How to Prepare for a Charity Golf Tournament: Tips for Beginners
When I was first learning to golf, I got invited to play in a tournament right away. No way, I thought – I am definitely not good enough to spend a day on the course in a tournament. Turns out, by just getting familiar with a few golf basics I was all set, and I had a great day.
It’s important to note that this was definitely not a competitive tournament – it was a charity tournament. For many of the people who played, it was their only time out on the course all season. Advice on competitive tournaments . . . maybe check back with me in five years or so.
Say Yes – Give Playing in a Tournament a Try
You do not need to be good at the game to play in a charity golf tournament. Try your hardest, pick up your ball and move on to the next hole if you’re not making progress, and enjoy your time with your teammates. Golf tournaments are a great way to learn from others and build your confidence on the course.
To play in a tournament, you should understand the basic fundamentals of the game, and the parts of a golf course. You should have golf attire that meets the tournament course’s dress code, and a set of clubs (yours, or borrowed) to play. Make sure you’re also familiar with how to stay safe on the golf course. In my opinion, you can learn these elements of the game within 5-6 clinics, lessons, or rounds of golf.
Why Should Beginners Play in a Golf Tournament?
For women who are learning to play golf, tournaments can be a great way to build confidence and improve your game.
And when you’re playing in a tournament for a good cause, such as a charity event, the experience becomes even more meaningful. You get to be a part of something bigger than yourself, and you can feel good knowing that you’re contributing to a good cause.
And don’t worry if you don’t have much tournament experience – many tournaments are designed with beginners in mind, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and grow.
Playing in a Charity Golf Tournament: What to Keep in Mind
You’ll likely need to sign up in advance, and have a team of two or four golfers, depending on the event. The price to play is typically higher than normal greens fees, with additional proceeds going to the good cause.
To sign up for a golf tournament, you typically need to contact the golf course or the tournament organizer. Many tournaments have registration forms available online, so you can fill them out and submit them electronically. It’s important to sign up early, as many tournaments have limited spots and can fill up quickly.
Most tournaments have breakfast, a specific start time, and a reception with more refreshments and sometimes awards. Make sure to find out as much as possible about the details.
You’ll want to be on time (which means you’re ready to play at least twenty minutes early) to the event – there is no flexibility in start time, since you’ll likely be golfing with more than 100 other attendees.
Some golf tournaments are fun and casual – attendees can dress in costume, themes, and even make up their own team names. Have fun with it – but don’t forget that the rules of golf etiquette still apply.
As a beginner golfer, you’re probably still learning about general golf etiquette. That’s ok – just do your best, and let others you’re playing with know that you’re still learning. In a tournament, it’s important that at least one member of your team should not be a beginner – you’ll want to rely on their knowledge and experience as you navigate the course.
Most Important Rule to Follow at a Charity Golf Tournament: Pace of Play
In my opinion, the most important etiquette rule to follow at tournaments is keeping up with the pace of play. Frequently, your scorecard or the tournament organizer will provide guidance on how long each hole should take. It is important to stick to that pace – you don’t want to be slowing down groups behind you.
As a beginner, it can be tempting to take your time and analyze every shot. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not just playing for yourself, but for the other golfers on the course as well.
To keep up with the pace of play, there are a few things you can do:
- Make sure you’re ready to hit when it’s your turn. This means selecting your club, taking practice swings, and lining up your shot while others are hitting.
- Limit the number of practice swings you take. While it’s important to warm up, taking too many practice swings can slow down the game.
- Don’t be afraid to pick up your ball. If you’re having a particularly tough hole, consider picking up your ball and moving on to the next one to avoid falling behind.
- Be mindful that while having fun, you’re not wasting time. Some things that you should avoid: looking for lost balls for too long, socializing too much on the course, and spending too much time trying to make every shot perfect. (And let me be honest – I probably still do all three, and I’m working on being more aware of keeping my pace up! It’s important to have a good time with your friends – just try to keep an eye on the the time.)
How Can You Find Local Charity Golf Events?
Check with local courses, look at your local Eventbrite site, and reach out to your local LPGA chapter. Tournament organizers and nonprofit organizations typically plan well in advance, and work with local golf courses and chapters to set dates. Find an event, find a team, and get ready to have a great day.
What Should You Pack in Your Golf Bag for a Charity Tournament?
As a beginner golfer, you may not have a well-stocked bag. Keep these essentials in mind to bring with you on the course.
- Extra balls: Golf balls have a way of disappearing when you least expect it, so it’s always a good idea to have a few extra in your bag. As a beginner golfer, I usually had at least ten balls, because I’d lose so many. Plus, it’s nice to have extras on hands if others need one.
- Sunscreen: Playing golf often means spending hours in the sun, so it’s important to protect your skin. Be sure to bring a bottle of sunscreen with you and apply it liberally before and during your round. You’ll thank yourself later!
- Snacks and water: While a refreshment cart may come around, you never know if or when it will show up. Golf can be a physically demanding sport, and it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled throughout your round. Bring a water bottle and some healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or energy bars to keep your energy levels up and prevent fatigue.
- Golf Towel: Golf can also be a messy sport, especially if you’re playing on a wet or dewy course. Keep a small towel in your bag to clean your clubs and your ball, and to dry your hands as needed.
- Hat or visor: In addition to sunscreen, a hat or visor can help protect your face and eyes from the sun’s rays. It can also help keep sweat out of your eyes and improve your visibility on the course.
- Rain gear: If there’s even a hint of rain in the forecast, make sure you pack rain gear. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a rain jacket or poncho in case of wet weather. You don’t want to be caught out on the course without protection from the elements.
What Should You Leave Behind When Packing for a Tournament?
While you want to make sure you have the essentials, also keep in mind that there are plenty of items you should avoid bringing with you.
- Cell phone: Most golf tournaments have strict rules about cell phone use during play. To avoid any distraction or disruption to others, it’s best to leave your phone in the car or locker room. If you need to bring your phone with you, silence it or turn it off completely.
- Non-conforming clubs: Golfers are responsible for making sure their equipment complies with tournament rules. Check with the tournament organizers. As a beginner, you can also ask a fellow golfer to help you figure this one out.
- Too many clubs: Most golfers are allowed to carry up to 14 clubs during a tournament round. Carrying more than this can lead to penalties, so make sure you only have the clubs you need for the course.
- Outside food and drink: Most golf courses have restaurants or snack bars available, and bringing outside food and drink can be seen as disrespectful to the course and its facilities.
- Unnecessary accessories: While it’s important to have the right equipment, it’s also important not to overload your bag with unnecessary accessories. For example, don’t bring items like headphones, jewelry, or other distractions that can take your focus away from the game.
All Signed Up? What To Do Next
Preparation for a golf tournament starts well before the day of the event. Keep practicing, and getting comfortable with your swing and clubs. Familiarize yourself with the course – you can do this by playing it beforehand or studying a map.
I played in a tournament once where I didn’t get a chance to play the course in advance, but was able to find some YouTube videos of certain holes – it was a great way to learn more and to get even more excited about getting out there.
On the day of the tournament, make sure you arrive early to warm up, stretch, and get comfortable with your equipment. And keep in mind – stay focused, be mindful of golf etiquette, and most importantly, have fun!
Have you played in a golf tournament before? What tips would you share? For the beginner golfers out there reading this, what other questions do you have?
