T-Time Podcast // Ep. 65: **Big Announcement** PLUS Quick-9 on 5 Things Every Beginner Golfer Should Know
This episode reveals an exciting announcement about the Second Desert Classic. Tori, begins by expressing her gratitude for the overwhelming response to the first tournament, which sold out in just 13 minutes. She reflects on her initial dream of creating a big women's tournament and how it has now come to fruition.
Tori shares that due to the high demand and a waitlist of over 200 players, she contemplated the possibility of hosting another Desert Classic. She reached out to Darryl, the general manager at Papago, to inquire about available dates. To her delight, March 11th, 12th, and 13th were open, and Tori decided to seize the opportunity and organize a second tournament.
Despite receiving reactions of surprise and skepticism from others, Tori is determined to include as many women as possible in the event. She highlights the fortunate alignment of factors, such as Papago's availability and the presence of multiple special guests who were already invited for the first Desert Classic.
The DC-2
The Second Desert Classic, referred to as DC-2, is scheduled to take place from Sunday, March 10th to Wednesday, March 13th. Tori assures the listeners that the second tournament will be similar to the first, with the same number of players, prizes, and day money. The shopping night at the Andaz Hotel will also be part of the event, along with double shotguns and entertainment. Tori mentions the possibility of a change in instructors but assures that the overall experience will remain consistent.
Registration dates
Tori officially announces the registration opening on Thursday, August 17th, at 8 a.m. PST. She also mentions that players on the waitlist for the first Desert Classic will have the opportunity to sign up earlier than others. However, with over 200 people on the waitlist, Tori acknowledges that the head start might not be significant.
Can you make a switch?
She addresses the question of whether participants registered for the first tournament can switch to the second. Tori expresses her willingness to facilitate switches after the initial rush, but acknowledges that there are no guarantees due to limited availability. She encourages everyone to stay where they are if their arrangements are already finalized.
Quick-9 on 5 Things Every Beginner Golfer Should Know
Today, Tori wants to share five essential tips for beginner golfers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your game, these tips will help you navigate the world of golf with confidence. So grab your tea and let's dive in!
1. It’s All About the Short Game
One of the first things I want to emphasize is the significance of the short game. While it may not be as glamorous as hitting long drives, mastering your chipping, pitching, and putting skills is crucial for improving your scores. Spending time on the putting green and chipping area will not only help you score lower but also improve your overall swing mechanics. Remember, the short game is the foundation of a solid golf game.
2. Most People Aren’t That Good
It's important to remember that no one expects you to be a pro golfer right from the start. Don't be intimidated by other players on the course. The truth is, most golfers are not as good as they may appear. Even experienced players have their fair share of bad shots. Focus on your own game and enjoy the process of improvement. Golf is a journey, and everyone starts somewhere.
3. When in Doubt, Ask
Don't hesitate to ask questions about rules, etiquette, dress codes, or any other concerns you may have. Golf courses and fellow players are usually more than happy to help. Whether it's clarifying a rule or understanding the dress code, asking for guidance will make your golfing experience more enjoyable and stress-free. Remember, there are no dumb questions, and everyone was a beginner at some point.
4. Pace of Play
When it comes to playing golf, there's one aspect that can cause anxiety and stress for many beginners: the pace of play. The fear of being too slow and holding up other golfers can be overwhelming. But here's the thing: no one really cares about your game. What matters most is keeping up with the pace and enjoying the game.
Picture this: you're on the golf course, and you're not having the best round. Your shots are going sideways, and you're feeling the pressure of the players behind you. But here's the truth - everyone has bad shots, and no one is judging you for it. What really matters is maintaining a good pace of play. So, instead of dwelling on your mistakes, focus on keeping up with the group in front of you. As long as you're not significantly slowing down the game, you're doing just fine.
‘Just pick it up’
One common mistake beginners make is getting lost in conversation and forgetting that it's their turn to play. While socializing is part of the game, it's essential to be aware of when it's your turn. Stay engaged and keep track of the flow of the game. By being mindful of your position in the group and taking your shots promptly, you'll contribute to a smoother pace of play.
Another crucial aspect of the pace of play is understanding the course's bottlenecks. Every golf course has certain spots where congestion occurs, causing delays. For example, at Papago Golf Course, it's often between holes three and four. By being aware of these bottlenecks, you can mentally prepare for potential slowdowns and adjust your pace accordingly. Remember, it's not about rushing; it's about maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the round.
If you're new to golf, it's natural to feel anxious about the pace of play. However, it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere, and no one expects you to be a pro right away. The key is to be considerate of others and make an effort to keep up with the group in front of you. As you gain more experience, you'll naturally become more comfortable with the pace and find your own rhythm on the course.
Conclusion
As you embark on your golfing journey, keep these five tips in mind. Focus on improving your short game, embrace the learning process, ask questions when in doubt, be mindful of the pace of play, and remember that no one is judging your game. Golf is a sport that offers endless opportunities for growth and enjoyment. So grab your clubs, hit the course, and have a great time on your golfing adventure. Cheers!
CLICK HERE for more information on the SECOND 2024 Desert Classic
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Instagram | Paradise Valley Country Club | Forest Highlands Golf Club
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Twitter | Arizona Women's Golf Association
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