Columnist Peter Benton: Slow play becoming big problem in golf

Peter Benton

Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2004 | 9:52 a.m.

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

There are reports circulating that the PGA Tour Policy Board may be changing its policy once again regarding slow play -- which really won't mean a thing until they start penalizing the slowpokes.

When watching some of these talented players on the greens, their actions -- where they look at their putt from every possible angle, line up, plumb-bob, take a couple of practice putts, back away, and then repeat the entire process -- virtually border on the ridiculous.

One cannot dispute the fact that these fellows are playing for huge money and every shot counts. However, slow play is becoming a major problem and it appears blatantly obvious that the meager monetary fines some players have been assessed for slow play amounts to nothing but a slap on the wrist. They must be hit via their scorecard where it will really hurt, and may, just may, give the prima donnas a wake-up call.

Unfortunately, slow play is not just a problem on the professional tours, many amateurs are afflicted with the same terrible "disease."

Generally, I have been of the opinion that slow play by amateurs is basically caused by total ignorance regarding golf etiquette. Possibly a bit overstated, but in many instances golfers who are inordinately slow do not think (or care) about following players.

Having stated that, plus analyzing slow play over the years, I have come to the conclusion that more often than not, slow play is the result of an ego problem. The bottom line being that many players -- invariably high-handicap golfers -- think they are far better than they actually are.

Far too many golfers, an increasing number unfortunately, insist on playing from the championship tees. That's fine, of course, if you have a low (preferably single-digit) handicap. High-handicapped players have absolutely no right playing from the tips. Not only do they spray the ball everywhere, but the number of shots they take is surely indicative that they should be teeing off from the forward tees.

The consequence if they insist on playing from the championship teeing area is that it simply takes them much longer to play the hole than is necessary and thus holds up following players. Not those just immediately behind them either, as slow play by one group has a ripple effect on the whole course.

Remember, and this is very important: If the ability of the group's members is widely disparate, the higher handicap players should swallow their pride and be totally realistic. I cannot think of any layout that does not have multiple teeing areas -- which are there for a specific purpose. So, don't hesitate to use the tee that best suits your game. It will still provide you with a challenge without being too difficult for your skill level.

Knowing your game and being fully cognizant of your own abilities will not only assist in speeding up play but will make the round more enjoyable for everyone.