01/31/2022
2022 - THE YEAR OF THE MOVE UP MOVEMENT
With all the movements that have evolved in the last couple of years, I am suggesting the Tee It Forward Campaign be retagged to the Move Up Movement.
The PGA, USGA, and other golf associations have recommended teeing it forward. Jack Nicholas is a strong leader of the Tee It Forward Campaign, but what exactly does it mean. Find a comfortable distance for your game and play whatever tees that distance brings - even if it means you have to play from the forward tees. Every golf course is different, which is the beauty of golf. But all too often people get caught up with the color or number of the tee instead of finding the appropriate tee for their ability.
As an avid golfer I have personally witnessed hundreds of rounds where golfers play tees beyond their abilities. It is aggravating to watch grown adults attempt to play beyond their abilities and for what? For bragging purposes? Most of us will never play professionally or even competitively yet our ego is the hurdle that prevents us from improving the game of golf. The game we love so much.
I believe the primary challenge for the Move Up Movement is EGO. Most players are unwilling to check their egos at the club house. However, the only way for the movement or Jack’s campaign to work is for people to put their egos aside and recognize that playing the appropriate tees speeds up play and makes the atmosphere more fun for all. It shouldn’t be a punch line or point of gossip. We all need to recognize our abilities and play accordingly.
Experts differ on how to accurately pick your tees. Some have suggested it is based on your average driving distance. Other suggestions range from course rating, age, and/or handicap. This year I suggest you start playing from the forward tees and move back as your game improves. Once you find a comfortable distance for your game whether it’s 3,000 yards, 4,500 yards or 6,000 yards next time you tee it up grab the score card and choose the tee closest to your comfortable distance regardless of color or tee number. Make the move up! This will make your round more enjoyable and will make the foursome and others around you more at ease.
This year check your ego at the club house and move up!
