PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. — The issue of slow play in golf has been a persistent concern for decades, with historical references highlighting its significance. One notable example comes from a 1950 memo issued by Joe Dey, the then executive director of the USGA, which addressed players registering for the U.S. Open at Merion. According to David Barrett’s book “Miracle at Merion,” Dey pointed out that the first group at the previous U.S. Open in Medinah took a staggering 3 hours and 27 minutes to finish their round, while the final group took an even longer 4 hours and 16 minutes. Disturbingly, the last group on day two took an even more extended 4 hours and 21 minutes. Dey voiced his frustration, urging the need for immediate action before the game was seriously compromised.
Fast forward to a recent incident at Torrey Pines, where the problem reemerged. Dottie Pepper, an on-course analyst for CBS Sports, received a message from her colleague Frank Nobilo about the slow pace of the final group during the game. As they made the turn, he noted that they were nearing three hours on the course. In response, Pepper made a poignant remark about the situation, suggesting that instead of just discussing pace, a new term should be considered: “respect”—for other competitors, for fans, and for the integrity of the broadcast. Her 12-second message struck a chord and has reignited the conversation about the need for improvement in pace of play.
Reflecting on the historical context, it seems that Dey’s early warnings have largely gone unheeded. The USGA has attempted to address these issues with initiatives like the “While We’re Young” campaign introduced during the 2013 U.S. Open, yet the conversation about slow play continues to resonate, lacking effective solutions. Pepper, who has a rich history in golf beyond her impressive playing record, emphasized that her thoughts were not solely aimed at the final group but at the broader issue affecting all levels of play, from club tournaments to junior and collegiate golf. She highlighted the resurgence of interest in golf post-COVID and decried the missed opportunities for growth if the sport does not improve its pace.
In the wake of Pepper’s remarks, she reported receiving feedback from various peers in golf communities, indicating that the issue of slow play has been a shared concern. The noticeable delays during recent tournaments, such as the final round at Torrey Pines taking 5 hours and 29 minutes, underscore the persistent nature of this problem. Dey’s statement from decades ago, declaring the situation “completely out of hand,” remains relevant today.
The USGA recommends a 40-second timeframe for players to hit their shots, providing an extra 10 seconds for the first player to hit. These guidelines exist across different tours, yet they have not resulted in tangible changes in play speed. Pepper’s call for “respect” has the potential to instigate meaningful conversations, much like Judy Rankin’s insightful suggestion that if every player ensured they were not causing delays for others, the overall pace would improve significantly.
Emerging innovations like the new indoor league TGL, which introduces a shot clock, could change perspectives on pace, but the fundamental challenge remains. The PGA Tour is exploring pace of play with a working group, which may discuss the potential for introducing shot clock regulations.
Pepper stresses the importance of finding a balance within the entertainment aspect of professional golf, which has evolved considerably since the 1950s. Modern equipment and faster greens have changed how the game is played; however, the basic requirement to walk between shots remains constant. Nonetheless, measures like staggered tee starting times that were adopted in major championships were partly influenced by the pace issue.
For years, complaints about slow play have persisted, and Pepper’s recent statements have brought the topic back into focus, and with it, an opportunity for change. She passionately advocates for the game, expressing the belief that the current enthusiasm for golf, aided by influencers and new formats like TGL, presents a chance for improvement.
“I love the game too much,” she remarked. “Let’s capitalize on the current interest. Golf is enjoying heightened visibility—let’s ensure we don’t squander that potential.”
