The debate surrounding the golf-ball rollback and slow-play issues in golf intersects with the question of what course yardage golfers should play from. The argument is whether moving up a set of tees can help improve the pace of play and lower scores, while also maintaining the integrity and challenge of the game.
In order to determine the appropriate tee boxes to play from, it is important to consider how short courses play for professional golfers and Golf Digest+ members. The results show a significant disparity in course lengths, with the potential need for pros to play longer courses or for amateur golfers to move up to shorter tees.
Last year, the average PGA Tour course was around 7,300 yards, with the average driving distance being about 300 yards. Rory McIlroy led the tour with an average driving distance of 326 yards. While most golfers may not achieve such distances, selecting an appropriate tee box can help level the playing field in terms of course difficulty.
Golf Digest+ members were polled, revealing an average driving distance of 223 yards, similar to male 15-handicap golfers. Despite this, a majority of members play from tees longer than 6,000 yards, with many opting for course yardages between 6,000 and 6,600 yards. This suggests that most amateur golfers may be playing courses that are too long for their skill level.
Comparing the average Golf Digest+ member’s driving distance to that of a tour pro like McIlroy, significant disparities in course yardage are evident. While McIlroy’s driving distance comprises a smaller percentage of a tour course’s yardage, the average amateur would need to play from much shorter yardages to have a similar experience.
The question arises as to whether courses are too long for amateur golfers or too short for tour professionals. Some argue that distance is a distinct advantage, and therefore amateur golfers should not expect to play from the same effective yardage as pros. However, the prevalence of slow rounds at many public courses suggests that reevaluating tee-box selections may be necessary for improving pace of play.
In reconsidering tee-box selections, golfers should prioritize their handicap and overall enjoyment of the game. By playing from tee boxes that suit their skill level, golfers can potentially improve their scores and pace of play. Ultimately, finding a balance between course length and player skill level is key to enhancing the golfing experience for all.
