Golf is often seen as a serene escape, a sport where players can momentarily leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life for the tranquility of the golf course. Yet, there has been a long-standing frustration within the game that continues to threaten the peaceful experience that the game is supposed to offer: slow play. This epidemic of sluggish pacing is not just an annoyance but a detriment to the game itself, and it has been going back decades upon decades. Without stricter, well-enforced policies, the issue of slow play will only get worse. It’s about time we stop merely talking about the problem and instead take decisive action.

For too long, the discourse around slow play has been trapped in endless discussions and debates with minimal effective outcomes. The truth is that all golfers deserve to enjoy the game, but they also need to understand what is expected regarding pace. The solution lies not solely in talking but in implementing robust policies and ensuring their enforcement. Golf courses must establish clear rules defining what constitutes slow play and communicate these expectations to all players.

A well-structured policy on pace can be upheld in a friendly yet firm manner, and this is where the role of staff becomes vital. Proper training of staff members, along with hiring individuals specifically tasked with monitoring the pace of play, can make a significant difference. This isn’t about rushing players unnecessarily around the course but more about maintaining a steady flow that respects both the game and other golfers’ time. The staff should be knowledgeable, approachable, and equipped with strategies to handle slow play diplomatically yet effectively.

One of the leading examples in combatting slow play comes from the LPGA Tour. As reported last week by several media outlets, the LPGA has set forth a revamped pace-of-play policy intended to begin in March. This policy marks a substantial leap in addressing the issue, with more stringent rules and tougher penalties for players who exceed time limits. It’s a commendable approach that other organizations and clubs should closely examine and adapt at their courses.

The LPGA’s initiative shows a commitment not just to maintain the integrity of the game but also to enhance the spectator experience. Golf, whether professional or amateur, can benefit from such implemented structures. The penalties for violating pace rules should be significant enough to deter slow play without being excessive to the point of discouraging golfers from playing altogether.

27th July, 2022. Dundonald Links Golf Course, near Irvine, Ayrshire, Scotland UK. Charlie Hull waiting to play at the 9th. Hull has been outspoken about slow play and is considered by many to be a very fast player. Credit: Findlay/Alamy Live News

Respecting pace isn’t just for the pros. Weekend golfers should also be held accountable. Amateur players need to be educated on the impact their pace of play has on others and the overall golfing experience. This education can come in signage at tee boxes, brief reminders from course marshals, or information distributed when booking tee times.

Creating a balanced environment where the beauty and enjoyment of golf are preserved while maintaining an efficient pace doesn’t negate golfers’ fun but elevates it. It encourages more people to participate, knowing their game will be fluid and respectful of time.

Slow play in golf is not an insurmountable issue. The LPGA’s action should serve as a catalyst for other golfing bodies to put words into action and enforce pace policies rigorously. With stricter measures and a little cooperation from golfers, the sport can shake off the shackles of sluggish rounds and continue its legacy of being a sport of grandeur and camaraderie. Let’s move beyond talks and embrace an action-oriented approach to safeguarding the essence of golf. It’s about time we speed things up – quite literally.

Reader, please support me by checking out my three weekly columns on RG.org. On Mondays, I present “The Starter,” which recaps the week gone by in golf. On Thursdays, I give you “Fairway Focus,” which previews the week to come in golf. And on Saturdays, I dish up the “Weekend Fore-cast,” a look at what’s on tap for the upcoming weekend.

Editor’s note: “My Take” will be an ongoing weekly series where Brendon shares his thoughts and opinions on various aspects of the game and industry. These are Brendon’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of GolfWRX, its staff, and its affiliates.