Ready Golf: The Future of Playing?

Golf has always been a game of tradition, with rules and customs that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. However, as the sport has grown in popularity, so has a recurring issue that frustrates golfers of all skill levels: slow play. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual weekend golfer, you’ve likely experienced the frustration of waiting on the course. This is where ready golf comes in—a modern approach designed to speed up the game without sacrificing safety or etiquette.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about the concept of ready golf: what it is, how it works, and why it’s gaining traction among golfers. By the end, you’ll be ready to embrace a faster, more enjoyable style of play. Ready? Set. Go!

What Is Ready Golf Anyway?

Ready golf is a simple and practical approach to stroke play that encourages players to take their shots as soon as they are prepared, rather than strictly following the traditional turn-based order. 

In traditional golf, the player farthest from the hole takes their shot first, regardless of whether other players are ready. While this system has its merits, it often slows the pace of play, especially when players take extra time to assess their shots or deal with course challenges.

In ready golf, the emphasis shifts to efficiency. If you’re ready to hit and it’s safe to do so, you go ahead—even if another player technically has the “honor” or is farther from the hole. This slight adjustment can shave significant time off each round without impacting the integrity of the game.

How Does Ready Golf Work?

Contrary to what you might be thinking, ready golf isn’t a free-for-all where everyone rushes to hit at the same time. It still requires communication, awareness, and adherence to basic safety guidelines. Here’s how ready golf works in different scenarios:

1. On the Tee Box

Traditionally, the player with the “honor” (the lowest score on the previous hole) tees off first. In ready golf, any player who is prepared can step up to the tee and take their shot if it keeps the game moving. This is particularly useful when the honored player is still deciding on their club or lining up their stance.

2. In the Fairway

If the player farthest from the hole is not ready, another player who is prepared can hit first. For example, if a player farther back is waiting for the green to clear or selecting a club, someone closer to the hole can take their shot to maintain the flow of play.

3. Around the Green

On the putting green, players traditionally mark their balls and wait their turn based on distance. Ready golf encourages you to finish your putt if you’re already set up and your play won’t interfere with others. This can prevent unnecessary delays caused by repeated marking and resetting.

4. In Hazardous Situations

If your ball is in a tricky spot (like a bunker or rough) and you need extra time to prepare, let someone else in your group take their shot first. This allows you to focus on your recovery shot without holding up the group.

Who Is Ready Golf for?

If you’re someone who values efficiency and enjoys a steady pace, ready golf is an excellent fit. It’s particularly beneficial for:

• Busy Professionals: If you’re short on time, ready golf allows you to enjoy a round without sacrificing your schedule.
• New Golfers: The less rigid structure makes the game more accessible and less intimidating. Plus, it’s a great time to introduce a new player to the concept as old habits die hard in obstinate players.
• Seasoned Players: Even experienced golfers can benefit from the improved rhythm and focus that ready golf provides.

Keep in mind, however, that it’s not ideal for every situation. In match play or high-stakes competitions, where strategy and order of play are critical, traditional rules should take precedence.

Why Ready Golf is Revolutionary

Ready golf isn’t just a trendy concept; it addresses one of the biggest issues in the game—slow play. Here are several reasons why you should consider adopting this approach:

1. Faster Rounds

The most obvious benefit of ready golf is a faster pace of play. On average, a round of golf can take 4-5 hours, but ready golf can reduce that time significantly. This is especially beneficial for busy golfers who want to fit a round into their schedules without dedicating an entire day.

2. Greater Enjoyment

When rounds drag on, frustration sets in. By speeding up the game, ready golf makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time actually playing, which is what the game is all about.

3. Better Engagement for Beginners

Golf can be intimidating for newcomers, especially if they feel they’re slowing others down. Ready golf removes this pressure by encouraging everyone to play at their own pace, fostering a more welcoming environment for beginners.

4. Reduced Course Congestion

Slow play doesn’t just affect your immediate group—it creates a ripple effect that impacts everyone on the course. By adopting ready golf, you’ll help reduce bottlenecks and ensure smoother play for all golfers behind you.

5. Improved Focus

When you’re ready to play your shot without waiting for others, you can maintain your rhythm and concentration. This can lead to better performance, as you’re less likely to overthink or lose focus during prolonged waits. It’s common knowledge that the longer a game drags on, the less focused you’ll be as a result of dehydration, fatigue, or hunger. This is also why Whole In One bars are so important- they keep your energy levels up and combat fatigue as a result of insufficient nutrition.

6. Adherence with Modern Rules

The 2019 Rules of Golf update from the USGA and R&A actively encourages ready golf in stroke play, emphasizing the importance of pace while maintaining safety and sportsmanship. By adopting this approach, you’re aligning with the modern evolution of the game.

Common Misconceptions About Ready Golf

As with any change to tradition, ready golf has its share of critics as well. Let’s address some of the common misconceptions:

1. “It’s Disrespectful”

Some golfers believe ready golf undermines the game’s etiquette. In reality, it’s designed to enhance everyone’s experience. As long as you communicate with your group and maintain safety, ready golf is far from disrespectful—it’s considerate.

2. “It’s Unsafe”

Safety is always the priority in golf. Ready golf doesn’t mean ignoring basic precautions; it simply encourages efficiency when it’s safe to play- key word being “safe”.

3. “It Only Works for Casual Games”

While ready golf is most commonly used in recreational play, it can also be applied in competitive stroke play formats. However, it’s important to clarify with your group or tournament organizers if you plan to use this approach.

Practical Tips for Playing Ready Golf

Ready golf may sound simple—just hit when you’re ready—but putting it into practice requires a balance of preparation, communication, and respect for your playing partners. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Just Be Prepared

Preparation is the foundation of ready golf. While someone else in your group is taking their shot, use that time wisely. Walk or drive to your ball, assess your situation, choose your club, and plan your shot. The more prepared you are, the quicker you’ll be able to play when it’s your turn.

• Plan ahead: Anticipate what club you’ll need next and have it ready in hand.
• Visualize your shot: As you approach your ball, take a moment to consider your options so you’re not wasting time deliberating when it’s time to swing.
• Stay efficient with your equipment: If you’re carrying multiple clubs to your ball, place unused ones on the ground nearby (but not in another player’s way) to avoid unnecessary trips back to your bag.

2. Communicate with Your Playing Partners

Clear communication is a top priority when playing ready golf. While the concept encourages everyone to play when they’re ready, it’s important to make sure your group is on the same page. A simple discussion before the round can set expectations and prevent confusion.

Discuss ready golf at the start: Let your group know that you’re adopting ready golf principles, and encourage them to do the same.

• Signal your intentions: If you’re about to hit out of turn, make sure the other players are aware. A quick “I’ll go ahead” is enough to keep things running smoothly.
• Stay courteous: Ready golf is about speeding up play, not rushing others. Be respectful of your group’s pace and comfort level.

3. Keep Safety a Priority

Safety should always come first in golf, and ready golf is no exception. Never hit a shot if there’s a chance it could endanger someone else. Being ready to play doesn’t mean rushing through your routine without proper caution.

• Check your surroundings: Always ensure the fairway and areas around you are clear before hitting.
• Wait for the green to clear: Even if you’re ready to play, don’t take unnecessary risks by hitting toward a group ahead of you.
• Avoid distractions: Make sure everyone in your group is paying attention before you take your shot. Call out “fore” if your ball strays toward other players.

4. Play Efficiently on the Green

The putting green is one area where ready golf can significantly speed up play. Instead of marking your ball and waiting for everyone else to putt, consider finishing your putt when practical. This reduces the stop-and-start nature of traditional play and keeps the game moving.

• Finish if you’re close: If your ball is within a couple of feet of the hole, go ahead and putt out instead of marking and waiting for your turn.
• Line up your putt while others are playing: Use the time when others are putting to read your line and prepare.
• Minimize marking: Mark your ball only when absolutely necessary to avoid slowing down the group.

5. Use Efficient Cart and Bag Management

Whether you’re using a cart or carrying your bag, managing your equipment efficiently can make a big difference in pace of play. Avoid unnecessary trips back and forth, and be mindful of where you leave your gear.

• Park smart: When using a cart, park it on the side of the green closest to the next hole. This reduces the time spent walking back to retrieve it.
• Carry only what you need: If walking, take only the clubs you’ll need for your next shot, rather than returning to your bag repeatedly.
• Organize your gear: Keep your clubs and accessories in order so you can quickly find what you need.

6. Respect Course Etiquette

Remember that misconception that ready golf is disrespectful? It is not a free pass to disregard golf’s etiquette. Instead, it works best when combined with respectful behavior toward your playing partners and the course itself.

• Don’t disrupt others: Even if you’re ready to play, avoid actions that could distract another player’s shot. Wait for them to hit before moving or making noise.
• Repair divots and ball marks: Playing quickly doesn’t mean skipping course maintenance. Always take a moment to repair your divots and ball marks.
• Adhere to local rules: Some courses may have specific guidelines about pace of play or ready golf. Be sure to follow them.

7. Be Adaptable to Group Dynamics

Not every group will embrace ready golf equally, and that’s okay. Some players may prefer a more traditional approach or need more time to adjust. Be flexible and adapt to the dynamics of your group.

• Gauge your group’s comfort level: If someone is hesitant about ready golf, don’t pressure them. Let them play at their pace.
• Blend traditional and ready golf: In situations where strategy matters (like a competitive match), stick to traditional turn order. Otherwise, prioritize ready golf.
• Be supportive: Encourage less experienced players to try ready golf as a way to build confidence and keep up with the group.

8. Avoid Overthinking Your Shots

One of the key benefits of ready golf is the opportunity to maintain a natural rhythm. Overanalyzing your shots can lead to hesitation and slow play, so trust your instincts and avoid dwelling on decisions.

• Limit practice swings: One or two practice swings are usually enough. Any more, and you’re just wasting time.
• Trust your first decision: Go with your initial club choice unless there’s a compelling reason to change it.
• Focus on execution: Instead of overthinking strategy, focus on executing your shot to the best of your ability.

9. Be Aware of the Group Behind You

Ready golf is also about being considerate of other players on the course. Keeping pace with the group ahead ensures that you’re not holding up those behind you.

• Keep up with the group ahead: Your group’s position relative to the one in front is a good indicator of pace. If you’re falling behind, pick it up.
• Wave faster groups through: If your group is struggling to keep pace, let faster players play through.

How Ready Golf Benefits the Entire Course

The advantages of ready golf extend beyond individual players or groups—it benefits the entire golfing ecosystem:

• Course Management: By reducing the time spent on each hole, courses can accommodate more players in a day, increasing revenue and customer satisfaction.
• Tournament Efficiency: Ready golf can streamline stroke play tournaments, ensuring they run on schedule.
• Better Player Experience: A faster pace of play creates a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone on the course, from casual golfers to staff.

Final Words

As golf continues to evolve, ready golf represents a step forward—a modern solution to a longstanding problem. By balancing tradition with practicality, it ensures the game remains enjoyable and accessible for players of all skill levels.

So, the next time you’re on the course, consider giving ready golf a try. You might find that a faster pace not only improves your experience but also deepens your love for the game. Play smart, play safe, and most importantly, play when you’re ready!