5 Tips for Playing Golf Drunk And Still Be Able To Shoot A Half-Decent Score

If you’re a golfer, you probably know drinking and golf go hand in hand. As for myself, I’m a recovering alcoholic, but the record will show I used to be the best drunk golfer you’ve ever seen.

Heck, sometimes I would play better drunk than sober. Even par was a good average score for me while almost blacked out.

Now at this point, I should tell you I play to a +3 normally so it’s not like I magically transformed into Tiger in his prime.

Before we begin, NEVER try to play golf drunk while walking. Nobody in their right mind wants to do that. If possible, take a cart (as long as the starter doesn’t give you a breathalyzer test, you should be fine). Not only will this act as refuge from the beating sun, but it also provides a quick getaway if something goes awry.

Without further ado, here are 5 professional tips on how to play well when you’re hammered drunk:

1. You must understand that booze will slow you down physically, it does this to everyone. You are not exempt. This means that a player will not hit the ball as far as they would sober. Depending on alcohol intake, this could result in a club or two shorter in distance. The first step is to ACCEPT the fact you will have to hit more club than usual. This will keep you from trying to over-power a shot and stay in better balance.
2. Try and remember to drink a little bit of water to avoid other complications such as heat stroke or even passing out. I didn’t say stop drinking and ruin your buzz but keep that water handy just in case and sip between alcohol consumption.
3. Always play the golf ball back further in your stance. The amount of alcohol intake will determine how far back to play your ball. The more sloshed you get, the further the ball should be played back as your center of gravity diminishes (hey, it’s science!) It’s vital to catch the ball first in the golf swing … even more so while intoxicated.
4. Trust your gut instinct while putting. Don’t over analyze anything because your brain will trick itself. Look at the putt and hit it, if you miss no big deal just move on. Would recommend taking this approach if you’re sober as well.
5. Once drinking, stay drinking but make sure to have some type of ibuprofen (Advil, etc.) in your bag. The worst thing a player can do is develop a headache while sobering up on the golf course. There are two things you can do in this case: pop some Advil if for some crazy reason you decide to stop drinking mid-round … or just keep drinking. Pro tip: by taking Advil before the end of the round, it will help you to avoid the dreaded hangover later that day/the next morning.

Sign up today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates. Subscribe to our mailing list!

Purchase the latest gear at the Two Inches Short Am Shop!

Follow TIS on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook