Finding a Golf Course Guide and a new golf course to play;
Whether played as a hobby or preparing for a competition using a Golf Course Guide is paramount to getting the most from your golf day.
In addition, while golf is without a doubt one of the most entertaining sports in the world, a day out can be ruined by playing a course that is either to hard or to easy to play – depending on your ability.
Golfers can be enjoyed by all age groups with endless courses options availble to all in the UK.
However, we also need to keep in mind that selecting the best golf course to play, suiting your skills and playing standards can be tricky.
Do you start on a flat course, a short course or a Par 3 course? This is especially important when you are starting out.
So, what factors should you examine when choosing a golf course in your area to play?
Golf Course Guide – Golf course design and layout?
Many courses have been engineered around specific levels of skill and ability e.g. holes with a par three, four or five will naturally be more challenging.
The same holds true in regards to any course hazards present, such as water and bunkers (sandtraps).
Check both the Par (and yardage) of the course and consider the ‘Slope Rating’ – the difficulty factor of the course.
The course you play can make a huge impact on both your scoring and your enjoyment.
An ideal way to help in golf course selection is also by reading course reviews found in a relaible and recognised and golf course guide to see what your fellow golf lovers have to say.
Or navigate to the website of the course in question, as this generally provides a detailed overview of its physical layout, as well as information on green fees and food options.
Golf Course Guide – Membership fees, Green Fees and other golfing expenses?
Golf can be a rather expensive sport.
This is why appreciating what Golf Club Annual Membership fees you will be required to pay, is another logical recommendation beofre choosing which course to play (or indeed join).
These tend to be paid on a yearly basis although some courses may allow you to increase the amount of the initial deposit in order to reduce future premiums.
However, the game in the UK is slowing moving more towards a ‘Pay & Play’ model. i.e You are a day visitor and you only have to pay for you single round on the day.
Let us also not fail to mention the cost of equipment such as clubs, balls and shoes.
A good set of clubs could cost you as £1,000 ($1500) and there is no doubt that this could eat into a tight budget.
But anyone starting out would be better advised to buy a second hand set before spending big.
This is why it is wise to ask if an anuual golf club membership also comes with a member discount card for use in the club Proshop.
Golf Course Guide – The Social Side?
Golf is a very social sport (hence the existence of this website golfing community!) and it is often quite easy to make friends while on the fairways and greens.
However, some courses and clubs are more exclusive than others. and using an good up to date, golf course guide will also cover this side of the game.
Try to join a club/course that caters to individuals much like yourself.
It is also prudent to study the local online forums before joining (see golf course guide customer reviews advice above) in order to better determine which venue is the most relevant for you.
Professional golfers require years to master their skills and while you might not ever wish to ascend to this level, there are still many other considerations to consider when selecting the most appropriate course.
Not only will its physical characteristics determine your overall experience, but the atmoshphere and the greeting received goes a long way to determining your overall enjoyment.
Above all, always remember to have fun while playing!
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By Ian Mullins
