Jamie Redknapp - one of Powerplay's disciples
|
There's a big debate going on around the world as to whether nine holes, 12 holes or 18 holes, constitutes a round of golf. The authorities are anxious to retain 18 as the magic number of holes completed to earn the right to competitive status.
If you're short of time - and everyone seems to be in a rush these days - there's a view that, 12, nine or even six holes - is enough to satisfy our passion with a quick fix.
Perhaps during the winter months with restricted light, a shorten game - like
http://www.powerplay-golf.com/
Powerplay Golf with its two flag options on every green - is enough to quench a need in the golfer. Personally it usually takes at least six holes before I get into the swing of a round so to pack up then would leave me frustrated over what might have been. Alternatively I could be playing such rubbish that it's as well to put myself out of my own misery!
While I appreciate there are those with demanding jobs and family commitments, denying them the opportunity to play 18, I could never entertain 'just a few holes', even though The Lakes' at my local course at Greetham Valley has an ideal opening four-hole loop that brings you back to the clubhouse.
However, I only use the abbreviated version if I'm playing solo and the weather threatens to leave me stranded if I press on for the rest of the front nine.
Besides, what's the point of getting all your kit together, loading up the car with bag and trolley, driving 15 miles, unloading and then playing half a round?
We're told that shortened versions of the game will catch on for those with less time on their hands than the rest of us and at Golfmagic.com we've done our bit to promote them. But in truth I don't see much evidence of a sea change in our golfing habits.
Here's a few quotes from golfers I've read this week which tends to balance the argument:
". . . you can bet that if I'm going to make the booking, clean the
clubs, load the car, and drive half an hour to the course, it's
going to be for 18 holes, not nine. So what if it takes a little longer
these days, what else were you going to do? Mow the lawn?"
". . . I love nine holes of golf, not too much time and cheaper. I like early bird specials - tee off at 7 am on the back nine, done by 9 o'clock, shoot under 40 and set up for the day!"
"Nine or 12 hole golf games would be great. Maybe then
instead of worrying about hurrying we could enjoy the game instead."
" If I play 9 or 12 holes I won't be satisfied. It has to be 18 for me. I don't
care much about the time invested in a round of golf because those
4 - 5 hours of relaxing are exactly what I need to cope with everyday
life's responsibilities."
"Pressed for time? Play 11 holes or just seven holes. Still short on time? Just one hole then! There is a better idea - close all the golf courses and all go to the driving range and hit a half bucket! No time?... don't play!
Do you agree with any of the above statements? Tell us on the forum your views on playing a shortened course or fewer holes. Does it satisfy your appetite for golf?
