[grubnismarl]

I get what your saying. All I can say is that the nerves will be there the first few holes but then I bet after that you would play your typical game and have fun/learn something.

That's been my experience as well...after a few holes and nerves settle, it just gets fun. Plus I just keep it light up front.

I've been on the opposite side of this game a few times this season. I've played with a few high handicappers, who have had that intimidated feeling because I'm a single figure capper.

From my perspective, if I invite you to play, it's because I think I'll enjoy your company on the course, and we'll have a fun game.

Things which make me feel uncomfortable? You rushing your game because you think you're holding me up. You not enjoying the game because you think you can't play at my level. You asking if you're holding me back.

In short, if you're out there playing your own game, at a decent pace (during shots, it's not about how many you're taking), and enjoying yourself - then you'll be welcome to join any decent group of people no matter the handicap difference.

Thanks for that perspective! That's prolly exactly what we all (higher HC) do. We get so caught up in worrying about the better player that our game can get worse. I've found that if you stay focused on playing your own ball and don't slow the others down, you can play with anybody. Like I said before, after a few holes you kinda' know the pace and can adjust accordingly. Thanks again for adding insight from a single digit guy!

[clitlyphype]

Update: well, I manned up and I played golf with the guys. I played consistent golf. Mostly played bogey golf. Held my own hit a couple great shots left with dignity and had an awesome time and it up shooting a 46 in front 9. Bowed out after nine had a great time!

Go to wash my car and enjoy this Thanksgiving

Great score, and it wasn't near as bad as you thought it would be.

[Grizli]

Interesting thread!

I actually played with my local golf pro today at a course he's never played before. He shot par on the course.....................

The first hole he stood up on the tee and hit a drive about 290 in the middle of the fairway. Needless to say I then topped my drive as I thought I was going to match his drive.

From then on he told me to tee off first-which helped me relax immensely as I wasn't trying to play/beat his game (even though I knew there was no chance whatsoever of matching his efforts). This may not work with guys you've never met before, but I'm sure any low handicapper you would consider as a mate/friend/colleague wouldn't mind you hitting off the box first.

Just a thought as it worked for me today.

Good luck and congrats on a great 9 today! 0 Neo

[Fsfkkkjz]

Congrats on the play. It is rarely ever as bad as we think it going to be.

TapAhoy!

[Heliosprime]

I strongly believe the best way to improve is to constantly make yourself uncomfortable on the golf course. True - every golfer that is 'better' has been where ever you are. No golfer likes seeing another struggle...and in my experience, the better the player, the more patient and willing they are to help others.

Also if you feel 'judged' or are worried about expectations...and you don't want to be embarrassed, realize that is something EVERY golfer feels, whether they admit it or not. As a golfer who gets worse everyday, I can tell you I deal with the "this guy was good" expectations almost every time I play. How do I deal? It's tough, but the only thing that has really worked is routine...when I'm nervous, it's all about distracting my thoughts. A consistent routine and good swing thought can distract you from thinking about who is watching or what embarrassing shot you hope you don't hit. I also find when I know I went through my routine, I'm much more accepting of the outcome vs. rushing a shot or hitting one when I knew I was nervous.

Play in tournaments...with better players...whatever it takes to put a little pressure on yourself. The more you do that, the more normal it will feel.

I'm also a huge believer in self correction. You guys here are all passionate about learning...soak up everything you can and take time to understand why you hit shots you do. I strongly believe the best golfers have a great ability to 'self-correct' during a round...if the miss a shot left, they can 'feel' why and fix it on the next shot. Instead of just saying 'I suck'...figure out why.

Great post Shawn! I agree with that first part...I have no problem golfing with someone who isnt as good because I love being able to help someone if I can. I have had my fair share of embarrassing moments on the course playing with guys that were good and I fell apart but I learned a ton from it about my game and about myself.

Glad you went and played with them JPanamera

[pKgGpUlF]

We all start this game from the bottom and work our way up.
Try not to be intimidated by players that are better than you.
I have always relished playing with better players as it seems to elevate my game and I usually pick up a couple of tips without them even knowing.

[herawaq]

I play all the time with a guy at my club who is a 1.2 handicap. He is amazing out there, but always helps me out. I have played quite a few rounds with very good golfers and have yet to find one who was rude or impatient with my lack of skill. Most guys are pretty cool, I wouldnt worry.

[BigMovies]

I'm glad you went out and enjoyed yourself.

If invited, I think its great to play with better golfers, seeing the course from their eyes can really change your perspective.

Not golf related, but when I used to race mx, there was no better want to improve then ride with better riders. I went from mid pack to winning my class when I started riding with some guys who were way better than me.

[Caregrasy]

I really appreciate everybody taking the time to write such thoughtful replies. Like I said I had a great day today however the thing that's like those is how awesome this form is.

As you can tell from my post count I'm still brand-new it's great to see guys who have been on here for thousands of post take time to reply to such a silly post thanks again and happy holiday

[Nesskissabe]

Update: well, I manned up and I played golf with the guys. I played consistent golf. Mostly played bogey golf. Held my own hit a couple great shots left with dignity and had an awesome time and it up shooting a 46 in front 9. Bowed out after nine had a great time!

Go to wash my car and enjoy this Thanksgiving

I am glad you went out and played. Next time it will not be as intimidating. Playing with better players can certainly make you a better player.

I have recently been in your shoes as well. I played for the first time, about a month ago, with three guys. Two of them play on the professional mini-tours and one plays for a Division 1 college. I only knew one of them, but had never played with him. They played from the championship tees, which on my course is intimidating enough. I have since played with these guys on three diferrent occassions and it has done nothing but help me and my game. Keep up the good play...