Finally joining a club

[andycap]

I've finally decided to take the plunge and submitted a membership application to a local course. I feel i have reached a point where i really need some competitive golf and a proper handicap. The course is only 5 minutes from home , so easily accessible . At just under 7000 yards it is quite a long course and having been round a few times in the past , found it a tough course in places , but that is one of things that attracts me to it .
I expect a call this week for an interview, although it's more an introduction than an interview, as it's quite a modern club and the people i've spoken to have been very friendly and welcoming.
I'm taking the plunge really because my usual playing partners are not really keen on becoming members so i'm going on my own , although i do know a few members there, and have been invited to go round with them. And i hope i will get put out with a few others in order to put my 3 cards in.
Apprehensive , but really looking forward to a new direction to my golf.
Thanks to the forum as past threads on this subject have highlighted what i should expect of a course, questions to ask , etc etc. so i do feel i'm going in with eyes wide open
www.ballardsgore.com Alas it is one of the courses with a very uninviting website , something that i think was covered in GM a while ago

 

[HomerJSimpson]

I wouldn't worry too much about your mates not coming over with you providing the new course has drawn competitions. If it does you'll get drawn with different members anyway so it'll be easy to meet new guys and get involved in roll up games. Get your three cards in for handicap asap and then get playing.

 

[callawayjon]

Good on you for taking the plunge! I think it will benifit your game no end, regular competition will bring out the best in you! And you'll soon make new friends cos golf clubs are friendly places! Enjoy!

 

[Golfmmad]

Can only echo what Homer and Callawayjon have said. Your golf will certainly take a new direction in more ways than one.
Lets hope that comps are drawn at your new club, as it's a great way to make new friends.
I remember when I first started playing, joined two mates who used to just turn up, play the round and go home without ever going in to the clubhouse. I thought at the time I'd much rather go in the clubhouse and have a drink and chat.
I count myself fortunate, in that after 4 years membership I haven't yet met and played with anybody that I don't like, It's a really friendly place, as I'm sure most clubs are.

Golfmmad.

 

[funkyfred]

andycap, absolutely the right decision to make. I was in exactly the same situation, friends play now and then but wouldn't commit to joining a club, so I took the plunge in March and joined my first club, which is about 15 miles away and 25 minutes in the car. Other clubs nearer but are very expensive.
Like you I was very apprehensive as I didn't know anyone at the club. However I have been warmly received by all the members I have played with and many that I have been introduced to in the clubhouse. I have put myself forward to play in all the competition as I am certain this is the way to meet and play with people, I even played in a mixed competition last May day bank holiday which I thoroughly enjoyed, and the Good Lady wife walked around with us as I keep telling her what a great club and course we have.
In 9 weeks I have already played 12 rounds, a big change from the 20/25 games a year I was playing with my friends.

Good luck and enjoy.