Pace of Play Policy

 

 

The pace at which we play impacts everyone in the field behind us and their enjoyment.  It's the responsibility of every golfer and every pairing to maintain an appropriate pace.  Stay in position with the group ahead of you - it's not about the group behind you.    
 

Our policy:

 

• First Warning: If you fall behind pace and exceed the maximum finish time recommended by a course, you may receive a first warning.

• Second Warning: A second warning will result in placement on the Restricted List. This means you will be required to ride and play near the rear of the field for all remaining rounds this season (tee times will be adjusted accordingly).

• Third Warning: A third warning will result in disqualification from the event and suspension from all remaining rounds this season, including match play events.

 

If a ranger or club representative informs you that your group has fallen behind, you are expected to acknowledge the situation respectfully and comply promptly.  Combative or dismissive behavior will result in an automatic warning, regardless of your eventual finish time.

 

All pace of play decisions will be made by the President and Events Committee based on facts. 

 

Tips to improve pace:

 

• If in doubt, ride. If walking limits your ability to keep up, please take a cart.

• Play ready golf. Don’t wait for honors if it’s safe to proceed.

• Speak up respectfully. A quick comment like “Hey, we’ve fallen behind - let’s catch the group ahead” shows awareness and leadership.

• Walk with purpose. A steady, brisk pace between shots makes a big difference.

• Be ready to hit. Prepare during others' shots so you’re set when it’s your turn.

• Putt out when practical. If it won’t affect others’ lines, finish your short putt instead of marking.

• Help spot shots. Watch each other's shots and limit searches to 3 minutes (per USGA rules). Use Local Rule E-5 (2-shot penalty) to drop near the fairway if a ball is lost and not in a penalty area.

• Move quickly off greens. Record scores at the next tee, not on the green.

• Catch up smartly. If your group falls behind, two players should advance to the next tee and hit, while the others finish putting.

• Pick up when appropriate. If you’ve reached your maximum score for the hole (e.g., net double bogey in Stableford), or your ball won’t count for the team score, go ahead and pick up. Record your most likely score for handicap purposes per USGA guidelines.

 

If you have any questions, let us know. 

 

We appreciate everyone’s efforts to help uphold our reputation with area courses and keep our club great!