For many casual golfers, a gimmie is a staple term during every round. It does not matter at what level of player is on the links, I can almost guarantee that taking/conceding a putt happens. Whether to speed up play or eliminate the frustration of whacking the ball around the green, gimmies happen. Now, to be fair, I am not against conceding a putt or even taking one from time to time. But this happens only and I have to emphasize only during a friendly round.

Well, that is not true, I use gimmies as a strategy during Match Play events, but that is a different kettle of fish.

Putting is a skill that every golfer must master. I realize I am stating the obvious, but it is often overlooked by many amateurs. I have watch countless players spend 25 minutes of their 30 preround warm up hitting balls and only 5 minutes chipping and putting. Personally, I am a 20 / 10 player (with 20 minutes chipping and putting) who feels that honing my short game touch is more important than hitting balls. I am not sure where you stand, but that is my approach.

Gimmie putts are a part of golf. I think each player must decide when and where they want to apply this unwritten action. I do not judge and actually do not care; the only person a gimmie affects during a friendly round is the person taking the putt. I understand this flies in the convention of a serious golfer, but that is where I am today.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!