The Match Committee met this week to assess the current Golf Operations Conditions. Whilst there has been a slight decrease in congestion, traffic on the golf course remains extremely high at this time. Data indicates that over the last ten years, Avondale has averaged around 34,000 competition rounds per year. In 2020 we are currently on track for over 50,000.
The use of timesheets and the random draw booking process are still deemed necessary to manage demand, minimise wait times and maximise fair Member access and satisfaction during this most unusual of times.
In line with the desire to return to traditional operations as soon as practicable, I am pleased to report the Committee has agreed to implement the following changes, effective Monday November 2nd:
- Roll up starts for Mondays and Thursdays will commence at 10:30am. In the event that Ladies do not fill their 2-hour exclusive tee allocation on Mondays from 8:30am, Men may commence play earlier, on a roll up start basis.
- Saturday play will be by timesheet from 6:15am until 8:15am, using two tees. Play from 10:45am will be on a roll up start basis, from the 1st tee only. The 18 hole competition times will run until 1:30pm, if demand exists. A 12 hole competition and optional social play will follow the 18 hole competition field.
- Sunday play will be by timesheet from 6:45am until 8:30am, using two tees. Play from 10:45am will be on a roll up start basis, using the 1st tee only. The 18 hole competition times will run until 1pm, if demand exists. A 12 hole competition and optional social play will follow the 18 hole competition field.
- There will be no changes to Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays.
- The Nearest to the Pin prizes will be reintroduced.
Please note that players who are arriving for a roll up start must register with the Pro Shop individually. Players will be grouped upon the 4th player’s registration and a tee time will then be allocated to the group.
- Visitors will be permitted to play on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays after 2pm. Members wishing to invite visitors are to register their request with Hayley McNeill, at least 5 days prior. Visitors will not be permitted to play without prior approval from the Captain.
- Reciprocal Members will be permitted to play on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays after 2pm. The normal reciprocal booking arrangements will apply.
Setting and adhering to a fair Pace of Play continues to be a challenge. Hayley and I have spent some time assessing the round times recently. We have data on the average times and have identified some areas that need improvement. Interestingly, our round times are amongst the slowest of our peer clubs. Please ensure that you submit your score card as soon as possible after your rounds to assist in the accuracy of our data.
Please consider your shot preparation technique and playing habits to ensure they are in the best interests of your fellow Members. One aspect I think we could work on is our pre-shot routine when playing from fairways. Perhaps consider not watching your playing partner’s pre-shot routine; instead commence yours, so that when he or she has hit, you are ready to hit straight away. If we all reduce our individual pre-shot routine times we may well be surprised how much faster the round could be! Please also feel comfortable to discuss the pace of play with your group, as it’s important that we all are conscious of the desire for faster rounds.
Good luck to all our Members who have reached the semi finals of the Club Championships. The course is in perfect shape for the finals and we are all looking forward to watching some excellent matches!
Mark Bayliss
captain@avondalegolfclub.com.au
Filed under: App News
