First time at Bandon, caddie or no? rest of group is no on caddies

[blwaters]

Jan 2020, will be my first trip to Bandon (first real golf trip ever). I generally score in 93-97 range, so not great. Playing with 3 Oregon golfers (I live in the Midwest), who are able to play year-round and all are better than I am. One of them has played all the Bandon courses 5-6 times, so those 3 aren't getting a caddie. Just wondering if it is weird if only 1 in the group gets a caddie? And any suggestion as to which one I should get if I do get one.

Thanks,

[ryu123]

If you’re accustomed to caddies, then take one. If you generally use a powercart, then a caddie would probably be helpful.

Since 2001 I’ve played 70+ rounds at Bandon without a caddie. But I’ve been in groups with caddies & found them all to be professional & helpful.

(The resort also has push carts that can be taken right across greens. )

[bellken]

It is not weird, if you are the only one with a caddie. I would bet it is quite common. I have played in groups, where, there is only one caddie in the group. It isn't a big deal.

[buzlin]

Not weird at all, and money aside, caddies can add to your round/s. I've been in groups with one caddie and they've always been a great addition. That being said, if you're playing with your friends, it can change up your dynamic as a group. Your friends should be able to give you basic info to get around the courses, so not sure a caddie is entirely necessary.

[Mustu]

I don't think it's weird if you get a caddie. However, if I were you I wouldn't get one since your friends don't have caddies. The guy who has played several times should be able to point you in the right direction and that's really all you need shooting in the 90s. That changes if you're used to riding in a power cart. A caddie would make the walk easier.

[mallrat]

I’m a big proponent of using caddies but I don’t take them much anymore due to cost. No matter how much your buddies know the course, they aren’t focused on you. They will help you but part of a caddies job is to make you better. If you want use a caddie regardless of what your friends do.

 

Most caddies there are very very well versed and can read situations very well. They can tell if they should add to the group or show up, shut up and keep up. That said if your buddies use the caddie at all, reading a putt, looking for a ball raking a bunker, they should flip him/her $20.

[spud3]

Not weird at all to only have one caddie in a group. Agree that it's not necessary, but if you want to have a caddie, then line one up for a round and see if you like it.

 

Most of the caddies I've come across in that situation make the effort to fold in with the group dynamic, while still concentrating on their guy. They are pros.

[nolayup]

Don’t mind what others might think, do what you want. The courses are not overly difficult layout wise, so main benefit of caddy would be greens and endurance. If your playing more than 18 a day, I’d take a caddy if you can afford it. There is nothing like enjoying the walk without schlepping or pushing your clubs. These are courses you want to take in and enjoy. If deciding based on the physical aspect, id get a looper on trails with it having more elevation change. Old Mac would be the last course I’d get a caddy. Mostly flat terrain, course for the most part right in front of you.