subject: Question from 60 year old lady: Is it too late to learn how to play golf? [print this page] My answer: My answer:
It is never too late to learn how to play this wonderful game called golf!
In fact, it might be the perfect time for you to start. You may have a little more time for yourself at this great stage of your life, and the more time you can spend learning the game, by putting sound fundamentals in place, the better.
Apart from the fact that a great round of golf is a very satisfying experience, golf also offers the opportunity to make new friends (or in your case, join your friends who have just started playing).
You probably need to start by investing in some golf clubs - here are a few tips:
How much you want to spend, is a very personal matter and depends on your financial situation. What I would say, however, is that it is a good idea to invest that little bit extra, if that means you will get a set of clubs which is substantially better. You will be surprised how far an extra $100 or so can go after all, your golf set will probably last you a good number of years, so you might as well buy a good quality set!
It is a good idea to get some lessons from a professional, to help you learn the correct fundamentals right from the start.
I would recommend that you ask one of your friends to go the practice range with you, and then start working on your shortgame: putting, chipping, pitching and bunker play - if you can improve these areas, you will save a lot of strokes during a round!
It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with basic golf etiquette - it is all about showing consideration for the course and your fellow players. For example:
- Always stand behind and slightly to the right (to the left if a left handed player) of the person hitting their ball.
- Always take the time to retrieve your divot (a piece of turf, which comes off the grass after hitting a ball), replace it in the hole you created, and tread it down securely.
Always remember, golf is all about having fun. The moment you stop having fun, take a breather and try again later. It does take a bit of time to build a solid golf game, but once you have put some sound fundamentals in place, you will soon see improvement!
