Golf's Pace of Play Problem: Too slow or becoming too fast??

SPRINGFIELD--Golf has ALWAYS been a leisurely sport. However, that doesn't mean it doesn't have its own rhythm.

Historically, golf allows its players to enjoy a relaxed pace-of-play, while taking in, and appreciating, the sights and sounds of nature. Unfortunately, the sport has been plagued by "slow play" for a very LONG time. Instead of groups of four playing 18-holes between 3:30-4 hours, they go beyond that traditionally accepted range and it causes major congestion and frustration for everyone else playing behind them.

Is that issue due to skill level, age, or experience? Sometimes. But, more often than not, it's because both good AND bad players take too much time BEFORE they hit the ball.

It's all too common for a group of high-handicap golfers to NOT be ready to hit the ball, wh