PGA Features

Armed with your custom-fit clubs, half a dozen lessons under your belt from your PGA professional, a basic knowledge of the rules and etiquette of golf and having played yourself in with a few rounds to get a handicap, it's time to take that intrepid step of competing against your golfing peers. However, it can appear pretty daunting with an array of tournaments to choose from be it strokeplay monthly medals, fourballs, betterballs, matchplay and stableford competitions.

Each format brings with it its own tactics and ways of tackling the event to get the most out of your golf and the competition. Hillside PGA professional Joanne Bates, who will be one of 20 PGA pros giving free lessons at the R&A Junior Golf Centre at this year's Open at Royal Birkdale, has some great advice for beginners taking those first competitive steps as March's Get into Golf Guide draws to a close.

"Preparation is key aspect to consider even before the competition starts. I'd certainly recommend that beginners carry a full set of clubs and take advantage of having 14 clubs in the bag. It's important to be familiar with each club and what any beginner doesn't want is to be in a situation where they haven't got the club they need.

"Ensure you have enough balls and tees, the last thing you want to do is run out. Make sure you pack your wet weather gear, just in case, and have a drink and something to eat in your bag to keep you going around the course.

"On the competition side be sure you know how to mark the card, know what shots you and your playing partners get on the course and make you sure you swap cards ahead of teeing off.

"Make sure you're aware of the local rules, so you don't get caught out and don't be afraid to ask the pro or your playing partners. Mentally, be confident about your game and don't be overawed by your playing partners, who are likely to be more experienced and better players. That's why there are handicaps to level the playing field."

Strokeplay

This is arguably the hardest test for the beginner because every shot counts. So use your shots to your advantage and play it cautious rather than trying to be too adventurous. If you're in trouble just take the simplest route rather than a risky shot which could land you in more trouble.

Also treat each hole as new challenge and if you have a bad one just move on. With 18 holes the chances are almost every player will have a hole to forget.

Matchplay

This is a different ball game because it's just you against your rival - unlike being against the rest of the field. Again, use your shots to your advantage and be very aware of how your partner is playing as this can affect your strategy on each hole.

It's about winning the hole so you can afford to take more risks and you won't get penalised as much because with 18 holes there's plenty of time to come back. If you do fall behind don't panic and just keep to your own game plan. Never push it, just play to your ability because at some point your rival is likely to make mistakes.

Playing with a partner

Whether it's fourballs, betterball or greensomes the most important thing is to know your partner and their strengths and weaknesses, while making sure they know yours. It pays to try and get to know them ahead of competition by playing a round to find out about each other. If your partner is more experienced then draw on that and use it to your advantage during the competition be it club selection, positioning or tactics. Playing with a partner can really enhance your game and build confidence.

Stableford

These competitions are perfect for beginners because you have a chance of scoring at every hole and that can be a real boost to the confidence. Again check your shots and use them to your full advantage - that's what they are there for. There are always points to be scored be it on the first or last hole - regardless of how you've played so bear that in mind. However, this is the most social of the formats and golf is all about fun after all.

Joanne Bates, is a PGA professional at Hillside Golf Club - contact her on 01704 567 169.