[KLHJ2]

Originally Posted by Daseal

Hey Guys,

Well, on Friday I'm playing golf, for my first time. I've wanted to learn for a while now -- but I'm fairly petrified of destroying the course. I need as many hints as you can throw towards me! Gman gave me some great advice.

-Dont try to hit the ball hard at first.
-Stay loose
-Etc

First of all good luck...you are going to need it. You are going to be so worried about the rest of the stuff going on that you would forget any Golf tips that can be provided to you right now. In all honesty you will probably slow down play considerably and will focus all your attention on trying to speed up so that you are not hindering others. This may include rushing shots and even running across the course to pick up your one of the 7 balls that you just shanked off of the tee.

The most important thing that you can understand right now is courtesy. Take any necessary steps that you can so that you are still having a good time but not killing the day for the rest of the golfers out there. Some examples are as follow.

Don't hit anything more than 1 provisional shot off of the tee and only do it if it is absolutely necessary. If you can’t get a good shot off after two attempts the just drop with one of your buddies.

When you do drop, drop it in the fairway so that you are giving yourself a chance to hit a decent shot. There is nothing more frustrating than watching a newbie hack away in the trees for 3 minutes.

Do not rush in front of the guys that you are playing with to find your ball. I know that it helps speed up the game but some guys are anal about that sort of thing because it distracts them while they are hitting.

Never spend more than 3 min looking for a ball. Buy lots of balls, you will need them.

Taking your time while hitting will save you time in the long run. Concentrate more on your shot and less time trying to speed up.

Don't worry about keeping an accurate score...you aren't good enough for that yet. Picking up as soon as you realize that you can do no better than a tripple bogie helps save time and frustration.

Finally, as far as the bolded statement goes. You are paying for green fees, so essentially you are paying to destroy the course. Just do your best to fix and fill divots and rake the sand pits.