[Sandy]

1) I just pick up golf and would like to know what are the challenges that a newbie will face in a game of golf?

The biggest challenge, I think, is coming to terms with understanding you'll NEVER be as good as you want to be, and managing that expectation is what makes the difference. Even Tiger Woods has several shots a round that he wishes he could take back! With lots of practice and playing time you soon learn to enjoy your game and embrace your limitations!

2) What are the biggest factors that prevent golfers from reaching their true scoring potential?

Getting too wound up about point 1! That and getting too caught up in trying 'hero' shots they (and 99* of golfers) don't have the skills to pull off, especially early on. I found it helped to choose rounds where you really try to score well, then every now and again dedicate a round to trying all the mad, extravagant wonder shots you always want to pull off and get them out of my system! Don't do that until you have the basics down though...

3) how many hours do you play golf to improve your skills?

As many as you can to improve, but not so many that you ingrain problems and swing faults. If you get lessons, follow a practice plan you work out with your teacher/pro and work on what they tell you. And get as many rounds in as you can to mix up the range work.

4) how should i begin with playing golf?

Buy some used super game-improvement clubs for a good price, throw out the 3 and 4 (and probably the 5) irons and replace them with hybrids, and get a forgiving driver and a 4 or 5 wood. Then go see a pro for an introductory lesson so you start on the correct path, and don't go too far down the wrong one and need to spend hours sorting all your problems out - like most of us here will have done!

Oh, and most important of all - keep reading Shottalk, asking lots of questions, and digesting all the good stuff on here!