Dear Members, following on from the recent trial of the on Course Ranger and report back from member Mick Newell & the overwhelming positive feedback on Mick’s efforts over the trial period, the Club will now have a Ranger in place regularly at least during the Saturday Competition, and possibly for some Sunday comps as well.
VGC member Paul Downey has agreed to take this role on and will be on course this Saturday. Paul is an experienced and competent golfer who understands the many variables this game can present & will work with members to ensure we can optimise the pace of play for the enjoyment of all members.
Members are asked to work co-operatively with this initiative and to take the necessary steps voluntarily to support the pace of play, for example, be at the opening tee at least 10 minutes before your nominated time ready to play, playing ready golf, shorter hitters hit first, placing buggies at convenient exits from greens to the next tee, when behind, player/s who have putted out, immediately move to the next tee and hit off whilst others putt out, avoid unnecessary practice swings (2 should be enough), mark the card after hitting off on the next hole, all the things we know helps pace of play.
Whilst the Course Ranger will be in place to support member enjoyment through improved pace of play, those members and/or groups which fall behind and who are requested to try to catch up should make a discernible effort to do so. Given a reasonable period of time to catch-up and where no/little discernible effort is made after the request, the Course Ranger may provide a directive to improve the groups position on the course to which members are expected to respond and use their best endeavours to catch-up. Failure to show effort will result in the group and or member being reported to the Club’s Match committee for further consideration.
The Ranger will also, as applicable, provide advice or direction on observed inappropriate use of golf carts and general etiquette on course (of bunker raking, divot repair etc.).
Member should also please note that whilst the Course Ranger initiative is about trying to improve all member’s playing experience, but also that adverse member behaviour or abuse directed towards the Ranger will not be tolerated and will result in the Member being reported to the Club’s Board for consideration & possible sanction.
Greg Seaborn – President of Behalf of Directors
