In the words of the R&A and the USGA, one of the key objectives in the revision of the Rules of Golf, carried out back in 2019, was to encourage a faster pace of play.

Since that date, several measures have been implemented to streamline the game and promote a better pace of play. These include:

Execute the strike in no more than 40 seconds, or even less if possible.

A new alternative format in stroke play, in which the number of strokes per hole is limited to a maximum (for example, double bogey or triple bogey), set by the Committee. In this format, the player can pick up their ball and continue to the next hole once that limit is reached.

Other complementary measures, such as:

. A simplified drop-off procedure.

. Reduction of ball search time.

. Expansion of Penalty Areas.

. Increased use of red stakes in those areas.

. Possibility of putting with the flagstick in the hole.

Another key measure implemented—and the one we'll focus on here—was the introduction of stroke play, a practice that, while always permitted without penalty, is now actively encouraged as long as it's done safely and responsibly. This practice is known as "Ready Golf.".

What does the pace of play mean and how does it impact it?

According to the Rules of Golf:

. At the starting position, the honor goes to the player who took the fewest strokes on the previous hole.

. During the hole, the player who is furthest from the hole plays first.

However, there is no penalty for not following this order, unless it creates an unfair advantage or a clear disadvantage.

What is the goal of Ready Golf and what can we do with it?

The goal of "Ready Golf" is to improve the pace of play through actions such as:

. Play out of turn if the corresponding player is evaluating a complicated situation.

. Players with shorter range can start earlier if those with longer range are not yet ready.

. Play from the tee if the player with the honor is not ready.

. Play your ball before helping to find another one.

. To sink the ball when you are close to the hole.

. If the furthest player is raking a bunker, another player can play in the meantime.

. If a ball is behind the green, those in front can play while the other player approaches.

. Record the hole score on the next tee, except for the first player to tee off, who should record it after playing.

In summary

Adopting these practices significantly improves the pace of the game. It's not about rushing or forcing others to get ahead, but about acting with common sense and only doing so when it's safe.

Simply put: if you're ready to play and it's safe to do so, then play!

Vicente J. Olmos

Member of the Technical Rules Committee