⏱️ Tips to Speed Up Your Golf Round

Small delays add total round time for everyone behind you. It adds up fast. To help keep things moving smoothly, we’ve gathered some of our best tips covering both the essentials and a few lesser-known strategies you might not have considered.

ON THE TEE

Be First Tee Ready

Be at the first tee and ready to go while the group ahead is teeing off. Don’t make the starter track you down—start on time!

Play the Right Tees

Choose tees that match your abilities. Playing the proper distance helps maintain pace and ensures a more enjoyable round for everyone.

Flex Before You Fire

Warm up before your round—don’t wait until the first tee to stretch or shake off the rust.

Limit Practice Swings

One rehearsal swing is enough. Save your energy (and time) for the actual game.

Share Yardages Efficiently

If you’re closest to the tee box or in a cart, check the yardage on par 3s and share it with your group so they can choose their clubs early.

Leave Your Driver Headcover in the Car

Skip the extra steps—take off your headcover and keep it off until the round is over.

IN THE FAIRWAY

Watch Each Other’s Shots

Help your playing partners by keeping an eye on their ball. This avoids long searches and speeds things up.

Be the First to Your Ball or Position Yourself Early

If you’re walking, grab your bag and start heading toward your ball before the last shot is hit. If you’re in a cart, be ready to move as soon as it’s safe.

Bring Multiple Clubs

If you’re unsure about yardage, bring a couple of club options with you. This avoids running back and forth.

ON THE GREEN

Set Up for a Smooth Exit

When heading to the green, place your bag or cart near the path to the next tee. This avoids backtracking after you finish putting.

Wave Up on Par 3s (When Possible)

If it’s safe, let the group behind you hit their tee shots once your group is on the green.

Use Continuous Putting

If you’re close enough to finish out your putts, go ahead and do so instead of marking your ball and waiting.

Pick Up at Triple Bogey

If you’ve hit triple bogey, it’s okay to pick up and keep moving. No shame in it—it’s all part of keeping the pace.

Mark Scores Later

Wait until the next tee to write down scores. Use that time while others are hitting.

BETWEEN HOLES & SHOTS

Get Golf Ready

Be prepared to hit as soon as it’s your turn—no need to wait.

Be Quick at the Turn

Plan ahead for bathroom breaks or snacks at the turn. Long stops at hole 10 can create unnecessary delays.

Park Smart

Park the cart where it’s convenient to your next shot or exit point. Minimize extra walking or backtracking.

Multitask Between Shots

Clean your clubs, grab a snack, or put on your headcover while riding in the cart—don’t wait until you stop.

Read Your Putt While Others Are Putting

Mark your ball, assess your line and speed, and be ready to putt as soon as it’s your turn.

Conclusion

Pace of play is a team effort, and small adjustments can make a big difference in everyone’s experience. By following these tips, you can enjoy a quicker, more efficient round—and so can the groups behind you. Remember, golf is about having fun, and keeping the game moving ensures everyone has a great day on the course. Let’s play smart, play ready, and enjoy the game!