Will Two Ball Golf Become The New Normal?

Golfers in England have been getting used to quick rounds playing in two balls, but threes and fours are now allowed

Will Two Ball Golf Become The New Normal?

Golfers in England are now allowed to play in three and four balls after new government lockdown guidance.

Since golf in England re-opened almost three weeks ago, play has been two balls only, with threes and fours allowed only if all players are from the same household.

Golfers have been loving the two ball only rule with rounds taking no more than three hours, effectively ending the slow play debate.

We've seen clubs also enjoying the two ball only rule, with some even making permanent changes to their time sheets by, for example, allow only twos in mornings.

Lincoln Golf Centre say that, going forward, it will not even be allowing four balls anymore.

"We as a golf club don’t feel that 4 balls can do anything but slow golf down so we won't be allowing them back," Lincoln Golf Centre said on Twitter.

"Slow play is the biggest curse of golf and the biggest thing we get feedback about!"

A number of clubs in the UK are two ball only anyway, and this period has certainly reminded us just how great two ball golf is.

WATCH: 9 Tips To Beat Slow Play

There's certainly a large number of the golfing population that love them due to the speed at which it takes to get round.

For a busy parent or someone who simply doesn't have 4-5 hours time out of their day to dedicate to golf, two balls are the best way that they can enjoy the game.

However, whilst saying that, an equally large number of golfers probably enjoy nothing more than a relaxed four ball with good company, playing a friendly better-ball match.

Perhaps this Covid-19 period we're currently in may be a time for clubs, like Lincoln Golf Centre, to revise their strategies going forward.

Two balls only before 10am on weekends may be something that is seen at some clubs, or perhaps a new starting matrix for courses with two-tee starts.

Clubs must consider the financial penalties of not allowing four balls though, as much-needed green fees can only be maximised if fours are permitted.

But then saying that, if play in twos is quick and tee times can be spaced closer together, golfers may enjoy their time more and be keen to re-book.

This is a fine balancing act, especially with many clubs struggling financially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many golfers are looking forward to threes and fours returning as more tee times will be available, as currently courses are jam-packed due to only two players being able to take one spot, as oppose to four usually.

Whilst threes and fours are allowed in England, it still may be a few days until they're in operation as clubs will have two balls booked for a while still.

We asked on social media if you would like two balls to become the new norm and we had lots of differing responses -

Let us know your views on social media

For all the latest golf news, check the Golf Monthly website and follow our social media channels @golfmonthlymagazine on Facebook and @golfmonthly on Twitter and Instagram