Pace of Play Guide

Play Ready. Keep Pace. Help Everyone Enjoy the Round.

Pace of play is one of the simplest ways we can improve the experience for everyone on the course. A steady pace keeps rounds enjoyable, supports the flow of play, and helps preserve the positive and respectful culture of GRWGA events. These tips are designed to help every group play efficiently while still enjoying the game.

Pace of Play Tips

1. Be ready to hit.
The USGA recommends players hit within 40 seconds of selecting a club. Limit yourself to one practice swing—or skip it altogether when possible.

2. Save seconds whenever you can.
Small delays add up quickly. After hitting, head to the cart with your club in hand and put it away at the next stop while others are preparing for their shots.

3. Don’t send the whole group searching.
Not everyone needs to help look for a lost ball. If you are next to hit, go to your ball and play. Others can rotate in to help search if needed.

4. Park with purpose.
When approaching the green, park your cart on the back side of the green toward the next tee. This avoids unnecessary backtracking and keeps your group moving forward.

5. Use partner cart time wisely.
Don’t wait in the cart while your partner hits. Drop her off, then head to your own ball and begin preparing for your shot. If walking, bring a couple of clubs and keep moving.

6. Mark your ball clearly.
Always use a unique marking on your golf ball so it can be identified quickly and confidently. If hitting a provisional, use a ball with a different marking than your original.

7. Read the green early.
Begin reading the green and lining up your putt as soon as you reach the putting surface. Don’t wait until it is your turn to start planning.

8. Think ahead.
Shot strategy matters, but much of your decision-making can happen while approaching your ball—not after you arrive.

9. Leave clubs where you’ll need them.
When chipping or putting, place extra clubs and accessories between the green and your cart—on the side closest to the next tee—so you can retrieve them quickly and keep moving.

10. Stay near your next shot.
Whether in the fairway or on the green, position yourself near your ball and be ready to play when it is your turn.

11. Be flexible on the tee.
If the fairway is still occupied, let the shorter hitter tee off first if she cannot reach the group ahead. This keeps the group moving without compromising safety.

12. Play ready golf everywhere.
Ready golf applies across the course—including on the green. If someone is not ready and you are, communicate clearly and play when safe to do so.

13. Record scores at the next tee.
Wait until you reach the next tee box to record scores. This clears the green for the group behind and keeps play moving.

14. Hit a provisional when in doubt.
If your tee shot may be difficult to find and is not likely in a red penalty area, play a provisional ball. This can save significant time.

15. Keep the group ahead in sight.
Your group should remain no more than one shot behind the group in front. If you can’t see them, your group is falling behind and needs to pick up pace.

16. Let the passenger keep score.
In a cart, let the passenger handle scoring so the driver can stay focused on pace and positioning. Bonus tip: your GRWGA scorecard holder makes this easy.

A Better Pace Benefits Everyone

Pace of play is not about rushing. It is about being ready and efficient, staying aware, and respecting the time of everyone on the course. When each player does her part, the entire field benefits—and the round becomes more enjoyable for all.