Golf Tips For Women: Kathy DeNeui

There are ways to get used to the big courses

Dear Kathy:

I started golfing this year, took some group lessons, and the women I started with have been playing golf each week at a par three course. It’s been a blast and each week I feel like I’m getting a bit better. Then I went for a week’s vacation with my husband and we decided to play golf at a local course. It was so long, I didn’t think I’d ever get to the green! I just want to go back to my little par three golf course, but I’d like to have fun playing with my husband sometimes too.
Linda

Dear Linda:

Congratulations for having the courage to play a different course, and it will get better! As a new golfer those long par fours and fives can seem endless, but as your ball striking improves they do get less intimidating. Here are a couple of ideas for the near future if you head out to a big course. On your tee shot, swing away, and if you don’t get the ball out there a ways, pick up your ball and either drop it next to hubby’s or at the 150 yard marker.

If you’re really struggling drop it at the 100 yard marker and play in from there. The idea is to do something fun and active with people we enjoy being with-not to frustrate ourselves.

When you’re new to the game one of the biggest challenges and stresses is keeping up so you’re not the one holding up your group. Golfers are expected to stay within a half of a hole of the group ahead of them.
So please follow the ideas above and don’t be afraid to pick up your ball and put it in your pocket. Remember, if you don’t get behind, everyone will have a good experience!

Kathy DeNeui is an LPGA teaching professional at the Columbia Super Range in Everett.