GOLF FOR BUSINESS, GOLF FOR LIFE!
Golf is a game you can play your entire life!
Let’s get you started…
Learning to Play
Here we will discuss some of the essential things you will find helpful as you embark upon your golf journey.
Lessons (Group classes vs. Private Lessons)
We recommend Group Classes for new players. 4 hours of instruction costs $175. It usually takes about 8 hours of instruction (4 hours range, 4 hours on course) for you to begin to feel comfortable on the course. That is why we recommend our group classes.
Private lessons usually last 30 minutes to an hour and range in price from $40-$125. If you are a brand new player, you would likely need around 4 hours of private lessons before going out on the course. On course lessons usually cost around $125-$200 as the cost of the greens fee must be included.
8 hours group classes-$350
8 hours private-$750-1000
Equipment (cost, where to buy)
You can purchase second hand sets of clubs for anywhere from $75-$500. New clubs range from $300-$2000. A “boxed set” comes with everything you will need to get started. Tour Edge, Wilson, Top Flite, Taylor Made, Callaway, PING are some good brands. Be careful purchasing second hand clubs as often the grips need to be replaced which can cost $10 per club. (14 clubs makes up a full set). Last year’s clubs are usually a good value so shop around.
Most pro shops sell clubs, Second Swing in Columbia has a good selection. Dick’s, Golf Galaxy, etc.
ROCK BOTTOM GOLF BUYER’s GUIDE
If you are out of the “norm”, say you are a six foot tall woman, you may want to get a club fitting. We recommend them for everyone but if you anywhere from 5 foot - to 5 foot 6 you can usually get away with either petite or standard women’s clubs. If you are very strong and fast, you may want stiffer shafts.
Dress (Style, function, fun!)
You can really express yourself on the golf course! Most golf pro shops carry women’s clothing which is great if you want the course logo and support your local business. Comfort, function (be able to bend down, bend over, freedom of movement) important things to look for. Here is a site with various brands that will give you a good idea of what some women are wearing on the course.
Some courses have dress codes, check with your host or call the pro shop to make sure you are dressed appropriately. Most public courses do not have dress codes but you do want to make sure you have proper footwear. (NO HEELS) Flat-soled shoes are best. Golf shoes cost around $75-$150.
Driving Ranges, Golf Courses, Simulators
Range-Practicing golf can be a lot of fun, especially if you bring a few friends. Expect to spend about and hour at the range practicing your swing. Range balls will cost around $8-$15 dollars. You can usually borrow clubs if you don’t have any. Our putting greens are FREE to use and open whenever the course is open.
Golf Course-newer players usually play 9 holes later in the day. It will take about 2 hours to play 9 and cost anywhere from $15-$30 dollars. Once you feel ready for 18 holes, the cost will go up depending upon the time of day to $30-$150 at some premium courses. Set aside 4-5 hours for the round, plus warm-up time and maybe a few minutes at the 19th Hole. (The Club House)
Simulators/Top Golf-Many of you have been to Top Golf or other area indoor simulators. You can borrow equipment and get out of the weather and enjoy swinging. Cost varies, but figure on dropping around $50 and spending 90 minutes.
Before you venture out for a round of golf, it is important to have a good idea of safety, rules, etiquette. This is REALLY important if you are going to play in a business setting.
Some key things to remember are:
Be quiet when other players are getting ready to hit.
Be careful of where you stand in relationship to other players. Be mindful of practice swings, (always look behind you before swinging) and never go out ahead of other players if you are near enough where their shot could hit you.
Pay attention to the pace of play. Pick up your ball if you feel you are lagging behind. Once you get a little better, you will tough it out and work on scoring but in the beginning, keep up with the group so they invite you back!
Double Par-if par is 4 on a hole, you get 8. Once you go beyond double par, pick up and move on.
Pay attention to what the other players are doing. You will learn a lot from watching. Watch golf on TV to become familiar with the jargon and how players swing.
Always replace your divot with grass or sand mix found in your golf cart. Fix marks on the putting greens. Rake bunkers if you hit out of them.
Golf cart etiquette-Please don’t horse around in carts as serious injuries can occur. Put on the parking brake when you get out of the cart. Keep carts well away from the Tees and Greens. Keep carts on the cart paths whenever possible.
No matter how you are playing, stay positive. Other golfers will enjoy playing with you and seek you out. Cheer on other’s good shots, no need to say anything when they are not playing well.
Nutrition/Beverages
Golf makes you hungry! Most courses offer food and beverage but it’s a good idea to have a snack in your golf bag for when you need a pick me up. Protein bars, granola bars, a pack of nuts, a piece of fruit. Something to get you through the round. Stay hydrated—even if you ride a cart the summer heat and humidity can take a lot out of you. Bring your water bottle and refill it whenever you can.
Be careful about your alcohol consumption on the course, especially when it is hot. This is particularly important in a business round of golf for the obvious reasons. The beverage cart comes around every so often and many players look forward to that as much as the golf.
Par
Bogey
Birdie
Mulligan
Front nine
Back nine
Green
Fairway
Teeing area
Bunker