, semi-private courses can open up to the general public and generate revenue from green fees and food and beverage.

However, private clubs get their membership fee monthly or annually. This income helps to cover the operations. That’s why exclusive private golf clubs ask for an outrageous fee from current and prospective members.

Therefore, since semi-private golf courses make revenue from the public and their members, they can offer a quality, affordable experience.

Examples Of Semi-Private Golf Courses

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is a fine example of a semi-private golf course. If you are a resident of San Diego, you can play the host venue for two US Open for under $80. However, if you are not from “America’s Finest City,” you can expect to cough up approximately $250.

Out-of-towners who intend to play Torrey Pines a couple of times a year may consider the membership. The first-year fee is $500. After that, the renewal fee is $175.

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is an exception to the norm of affordable semi-private golf outings. A total of $575 is what it takes to play a round at the home of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. If you think that is hefty, the initiation fee for membership is $18,000, but after that, it runs you $260 per month.

The point is that despite its membership program, Pebble Beach is open to the average Joe, making it a public golf course.

Pinehurst

Pinehurst has hosted three US Open Championships and remains a celebrated name in golf. It forms part of a golf complex with nine courses. The most famous being No. 2. Effectively, the nine layouts at Pinehurst are resort courses and range in price.

Green fees fluctuate from $50 to $450, depending on the golf course you are playing and the time of year. Expect to pay approximately $450 if you tee off at the coveted No. 2 course.

Pros and Cons of a Semi-Private Golf Course

Pros

Well-Maintained

Semi-private golf courses have the resources to employ the correct human resources and acquire the ideal equipment. Therefore the golf facilities are generally well maintained. The greens, fairway, and rough are manicured, while the clubhouse, restaurants, and tennis courts remain in order.

Relatively Affordable

As you saw with my example of semi-private courses, green fees vary for visitors. However, when you can play well-maintained layouts for less than $100 in some cases, that is a bargain.

Naturally, courses such as Pebble Beach, Torrey Pines, and Pinehurst No. 2 will cost more, but that is expected from venues that host PGA Tour events.

Better Pace of Play

Semi-private golf courses cost more to play at than municipal clubs. Therefore, it often attracts a serious type of golfer who doesn’t embarrass themselves over 18 holes. These golfers typically respect the rules and possess superior etiquette.

In addition, semi-private clubs should have starters and marshalls who keep an eye on the pace of play and step in when needed. An attentive marshall is vital to keep the field moving swiftly.

Superior Facilities

The final advantage is that semi-private courses have superior facilities. Generally, the clubhouse, halfway house, and pro shop are in better knick than municipal courses. Plus, they offer a wider variety of products and services.

Cons

Preferential Tee Times for Members

The downside of a semi-private course is that members get preference. As it should be. However, that means you need to work around the club’s schedule. Sometimes, management may allow you to tee off in the late afternoon for 9-holes.

Furthermore, you can forget about getting onto the golf course on club competition days.

Higher Green Fees Than Municipal Courses

As you noticed, semi-private courses carry higher green fees than municipal golf courses. Some of them are reasonable but remain pricey for golfers on a budget.

My Recommendation on Courses to Play

Beginners

If you are starting out, I suggest testing your skills at a municipal course. The laid-back attitude of the field and officials is the right environment to learn. There is no pressure or stuck-up folks. These are the courses you can make mistakes on.

Golfers On A Budget

Golfers looking to maximize their playing time for as little dough as possible should also stick to municipal courses. This is where you will save the most money.

On the odd occasion, check the semi-private courses in your area for special deals. Alternatively, you can sign up to a site such as Tee Off, where they offer an array of discounted green fee deals.

Low Handicappers

Superior golfers will appreciate the manicured greens and fairways of private clubs and semi-private courses. In addition, the surrounding golfers are as serious as you about the game. Plus, they are well-versed in the etiquette and rules of golf. Therefore the pace of play is bound to be better.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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