There is a specific kind of panic that only exists on a golf course.
You’re on the 5th tee. You’ve already topped your drive twice, your friend is currently hunting for his ball in the deep rough, and you look back at the 4th green. There’s a group of four players standing there, watching your every move.
Suddenly, your arms turn to lead. You feel like you’re holding up the entire world. You rush your next shot, blade it into a bunker, and the downward spiral accelerates.
If you are a beginner or a high-handicapper, pace of play anxiety is the number one thing that ruins a round of golf. You feel like a nuisance, and you feel like a failure for not keeping up.
First, let’s clear the air: Needing to let a faster group pass is not a sign that you suck at golf. It is simply a basic mechanic of the game. Even single-figure handicappers have days where they get stuck or play slow.
Learning the Art of the Wave-Through will instantly save your scorecard, your sanity, and your love for the game. Here is exactly how to do it without the awkwardness.
When Should You Let Them Pass?
You do not need to let people through just because they hit the ball farther than you. You should wave them through if:
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There is open space ahead of you: If there is an entire empty hole between your group and the group in front of you, you are playing slow.
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The group behind is constantly waiting: If they are standing on the tee box waiting for you to clear the fairway on every single hole, it’s time to move over.
The Exact Script: What to Say
The biggest hurdle for beginners is the awkwardness of the interaction. You don’t know what to say, so you just keep running away from them. Break the ice.
The next time you are on a tee box and the fast group arrives behind you, don't run. Stand by your cart, smile, and use this exact script:
"Hey guys, we’re having a bit of a rough day in the woods ahead. Why don't you guys tee off and skip ahead of us so you don't have to keep waiting?"
What happens next: They will almost always smile, thank you profusely, hit their shots, and walk past. You have instantly transformed from "the annoying slow group" into "the legendary, polite group."
The Mechanics: How to Do It Safely
Don't just wave them through wildly while you're standing in the middle of the fairway—that's how people get hit by golf balls. There are two correct places to execute the wave-through:
1. On the Tee Box (The Easiest Way)
When you finish a hole, walk to the next tee box. If the group behind is right there, do not tee off. Step aside, give them the script above, let them hit their drives, and let them walk down the fairway ahead of you. Take a deep breath, get a sip of water, and relax.
2. On the Green (The Pro Move)
If you are already on the green and they are waiting on the fairway, mark your golf balls. Step to the side of the green (safely away from the flag). Wave your arms forward to signal them to hit their approach shots onto the green with you. Once their balls land, let them putt out first and move on to the next hole.
The Psychological Reset
The moment that faster group walks away, a massive weight will lift off your shoulders.
Suddenly, there is no one behind you. You have all the time in the world. You can slow down your backswing, go through your routine, and actually focus on your game instead of rushing. Swallowing your pride and letting them pass isn't a defeat—it’s a tactical reset to save your back nine.
Low Pressure. High Comfort.
At GolfThing, we think golf should be entirely free of unnecessary pressure. You're out there to enjoy the weekend, not to sweat through your clothes out of pure anxiety.
But if you are going to sweat, you might as well be wearing gear built to handle it. Our line of lightweight, moisture-wicking polos and breathable hats are designed to keep you cool, comfortable, and looking like a seasoned pro—even if you're stepping aside to let the group behind you play through.
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Over to You
Have you ever had a nightmare experience with a group pushing you from behind? Or are you a seasoned player with a tip on how to handle pace of play? Drop a comment below and let's demystify the game together!