Wednesday 31 May 2017 15:33, UK
The European Tour have been proactive in attempting to speed up the pace of play in recent years, but they certainly do not have to worry about putting Renato Paratore on the clock.
Since making his debut on the main Tour at the end of 2014 following a stellar amateur career, Paratore has developed a reputation for being one of the fastest professionals in the world.
The young Italian has taken the same approach since first picking up a golf club and stuck with what works for him, and it has not done him any harm judging by a solid first two seasons in the big league.
Paratore's style proved exceptionally popular at the recent GolfSixes, where the shot clock on the fourth hole had barely begun to tick away before he was ready to hit, allowing just enough time for playing partner Matteo Manassero to exit the tee.
"It's the way I've always played, I just like to play fast and keep the game continuous and with not too many breaks," said the 20-year-old, who displayed some impressive bunker prowess alongside fellow Maui Jim ambassador and two-time Ryder Cup player Robert Karlsson during a short-game clinic at Wentworth.
"I know it was talked about at the GolfSixes, and it was good to see the shot clock on the fourth hole there - it obviously wasn't a problem for me! That tournament was a lot of fun, I'd love to play in more events like that.
"Obviously there are not many guys on the European Tour who play as fast as I do, but I don't let myself get frustrated if I have to wait a while to play my shot. Playing fast does not suit everybody, but I feel mentally better when I play my shots quickly. I've never been accused of keeping other players waiting!
"I've never really tried to slow down a bit and take my time more. It's not something I feel I need to do. Playing fast is good for the mind, the more time you take, the more doubts can get into your mind over a shot and you can second-guess yourself sometimes. I just like to make my mind up and go ahead.
"Professionals have enough to think about on the range every day, so I try not to overthink too much when I'm out on the course. It's more relaxing that way. I play fast on the tee, on the fairway and on the green, but whatever shot I'm hitting, it's important to have a consistent routine. Obviously I am thinking carefully about each shot, I just don't want to think about it for too long."
So, are the golfing authorities doing enough to speed up play as well as punishing those who push the boundaries? Paratore would like to see more penalties handed out.
He added: "The European Tour have tried to speed up the game, like introducing monitoring penalties for those that take too long. And it's important for the supporters to speed it up as well, whether people are on the course or watching at home.
"Golf fans often complain about the game being too slow, so the quicker we play, the better it is for the viewers. I think there should be more penalties given out for slow play. Not fines, shot penalties. That's what the fans want, and that's what a lot of the players want.
"I don't expect everyone to have to try and play as fast as I do. It's easy for me and I've been playing like that for so long, but for others it's not so easy and they feel more comfortable taking a bit of time. But a little bit faster all round would be nice."
Renato Paratore was speaking after it was announced at Wentworth that he had been added to Maui Jim's team of ambassadors, who include Miguel Angel Jimenez, Robert Karlsson and Ernie Els.
