In the interest of informed content, I offer the following response to the discussion relating to women's golf and perceived slow play.
From a course design perspective, course setup plays a significant role in pace of play.
On traditionally laid out courses most men reach par 3's with their tee shot - while the green is frequently out of reach or requires accomplished long wood play for many women. Where women are required to play two shots to reach a par 3 this takes more time.
Similarly, most average male golfers are able to reach par 4's in regulation. Again, most average women golfers are not. This is primarily due to tee placement dictating the need for additional shot making.
The average or typical female golfer (31 hcp. in Australia) often takes four shots (or more) to reach a par 5 while the average male (19.5 hcp. in Aust.) takes two or three shots. Additional required shots contribute to playing time.
Add to the mix a low trajectory ball flight, the elements, testing forced carries, heavy rough and ball searching, creeks, water and ball retrieval, deep bunkers, hardpan sand, closely guarded greens etc. Such hazards require many women and other slow swing speed golfers to either play defensively and lay-up before hazards, or 'take their medicine'. Both options require additional playing time.
Women's tees were originally an afterthought in course design. This tee was placed at a token distance in front of the men with minimal, arguably nil, understanding of the influence this position would have on play. This antiquated approach to tee positioning continues to influence female golfer participation in contemporary society. Internationally, some clubs have addressed this situation - many have not.
For those clubs looking to embrace a diverse and contemporary market I suggest it is necessary for the golf industry as a whole (including administrators, club managers, boards, committees and golfers in general) to better understand course setup and the impact this has on playability and enjoyment of the game for slower swing speed golfers.
To appropriately address the subject it is not necessary to 'dumb down courses' - this is far too simplistic. Golfers seeking an exact test of play are, and will remain well catered for.
At the same time both genders vary in their approach and attitude toward pace of play. Despite the challenge of long courses, the vast majority of club women golfers I have observed meet pace of play guidelines while adhering to etiquette and the rules of the game.
Without doubt, if clubs are to successfully diversify and grow participation, a more sophisticated and relevant approach to course setup is required for slow swing speed golfers. The vast majority of women take up golf around retirement age - a long learning curve then commences for the few who are prepared to persevere with a time consuming, often costly and difficult game. The truth is that many golf courses do not adequately address this market from a course design/course setup perspective.
Bottom line: Course setup influences scoring, enjoyment, pace of play and participation - and participation levels impact the financial viability of clubs.
Lyne
Note: I share the above comments as an involved female golfer; I have played the game for over forty years and have observed women's play across a wide range of levels and a variety of courses. I am acutely aware of the decline of women's participation in golf in Australia. I also work in the industry and am familiar with past and current international research on this subject.