Golf frustration

[natjos]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

[tophcfa]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

It is a real issue that didn’t exist several years ago. It’s simple math, the amount of golf holes per rooftop has been significantly diluted since ground was broken south of 44 and it gets worse every passing year. The new golf being built is not nearly enough to rectify the issue, it’s just marginally slowing the rate of dilution.

[Bogie Shooter]

There was half the population 10 years ago.

[dewilson58]

I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points.

Conspiracy Theory...............please expand on this, inquiring minds want to know.

[tophcfa]

There was half the population 10 years ago.

True, and almost the same amount of golf holes.

[Flyers999]

You mentioned that you had "4 points at the time." I'm assuming you are playing executive (you didn't mention.) It's not about having points 6 days before tee time, it's how many points you have when the algorithm is run, which is usually 3 or 4 days before tee time.
Having four points means you have played four times in the past seven days. That's a lot. I would vote that golfer's be limited to three days a week executive. There are some that play every day; one can usually get a tee time if one if a single.
I play executive twice a week and can't remember the last time I had a problem. I'll play Championship if I play more.
I agree with your overall complaint though. These worthless pitch and putts are to blame.

[Laker14]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

Were you asking for yourself as a single? How many courses did you put on your request list?

You probably know this, but asking 6 days ahead doesn't give you any preference over those who put in a request 2 hours before they run the program allotting the times.

[natjos]

You mentioned that you had "4 points at the time." I'm assuming you are playing executive (you didn't mention.) It's not about having points 6 days before tee time, it's how many points you have when the algorithm is run, which is usually 3 or 4 days before tee time.
Having four points means you have played four times in the past seven days. That's a lot. I would vote that golfer's be limited to three days a week executive. There are some that play every day; one can usually get a tee time if one if a single.
I play executive twice a week and can't remember the last time I had a problem. I'll play Championship if I play more.
I agree with your overall complaint though. These worthless pitch and putts are to blame.


I didn't play four times. I played twice and had two poinst for cancelling due to weather.

[natjos]

Were you asking for yourself as a single? How many courses did you put on your request list?

You probably know this, but asking 6 days ahead doesn't give you any preference over those who put in a request 2 hours before they run the program allotting the times.
I selected 5 courses.

[shut the front door]

I just don't even play golf during snowbird season. I have other sports that I play, and other than snowbird season, I don't have the newbs coming up here and invading my turf. When the snowbirds are gone, I get back to my nice leisurely game. Eventually, they will have their own courses and they can stay down there where they think things are so much better....

[Rainger99]

Eventually, they will have their own courses and they can stay down there where they think things are so much better....

We don’t go up north to bother you. We go up north because the developer built most of the courses up north.

There are 41 executives and 3 pitch and putts. 36 of the executives are north of 44 and 29 are north of 466A.

There are 5 executives south of 44 and all 3 pitch and putts are south of 44.

I would love not to have to drive 30-45 minutes to play an executive course. I played with a group the other day and they said that they have 4 executives and 1 championship within a mile of their house.

I am about two miles from a pitch and putt.

Once Eastport is built out, things should get better but since there are also 14 new Villages planned for Eastport, I expect tee times will still be difficult!

[michgary]

thanks for all the input here,, ii just go up for a single in the morning and get in most days,, and also play with womens groups alot ,, in the afternoon,, just fyi not all bad ,,:coolsmiley:

[BrianL99]

Once Eastport is built out, things should get better but since there are also 14 new Villages planned for Eastport, I expect tee times will still be difficult!

A man has to have hopes & dreams, regardlessly of the likelihood of them coming to fruition.

[Marathon Man]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

"Free golf was the main draw. Walking is already free."

You came for the free golf. And now you resent others who did the same thing. One option would be to pay to play on the champ courses at least some of the time.

[MrChip72]

A man has to have hopes & dreams, regardlessly of the likelihood of them coming to fruition.

Many of these 11 or so new courses are currently in various stages of development. For the most part they're mapped out already at the bare minimum. It's obvious that the developer is prioritizing new courses ASAP after being slow on rolling new ones out for years.

[Rainger99]

It's obvious that the developer is prioritizing new courses ASAP after being slow on rolling new ones out for years.

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?

[Garywt]

All true Villages, complaining about anything, even free golf. The thing about the Villages is everyone can use everything available, doesn’t matter where in the Villages you live. If it is that important play in the rain.

[MrChip72]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?

I guessing that it's likely the fact that the Bexley bridge was long delayed and not complete was a big part of that. If they had 3 new courses complete and ready to go in the new area, it would've been a BIG problem and a bad look if there were no golf cart paths open to get to them.

[Topspinmo]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

Koolaid turned sour after about 4 years for me. Having mover’s remorse :22yikes:

[Topspinmo]

All true Villages, complaining about anything, even free golf. The thing about the Villages is everyone can use everything available, doesn’t matter where in the Villages you live. If it is that important play in the rain.


No really free we all pay golfing or not.

[Topspinmo]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?

Guess figured 700 plus holes was enough? But didn’t count on golf hogs playing several times day. Kinda reminds me of pickleball and pool hogs…. :a040:

[gbs317]

….Eventually, they will have their own courses and they can stay down there where they think things are so much better....
Been here six years now and still believe the majority of people are welcoming, north and south. I bought and live south of 44 no salespeople told me they would not build anything new, I assumed the developer would. Play exec golf north and south most south twice a week excepted the rejection enjoyed the wins. There is more to do in TV and life than golf. Enjoy the few years you have left.

[Keither]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

There aren’t enough courses built south of 44 to keep up with the rapid and continued increase in the number of households. And no, the addition of 4 executive courses to be built in and around Eastport won’t be nearly enough!!! The developer is way behind the demand curve as far as golf is concerned. Everyone is having trouble getting tee times. It’s a problem that will plague us for years to come. All of our collective frustration is falling on deaf ears of the developers…sadly.

[dewilson58]

There aren’t enough courses built south of 44 to keep up with the rapid and continued increase in the number of households. And no, the addition of 4 executive courses to be built in and around Eastport won’t be nearly enough!!! The developer is way behind the demand curve as far as golf is concerned. Everyone is having trouble getting tee times. It’s a problem that will plague us for years to come. All of our collective frustration is falling on deaf ears of the developers…sadly.

U Look New here.

The Developer plans yearS in advance.

There were many years when golf was on the decline.
These years were during the planning stags for South of 44.
As such, fewer courses were planned.

There never has been any promise of "number of courses per Village, Household, etc."

As the Developer opened Villages, golf courses were disclosed.

Due Diligence would have discovered this.

[BrianL99]

It never ends, it seems.

People (primarily from the newer/southern areas of TV), complaining there's not enough: golf, entertainment, stores, whatever ...

Wake up and look around folks, the south is a different business model and a different development profile.

When TV was built, golf and amenities were the first order of business. It was necessary to sell the homes. Gradually, the model changed and amenities and golf became more an after-thought. Why shouldn't it? People believed the Developer's marketing promises and bought into the "hope" program.

It's never going to happen. The south of 44 business model, is never going to be the same as the older areas. Won't happen. Can't happen. No motivation for the Developer to make it happen.

Anyone who bought south of 44, on the premise that golf was going to be abundant, available and convenient, is a dreamer and reality is apparently starting to settle in.

[braguy]

sounds like the corporation isn’t building courses according to the original plan. … X courses per a set number of new home builds… ..
Getting greedy or lazy??
In the early 2000’s promos there was a formula mentioned ..

[jim1941]

Solution: play after 4 pm = 0 points

Solution: go into the tee time system, after being shut out, and look for an opening.

[dewilson58]

Doesn’t sound like the corporation isn’t building courses according to the original plan. … X courses per a set number of new home builds… ..

Would love to see that "original plan" you refer to, please share.


The original development was a trailer court.............glad it evolved.

[Happydaz]

If golf is a dying sport why are tee times hard to get? Is it possible that when people retire they take up many new activities such as golf? Is it possible that the predicted decline in golf participation by younger retirees is not materializing in The Villages?

[natjos]

Solution: play after 4 pm = 0 points

Solution: go into the tee time system, after being shut out, and look for an opening.

I did go on and look for open times as soon as I see that I didn't get a reservation. There wasn't one course with a time before 5:00. Difficult getting 9 in with that start.

[PersonOfInterest]

Its not just Golf. Other activities have become more crowded as well. If you have points forget about the 'Request' for a tee time and use the Reservation mode where points are irrelevant. Up to three days ahead you can make a reservation for any open tee time. The best chance is to go into the system right after they have assigned tee times from the Request system. Three days before at Midnight they run the Requests. In an hour or two the requests are done. So at 1 or 2 am go into the system and look for an available tee time. Once the requests have been run Points will no longer matter for making a 'Reservation'. Don't expect anything in prime time, but you should be able to find something. Good Luck

[GaryKoca]

Try expanding your number of courses and select ones that are further north. North of 466a for example.

[Pgcacace]

There is a pitch and putt at the First Responders Rec Ctr. Very north in the Villages.

[rustyp]

There is a pitch and putt at the First Responders Rec Ctr. Very north in the Villages.

Not a pitch and putt - First Responders is a putt only. Not part of the Executive Golf Course System.

[GizmoWhiskers]

There aren’t enough courses built south of 44 to keep up with the rapid and continued increase in the number of households. And no, the addition of 4 executive courses to be built in and around Eastport won’t be nearly enough!!! The developer is way behind the demand curve as far as golf is concerned. Everyone is having trouble getting tee times. It’s a problem that will plague us for years to come. All of our collective frustration is falling on deaf ears of the developers…sadly.
The fourth generation developers don't care about tee times. They want to sell houses and build paying Championship courses open to the public. They don't care about aesthetics, they want to pack the houses in. No beautiful mvp Golf cart paths out that way majority are diamond lanes. They couldn't replicate a gorgeous treed in mvp golf path and come out $$ on top. They are putting in practically no trees and real plant, just palms (now deamed weeds in parts of FL) and scrub bushes. 140,000 people (?) And a permanently closed gorgeous movie theater in Brownwood. The list goes on and on that shows the newest areas are lacking what used to be excellent above the standard industry draws for picking T V.

They are doing the bare minimum to keep T V "lifestyle" appearance.

A dream stays alive when there is a vision... the magic fairy dust is blowing away in the dust bowl surrounding the temporary "new" center of T V. The next one is being planned already.

There is definity a honeymoon season living in T V and the further south one goes the quicker that ends.
It is possible to have too much of a good thing.

They aren't keeping up with free golf demand any longer. But hey at least there is disc golf now in the Hogeye Preserve, so tee up, that'll fix the lack of golf courses being built.

[DONNIEBRONX]

I'm playing today with 19 neighbors and we never have a problem

[TomPerry]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?
The developer DID listen to the priorities of the residents south of CR44! Everyone was connectivity, connectivity, connectivity! It takes a lot of money, resources, and TIME to get the state permitting to build 2 bridges over CR44 and especially 1 over the Florida Turnpike!!! The residents south of CR44 set the priorities and the developer complied! It appears to me that a lot of residences south of CR44 think their wishes can happen at the wave of a “Magic Wand “!!! “Patience Grasshoppers”!!!!!

[NoMo50]

Guess figured 700 plus holes was enough? But didn’t count on golf hogs playing several times day. Kinda reminds me of pickleball and pool hogs…. :a040:

Someone who is playing more than once in a day is playing on open tee times. A golfers name/ID Number can only appear on one Request per day. Open tee times are posted after all requests have been processed, and are available for everyone.

[Nell57]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?

Look who is at the helm. Not Harold, not Gary. Its generation #3… They have a different philosophy.

[ThirdOfFive]

Been here six years now and still believe the majority of people are welcoming, north and south. I bought and live south of 44 no salespeople told me they would not build anything new, I assumed the developer would. Play exec golf north and south most south twice a week excepted the rejection enjoyed the wins. There is more to do in TV and life than golf. Enjoy the few years you have left.
Excellent advice!

We've been here close to four years now and TV continues to be everything we thought it would be, plus more. But, as Mom used to say, "you'd b!tch if you were hung with a new rope!". There is nothing like a gaggle of geezers for finding the cloud in every silver lining--and some will spare no effort looking until they DO find something to grouse about.

People need to realize that this is NOT utopia. We're 150,000 people, give or take, from all parts of the country and we all bring our different attitudes and expectations with us when we come here. There is nothing in or about The Villages that magically turns crabby and/or self-entitled older folks into placid doily-knitting grannies or bird-watching granddaddies if they were not that before they arrived. We're all who we were, and age has the unfortunate side-effect, in all too many cases. of magnifying that particular fact.

Yeah, tee times can be a bit hard to find these days, but it has apparently always been that way in the winter. But here's an idea. If you can't find anything, call a couple of the starter shacks and ask if they have an opening for one, or two, or whatever. People do cancel and there are occasional no-shows so you might get lucky. We do, maybe one day in three, when we do this. And go with the flow.

[Beyond The Wall]

[QUOTE=natjos;2293940]Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time.

The buildings of Pitch and Putts instead of Executive courses needs to stop. When you look for an open tee time Richmond, Marshview, Mickeylee are ALWAYS OPEN. Other courses well north of 466 are also occasionally open. The developer needs to convert southern Pitch and Putts to executive courses.

Also beware of the Disc Golf conversion. Much cheaper to maintain cans than greens. Downside will be the carpal tunnel that players develop. Grandkids need to stop being greedy

😎

[NoMo50]

For those who like to complain about the lack of available tee times, consider this: As a community, The Villages has more holes of golf available than anywhere else in the world. Think about that. Where else could you go where you think the situation is better? Kind of reminds me of the person holding a Virginia ham under each arm, complaining that they have no bread.

[M2inOR]

Be flexible. Be proactive. With skill and perseverance, you will get a tee time.

I live south of 44 and typically play 3-4 times a week with neighbors. We have several groups in our neighborhood ranging from as small as 4-8 and as many as 32 golfers. In the last few weeks we got tee times for two large groups of 28-32 golfers, so there are tee times available if you know how to use the online system.

Yes, we've also been shut out, but rarely.

Sorry for those with limited flexibility.

The developer knows how full the courses are or aren't. They also have stats showing cancellations and unused tee times.

Be flexible, be persistent. You can get a tee time with better planning.

[TomPerry]

People just don’t think! They cannot see the obvious! Just take a few moments and close your eyes and think! Think of a community up north where you came from that has about 150,000 residents. Think about all the shops, plazas, restaurants, supermarkets, parks, roads, hospitals, etc.etc. Do you think all those things were built before the people moved there???!!! “Patience Grasshoppers”!!!

[dewilson58]

Look who is at the helm. Not Harold, not Gary. Its generation #3… They have a different philosophy.

Nope.

All are land developers.

Harold & Gary made over a BILLION dollars developing land.

Third & Fourth generations are developing land and making a buck.

All very successful.

Same model.

:ho:

[phousel]

There is a pitch and putt at the First Responders Rec Ctr. Very north in the Villages.

No - it is a "Putt & Play" course. Like a miniature golf course on steroids.

[Joanne&Wynn]

I don't play golf in TV, haven't for several years, not worth the hassle. I'm willing to drive 30 minutes, plus or minus, to other courses in the area, there are many. Really, I often do the same when playing golf back in the Detroit area.

[Eclas]

For those who like to complain about the lack of available tee times, consider this: As a community, The Villages has more holes of golf available than anywhere else in the world. Think about that. Where else could you go where you think the situation is better? Kind of reminds me of the person holding a Virginia ham under each arm, complaining that they have no bread.

Not quite true. There are way more courses in Myrtle Beach

[Dilligas]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?
Also not obvious…….the developer doesn’t read TV blogs. Complaining here only feeds your mind.

[BrianL99]

Not quite true. There are way more courses in Myrtle Beach

... along with:


Naples

Sarasota

Ft. Myers

Syracuse, NY

Deluth, MN

Utica, NY

Hitlon Head

[dmorhome]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.
That’s why I sold 3 years ago saw it coming and only going to get worst.

[Dilligas]

Not quite true. There are way more courses in Myrtle Beach
The “Myrtle Beach Courses” spreads over 2 states and 10-20 communities and 40-50 miles N/S and 10-20 miles E/W. Almost ever one is a championship course.

[jarodrig]

I didn't play four times. I played twice and had two poinst for cancelling due to weather.

When the weather becomes a factor , they officially declare the day (or time range) a “1 point day , no cancellation points”

However , when YOU decide to cancel because you don’t want to play for whatever reason, then you WILL get that cancellation point .

Additionally, you need to put in for A LOT MORE than 4-5 courses . And if you know you have 4 points , don’t bother putting in because you won’t get a tee time this time of year .

Also , keep in mind that we had some pretty cold and windy conditions last week and there were a lot of cancellations.

So those that cancelled last week are trying to make up for it this week …..

I put in a request for a foursome for this week and got shut out ….. But we went in with an average of 2.9 points. I put in for 27 courses (not a typo) over a 3 1/2 hr window …..

[BrianL99]

sounds like the corporation isn’t building courses according to the original plan. … X courses per a set number of new home builds… ..
Getting greedy or lazy??
In the early 2000’s promos there was a formula mentioned ..


& you could buy a fancy house for $175,000.

Times change.

[Justputt]

For those who like to complain about the lack of available tee times, consider this: As a community, The Villages has more holes of golf available than anywhere else in the world. Think about that. Where else could you go where you think the situation is better? Kind of reminds me of the person holding a Virginia ham under each arm, complaining that they have no bread.


Not even close to accurate on several levels. Myrtle Beach has more (as do other locations mentioned), but the REAL difference is in TV most people are retired or semi-retired, which means they can play golf all day. In Myrtle Beach most people are still working jobs, etc. and leave golf mostly to tourists. Thus, the competition for tee times is much higher among TV residents. IMO, this will be self-correcting. Once the complaints get loud enough, negative golfing posts prolific enough, TV age retiree reviews start calling into question the lifestyle as pertains to golf, etc. Have some bad reviews show up in Golf Digest, etc., and retirees concerned about golf will look elsewhere, and new homes will sit unsold or price cuts. The damage will be done and will take years to correct.

I want to start playing golf again, since work had consumed the last decade plus of my time. But I didn't move here just for golf. Had I moved for golf, I would be in Myrtle Beach where there are over 100 18-hole courses (some being redeveloped) and not just a bunch of executive courses. They overbuilt, IMO.

Posts here are mostly preaching to the choir. Taking your complaints outside TV and TOTV to where it impacts the desire of people to move here for "free golf" will have a much greater impact. Post to retirement and golf heavy websites.

FYI, HUGE homes for the same or less money on golf courses in Myrtle Beach Myrtle Beach Homes for Sale | Find Myrtle Beach Area Homes (https://www.myrtlebeachareahomefinder.com/search/quick?city=Myrtle%20Beach&kw=Golf&listingtype=Single%20Family&maxprice=500000&minbaths=2&minbeds=3&page=1&perpage=12&soldproperty=0&sortby=highestprice&type=quick)

[dewilson58]

When the weather becomes a factor , they officially declare the day (or time range) a “1 point day , no cancellation points”

However , when YOU decide to cancel because you don’t want to play for whatever reason, then you WILL get that cancellation point .

Additionally, you need to put in for A LOT MORE than 4-5 courses . And if you know you have 4 points , don’t bother putting in because you won’t get a tee time this time of year .

Also , keep in mind that we had some pretty cold and windy conditions last week and there were a lot of cancellations.

So those that cancelled last week are trying to make up for it this week …..



:BigApplause:

[asianthree]

One group I play twice a week, executive, can have 60-80 split between 4 courses.Only shut out twice in 2 years no matter what time of year. Other exec group has 40 plus split into 2 groups and shut out only 4-5 times, a year.

Never a problem getting on championship.

Many run into no tee times, not because of someone coming from a different area, but narrow times between a handful of courses and a short window for time.

I play with guys who will only play courses within 10 ride, and only during a couple hour window. Some guys near OB have no idea where Havana or Mallory are located. Some have never heard of the newer courses. Yep that can be a shut out even in Summer.

I don’t understand why with so many opportunities to play something different every week, the need to stay so close. Maybe it’s the not feeling comfortable navigating to a different area.

[Ken D.]

I didn't play four times. I played twice and had two poinst for cancelling due to weather.
They don't charge cancellation points when there's bad weather, sounds like you had a "no show" which will cost you 3 points.

[Mlundberg]

Got shut out twice last week with only 0ne point. Put in for 9 different courses and a wide time frame. Living the dream is fading.

[rustyp]

Got shut out twice last week with only 0ne point. Put in for 9 different courses and a wide time frame. Living the dream is fading.

Did you put in as a single or group ?
If a group what was the point average ?
If a group was there a guest ?
How wide was the time frame ?

[asiebel]

You should put as many courses as possible and a long time frame! 5 pts is a lot! Go in and pick up open times!

[tophcfa]

It amazes me that people keep talking about how the Villages has more golf holes than any other retirement community. The place is also by far the largest retirement community with by far the most homes. How is it that people don’t understand the concept of holes per rooftop and recognize the importance of that statistic and how it affects availability of t times? Compare the holes per rooftop north versus south of 466A or before and after ground was broken south of 44. Those statistics don’t lie.

[Jbellio]

I agree with your thoughts about the golfers coming north to play due to the lack of courses south... Another issue is the condition of the courses. the greens are only green because the paint the dirt to make them look better.
I would rather pay a few dollars more to have nice courses.


Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

[dewilson58]

Got shut out twice last week with only 0ne point. Put in for 9 different courses and a wide time frame. Living the dream is fading.

Wow............looking at your prior posts...................a lot of complaining posts.

:shocked:

[Papa_lecki]

When the area south of 44 and the turnpike was being planned, golf participation was declining, until 2020.
From 2010 to 2019, participation dropped from 26.12 million to 24.3 million - almost 10%. In 2022, it was 25.6 million, almost recovered to 2010 level (back to 2011 level). No one could have predicted that.

Golf participation US 2022 | Statista (https://www.statista.com/statistics/191907/participants-in-golf-in-the-us-since-2006/)

[tophcfa]

When the area south of 44 and the turnpike was being planned, golf participation was declining, until 2020.
From 2010 to 2019, participation dropped from 26.12 million to 24.3 million - almost 10%. In 2022, it was 25.6 million, almost recovered to 2010 level (back to 2011 level). No one could have predicted that.

Golf participation US 2022 | Statista (https://www.statista.com/statistics/191907/participants-in-golf-in-the-us-since-2006/)

Any idea how that statistic looked for the 55+ age demographic living in an active retirement community compared to a national average? Relevant statistics matter.

[ElDiabloJoe]

...They aren't keeping up with free golf demand any longer. But hey at least there is disc golf now in the Hogeye Preserve, so tee up, that'll fix the lack of golf courses being built.

Just like horseback riding, croquet, and tennis, some activities just fade away after a few generations.

Golf is one of those. I am one among many in the 55 and under group that give zero $hits about golf - the only thing I like about it is the green open space it creates in a neighborhood is scenic and better than high density housing. I hope you and others continue to rabidly chase that little white dimpled ball so they will keep building the courses and forcing in the open space.

[kkingston57]

You mentioned that you had "4 points at the time." I'm assuming you are playing executive (you didn't mention.) It's not about having points 6 days before tee time, it's how many points you have when the algorithm is run, which is usually 3 or 4 days before tee time.
Having four points means you have played four times in the past seven days. That's a lot. I would vote that golfer's be limited to three days a week executive. There are some that play every day; one can usually get a tee time if one if a single.
I play executive twice a week and can't remember the last time I had a problem. I'll play Championship if I play more.
I agree with your overall complaint though. These worthless pitch and putts are to blame.

Played the pitch and putts and I am a 13 handicap. They were fun and conditions were better than some of the executives.

[kkingston57]

I don't play golf in TV, haven't for several years, not worth the hassle. I'm willing to drive 30 minutes, plus or minus, to other courses in the area, there are many. Really, I often do the same when playing golf back in the Detroit area.

Appears problem is getting a tee time on exec courses. Very few, if any "exec" courses outside of TV. Champ courses different story. Some of the outside courses around TV are not worth traveling to.

[kkingston57]

Not quite true. There are way more courses in Myrtle Beach

And a lot more 5 hour rounds. Was there in August. Played a very nice course behind a group of guys who were there for a bachelor party. On bright side they did not bring their "entertainers" with them

[kkingston57]

Not even close to accurate on several levels. Myrtle Beach has more (as do other locations mentioned), but the REAL difference is in TV most people are retired or semi-retired, which means they can play golf all day. In Myrtle Beach most people are still working jobs, etc. and leave golf mostly to tourists. Thus, the competition for tee times is much higher among TV residents. IMO, this will be self-correcting. Once the complaints get loud enough, negative golfing posts prolific enough, TV age retiree reviews start calling into question the lifestyle as pertains to golf, etc. Have some bad reviews show up in Golf Digest, etc., and retirees concerned about golf will look elsewhere, and new homes will sit unsold or price cuts. The damage will be done and will take years to correct.

I want to start playing golf again, since work had consumed the last decade plus of my time. But I didn't move here just for golf. Had I moved for golf, I would be in Myrtle Beach where there are over 100 18-hole courses (some being redeveloped) and not just a bunch of executive courses. They overbuilt, IMO.

Posts here are mostly preaching to the choir. Taking your complaints outside TV and TOTV to where it impacts the desire of people to move here for "free golf" will have a much greater impact. Post to retirement and golf heavy websites.

FYI, HUGE homes for the same or less money on golf courses in Myrtle Beach Myrtle Beach Homes for Sale | Find Myrtle Beach Area Homes (https://www.myrtlebeachareahomefinder.com/search/quick?city=Myrtle%20Beach&kw=Golf&listingtype=Single%20Family&maxprice=500000&minbaths=2&minbeds=3&page=1&perpage=12&soldproperty=0&sortby=highestprice&type=quick)

Myrtle Beach and other areas of S. Carolina do have a lot of good/great golf to offer. Problem is that they are resort courses aka 5 hour round courses, unless you play at a private course.

[TheWarriors]

thanks for all the input here,, ii just go up for a single in the morning and get in most days,, and also play with womens groups alot ,, in the afternoon,, just fyi not all bad ,,:coolsmiley:

I couldn’t do that to Women playing. I’m sure 99% of women playing don’t want an unfamiliar man joining them.

[mickey100]

I couldn’t do that to Women playing. I’m sure 99% of women playing don’t want an unfamiliar man joining them.

I've played in women's groups where a strange guy joined up. And within 10 minutes or so the man started giving us all "lessons". I was an 11 handicap at the time. Couldn't wait till the round was over. Luckily I didn't have to ride with the jerk.

[RCJ61]

We don’t go up north to bother you. We go up north because the developer built most of the courses up north.

There are 41 executives and 3 pitch and putts. 36 of the executives are north of 44 and 29 are north of 466A.

There are 5 executives south of 44 and all 3 pitch and putts are south of 44.

I would love not to have to drive 30-45 minutes to play an executive course. I played with a group the other day and they said that they have 4 executives and 1 championship within a mile of their house.

I am about two miles from a pitch and putt.

Once Eastport is built out, things should get better but since there are also 14 new Villages planned for Eastport, I expect tee times will still be difficult!
Nice reply to the somewhat negative response.

[Beyond The Wall]

The developer DID listen to the priorities of the residents south of CR44! Everyone was connectivity, connectivity, connectivity! It takes a lot of money, resources, and TIME to get the state permitting to build 2 bridges over CR44 and especially 1 over the Florida Turnpike!!! The residents south of CR44 set the priorities and the developer complied! It appears to me that a lot of residences south of CR44 think their wishes can happen at the wave of a “Magic Wand “!!! “Patience Grasshoppers”!!!!!

You have to connect to the north if there is NOTHING built in south! The bridges are great and impressive. A few executive courses where you DONT need a bridge would be nice

[kansasr]

What seems to be more missing in these discussions is the pressure put on the executive courses when the increased January rates on the championship courses go into effect. In my case, I go from playing mostly championship to mostly executive, until the rates go down again and I can play 9 in the wave

[rsimpson]

What seems to be more missing in these discussions is the pressure put on the executive courses when the increased January rates on the championship courses go into effect. In my case, I go from playing mostly championship to mostly executive, until the rates go down again and I can play 9 in the wave

You are correct - the continual price increases in greens fees for Champs (already too high) puts even more strain on the Execs.

Here's a controversial idea - if you cannot hit a golf ball more than 60-70 yards (or you whiff more that 5 times in 9 holes) play the Pitch-and-Putts. Then stick to the Level 1's for a while. Yikes....

[BrianL99]

Just like horseback riding, croquet, and tennis, some activities just fade away after a few generations.

Golf is one of those.

It's lasted about 125 years in the USA and doubt it's going anywhere, fast.

What a lot of folks aren't realizing, is golf is being over-taken by "virtual golf". There's now a virtual professional golf tour. Why waste 100's of acres, when a computer can create the perfect golf course?

[sdeikenberry]

Originally Posted by Flyers999 View Post
I didn't play four times. I played twice and had two points for cancelling due to weather.

I doubt you cancelled due to weather. Golf Administration makes 1 point days when the weather is bad...sounds like YOU decided to not play and are carping about the cancellation points.

[tophcfa]

It's lasted about 125 years in the USA and doubt it's going anywhere, fast.

What a lot of folks aren't realizing, is golf is being over-taken by "virtual golf". There's now a virtual professional golf tour. Why waste 100's of acres, when a computer can create the perfect golf course?

My friend is a member of a course up north that just invested in 4 golf simulators and they now have winter leagues that play on these virtual golf devices when the courses are covered with snow. Screw that, that’s what Florida is for.

[tophcfa]

What seems to be more missing in these discussions is the pressure put on the executive courses when the increased January rates on the championship courses go into effect.

Very valid point, I know several people, including my wife and I, who play the Executives way more during high season Championship rates. Between June and early November (when the clocks get moved back), we play the Championship courses almost exclusively.

[Velvet]

You are correct - the continual price increases in greens fees for Champs (already too high) puts even more strain on the Execs.

Here's a controversial idea - if you cannot hit a golf ball more than 60-70 yards (or you whiff more that 5 times in 9 holes) play the Pitch-and-Putts. Then stick to the Level 1's for a while. Yikes....

And here’s another idea, if you’re such a good player, you are too good for the executive golf courses so please stay off them. They were built for everybody including beginning players. There is a time limit for each hole which makes sense but how far you hit the ball, or even if you hit it at all - is not a factor. I bet you don’t pay any more in amenity fees than the person trying to learn.

[Parteeinga]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

Have you ever thought that those of us in the south go north for golf is because we like a variety of courses to play. If you are happy playing the same course every time you play, maybe you should move to another community like Pembrook or On Top of the World.

I do not have any issue riding the hour in the golf cart from my house to play the northern most courses.

[dewilson58]

I do not have any issue riding the hour in the golf cart from my house to play the northern most courses.

Retirement and enjoying the journey. :eclipsee_gold_cup:

[michgary]

I couldn’t do that to Women playing. I’m sure 99% of women playing don’t want an unfamiliar man joining them.
both times we had a very fun time,, plenty of laffs ,, but then we didnt take things so seriously like some do,,,

[Rainger99]

When the area south of 44 and the turnpike was being planned, golf participation was declining, until 2020.
From 2010 to 2019, participation dropped from 26.12 million to 24.3 million - almost 10%. In 2022, it was 25.6 million, almost recovered to 2010 level (back to 2011 level). No one could have predicted that.

Golf participation US 2022 | Statista (https://www.statista.com/statistics/191907/participants-in-golf-in-the-us-since-2006/)

Was the decline in all age groups? Or was the decline in people under 40 years old? I saw an article that said the median age of a golfer in the U.S. is 54 and that it was millennials (anyone born between 1981 and 1996) that were not playing that much golf. With that statistic, a retirement community - and especially one that advertises that it is a golf mecca - should keep building courses. Perhaps in another 20 years, all of the millennials will start to retire and have no interest in golf. Or perhaps they will retire and find out that they now have time for golf.

[Velvet]

I couldn’t do that to Women playing. I’m sure 99% of women playing don’t want an unfamiliar man joining them.

We often have only 7 of us playing and so one group of 3 gets a lone guy nearly every time. It works out fine. The guy starts at his tee, we wait, then drive to our tee. Guy might finish first and then waits for each of us, sometimes giving helpful comments or making jokes. I mean he has three considerate and funny ladies to entertain him!

[michgary]

We often have only 7 of us playing and so one group of 3 gets a lone guy nearly every time. It works out fine. The guy starts at his tee, we wait, then drive to our tee. Guy might finish first and then waits for each of us, sometimes giving helpful comments or making jokes. I mean he has three considerate and funny ladies to entertain him!
Exactly right ,, its fun to meet people and have fun together,, nobody is a great golfer ,,, or if you are why are you playing there...

[michgary]

I have never met any women golfers who are not fun,, not on an executive course,, if you are a great golfer play someplace else and let 99 per cent of us have some laffs and make some long putts,,,

[Garywt]

The fourth generation developers don't care about tee times. They want to sell houses and build paying Championship courses open to the public. They don't care about aesthetics, they want to pack the houses in. No beautiful mvp Golf cart paths out that way majority are diamond lanes. They couldn't replicate a gorgeous treed in mvp golf path and come out $$ on top. They are putting in practically no trees and real plant, just palms (now deamed weeds in parts of FL) and scrub bushes. 140,000 people (?) And a permanently closed gorgeous movie theater in Brownwood. The list goes on and on that shows the newest areas are lacking what used to be excellent above the standard industry draws for picking T V.

They are doing the bare minimum to keep T V "lifestyle" appearance.

A dream stays alive when there is a vision... the magic fairy dust is blowing away in the dust bowl surrounding the temporary "new" center of T V. The next one is being planned already.

There is definity a honeymoon season living in T V and the further south one goes the quicker that ends.
It is possible to have too much of a good thing.

They aren't keeping up with free golf demand any longer. But hey at least there is disc golf now in the Hogeye Preserve, so tee up, that'll fix the lack of golf courses being built.

Another full blown hater of our wonderful place to live. I for one think the cart paths and landscaping in the south is absolutely beautiful. I love driving down south and just enjoy it so much. This is not to say the north isn’t beautiful because it is. Everything is wonderful and there is so much to enjoy and it hasn’t changed as you can do as much as you want or as little as you want and have a great time doing it.

[DonH57]

You mentioned that you had "4 points at the time." I'm assuming you are playing executive (you didn't mention.) It's not about having points 6 days before tee time, it's how many points you have when the algorithm is run, which is usually 3 or 4 days before tee time.
Having four points means you have played four times in the past seven days. That's a lot. I would vote that golfer's be limited to three days a week executive. There are some that play every day; one can usually get a tee time if one if a single.
I play executive twice a week and can't remember the last time I had a problem. I'll play Championship if I play more.
I agree with your overall complaint though. These worthless pitch and putts are to blame.

The pitch and putts were fine if they only built two. They're great for family fun, new golfers to try the game, people recovering from surgeries and such.

[Rainger99]

I just checked open tee times for tomorrow. Between 7 am and 6 pm, there are no openings at any executive course for a foursome; there is one opening for a threesome at 5:14; there are several openings for a twosome starting but the earliest is at 5:14; and there are about 10 openings for a single.

[ThirdOfFive]

It's lasted about 125 years in the USA and doubt it's going anywhere, fast.

What a lot of folks aren't realizing, is golf is being over-taken by "virtual golf". There's now a virtual professional golf tour. Why waste 100's of acres, when a computer can create the perfect golf course?
Heh. Sorta like Cherry 2000.

Virtual might be a viable alternative at times but never really does beat the real thing.

[rustyp]

I just checked open tee times for tomorrow. Between 7 am and 6 pm, there are no openings at any executive course for a foursome; there is one opening for a threesome at 5:14; there are several openings for a twosome starting but the earliest is at 5:14; and there are about 10 openings for a single.

///

[Jayhawk]

If golf is a dying sport why are tee times hard to get?

If they are "hard to get"doesn't that mean a lot of people "did get"tee times?

Anyone can do the math - Say 36 courses on average due to some closed. Seven tee times per hour x 4 golfers per group x 10 hours per day. That's a lot of golfers (who MOSTLY didn't have a lot of points). Got to share.

People who are shut out due to points is their fault. Everyone who got a weather point WAS signed up to play with a tee time. Everyone was treated equally.

[Jayhawk]

Koolaid turned sour after about 4 years for me. Having mover’s remorse :22yikes:

These guys can help.

Moving with Seniors | Two Men And A Truck (https://twomenandatruck.com/resources/moving-with-seniors)

[Jayhawk]

I just checked open tee times for tomorrow. Between 7 am and 6 pm, there are no openings at any executive course for a foursome; there is one opening for a threesome at 5:14; there are several openings for a twosome starting but the earliest is at 5:14; and there are about 10 openings for a single.

Why wait until the day before? Go out 2 more days and there are tons of openings. Yes, even for foursomes.

[Rainger99]

Why wait until the day before? Go out 2 more days and there are tons of openings. Yes, even for foursomes.

The reason I waited until the day before was because I wanted to find out how difficult it is to get a tee time if you try to get a reservation the day before.

[Jayhawk]

The reason I waited until the day before was because I wanted to find out how difficult it is to get a tee time if you try to get a reservation the day before.

So now you know. It's like dinner reservations, movie and concert tickets, sporting events, theater, CampVillages, handymen, electricians, plumbers, etc. No one should be too surprised that the day before is gonna be tough, especially for a group.

[shut the front door]

What is not obvious is why the developer stopped building courses for five years. Did he really think that golf was not one of the main attractions?

Because when you signed the closing docs, they got your money. Do you think they care what anybody wants after they've bought the house? Why do you think that they haven't published the results of their "annual survey" on their website in the last 8 years? Because nothing that is suggested gets done.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/shut-the-front-door-115064/albums/pics/10349-survey.jpg

[dano121]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

I was reading another Communities marketing literature. They present that The Villages allows short term rentals which helps cause the over population. I forwarded it to The Villages and did not get a reply.

[Velvet]

I was reading another Communities marketing literature. They present that The Villages allows short term rentals which helps cause the over population. I forwarded it to The Villages and did not get a reply.

Not so much in my observation. STR people don’t often bring along the golfing equipment or sometimes even know how to play. But overpopulation? Yep, 3 couples to a home instead of the 1 expected. Go to the pool now while there is still room before they realize the water is heated!

[BrianL99]

Heh. Sorta like Cherry 2000.

Virtual might be a viable alternative at times but never really does beat the real thing.

I agree with you personally, but I think in 20 years, they'll be more virtual golf played, than real golf.

[mntlblok]

Heh. Sorta like Cherry 2000.

Virtual might be a viable alternative at times but never really does beat the real thing.
Don't even have to pay Cherry to leave. :-)

[eyc234]

Just like Pickleballers saying not enough courts, yet you go by at 4:30 and no one on the court. Did a look for the last couple of days to see what was the availability for both Championship and Executive courses. Had to hit page down for the last two days on Championship courses 30 times and then 50 for tomorrow to get through all the open tee times. There were openings all during the day for 1-4 players. Checked Execs and had to page down over 30 times both days to get through open tee times. Quite a few openings were P&P so would eliminate them and still plenty of tee times. Do not think it is a lack of openings just a lack of flexibility.

[Bilyclub]

The developer DID listen to the priorities of the residents south of CR44! Everyone was connectivity, connectivity, connectivity! It takes a lot of money, resources, and TIME to get the state permitting to build 2 bridges over CR44 and especially 1 over the Florida Turnpike!!! The residents south of CR44 set the priorities and the developer complied! It appears to me that a lot of residences south of CR44 think their wishes can happen at the wave of a “Magic Wand “!!! “Patience Grasshoppers”!!!!!


Since you stated CR 44 four times it's not a typo. It's SR 44 as in State Road 44 or Gulf Atlantic Highway thru Wildwood.

[charmed59]

This week my foursome had 3 points between the four of us. I tried to put in 12 courses, but 3 were closed. We got 20 min after the requested time and 7th choice of courses. Two weeks ago, with the same, we got first choice time and course, and then it stormed. I think the rainouts made a difference.

[Twindham]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.
As a single player I have heard that you can golf everyday as a walk on. You have to call the courses the day of play for an opening rather than scheduling in advance.

[DonH57]

As a single player I have heard that you can golf everyday as a walk on. You have to call the courses the day of play for an opening rather than scheduling in advance.

I've met a few of those folks that do that.:thumbup:

[DonH57]

This week my foursome had 3 points between the four of us. I tried to put in 12 courses, but 3 were closed. We got 20 min after the requested time and 7th choice of courses. Two weeks ago, with the same, we got first choice time and course, and then it stormed. I think the rainouts made a difference.

Our group of 12 got shut out again. Four hour window and 22 course selection, under three points on half of us. I wouldn't look forward for this to get better any time soon. I guess I should feel lucky I picked a good time to do my knee replacement!

[Jayhawk]

Our group of 12 got shut out again. Four hour window and 22 course selection, under three points on half of us. I wouldn't look forward for this to get better any time soon. I guess I should feel lucky I picked a good time to do my knee replacement!

What about the other half?

[DonH57]

What about the other half?

Of 12 of us 6 had 1.8 points, 2 had 2 points and the other 4 only had 3. So we got to go lower next week and try to hit more open courses unless they close more.

[Jayhawk]

Of 12 of us 6 had 1.8 points, 2 had 2 points and the other 4 only had 3. So we got to go lower next week and try to hit more open courses unless they close more.

Sounds like 4 guys cost 8 other guys the ability to play. But they got theirs in.

[Flyers999]

Conspiracy Theory...............please expand on this, inquiring minds want to know.
There's always the trick of putting someone who doesn't play golf (e.g., your wife) into your group every other week to lower the average.

[rustyp]

There's always the trick of putting someone who doesn't play golf (e.g., your wife) into your group every other week to lower the average.

The system keeps track of how many times a golfer is pulled out of a reservation Vs actual play. First time you will get a phone call / warning with an explanation of what a ghost golfer is. Second time you will lose golf privileges.

[DonH57]

Sounds like 4 guys cost 8 other guys the ability to play. But they got theirs in.

Either way but our average shouldn't have held the 12 of us out. we were held out 3 weeks ago when our average was .5 less. We never had any problems at all last year. I'm curious how many more golfers this year and number of courses closed compared to same time this year.

[Irmidick]

I have lived here for 12 years and never get shut out for championship courses unless I screwed something up with my request.
Are you a priority member? That could be the problem this time of the year.

[jarodrig]

Of 12 of us 6 had 1.8 points, 2 had 2 points and the other 4 only had 3. So we got to go lower next week and try to hit more open courses unless they close more.

A couple of things … you are looking for 3 consecutive tee times to accommodate your group. That’s A LOT to ask for this time of year.

Secondly, IMO , your group combined has A LOT of points even though you may not think so. The average of the 12 players combined is what determines the standing.

Lastly, something else that hasn’t been mentioned (unless I missed it) is the fact that The Villages gets tee times set aside to give to folks on their “lifestyle program” for both championship and executive courses .

Exactly how many ? That’s a question for the tee times office IF they would even be agreeable to give you the numbers.

I too have been having trouble getting shut out for a group of 4 on Wednesdays and a group of 8 on Thursdays (Executives). I put in a 3 1/2 window and 25+ courses because we are willing to travel.

When we get shut out , I look for an open tee time for me and my buddy and I tell everyone else that they are free to do the same . Problem solved !!

Couple of months to go and things will return to “normal”

[jarodrig]

I have lived here for 12 years and never get shut out for championship courses unless I screwed something up with my request.
Are you a priority member? That could be the problem this time of the year.

I believe that the main thrust of the discussion is an issue getting tee times at the executive courses , not the championships.

Being a priority member (now called “enhanced” has no bearing on the executive courses .

I wish it did but then everyone in the group would have to be enhanced members to take full advantage of the extra cost of the membership.

[jarodrig]

. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread.

Don’t bother going out “6 days ahead of time” because it doesn’t make any difference.

ALL requests, whether entered 6 days ahead of time or at the last minute, get processed at the SAME TIME…..at midnight 3 days before play date.

[Jayhawk]

Don’t bother going out “6 days ahead of time” because it doesn’t make any difference.

ALL requests, whether entered 6 days ahead of time or at the last minute, get processed at the SAME TIME…..at midnight 3 days before play date.

Right, and it's Points that are allocated to each golfer at Midnight 3 days in advance. So you might input the request 6 days out, but if your guys play during the next 3 days, they'll have points even if they had none when you put it in.

[FriscoKid]

The pitch and putts were fine if they only built two. They're great for family fun, new golfers to try the game, people recovering from surgeries and such.

Actually, the Pitch and Putts are part of a bigger “problem”… when I bought here, I was not a golfer… started playing the Marshview Pitch & Putt and fell in love with the game! Now, I typically play several times a week; a combination of Pitch & Putts (which I still love to play) and executives. The “problem” is they are increasing the number of golfers! :-) I suspect that was exactly what the developers had in mind when they did the planning for the new areas down south… my cohort was NOT playing golf. Pitch & Putt makes the barrier to entry lower for people like me.

Personally, I’m looking forward to the new Live Oak Pitch & Putt coming on line later this year and I hope they decide to build a few more down south in the years ahead.

Build, build, build!

[DonH57]

Actually, the Pitch and Putts are part of a bigger “problem”… when I bought here, I was not a golfer… started playing the Marshview Pitch & Putt and fell in love with the game! Now, I typically play several times a week; a combination of Pitch & Putts (which I still love to play) and executives. The “problem” is they are increasing the number of golfers! :-) I suspect that was exactly what the developers had in mind when they did the planning for the new areas down south… my cohort was NOT playing golf. Pitch & Putt makes the barrier to entry lower for people like me.

Personally, I’m looking forward to the new Live Oak Pitch & Putt coming on line later this year and I hope they decide to build a few more down south in the years ahead.

Build, build, build!

I was not a golfer till I moved here myself. I'm sure if groups of 12 can't get tee times i bet groups of 16 and larger neighborhood groups are getting knocked out of golf each year with the shortage of golf courses.

[ElDiabloJoe]

That’s why I sold 3 years ago saw it coming and only going to get worst.

You sold three years ago? Yet here you are, still on TOTV and still partaking of topics no longer of daily relevance to you? Interesting.

[rustyp]

That’s why I sold 3 years ago saw it coming and only going to get worst.

You sold three years ago? Yet here you are, still on TOTV and still partaking of topics no longer of daily relevance to you? Interesting.

Please don't leave. It's healthy to hear both sides of a story.

[Lobwedge60]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.

[fdpaq0580]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.

All we want is to enjoy a nice, leisurely, relaxing game of golf! Is that asking too much? (Apparently, it is!

[Jayhawk]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.

By the same math, about 11,200 people COULD play today if they didn't have too many points or were open to taking any available tee time. Equals 78,400 available tee times each week. Executive and PP (which are considered executive) only, not including Championship.

[BrianL99]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.


"More timely"?

Are you suggesting that TV shut down all the golf courses in summer and then try to find enough people and optimal weather, to redo ALL the courses, then?

Not very practical.

[Jayhawk]

All we want is to enjoy a nice, leisurely, relaxing game of golf! Is that asking too much? (Apparently, it is!

For anyone (not you) who puts in 3 or 4 close courses or has 3 or more points, and only wants to play between 10:00 and noon, YES that IS asking too much.

Some people around here probably didn't share their crayons in Kindergarten.

:22yikes:

[JMintzer]

As a single player I have heard that you can golf everyday as a walk on. You have to call the courses the day of play for an opening rather than scheduling in advance.

I've met a few of those folks that do that.:thumbup:

I've done that many times. Met some great people!

You can also go on the Villages Golf site and see what courses have empty spots in their t-times...

[JMintzer]

There's always the trick of putting someone who doesn't play golf (e.g., your wife) into your group every other week to lower the average.

They'll nail you for that...

Someone was using my wife's # when she wasn't there and my wife got locked out. I checked and found more than a few "no shows" and 3 points when were weren't in TV. It took a few phone calls to find out what happened.

They were easily able to find the friend who was doing it, and they notified her that if it happened again, she would be suspended for a while...

The friend apologized profusely, as she didn't know it would cause a problem...

[fdpaq0580]

For anyone (not you) who puts in 3 or 4 close courses or has 3 or more points, and only wants to play between 10:00 and noon, YES that IS asking too much.

Some people around here probably didn't share their crayons in Kindergarten.

:22yikes:

In kindergarten I shared everything. I was blind as a bat, and couldn't see when others "shared" everything I had.

[ThirdOfFive]

All we want is to enjoy a nice, leisurely, relaxing game of golf! Is that asking too much? (Apparently, it is!
Not if people temper their expectations.

If you're willing to reserve as a single or as a couple, getting on a course is really not that difficult. My wife and I have played four times in the past eight or so days. El Diablo twice, Briarwood, and Saddlebrook. Three reservations made on "the system" two days in advance, and one call-in the day of. The point being that golf is the same game whether you play as "a group of twelve" or with a couple of snowbirds. And to be honest playing with the "birds" is far more attractive to my wife and I as we get to meet new people. Playing with the same stodgy old group every time doesn't seem all that appealing.

[cjrjck]

Well I have finally experienced the difficulty getting a Tee time that others have complained about. It has everything to do with the golfers in all of the new developments coming north because of the lack of courses in the south. I have been here for 10 years and have never been constantly shut out of getting a time. I went on 6 days before and asked for a starting time within a four hour spread. I had 4 points at the time. Didn't get any of the three days requested. I think that groups are forming leagues down south and rotating request so that there are request with only 1 or 2 points. I have golfed with people who are traveling an hour by cart to get to the north end to golf. My reason for owning in the Villages is quickly fading.

I feel your pain but this idea that where you live in The Villages dictates where you are entitled to play golf is wrong. TV is TV, no matter where you live in TV.

[Bay Kid]

If something comes up and you can't play that day of golf always call the starter and let them know. That way golfers looking for an open time will make use of the slot.

[Normal]

We love going up north to golf. Our amenity fees cover it, so why not. Just find other things to do. Road-trips in the cart followed by great times at the selected 19th all make it fun.

[MSchad]

If something comes up and you can't play that day of golf always call the starter and let them know. That way golfers looking for an open time will make use of the slot.

Speaking as a starter…. THANK YOU!
Also to group leaders. If you know the night before who isn’t going to make it. Remove them and rearrange your group to free up slots. On one morning shift I have had as many as 21 no-shows from groups and foursomes where ‘guests’ used to fill the slot aren’t going to make it. Think about that x the other courses, Hundreds.

[Rainger99]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.

As of today, there are 6 executives closed for extended maintenance.

They are Yankee Clipper; Southern Star; Oakleigh; Belmont, Palmetto; and Heron.

I think they should do as much extended maintenance between Memorial Day and Labor Day rather than during the peak season. The courses are less in demand in the low season.

[biker1]

Unfortunately, there is no way to rearrange groups via the website. You have to call the Tee Time Office to compress players into a lesser number of tee times and possibly free up an entire tee time when you have players cancel. It would be nice if you could move around players, via the website, when players have to cancel.

Speaking as a starter…. THANK YOU!
Also to group leaders. If you know the night before who isn’t going to make it. Remove them and rearrange your group to free up slots. On one morning shift I have had as many as 21 no-shows from groups and foursomes where ‘guests’ used to fill the slot aren’t going to make it. Think about that x the other courses, Hundreds.

[tophcfa]

As of today, there are 6 executives closed for extended maintenance.

They are Yankee Clipper; Southern Star; Oakleigh; Belmont, Palmetto; and Heron.

I think they should do as much extended maintenance between Memorial Day and Labor Day rather than during the peak season. The courses are less in demand in the low season.

Agree, maintenance is also much easier and faster if done during growing season.

[Boffin]

Maintenance should remain in peak season months.

[UpNorth]

[QUOTE=Rainger99;2299150]As of today, there are 6 executives closed for extended maintenance.

They are Yankee Clipper; Southern Star; Oakleigh; Belmont, Palmetto; and Heron.


Need to add Tarpon Boil, Redfish Run and Bonita Pass. The fungus trio.

[Rainger99]

[QUOTE=Rainger99;2299150]As of today, there are 6 executives closed for extended maintenance.

They are Yankee Clipper; Southern Star; Oakleigh; Belmont, Palmetto; and Heron.


Need to add Tarpon Boil, Redfish Run and Bonita Pass. The fungus trio.

Are they closed? Or just in bad shape?

[MSchad]

Unfortunately, there is no way to rearrange groups via the website. You have to call the Tee Time Office to compress players into a lesser number of tee times and possibly free up an entire tee time when you have players cancel. It would be nice if you could move around players, via the website, when players have to cancel.
Yes you can by using the cancel and substitute player options. We do it all the time. If Adam calls you and says they can’t play and you want to move John to Adam’s spot; cancel John first and then substitute Adam with John. Adam is gone and John has been moved.

[Bay Kid]

As of today, there are 6 executives closed for extended maintenance.

They are Yankee Clipper; Southern Star; Oakleigh; Belmont, Palmetto; and Heron.

I think they should do as much extended maintenance between Memorial Day and Labor Day rather than during the peak season. The courses are less in demand in the low season.

There are many that need work, but not Oakleigh. They should look for the worse 1st.

[ThirdOfFive]

There are many that need work, but not Oakleigh. They should look for the worse 1st.
One would think that, but unfortunately that is not the way it appears to be done here. We played Briarwood this past Sunday, which had just re-opened after a period of months and the expenditure of well over half a million dollars undergoing "renovation", and other than some sod put down around some of the greens and two sections of concrete golf path (about 20' each) replaced, it looked no different than it had before "renovation" started, other than of course looking better than most courses given that it had had no player traffic on it for some time.

One has to wonder. Briarwood was easily one of the more attractive and well-kept courses even before this "renovation". Yet it was closed while some courses in significantly worse shape remained open.

[fdpaq0580]

One would think that, but unfortunately that is not the way it appears to be done here. We played Briarwood this past Sunday, which had just re-opened after a period of months and the expenditure of well over half a million dollars undergoing "renovation", and other than some sod put down around some of the greens and two sections of concrete golf path (about 20' each) replaced, it looked no different than it had before "renovation" started, other than of course looking better than most courses given that it had had no player traffic on it for some time.

One has to wonder. Briarwood was easily one of the more attractive and well-kept courses even before this "renovation". Yet it was closed while some courses in significantly worse shape remained open.

Closing occasionally helps keep the good staying good, rather than continuing to overuse and abuse to the point where it can't regrow and needs full replacement. The peak season is when the highest number of people put the biggest burden on the courses and do the most damage. Golf courses are living things. This is when they are most vulnerable. They can use a break now and then on a year round basis. After all they are meant to be enjoyed year round, not just during the winter when the part timers show up.

[biker1]

Does John wind up with 3 Points (2 for cancelling and then 1 for playing) or does the system know enough to only assign 1 playing point to John? Does Adam wind up with 2 cancellation points?

Yes you can by using the cancel and substitute player options. We do it all the time. If Adam calls you and says they can’t play and you want to move John to Adam’s spot; cancel John first and then substitute Adam with John. Adam is gone and John has been moved.

[fdpaq0580]

Does John wind up with 3 Points (2 for cancelling and then 1 for playing) or does the system know enough to only assign 1 playing point to John? Does Adam wind up with 2 cancellation points?

What about the single hoping for an open spot?
Screwed again. 😔

[Normal]

////

[biker1]

With the scenario that was presented, there is now an open spot (John's original spot).

What about the single hoping for an open spot?
Screwed again. 😔

[fdpaq0580]

With the scenario that was presented, there is now an open spot (John's original spot).

Then why bother to move John to Adam's spot? An opening is an opening. In what way does it matter?

[Pairadocs]

It is a real issue that didn’t exist several years ago. It’s simple math, the amount of golf holes per rooftop has been significantly diluted since ground was broken south of 44 and it gets worse every passing year. The new golf being built is not nearly enough to rectify the issue, it’s just marginally slowing the rate of dilution.

We built much longer ago than 10 years. "Winter" was always a little more difficult, but if one were "reasonable" (meaning, no demanding ONE particular course at ONE certain day and time) it was not that difficult to get something similar to the request. Over the years it's just become, yes, beyond frustrating. I'm sure even the Championship (pay) courses do not come close to bringing in the amount of money the sale of a new home does, so you have to kind of figure: if you have self space in your store, and stocking one item brings a LOT more profit than stocking another item that might be a convenience and help to the customers who come in, but on which there is nearly no profit, or even is a "loss leader" item. So golf courses could be an attractive "loss leader" for this business. Also, how would any resident know how many MORE times that traditionally reserved for the villages sales department, are now being held back ? Are even more allotted to the sales department now that the square miles of the V's have grown exponentially. So couple those possibilities with the great increase in people owning "chains" of properties for short term rental, that demographic too has definitely increased since many years ago when the "typical" winter residents were 2 people to a home they either owned (and did not rent out when not occupying), or renters would stay an entire winter. Just so many changes that combine to cause major dysfunction, can't blame ONE thing, except perhaps lack of adequate contingency planning while adding one village after another. Kind of like a Ponzi scheme, they finally collapse but always look very successful until the end ! ?

[Pairadocs]

It is a real issue that didn’t exist several years ago. It’s simple math, the amount of golf holes per rooftop has been significantly diluted since ground was broken south of 44 and it gets worse every passing year. The new golf being built is not nearly enough to rectify the issue, it’s just marginally slowing the rate of dilution.

We built much longer ago than 10 years. "Winter" was always a little more difficult, but if one were "reasonable" (meaning, no demanding ONE particular course at ONE certain day and time) it was not that difficult to get something similar to the request. Over the years it's just become, yes, beyond frustrating. I'm sure even the Championship (pay) courses do not come close to bringing in the amount of money the sale of a new home does, so you have to kind of figure: if you have shelf space in your store, and stocking one item brings a LOT more profit than stocking another item that might be a convenience and help to the customers who come in, but on which there is nearly no profit, or even is a "loss leader" item. So golf courses could be an attractive "loss leader" for this business. Also, how would any resident know how many MORE times that traditionally reserved for the villages sales department, are now being held back ? Are even more allotted to the sales department now that the square miles of the V's have grown exponentially. So couple those possibilities with the great increase in people owning "chains" of properties for short term rental, that demographic too has definitely increased since many years ago when the "typical" winter residents were 2 people to a home they either owned (and did not rent out when not occupying), or renters would stay an entire winter. Just so many changes that combine to cause major dysfunction, can't blame ONE thing, except perhaps lack of adequate contingency planning while adding one village after another. Kind of like a Ponzi scheme, they finally collapse but always look very successful until the end ! ?

[Pairadocs]

You sold three years ago? Yet here you are, still on TOTV and still partaking of topics no longer of daily relevance to you? Interesting.

Yes, that is interesting. I doubt I'd be that interested after I moved, but, people have various quirks, especially to all social media sites rather personally relevant to them or not I suppose ? Others may just look back to try to determine if their decision to move is confirmed in their mind ? Remember, a good part of human nature is: YES, I KNEW I was right ! People seek "confirmation".

[Pairadocs]

As of today, 5 executive courses are closed for extended maintenance. With around 70 tee times per day per course with 4 golfers per slot, that means 1400 golfers are not playing per day who would be if maintenance were more timely.


Don't think who ever is "in charge" has counted on many people thinking in those mathematical terms as you have !

[Pairadocs]

It is a real issue that didn’t exist several years ago. It’s simple math, the amount of golf holes per rooftop has been significantly diluted since ground was broken south of 44 and it gets worse every passing year. The new golf being built is not nearly enough to rectify the issue, it’s just marginally slowing the rate of dilution.

Absolutely true, no way is the issue that simple, just build that new course is far from a solution because it does not address the roots of the problem ! Treating chronic illness with aspirin to keep the "fever" down, does NOT solve, or even address, the actual problem.

[Pairadocs]

I just don't even play golf during snowbird season. I have other sports that I play, and other than snowbird season, I don't have the newbs coming up here and invading my turf. When the snowbirds are gone, I get back to my nice leisurely game. Eventually, they will have their own courses and they can stay down there where they think things are so much better....

We too finally just quit trying to play during "snowbird" season, but then, "snowbird" season started getting longer, and longer, and longer, and with the dramatic increase in AB&B and so many other short term rental companies, the number of units that once were unoccupied many months, has now increased tremendously. That impacts the whole amenity picture too.

[biker1]

It was not a real situation. He was explaining how to move a person around between foursomes. In reality, the reason you might want to do this is to compress the players down into a lesser number of foursomes and free up an entire tee time. Regardless, a empty spot still exists.

Then why bother to move John to Adam's spot? An opening is an opening. In what way does it matter?

[Papa_lecki]

So couple those possibilities with the great increase in people owning "chains" of properties for short term rental, that demographic too has definitely increased since many years ago when the "typical" winter residents were 2 people to a home they either owned (and did not rent out when not occupying), or renters would stay an entire winter. ?

This is an interesting concept. With more rentals, there are probably more rentals with 4 adults vs the old days when a house had 2 adults.

[fdpaq0580]

It was not a real situation. He was explaining how to move a person around between foursomes. In reality, the reason you might want to do this is to compress the players down into a lesser number of foursomes and free up an entire tee time. Regardless, a empty spot still exists.

Thanks. Still hope for a single getting to play.

[dano121]

I also moved here mostly for the golf. Lucky now to get two nines in a week. Unfortunately when I try an alternate activity such as pickleball I find long lines and when I go to the pool their are no lounges etc.. One of the problems is that the Villages allows short term rentals. I have seen their competition using this in their marketing against TV Also, it seems as if the Villages continues to build, build , build without the recreational infrastructure. They are famous for "Nickel and Dime" or are they increasing profits in anticipation of a sale? Anyway, Sharing our experiences via reviews of the Villages Development Co. may put some pressure on them.

[golfing eagles]

I also moved here mostly for the golf. Lucky now to get two nines in a week. Unfortunately when I try an alternate activity such as pickleball I find long lines and when I go to the pool their are no lounges etc.. One of the problems is that the Villages allows short term rentals. I have seen their competition using this in their marketing against TV Also, it seems as if the Villages continues to build, build , build without the recreational infrastructure. They are famous for "Nickel and Dime" or are they increasing profits in anticipation of a sale? Anyway, Sharing our experiences via reviews of the Villages Development Co. may put some pressure on them.

How so. I could play every day if I wanted to, no problem at all.

[tophcfa]

How so. I could play every day if I wanted to, no problem at all.

Come on, you know the answer to your question. Very easy to get Championship T Times at $75+ per round. The poster is referencing Executive T Times that are part of the sunk cost amenity fees. Totally different animal.

[golfing eagles]

Come on, you know the answer to your question. Very easy to get Championship T Times at $75+ per round. The poster is referencing Executive T Times that are part of the sunk cost amenity fees. Totally different animal.

And tomorrow there are 34 tee times on execs well in advance of darkness and more if you want to flirt with sundown. This doesn’t include over 200 on those pitch and putts

[JMintzer]

How so. I could play every day if I wanted to, no problem at all.

Exactly...

While I'm not yet full time, when I was down in October, I played at least 4 Xs/week, playing both exec and champ courses. Same for when I was down for 2 weeks last month...

[JMintzer]

And tomorrow there are 34 tee times on execs well in advance of darkness and more if you want to flirt with sundown. This doesn’t include over 200 on those pitch and putts

I'll go out as a solo, joining a group. It's a great way to meet new people...

Or, my wife and I will look for another couple a day or three before we want to play.

We've yet not to find a reasonable time...

[tophcfa]

And tomorrow there are 34 tee times on execs well in advance of darkness and more if you want to flirt with sundown. This doesn’t include over 200 on those pitch and putts

Right, there are 34 open T times for singles late in the day available on the over 40 Executive courses, and even more on the few glorified mini golf courses, all of which are already paid for with the monthly amenity fee. Yet, there are hundreds of openings throughout the day, not limited to singles, on the various 13 Championship courses that charge $75+ per round. Again, it’s a totally different animal. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, it just exemplifies that the Executives are running at full capacity during busy season and the Championships are readily accessible when changing the current high season green fees.

[MSchad]

Does John wind up with 3 Points (2 for cancelling and then 1 for playing) or does the system know enough to only assign 1 playing point to John? Does Adam wind up with 2 cancellation points?

Adam gets 2 points, John gets just 1.

[MSchad]

Then why bother to move John to Adam's spot? An opening is an opening. In what way does it matter?
Correct that was a single scenario. But can be done to multiple players in a group to open complete slots. Easy to condense a group of 16 down to 12 and open a tee time.

[golfing eagles]

Right, there are 34 open T times for singles late in the day available on the over 40 Executive courses, and even more on the few glorified mini golf courses, all of which are already paid for with the monthly amenity fee. Yet, there are hundreds of openings throughout the day, not limited to singles, on the various 13 Championship courses that charge $75+ per round. Again, it’s a totally different animal. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, it just exemplifies that the Executives are running at full capacity during busy season and the Championships are readily accessible when changing the current high season green fees.

Greens fees, Jan-May, most courses---$69.50 (tax not included) $6 more at SO, $6 less at Hacienda and $15 less at OBH.

If you play about 60 times/year get the priority membership---you'll pay $51.50 instead and break even, saving $$$ if you play more and move up on the tee time cue as well.

Since execs are free, I would expect them to fill up in high season.

[Breeze729]

I'm wondering if any of you in this thread feel as I do that the greens we are playing here are the worst in the past ten years that I've seen. I played Hawkes Bay and then went to Truman with both of them having far too much dirt on them to be worth calling a green???

[Bogie Shooter]

I'm wondering if any of you in this thread feel as I do that the greens we are playing here are the worst in the past ten years that I've seen. I played Hawkes Bay and then went to Truman with both of them having far too much dirt on them to be worth calling a green???

There are two other thread’s answer your question……….