Golf Forums - Newcomer intro and questions

Hi there, just wanted to say hello as a newcomer both to golf and to this site and ask a few questions about how it works.

As a quick intro, I'm based in the Bromley area (so convenient for SE London and Kent) and in my 40's have just got into golf. Like most people I've played pitch and putt occasionally in the past, but recently my mate dragged me down the driving range and then onto the 9 hole course at Poult Wood near Tonbridge (so I've only ventured round 9 holes so far!). This intro has I think got me hooked and I've now booked some lessons at the local range as well as getting hold of some 2nd hand beginners clubs and heading down the driving range a couple of times.

So whilst doing my internet research on local courses I came across this site which looks to be a good way to meet other golfers and get some games but  I had a couple of questions (and worries!) which I'm hoping you can help me with.

Looking at the groups and games, it looks like I can join any open groups I'm interested in, but can only join games if I pay the registration fee (which is fine, just checking)?

Obviously as a complete beginner I'm a little concerned about my game, particularly when it comes to a full 18 hole course. If I want to join an advertised game should I contact the person running it and check they don't mind someone with little experience and needing some help, turning up (and someone who may struggle to get round some of the fairways!) or are there always a few people in a similar situation anyway!?

How does it work on the day, you just turn up and get allocated into pairs/fours based on handicaps etc?

Oh, and that leads me on to handicaps. Obviously as a beginner I don't have one. When registering it put me down as 28 which I understand is the lowest male handicap and therefore I guess the standard for anyone who doesn't have a handicap yet? Is that right?

Well thats my initial thoughts and ramblings - probably lots more that I've just forgotten that will come back as soon as I post. Look forwards to hearing from people and thanks in advance for all responses and hope to meet and play soon too.

Mark

Hi Mark,

Rest assured you will be very welcome and you don't have to worry about being a beginner, as all of us started out like this at one time or another!

Sounds like you are doing all the right things by starting on a 9 hole course to gain confidence, so I would keep this up and getting down to the range a few times a week will also build your confidence and  your understanding of the game. A few lessons are equally a good idea, as they will prevent you from getting into some bad habits.

Otherwise, feel free to join any of the games you see posted on the site (once signed up to the PRO account) and most TSGers are more than happy to play with beginners/higher handicappers, although you are right to ask if in doubt - this you can do via the 'Comments' section on each 'Game Page'.

TSG is all about meeting new people and enjoying the fun side of the game, so don't think you have to stand on ceremony either, we're a pretty friendly bunch. The FAQ's section at the top of the menu bar should give you all the information on how the site works but if you ask me, it sounds like you have the gist of it already.

As for your Handicap, yes, 28 is the highest you can have and the system will adjust this accordingly, as and when you enter your cards and of course, you can track your progress over time via the site graphs.

I have a game posted for this Sat at Hartswood Essex, which there is one place left on, which you are more than happy to join us. Otherwise, I look forward to seeing you on the fairways soon.

Regards

Ian

Hi Mark,

As I could not find where to post a reply on the Forum page, I have just sent you a "short" (well not really short) message via the website.

If I have not covered all the answers to your questions, please feel free to ask again.  

Welcome from a recent TSG member but a very "active" one as they say.  Since I joined I have never looked back, I only wish I discovered TSG sooner.

Brigitte

 

 Hello Mark and welcome to the TSG. There is one thing that I can absolutely guarantee, and that is...you will wonder why you ever had any concerns. I look forward to meeting you on the fairways in the near future.
Kind regards
Alan Haywood

Hi Mark, welcome.

I'll monitor the weather forecasts and if, by some miracle, Friday changes to bright sunshine and no wind I'll happily take the afternoon off and join you for a game at Magpie Hall Lane (as I still call it).

That's my local range and I use it regularly. Haven't played the course in years though.


John

Hi All,

Thanks for the replies - have taken the plunge and joined up! Looking forwards to joining games and meeting up for a hack around some courses, hopefully with some better weather than we've had lately!

John - not looking promising at the moment with the weather, but I'll probably chance it anyway unless it's chucking it down. Hope to see you, but no worries if you can't make it/decide its too wet.

Mark

 Hi Mark

Good luck on your 1st game.  Enjoy your afternoon.

Brigitte