[Daryl]

As the greens speed up so the pace of play slows! Slow play and socialism gets me fired up! Afterall the molasses mob are spending "your" time! Golf enterprises are suffering all over right now. My pro was carping about the slow play etc. I pointed out the greens were a shade of blue, the rough was worthy of a US Open, and in attempt to cut maintainance costs new "native areas" have sprung up! I think carts also slow play up. Well, at least people that do not know how to use a cart properly. I do not know how many times I see guys sitting in the cart watching their playing partner hit then wait to be chauffered to their ball...only then does their shot prep begin.

Okies tips for speedy play:

1. Play a round with Okie (usually in the 2:45 hour range)
2. Walk (I am starting to see more pull carts in these parts)
3. Play matchplay. Save putting everything out for the "monthly medal", or something, otherwise it is like playing doubles in tennis with a singles court...many forced errors!
4. Ditch the FJ Classics, opt for the "joggers"
5. Walk like Nicklaus...pull the trigger like Wadkins!
6. One practice swing on full strokes...do downsing waggling while waiting for Deliberate Dan and Lethargic Lenny.
7. Never stop at the turn...your bag has pockets you never use...use 'em!
8. Starting reading the green 40 yards off, start reading your putt as soon as you step foot on the green. As a point of note I mark my ball but leave the ball in place (as long as it does not interfere with my playing partner etc.) This way I can prepare while others are doing their thing. I chat between shots but seldom ever on the greens where I am busiest. I leave the mark there so that I can adjust the sharpee aim line on my ball
9. I am not a big fan of hitting a small bucket of do-overs!
10. I NEVER help my playing partners look for their ball when they clearly hit it in a hazard of sorts, or where I might find a copperhead!
11. I only use the 5 minute rule when in a competitive setting, otherwise it is a 3 minute deal...tops. I have been known to encourage my playing partners to watch their own ball down!
12. I do excuse myself from my playing group if the going is too slow. I love golf...I hate gooooooolfffffff! It may seem rude I simply say "Thanks for the nine gents, the going is too slow for me. Enjoy the back nine!"

I know this thread was on course difficulty etc. but I think slow play is the biggest hazard of all!

Interesting note (not a jab at North America, but I have never played with a slow member of the British Commonwealth...slow playing that is!

Hi Okie,

Perfect Post. I especially like Tips 1-12. But #6 bothers me. Just waggle the Flying Wedges, then hit the ball. Otherwise, you'll lag more than my Clubhead.

Hey, when I played with O.B. last year, I was accused of slow play. I just wanted to enjoy a relaxing 3:15 round.