New to golf?

New to golf?

Golf is a lot of fun, but it can be a bit intimidating the first time you hit the green. We hope this information will answer your questions and help you become more comfortable with the game of golf​.

To start you should hit the range, taking lessons, practice putting & chipping and then give a Par 3 course a try.

Remember you’re a beginner Laugh at your bad swings and try and remember what you did on the good ones – learn from all of them.

Some questions you may have

Do you have a golf course that is suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! McCall Par 3 has a 9 hole Par 3 course and is easy enough for beginner golfers. We also have "Family" Rates at this course.​

Do you offer golf lessons?

Yes! The City of Calgary Recreation provides lessons for adults, women, juniors and seniors at McCall Lake, Confederation Park and Shaganappi Point golf courses. Our lessons are taught by professional instructors from the National Golf Academy, which also offers their own private, group and semi-private lessons. Check out our Golf Lessons page for details.

What if I just want to practise putting or use the driving range?

We have driving ranges at Confederation Park, McCall Lake and Shaganappi Point. When you arrive at the golf course, buy your range PINs directly at the range or get them in the clubhouse and grab a snack too before heading over to the range– no advance booking is required.. 

Putting greens at our courses are available for you to practice on at no cost. You are welcome to use the putting greens at McCall Lake, Confederation Park, Maple Ridge and Lakeview. All you need is a putter and a few golf balls.

How do I book a tee time?

Now it's easier than ever to book and manage your tee times online, to get golf course news and updates plus see and redeem the latest offers and deals! Book a tee time online.

What do I wear?

City golf courses are casual. Collared shirts are not required, but please be respectful and avoid any clothing that is revealing or offensive.

Here are some suggestions:

  • Comfortable long pants, capris, skirt, dress, or shorts with pockets.
  • A stretchy shirt that moves easily with you.
  • A jacket or pullover in case the weather changes.
  • Golf shoes with soft spikes, running shoes, or soft soled shoes.

Do I need clubs?

If you have clubs, you should bring them but if you don’t have clubs, don’t worry, we have rentals available (hyperlink to rentals – may need to create an anchor). Make sure you have plenty of tees and, most importantly, some golf balls. Balls and tees can also be purchased at the clubhouses. Take a ball mark repair tool with you to repair ball marks on the greens (see Etiquette Video). If you have rented clubs, make sure you return them to the clubhouse when you’re done.

I don't know the rules - is that OK?

A lot of golfers at McCall Par 3 are beginners and are unsure of all the rules. Don't worry – there is no pressure as you get to know this game of golf.

Review our golf etiquette videos before you arrive at the course.

When I arrive at the golf course for a tee time, where do I go?

  • Clubhouse: This is where you will "check in" and pay for your tee time or go to see if you can get a tee time as a "walk on" player. Make sure you check in at least 20 minutes ahead of your tee time. If a tee time is missed, your group might lose its spot. 
  • Driving Range or Practice Green: if you want to practice before your tee time and after you check in at the clubhouse, you are welcome to do so. Make sure you listen for your name, as the "starter" in the clubhouse will call you to the "tee box" so that you are there and ready for your tee time.
  • Tee Box: this is where you will start your first hole. See diagram on this page.

Who are the "Golf Course Ambassadors"?

Golf Course Ambassadors are volunteers who welcome our guests and answer questions. They monitor the course to ensure pace of play expectations are being met and may also aide in coordinating golfers teeing off 1st tee. In addition, they provide guidance on policies (no outside alcohol, safe operation of power carts, etc.), rules & etiquette of golf.

I've finished my round of golf – now what?

  • If you have rented clubs, make sure you return them to the clubhouse.
  • If you want to relax, we have Food and Beverage services in our clubhouse for you to grab a hot dog, sandwich and a drink.

Golf is a game and is meant to be fun and relaxing. So don't forget to have fun!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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