More comments on how to counter slow play

From
ROBBIE STEWART, Captain of the North-east Golfers' Alliance.

I have read the 'slow play' comments with great interest and can't help but think that the answer to slow play already exists, and is printed in black and white under the 'Etiquette' section of every Rules Book.

Play at Good Pace and Keep Up.
Players should play at a good pace. The Committee may establish pace of play guidelines that all players should follow. It is a group's responsibility to keep up with the group in front.If it loses a clear hole and it is delaying the group behind, it should invite the group behind to play through, irrespective of the number of players in that group.
Be Ready to Play.
Players should be ready to play as soon as it is their turn to play. When playing on or near the putting green, they should leave their bags or carts in such a position as will enable quick movement off the green and towards the next tee. When the play of a hole has been completed, players should immediately leave the putting green.
Lost Ball.
If a player believes his ball may be lost outside a water hazard or is out of bounds, to save time, he should play a provisional ball. Players searching for a ball should signal the players in the group behind them to play through as soon as it becomes apparent that the ball will not easily be found.
They should not search for five minutes before doing so. Having allowed the group behind to play through, they should not continue play until that group has passed and is out of range.

It is very easy to read these guidelines and then continue to point the finger at someone else. It is the responsibility of each and every player to take a look at themselves and think about whether they do indeed abide by these simple guidelines.
Only by doing this with complete honesty and making a real effort to speed up can we continue to enjoy our Wednesday outings.