10 ways to prepare for tournament golf (so you at least look the part)

1. Start with the length and layout of the hole first

Playing in your first golf tournament can be both intimidating and overwhelming, so I always recommend simplifying things as much as you can.

Start with studying the scorecard, and get to know the general layout of each hole. Your cart may also have a screen, or you could use a GPS app (like Golflogix) that not only shows you the course layout, but allows you to pinpoint your distances to bunkers or hazards or to the middle of the green.

Start with this basic information to help you to make good decisions.

2. Get the yardage and then your club

On full swings, don’t try to guess before you know the distances to your target. It can be tempting to guess and grab an approximate club, but avoid this temptation and wait until you have the playing yardage. By doing so, you can make a smart decision rather than rushing.

3. Stand behind your ball when others are putting

Assuming you’re not directly in their line or in their way, stand behind your ball while other players are putting so that you can read the putt and be ready to hit when it’s your turn. The more planning you can do while others are taking their shot, the more prepared you’ll be for yours — all while wasting little to no time.

4. Have some type of distance measurement device

Whether you’re playing tournament golf or just a regular round with friends, every player should have some type of device to measure their distances before each shot.

This is where something like a rangefinder (like this Nikon COOLSHOT PROII Stabilized) or a GPS device comes in handy.

Regardless of what option you decide on, you need to know your distances in order to be self sufficient during a tournament. Some carts will have GPS units in them as well, but always be prepared just in case they don’t.

5. Know the format, but let someone else keep score

Never tee off in a golf tournament prior to knowing the format and rules. While some things may be difficult to understand or confusing — and you’re not supposed to know it all as a first-time participant — don’t hesitate to ask someone to explain.

Once you’ve got a basic understanding, I suggest letting someone else keep the team score so that you can just focus on yourself and your own game. Eliminate distractions and focus on what matters most; your performance.

6. Bring your putter while approaching the green

I’m a big believer in ready golf, so when you leave your cart to hit a shot near the green, always bring your putter with you. This will avoid having to return to the cart and slow down play.

Also, when you putt, don’t forget to place your wedge on the green facing the direction of the cart. This will help remind you it’s there so you won’t accidentally leave it.

7. Don’t waste too much time looking for an errant ball

As a new tournament golfer, it’s likely that you’ll hit some balls out of play. If you do have an errant shot, make sure to avoid wasting too much time looking for a ball that’s likely gone or unplayable. It’s more important that you keep pace with your group than finding your ball.

If losing golf balls makes you a bit crazy, always stock up before your round by purchasing less expensive balls or using older ones that are stashed in your bag.

8. Don’t stand too close to other players

During tournament golf, you’ll want to stay ready for when it’s your turn, but never get too close to other players when they’re hitting their shots. A good rule to follow is to avoid getting closer to the target than the player hitting.

Another good reminder is to make sure you’re out of their direct sight and you’re not moving while they are swinging.

9. Adjust your game (in a smart way)

Tournament golf is competitive, but it’s also a good time to take some chances — especially if the playing format allows for it. So don’t be afraid to adjust your level of risk depending on how you’re swinging it that day.

If you’re hitting the ball well, be willing to hit your more difficult clubs or go for more aggressive targets. But if you’re not making great contact, be more conservative and hit the clubs that you really like, using a less aggressive plan of attack.

Players should constantly adjust their level of risk as they go through a round to help build confidence — and take risks when the time is right.

10. Put yourself out there and do your best

You never know how you’ll perform until you try, so while playing tournament golf can be scary, put yourself out there and give it a try!

Sure, you’re almost guaranteed to hit a few bad shots, but you’ll also hit some good ones — and you can learn a lot from the entire experience.

For instance, during my recent member-guest tournament, my partner had a pressure shot that was in front of all the players and the staff. It wasn’t a comfortable environment, but she composed herself, took her time, went through her pre-shot routine, chose the club she was most confident with, and she made the most beautiful swing — soaring the ball beautifully towards the green.

While we didn’t make the playoff nor win the tournament, it was my favorite shot of the whole event.