What's the suitable pace for a golf round, and when does speed become excessively quick?

Playing golf at a hurried pace might not always be the best approach, as suggested by my colleague Nick Bonfield. If you rushed through your actions without thinking, you won't perform at your best and may miss out on enjoying the game to the fullest. In my humble opinion, any round that takes less than two and a half hours could be too speedy, regardless of the course you're on.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – a round of golf in under 90 minutes sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, not so fast! Hurrying through your game isn't just hard on you; it can make other players uncomfortable, too. If you're hot on their heels, they'll feel pressured to let you pass, which could negatively impact their performance. So, it's only fair to play at a sensible pace that allows everyone to enjoy the game.

As for the ideal pace, I think four hours is a good target for most courses, although this can vary based on factors like the number of players and course conditions. On my home course, a par-69 with tees close to previous greens, a two-player game should take around 2 hours 50 minutes, while a three-player game should last about 3 hours 10 minutes, and a four-player game around 3 hours 25 minutes. For a longer, championship course, you might need an extra half-hour or so.

On the flip side, slow play is a significant turn-off for many newcomers to golf. It's essential to strike a balance between a good pace and enjoying the game at a leisurely speed. During a round of golf, anywhere above 4 hours 30 minutes can feel too slow, in my opinion.

So, when you're on the greens, remember to take a moment to think before making your moves, and don't forget to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the game. After all, golf is about savoring the experience, not about racing to the finish line!

Speedy Play vs. Slow Play: Balancing Act

While some advocate for a sprint-like pace, a relaxed, thoughtful approach can often lead to better performances. It's all about finding the sweet spot, where you can enjoy the game without holding up the next group.

Strategies for a Good Pace

Ready Golf: Be ready to swing as soon as it's your turn, minimizing waiting times for your fellow players.
Know Your Course: Familiarize yourself with the layout, so you can play strategically and make the most of your time.
Refine Skills: Regularly practice and polish your golfing abilities to cut down on strokes and reduce the overall game time.

In the end, golf is about savoring the game, enjoying the course, and spending quality time with friends – not rushing to the end. So, take your time, enjoy every swing, and soak in the beauty of the greens!

Playing golf at a hurried pace may not only negatively impact your performance but can also make other players feel pressured.
Finding a balance between a good pace and enjoying the game leisurely is crucial in golf, as a relaxed, thoughtful approach often leads to better performances.

What's the suitable pace for a golf round, and when does speed become excessively quick?