Ready golf means that, in stroke play, a player who is ready may play before someone farther from the hole when it is safe and agreed. It is intended to save time, never to distract another player or create danger.
The usual order remains the player farthest from the hole first, but the Rules encourage efficient play in a safe and responsible way. Match play requires extra care because playing out of turn has different consequences.
Useful ready-golf habits
- A shorter hitter plays while a longer hitter waits for the group ahead to clear.
- Hole a short putt instead of marking when it is safe and does not stand on another line.
- Play your ball before helping with a search if doing so saves time safely.
- Prepare club, distance and routine while another player is making ready.
Ready does not mean rushed
Do not play at the same time as someone nearby, walk into a player’s line of sight or move while they make a stroke. A brief agreement within the group prevents confusion.
What about match play?
In match play, an opponent may cancel a stroke made out of turn. Players may agree that one of them plays out of turn to save time, but they must not agree in advance to ignore the order whenever convenient.
The essential point
Ready golf is thoughtful preparation and a safe, flexible order of play. It improves pace without asking anyone to rush the stroke itself.
Sources
The following official or specialist sources were used to verify this independently written guide.
- The R&A – official guidance Source used to verify the rules or factual information in this guide.
- The R&A – official guidance Source used to verify the rules or factual information in this guide.
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