USGA 'Play 9' Initiative Makes Golf More Accessible

Published May 12, 2016 at 1:54 PM EDT

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Caroline Tragesser, 11, of Murrysville, swing for the first hole at the Bob O'Connor Golf Course in Schenley Park.

Emily Stock / 90.5 WESA

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90.5 WESA's Paul Guggenheimer speaks with Councilman Corey O'Connor ahead of the Play 9 Golf event.

Emily Stock / 90.5 WESA

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From left to right: Brodyn Keefer, 12, Caroline Tragesser, 11, and Chris Traggesser, all of Murrsyville, preparing to 'Play 9.'

Emily Stock / 90.5 WESA

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Emily Stock / 90.5 WESA

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Brodyn Keefer, 11, of Murrsyville, says this was her first time golfing.

Emily Stock / 90.5 WESA

The average time it takes for a golfer to complete 18 holes is about four hours and 11 seconds. For busy families, four hours of play isn’t an option. In an effort to make the sport more accessible and inclusive, the United States Golf Association has created the initiative “Play 9.” With only nine holes, the hope is to cut time on the course in half and encourage players to come out and enjoy the sport without the long commitment. From the Bob O’Connor Golf Course in Schenley Park, we’ll chat with avid golfer Councilman Corey O’Connor and Allison Vartabedian, of the USGA.

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