[Whatnext]

"""As you can tell
most of the answers given further prove the case for not many people knowing the rules of golf. Its not a sand trap its a bunker, its not a water hazard its a penalty area."""

When were term and description made rules?
What is the penalty for not describing a sand trap as a bunker, or water hazard in stead of penalty area?
I would like to know, as I think I have been cheating all these years.

[Snakster66]

Originally Posted by Aces4

"Most folks are out there to have fun, not pretend they are playing in an Open qualifier"...

Seriously? I think a lot of egos are involved in this discussion. If the guy wants to play by the rules in which golf was established, it shouldn't be any hair off anyone's neck. He is simply asking for golfers who play by the rules for his game.

He probably learned a lot more about people who live in TV's than his original question.

I guess you missed the part where I wrote, "if you want to play by strict rules, more power to you". I couldn't care less what other people do (and I do my best to play by the rules as well). I am also cognizant of pace of play, which led to my other point. But I suppose it's fun to take one sentence out of context (a true statement btw) and get indignant over it.

I'm not exactly sure what ego has to do with it. Nobody cares if a group is playing strict USGA rules golf (or if they're not for that matter). They do care if they have to play a 5 hour round. If OP can find a group of guys to do that with, then it's a happy ending; so long as they maintain pace of play. I think that's all people are really saying here.

[dewilson58]

Originally Posted by Snakster66

For the vast majority, The Villages Friendly golf suggestions are pretty solid in order to maintain a reasonable pace of play. Your foursome wants to play strict USGA rules? More power to you...as long as it doesn't bog down the pace for everyone behind you. Most folks are out there to have fun, not pretend they are playing in an Open qualifier.

Golf The Villages

Agree.............most slow is NOT because of the lack of skill. Slow players watch too much Golf Channel or they are sweating over a $0.25 putt.

[Rainger99]

Originally Posted by SPT32507

I’m considering moving to The Villages and, as an avid golfer (albeit a higher-handicap one), one of my top priorities is finding a group that plays by official USGA rules—no gimmies, proper lies, penalties assessed, and honest scoring.

I completely respect that many groups are more relaxed, but I’m simply looking for like-minded players who enjoy the game as it's written. If such a group exists, I’d really appreciate any pointers or contacts.

Thanks in advance!

If you want to play by the rules, I don't think anyone is going to complain about it. But is it a top priority to play in a group that plays by the official rules? Can't you do that yourself?

I follow most of the rules. But I have played with people who are very strict about following all of the rules. I didn't object to them and they didn't object to me. Please note that we were not playing for money.

[Aces4]

Originally Posted by Snakster66

I guess you missed the part where I wrote, "if you want to play by strict rules, more power to you". I couldn't care less what other people do (and I do my best to play by the rules as well). I am also cognizant of pace of play, which led to my other point. But I suppose it's fun to take one sentence out of context (a true statement btw) and get indignant over it.

I'm not exactly sure what ego has to do with it. Nobody cares if a group is playing strict USGA rules golf (or if they're not for that matter). They do care if they have to play a 5 hour round. If OP can find a group of guys to do that with, then it's a happy ending; so long as they maintain pace of play. I think that's all people are really saying here.

Yeah, I read the whole comment and the nice little slight you slid in at the end. Wouldn't, "I hope you find the group you're looking for and you enjoy The Villages" have been a friendly response to a newbe than:

"Most folks are out there to have fun, not pretend they are playing in an Open qualifier.

[jbartle1]

Originally Posted by golfing eagles

ONLY 40 footprints???? Where????? I want to know

Usually there are hundreds, and 20% of them are right under a rake, some traps have a 30-yard trail of footprints from front to back with a "scoop" of sand out every 5 yards or so. I once watched this show from my lanai with some bozo taking 6 shots to get out of the fairway bunker (championship course) and just walked away. I ran out and raked the trap, and since the "golfer" STILL wasn't more than 20 yards away, said "you're welcome", which drew a one-fingered salute. I did suggest he go play a pitch and putt but then recanted since even those people deserve better. (I was afraid he would be taking divots on a putting course)

Probably a priority member as I was informed one time, giggle

[dewilson58]

Originally Posted by SPT32507

I’m considering moving to The Villages ......................

Welcome to ToTV.

[jimhoward]

The one USGA rule that I wish everyone would follow is maximum time permitted looking for your ball….3 minutes maximum. Which goes by very very quickly.

If that one rule were followed strictly, everyone’s day would be improved.