There’s nothing quite like it: you’re standing on a beautiful tee box, the sun is shining, and you’re ready to play… but the group in front of you is taking what feels like an eternity. Slow play is one of golf's most common frustrations, turning a relaxing four-hour round into a five-and-a-half-hour march. This guide will walk you through practical strategies for handling the groups ahead, and just as important, show you how to ensure you and your group are part of the solution, not the problem.
Before we get into solutions, it helps to understand why slow play happens. While it’s easy to get frustrated, most slow golfers aren’t being intentionally inconsiderate. The delay usually stems from a few common sources.
This is often the beginner or infrequent player who simply doesn’t know the standard pace-of-play etiquette. They might not realize that spending five minutes looking for a lost ball is holding everyone up, or that taking seven practice swings over every shot isn't standard practice. They are enjoying their day, blissfully unaware of the traffic jam forming behind them. They aren't trying to be slow, they just don't know any better.
We’ve all seen this player. They plumb-bob every six-foot putt, circle the green three times to read the break, and have an elaborate pre-shot routine that rivals a major championship contender's. They are so focused on replicating the process they see on TV that they lose sight of the on-course reality for everyday golfers. Their meticulous approach, while perhaps well-intentioned, can add minutes to every single shot.
Sometimes, slow play has nothing to do with attitude and everything to do with poor on-course management. This looks like:
These small logistical errors domino-effect throughout the round, adding unnecessary time and effort to every hole.
You’ve identified the problem and you’re stuck behind a slow group. Getting angry isn't going to help your score or your blood pressure. Here’s a more productive approach.
Your first move should always be internal. Getting agitated while waiting will almost guarantee a bad swing when it’s finally your turn. The tension in your hands and shoulders from frustration is a recipe for a hook or a slice. Instead of fuming, use the time constructively.
This is the most delicate part of the situation. Approaching another group requires tact. Before you do anything, use this litmus test: is there at least one full, open hole ahead of the group in front of you?
If the answer is no, and they are simply waiting on the group ahead of them, then there is nothing to be done. The course is just backed up. But if there is clear sailing in front of them, you have a solid reason to ask.
Wait for a good moment, usually on a tee box where you aren’t interrupting a backswing or a shot. Drive up with a smile and keep it light and friendly.
The key is to frame it as a friendly request, not a demand. Most of the time, golfers will be understanding and wave you through. If they decline or seem hostile, do not push it. Arguing on the course never ends well.
If a group refuses to let you play through despite having open holes ahead of them, or if their pace is egregiously slow (20+ minutes per hole), your best option is to call the pro shop. This is not "tattling", this is what the course marshals and pro shop staff are for. They are trained to handle these situations diplomatically.
Simply call and explain the situation calmly. For example: "Hi, this is [Your Name], we're the group on the 7th tee. The group ahead of us has fallen a hole and a half behind, and it's really slowing down the back of the course. Would it be possible for a marshal to come out and check on the pace?"
Let the professionals handle it. It's safer and far more effective.
The single best thing you can do to combat slow play is to lead by example. Mastering your own on-course efficiency not only makes the game more enjoyable for those behind you, but it will also help you stay in a better rhythm and shoot lower scores. Here are the habits of a pace-conscious golfer.
The days of playing strictly by "honors" should be reserved for match play and tournaments. In a casual round, "ready golf" is the standard.
Efficiency doesn’t mean rushing, it means being prepared. Do most of your thinking before you address the ball. By the time you are standing over your shot, you should have already:
Your routine should be brief and repeatable. A good target is two practice swings and go. Standing over the ball for a minute immobilized by swing thoughts is a primary cause of slow play.
Think one step ahead. How you manage your equipment and an electric cart plays a massive role in your pace.
Searching for a lost ball is a round-killer. Manage it properly.
Dealing with slow golfers is a reality of the game, but it doesn't have to ruin your day. By understanding the causes, handling on-course delays with a cool head, and leading by example with your own efficient play, you can keep the frustration low and enjoyment high.
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