A recent post in the golf subreddit by user Bitter_Tea_6628 sparked quite a heated discussion regarding the pace of play in golf, contrasting experiences from the author’s recent trip to Scotland with frustrations faced on American courses. In an enlightening recount of golfing at five renowned Scottish courses, including the legendary Old Course and Carnoustie, the author painted a picture of consistently quick rounds free from delays. Their remarks, particularly about the notable effectiveness of caddies and the strict enforcement of pace, prompted varied reactions from fellow golfers who shared their insights and experiences.
Summary
- The author enjoyed quick rounds at Scottish courses, with the longest taking just over four hours.
- Scotland utilizes caddies and a system of GPS tracking to maintain pace, unlike many American courses.
- There is a general feeling among commenters that American courses struggle with slow play due to various factors, including the prevalence of carts.
- Many commenters expressed concern over the cultural differences in golf between the two countries.
Experiencing Golf in Scotland
The author of the post, Bitter_Tea_6628, highlights their incredible golfing journey through Scotland, detailing an impressive run of five courses in a region renowned for golf. Playing at historic locations like the Old Course at St. Andrews and Carnoustie, they marveled at how the Scots manage to keep rounds fast-paced, with some shooting under four hours, including a not-so-impressive 3:55 round at Carnoustie, recognized as one of the toughest courses. The emphasis was on walking instead of riding carts—a practice that is deeply embedded in the golfing culture there. As one commenter aptly noted, it seems it’s not just about the score but about the experience, and walking inherently fosters a quicker pace, allowing for quicker decision-making and play.
Pace of Play in the US: A Frustrating Reality
<pContrast this experience with the sentiment of many American golfers, as reflected in the comments section. Complaints ranged from slow rounds due to cart usage, tee time spacing, and even the attitude of some players who don’t prioritize the game's actual progression. User Mre1905 pointed out that “carts really slow rounds down especially with high handicap players,” citing amusing instances where weekend golfers struggle with their shots, further lengthening the round. Another contributor mentioned the congestion caused by courses booking tee times too closely together, especially on busy weekends, effectively creating a 'logjam' situation that is frustrating to both quick players and those in the inevitable backup. Many echoed sentiments that golf in the US sometimes feels more about socializing than playing, which diverges from the Scottish mindset where the game's sanctity is paramount.
The Role of Caddies and Course Management
<pThe way golf is managed in Scotland, especially with the strong influence of caddies, was something that many of the commenters admired. Caddies not only provide valuable course insights and support but also act as mediators of pace. They encourage players to adopt ‘ready golf’ principles—meaning preparing to take your shot when it’s your turn to avoid delays. One user, HennyBogan, suggested that if caddies were made scarce in the US, the pace of play would dramatically improve. This leads to discussions about the need for better course management across American golf venues, with some users pointing to the disappointing lack of staff to oversee play effectively. Without enough personnel to enforce pace rules, it's no wonder that it seems to vary significantly from course to course. As rogozh1n aptly noted, the “nearly complete lack of golf course employees” in America exacerbates the issue.
Cultural Differences in Golfing
<pThe cultural divide between Scottish and American golf is thoroughly intriguing, as exhibited in users' comments. Several posters agreed that the environment on a golf course fundamentally shapes one’s experience. The dedication to maintaining the pace and structure at Scottish venues starkly contrasts the laid-back attitude often seen on American courses, where other activities can detract from the game itself. This divergence was summarized hilariously by a commenter who questioned whether “excessive intoxication is as common on the course in Europe as it is in the US.” Such playful commentary highlights the cultural nuances that affect pace and how they contribute to the overall experience. The focus on gaming etiquette in Scotland, juxtaposed with the more casual, sometimes socially-focused approach in America, tells an interesting story.
<pOverall, the discussion surrounding pace of play encapsulates not just a matter of time but reflects deeper cultural values, commitment to the sport, and respect for fellow players. Bitter_Tea_6628’s reflections illustrate the benefits derived from a focused approach and serve as a compelling reminder of how varying attitudes can shape the game across different regions. With darts and laughs interspersed along the fairways, it seems the charge for American golfers is to take a page out of the Scottish playbook—which may include a bit of walking, embracing caddies, and perhaps a couple fewer beers while waiting for the tee box. By advocating for a more structured and focused approach, American golfers may yet reclaim their passion for the game, returning joy and efficiency back onto the courses and helping golf evolve into an even more satisfying pursuit.