New to Golf? Let us help you learn the lay of the land

Sir Winston Churchill once described golf as “a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose.” Others have commented on the strange mix of coordination and accuracy to succeed, usually accompanied by a bit of frustration from not demonstrating the correct combination of those skills at that particular moment in time. There are plenty of groans and shaken fists from missed shots and inaccurate balls. There are also cheers of joy when everything mysteriously comes together and the ball lands in the cup sooner than you expected. Golf is one of those activities that welcome everyone — even if you’re out just to have a good time and not keep score, you can go out with some pals and wander around a local par 3 course. If your game is a little more advanced, you can visit a more formal course where much more attention is paid to gameplay and etiquette. And if you’re truly great, you might even make it on TV, exhibiting your brilliant strokes and long drives, with potentially millions of dollars on the line. So where do you start? If you’re already here, you’re definitely headed in the right direction! This part of the site is designed especially for newcomers, those who don’t know the difference between a bunker and a bogey, or a driver from a divot. We offer information about how to get started, and you can use our course directory to find a nearby course. If you look around this site, you’ll find plenty of resources – not just courses but businesses that sell the equipment you need. And even some places to hone your game in the off-season. You’ll find answers to common questions here, and advice from those in the business, or at least those who have been golfing longer than you! And you’ll even find a place to post any questions you might have. We’re probably not going to turn you into Tiger Woods – but this site, your local pros and our other experts all want to help you learn to walk the walk and talk the talk. Let’s start with the basics, in handy Frequently Answered Question format. (Quick disclaimer – the following information is all produced by the GoGolfNW.com team and various public domain sources as a service to our site visitors. For those seeking the official Rules of Golf, we suggest a visit to www.usga.org where you can find a 300-page tome defining absolutely every aspect of game play, history, and any kind of contingencies and circumstance you can think of. Your local pros are also excellent resources and can give you plenty of pointers, either over the phone or in person. That’s why they’re there.) Q. What is golf? A. All right. We suppose there are probably those who aren’t familiar with even the most basic basics of golf. At its heart, golf is about using a club to hit a ball into a hole. The game of today had its start in Scotland more than 300 years ago, and the concept really hasn’t changed much. Q. If the game is the same, why are there so many different golf courses? A. Every course designer wants to accomplish different things, whether they have 9, 18 or even 36 holes to work with. Some courses are designed to emphasize natural scenery, some are designed to feature a variety of conditions, such as water hazards, bunkers and different lengths of fairways. Some are created to be relatively easy for all levels, some are created for more expert players and conditions. Some have unique features, such as signature holes. Prices and privileges also vary. Other factors, like if carts are allowed, the items in the clubhouse, or food to be had, are all factors to distinguish one course from another. Q. I don’t have funny enough pants. A. Thankfully, the days of golfers sporting bad polyester plaids are a think of the past. Today’s golf attire, especially at the pro level, probably can be described as resort casual – usually slacks and a polo shirt will do fine. Different courses will have different dress codes so call ahead. Often the only guideline is to dress for the weather and don’t be a distraction to the other players. This could mean slacks, or if it’s a laid-back atmosphere, dressier shorts. Q. What do I need to play? For those getting started, sometimes a course may lend out a few clubs. You may be able to borrow a set from a friend. Some just getting started may pick up a set at a discount store, a thrift store or a garage sale. (We recommend www.bizfindernw.com for searching for golf stores or general stores.) Pro shops at courses often have great sales on equipment, especially demo models. Your typical bag should include a blend of irons, woods, plus specialty clubs like putters and wedges, or some of the newer hybrid clubs. Other people prefer getting theirs custom made and fitted, which occasionally has a higher price but can be a better fit for your swing and height. Q. How do I learn? A. Anyone who has spent anytime at a course can offer you some pointers. But like any advice freely given, what may work for one person may not work for everyone. But a course staff, especially the pro or assistant pro, have usually been certified to teach the “correct” ways to play. Courses can offer group or individual instruction. Some courses also work with local colleges or park and recreation departments for courses. Pros will also tell you the best advice they can give is to practice. Visit the driving range or putting range. Work on different swings and different clubs. Play for fun. Ask questions. Q. How do I find somewhere to play? A. Again, www.bizfindernw.com or our site’s golf directory can help you find a course and get details about where it is and if it’s somewhere you can just drive to, or you need to call or go online for a tee time, or need a membership or be a member’s guest. Q. This is tough! A. Yes. Remember, even Tiger Woods takes lessons. He supposedly also started playing at age 2. Keep at it. People want to help you.