Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Playing Golf

Today Tori talks to Tameka, a close golf friend, to take us through all the things they wish they learned before they began their golfing journeys. These matters will touch largely on the golf equipment, why and when you should keep scores, as well as being consistent in practice to polish your golfing skills. It’s an article that will educate all levels of golfers!

First Experience on the Golf Course

Tameka had her first golf experience on an executive course at Bear Creek Golf in Chandler. Once on the course, she learned that she needed more lessons. Almost a whole year later, by June of 2017 when Women's Golf Day was around the corner, she signed up for the 9-hole league, which was a scramble. She felt her husband didn't want her to play because she wasn’t a "pro" yet and he was reluctant to be paired with her! She later joined the AWGA to find partners on her level.

Desert Classic Tournament Experience

When she began her golf journey, her main goal was to play in a real tournament and not come in last. She got this chance when she got to play in the 2022 Desert Classic Tournament, which was a lot of fun and a lot of learning for her, too. She learned about herself and how she was reacting versus how she was supposed to react under pressure. This made her want to do more! 

Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Playing Golf

“Being uncomfortable at tournaments and thinking they aren't fun is actually what makes you better at embracing the competition.”

You know what they say, practice makes perfect. Consistent practice, especially on your short game, does make one an amazing golfer. Lack of discipline in practice leads to mediocre performances and eventually a lot of frustrations. Also, during practice, you don’t need fancy equipment. Instead, spend your money on the lessons, and then you can get fancy equipment.

The sooner you establish a handicap, the better because handicaps are a major requirement in tournaments. It serves the purpose of comparing your performances with other golf players. Knowing your handicap is a must when a player wants to participate in a tournament because it serves as a great equalizer. Many tournaments format their matches so that a player’s handicap is used efficiently. This increases competition and allows players who may not be the strongest golfers a chance to taste victory.

Another thing all golf beginners should do is learn how to be the best putter. It's common for a beginner to be scared to putt it past the hole. But genuinely speaking, if you're very timid with the putter, you’re going to lose your winning chances. Be confident when putting and do not be scared.

Tamika says she's been warned that golf was addictive, but she thought it was all fun and games. She had started to leave work early so that she could play or practice. She had to learn how to allocate enough time for her family, work, and golf! In conclusion, golf can be frustrating and golf can be fun at the same time. It all depends on what to do, where, and when. But most importantly, practicing consistently and having exposure to real tournaments to face competition, really helps in self-evaluation!

Resources

Tori:
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Website: CompeteConfidenceGolf.com