[Caregrasy]

Was invited to play this morning with a five handicapper, and a friend of mine who is an ex professional. My friend is an ex professional and is fun to play with, he's an amazing golfer, I feel comfortable playing within even know I am not anywhere near his level, because he's my friend. The other guys at new guy who I don't know but it was also a tremendous golfer. Me, am not so good. I should've played for the experience, but I didn't out of intimidation.

Does anyone have any tips or input on how to handle this situation. I just started playing in March, I really really love playing. However, I have is seen need a tremendous amount of improvement.

[esenesesinas]

Anyone who is a good golfer now didn't start out that way, and we all struggle while learning the game. Always play when invited if you can, especially with good golfers, their journey was probably similar to yours and you can learn alot, Just make sure to keep up with the pace and follow the rules, most of the time that's more important than skill.

[SantaClaus]

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.




Tappin' from my iPad!

[d1Bc25UP]

Just remember they were at the same level you are at one point. I love playing with better players because you can learn a lot from their games! Just go out there and have fun!

[Fsfkkkjz]

Was in you shoes a couple years ago. Am nowhere near you friends level now but still enjoy playing with those better than me because I look at it as a lesson. I watch and see what they do and try to imulate. What I did when playing with really good golfer is play from the tee I should be at. No need to be at the tips because it will only frustrate yourself and delay the game for them. I play within myself and don't try to do any heroic shots. They will know from the beginning your level of skill and don't be intimidated as everyone has been at this level. Some days its as if I picked up club for first time. I always made sure I kept up with their pace as not to slow them down. If i hit a wayward shot deep in woods I might make a quick look see buy was more likely to just drop another or pick up and keep moving. As the other poster said not hindering pace of play is the key. Hope it helps.

TapAhoy!

[Clarissa]

As Cookie said, nerves only last a few holes and then you just start playing your own game. I love to play with people that are better than I am. Watch how they play and learn from it.

[Accecyncphory]

Was in you shoes a couple years ago. Am nowhere near you friends level now but still enjoy playing with those better than me because I look at it as a lesson. I watch and see what they do and try to imulate. What I did when playing with really good golfer is play from the tee I should be at. No need to be at the tips because it will only frustrate yourself and delay the game for them. I play within myself and don't try to do any heroic shots. They will know from the beginning your level of skill and don't be intimidated as everyone has been at this level. Some days its as if I picked up club for first time. I always made sure I kept up with their pace as not to slow them down. If i hit a wayward shot deep in woods I might make a quick look see buy was more likely to just drop another or pick up and keep moving. As the other poster said not hindering pace of play is the key. Hope it helps.

TapAhoy!

All solid advice Keith, you are a wise man my friend. JP I agree with the othere, if you are comfortable playing with your friend who is an ex professional then just concentrate more on enjoying the round with your buddy than letting yourself be intimated by his skill level. He already knows how you play and still wants to get out on the course with you, that should be enough.

[Fsfkkkjz]

Thanks DD! I try to be more wise now. I have spent enough time making a fool of myself. He he

TapAhoy!

[Antelpebabe]

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.

[XarokLasa]

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.

[DoctorWeryDolt]

Was invited to play this morning with a five handicapper, and a friend of mine who is an ex professional. My friend is an ex professional and is fun to play with, he's an amazing golfer, I feel comfortable playing within even know I am not anywhere near his level, because he's my friend. The other guys at new guy who I don't know but it was also a tremendous golfer. Me, am not so good. I should've played for the experience, but I didn't out of intimidation.

Does anyone have any tips or input on how to handle this situation. I just started playing in March, I really really love playing. However, I have is seen need a tremendous amount of improvement.

Next time you get the chance, play with them. They will have mounds of knowledge and can help you with your game. Whenever I get the chance to play with silly's I jump at it. Like others have said, we all have to learn how to play. Try not to be intimidated and you will be surprised at how good you play.

[corkBrobe]

Anyone who is a good golfer now didn't start out that way, and we all struggle while learning the game. Always play when invited if you can, especially with good golfers, their journey was probably similar to yours and you can learn alot, Just make sure to keep up with the pace and follow the rules, most of the time that's more important than skill.

+1. He is spot on here. We all started where you are. Don't worry about it... go out there and have fun and use it as a resource. Pay attention to the better golfers. If you know them don't be shy to ask. Some guys may not want to be bothered util after the round. If it were me...I'd be okay during. I always do. I don't care what I shoot during nothing casual rounds.

Alex

[yespkorg]

I ALWAYS relish the opportunity to play with low handicap players. I LOVE playing with them, love watching them hit great shots, love trying to emulate their swings and impact position, love the opportunity to have the chance to improve my game.

does that make me nervous, YEP, but I love that too .... I feel the pressure to put a good swing on the ball, this helps me concentrate even more .... I want to be like them :-)

I used to be 'scared' ... now I'd describe it as 'feeling on edge' ... but, TO ME, it is a GOOD THING, and I enjoy that feeling. I know when I'm feeling like that I'm increasing my focus and learning opportunity. And as others have said, this feeling dissipates by the time you finish the 3rd hole, now yur on your own

Go out and enjoy yourself with your FRIENDS .... they don't really care what your score is, they are out to enjoy the day and your company :-)

don't let the opportunities to play with low handicappers pass you by !!!

[Caregrasy]

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

[Gasfghj]

Was invited to play this morning with a five handicapper, and a friend of mine who is an ex professional. My friend is an ex professional and is fun to play with, he's an amazing golfer, I feel comfortable playing within even know I am not anywhere near his level, because he's my friend. The other guys at new guy who I don't know but it was also a tremendous golfer. Me, am not so good. I should've played for the experience, but I didn't out of intimidation.

Does anyone have any tips or input on how to handle this situation. I just started playing in March, I really really love playing. However, I have is seen need a tremendous amount of improvement.

I've played with an ex tour pro and a guy who was offered a full ride scholarship for golf to a school (but turned it down, for whatever reason) and it didn't bother me. And I sucked a lot worse than I do now! haha

[lidersontop]

I used to struggle with this a LOT, still get a bit nervous and try too hard when I play with low handicappers. I played in a GWGA 2 day tournament with a 6 handicapper (I was about a 15) this year. She wanted me to play several rounds with her first to get to know each other. Wow, was I ever intimidated. I played terrible the first two times with her because I was so nervous. I have now played many rounds with her as well as a lot more people who are a much better than me. It has really helped my mental game and my game in general. I love to watch people show me how it's done.

You've received some great advice from others. Pace of play, good attitude and having fun is what it's about. Don't be too hard on yourself when your shots don't compare! It only makes it worse if you start thinking negative thoughts.

[Gasfghj]

I used to struggle with this a LOT, still get a bit nervous and try too hard when I play with low handicappers. I played in a GWGA 2 day tournament with a 6 handicapper (I was about a 15) this year. She wanted me to play several rounds with her first to get to know each other. Wow, was I ever intimidated. I played terrible the first two times with her because I was so nervous. I have now played many rounds with her as well as a lot more people who are a much better than me. It has really helped my mental game and my game in general. I love to watch people show me how it's done.

You've received some great advice from others. Pace of play, good attitude and having fun is what it's about. Don't be too hard on yourself when your shots don't compare! It only makes it worse if you start thinking negative thoughts.

I've found that if you can keep up, no one cares how bad you are. And if you can't keep up, no one cares how good you are.

[uncoodync]

Everyone starts out at your level so they should understand if you struggle since you are new to the game. I used to feel the same way when I was new to the game, but once you play with someone for a few holes it kinda breaks the ice and becomes a lot enjoyable.

[yespkorg]

I've found that if you can keep up, no one cares how bad you are. And if you can't keep up, no one cares how good you are.

MAN, ain't that just the truth right there !!! WELL SAID !!

[averkif]

I've found that if you can keep up, no one cares how bad you are. And if you can't keep up, no one cares how good you are.

Pretty much all most people want in a group..keep moving and have some fun.

And Jp, good that you ended up going out with them. I've only been golfing 3 years, and when I first started, I was a single, and got sent out with 3 other guys that were way better than I was. I told them I was new to the game, and sucked really bad. They didn't care, and told me to just have fun. They never tried to coach me, just said to take my time and enjoy the day. I now golf with them on a regular basis, and they have helped me improve quite a bit.