How do I get started?
What does it cost to play golf?
How much time does it take to play golf?
How do I act like a golfer?
How do I find someone to play golf with?
What is unique to a golf course?
Do I have to play by the rules?
What is the Play Golf America Zip Search? |
How do I get started?
If you have just begun to play golf or are getting back into the sport,
you realize it takes some direction to get your game up to speed. Holding the
club properly and learning how to hit a golf ball are acquired skills. We
recommend you seek out your local PGA Professional who can assist you with individual
or group lessons for developing the proper techniques to enjoy the game.
Programs such as Get Golf Ready can help you get started. |
What does it cost to play golf?
You can spend very little or as much as you want on golf, just as you would on a TV.
The cost to play varies, depending on the caliber of the course, time of year, day of
week and time of day. Municipal courses typically cost less to play than private,
semi-private, or resort courses. More good news! Many Play Golf America programs are
designed to provide playing opportunities at attractive prices.
Golf equipment is available in both golf shops and retail stores, and vary in price.
Rental clubs are a smart way for beginners to learn the game and discover what they like.
Most facilities offer rental equipment at a reasonable expense.
New golfers often carry starter sets that include a driver,
3-wood, 5-, 7-, and 9- iron, a pitching wedge,
a sand wedge and a putter.
Before you purchase your first set of clubs, it’s smart to contact your local PGA
Professional for the equipment that fits you best.
More inexpensive ways to play golf:
- Practice on putting and chipping greens is often free
- A bucket of balls on a practice range can cost as little as a few dollars
- Play nine holes instead of 18
- Carry your own clubs, if allowed
- Take group lessons
- Play in a league
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How do I act like a golfer?
What to Wear
Typically, men are required to wear shirts with collars. For women,
shorts of mid-thigh length or longer are considered appropriate.
Usually, golf courses have a no jeans policy for both men and women.
Contact your local course for specific clothing requirements.
Many facilities do not allow metal spikes on your golf shoes. Be sure
to ask if you need shoes with plastic cleats. Also, there are golf clubs
that do not permit shoes with golf spikes in the clubhouse. Pay close
attention to the signage for club rules.
What to Expect
- You are welcome at the golf course
- Check in at the golf shop and pay fees
- Warm up at the practice range and putting green
- Make sure you have enough golf balls, tees, ball markers and a divot tool
- Report to the Starter for groupings, course rules and final start time
What to Do
- Make sure you have your equipment ready including golf balls, tees, ball marker and divot tool.
- Be ready to play when it is your turn.
- When you are playing slowly or looking for a lost ball, ask the group behind
you to play through so you do not slow everyone down.
- Never stand or walk in front of a golfer who is about to hit their shot. Also, avoid moving,
talking or standing close to or directly behind someone as they are making a shot.
- Yell “FORE” when a struck ball is heading towards other golfers.
- Observe all cart path rules, and don’t drive carts too near greens or in unsafe areas.
- Repair divots on the course, and ball marks and spike damage on the greens.
- Enter bunkers from a low, flat place, and rake bunkers after play.
- Do not place golf bags on the putting green.
- Avoid yelling, screaming, throwing clubs or using profanity.
- Play according to the Rules of Golf.
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How do I find someone to play golf with?
If you want to play, don’t hesitate to go to the course alone. You will
likely be paired with other players looking for someone to join their group.
Most facilities require two or four players grouped together. Typically, course
will attempt to pair golfers of similar abilities. However, even if you play
with someone more advanced, it can be a great learning experience. Don’t be
surprised if you come away with new friends and golfing buddies.
Group lessons are a great way to find new playing partners and meet new people.
Through your local PGA Professional, you can discover facilities in your area
offering clinics, lessons and playing opportunities.
Another great way to meet fellow golfers is by joining or organizing a golf
league. Your local golf course, employer and friends are all good places to
begin your search for a league.
For women, The Executive Women's Golf Association (EWGA) conducts events to help women of all skill levels gain confidence in
joining other players on the fairway. They also conduct leagues, outings
and social events. |
What is unique to a golf course?
Most golf facilities have a signature clubhouse which is where you’ll find the
golf shop, restaurant, locker rooms and even banquet rooms for weddings and corporate
outings.
Restroom facilities are available on specific holes on the course. A food and
beverage cart will often stop by while you are playing for a quick snack break.
The golf course is an architectural work of art. You can immerse yourself in
nature while you enjoy a day of exercise. Take time to notice the variety of
plants and wildlife unique to your course.
A course consists of 18- or 9-holes and each hole consists of a tee box, fairway and green.
- Play on each hole begins at the tee.
- The forward tees are designated for beginners and players with a high handicap.
- The fairway is part of the course covered with short grass and extends from the tee to the putting green.
- The area at the end of the fairway with the flagstick is the green.
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Do I have to play by the rules?
Golf is a game … so tee up and have fun. Remember, every game has its rules.
As a new golfer, you are not obligated to follow all the rules to a tee. Your
instructor may have suggested a set of rules for your level of play and the course.
New golfers are often encouraged to use “it’s okay” rules. For example, it’s okay to
bend the rules in order to build your confidence and experience in learning the game.
Having fun is the most important factor, especially when first learning to play.
Be patient and enjoy the experience. Scoring is not always the objective in the beginning.
A course consisting of 18- or 9-holes, each hole consists of a tee, a fairway and a green.
When in doubt about a ruling, ask your local PGA Professional.
As you advance, it is a good to learn basic Rules of Golf.
The PGA Summary of The Rules of Golf is an easy to use resource.
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What is the Play Golf America Zip Search?
The Play Golf America Zip Search is found at the top of the homepage.
Enter your zip code and search for Play Golf America golf facilities hosting programs near you. |
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