HOW TO SPEED UP PLAY

The United States Golf Association's approach to increasing the pace of play puts the burden on both players and the courses where they golf. Here are some tips from the USGA that players can use to make sure they're observing pace-of-play guidelines:

Be at the course with time to spare for check-in and warm-up in order to arrive at the first tee on time. The UGSA states that late arrival at the first tee disrupts the flow of play.

Players' tee times should be considered their contract with the course, the USGA maintains. The first tee shot from a group should be in the air at the appropriate tee time. Teeing off before the proper tee time causes pace-of-play problems, too.

USGA officials implore players to "play ready golf, line up your putt and be ready, and take two clubs to your next shot."

Course etiquette and common courtesy is important. The USGA encourages players to acknowledge that they owe it to groups behind them to play at a ready pace.

Work with your group to manage the gap between you and the group in front. For example, a group starting on a par 4 should tee off as the group ahead approaches that green. Make efforts to maintain the space so that you reach the next tee with the same gap between the two groups.

Most golf courses have a variety of tee boxes for players of all skill levels. Use the tee box that suits your skill level, with the aim of reaching the green on your second shot.