Have you ever found yourself stuck behind slow golfers? Here’s what to know when you want to play through in golf.
When you find yourself on a golf course, playing behind a slow group can be frustrating. However, there are respectful ways to play through that group without causing a disturbance. It is important to remember that if the group ahead of you is keeping pace with the group in front of them, you should not play through. Doing so would only worsen the situation for the groups behind you.
How (and When) to Play Through in Golf
Let’s talk about the etiquette of asking to play through. This isn’t an uncommon thing. Here’s what you need to know if you want to play through.
Asking to Play Through: Video
Assessing When to Play Through
If there is a noticeable gap ahead and you have been moving slowly for more than two holes, then playing through becomes a viable option. Two areas on the golf course are most efficient for executing a playthrough:
- Off the Tee Deck: If you catch up with the group ahead at the same tee box, you can politely ask if you may play through. Ideally, the slower group would offer this opportunity, but they might be oblivious due to being beginners or involved in an intense match, which needs their full concentration. Beginners might not even be aware that playing through is an option.
- On a Par 5: A par 5 hole provides an excellent opportunity to play through. If the group ahead is near the green and you are in the fairway, they should wave you up. As you walk up, they can play their next shots. Once you reach the same spot, they should pause until your group finishes the hole.
Note that this is pretty basic golf etiquette. Most seasoned players understand the situation and won’t be offended by the request.
Considerations for Playing Through
Playing through should only be done if the group ahead is falling behind the group in front of them, creating an obvious gap of at least one empty hole. Moreover, just because your group can finish 18 holes in three hours, it doesn’t mean every group has to match your pace. Golf is typically played over four to five hours, and that’s part of the game’s charm.
If speed is more important to you than enjoying a pleasant day on the course, consider booking the first tee time of the day. This way, there will be no one ahead of you, allowing you to play as quickly as you desire.
Summary
When playing golf, encountering a slow group ahead can be frustrating, but there are respectful ways to handle the situation. The first step is determining whether playing through is appropriate. If the group ahead is maintaining pace with the group in front of them, it’s best to wait.
However, if a noticeable gap develops, especially after two or more holes, you may consider playing through. Ideal spots for this are off the tee deck, where you can politely ask to go ahead, or on a par 5 hole, where the group can wave you up while they finish their play.
It’s important to remember that not everyone plays at the same pace, and a round of golf traditionally takes four to five hours. While faster players may feel the urge to push ahead, it’s essential to respect the overall pace of play.
If speed is a priority, booking an early tee time when no groups are ahead is a good strategy for those who prefer to finish quickly without disruption.
Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni. He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.
