Cuscowilla Golf- Should I play?

[FATC1TY]

Lake Oconee, GA

I have the opportunity to play at Cuscowilla @ Lake Oconee soon.

I have family who is a member there, and can get a discounted rate, although it's still rather expensive to play.

However, I'm a HIGH handicapper. I'm very new to the game, and I struggle with several shots, mostly irons when I play.

Should I pass on playing here? I don't know if I'll have the opportunity to play it any time soon if I pass it up, but I don't know if it would be worth it or wise to go out there just hackin' away. I don't want to be innapropriate, or to slow others up. I know atleast one of the guys is a scratch golfer.

Help!

[ZBigStick]

If you want to go and enjoy a day of golf go for it!

 

I have not played Cuscowilla but it is nice out at Lake Oconee.

 

If the family member knows your game and invited you then don't be wary of your skill level. Golf is about courtesy and respect for the game and your playing partners.

 

Play from the appropriate tees.

 

A recent tip I heard was to multiply the distance you hit your 5-iron by 36. That equals the total length you should be playing from. Nothing is more frustrating than watching a novice try to play a 215yd. par 3 when they struggle to hit the ball 200yds with a driver. Everyone started on the greens or whites so pay your dues at the short tees until your skills warrant moving back. There is no shame in that.

 

Set a limit of strokes per hole.

 

Say eight or nine. If your ninth shot does not find the bottom of the cup, pick up. Don't stop just because your tee shot found the water hazard, you earned the right to play golf, just don't take all day.

 

Be ready to play when it is your turn.

 

When you are away, play. It is your right, if you hesitate it may confuse your playing partners and create an annoyance. Just like a four way stop. Be ready to go and hit the gas when your turn.

 

Have your clubs and a yardage before it is your turn to play.

 

When walking to a chip shot or to your ball take three clubs. The one you think you need and one more and one less. Be realistic about your yardages. You do not hit a 195 7-iron like Tiger. Take enough club to carry the frontside bunker or fronting water.

 

Know the basic rules.

 

Go to the USGA website and view the animated rules for (1) water hazard (2) lateral water hazard (3) Lost Ball. Knowing these basic rules will ensure a good pace of play.

 

Know basic etiquette.

 

Don't stand behind or in the through line of someone while playing. Don't walk on others putting lines.

 

Remember.

 

Even the scratch golfer is more concerned about his game than how well you are going to play. He doesn't want to embarrass himself, wants to play a good round, enjoy the company of his playing partners all at a reasonable pace.

 

Go out there and have fun!