Hi Brian. Learning how this place works will answer most of your questions. So be careful what you do before jumping in with both feet. There is a lot of info available in the Getting Started and FAQ Home over there---->
As to your questions:
oneflyswatter:Does anyone know how to slow down the moving up process.
Its all about your average...so try not lowering it artificially. What I mean is you can drastically/quickly lower your average by playing easier courses, playing only 9 hole rounds and only playing the Country Club tournaments where members set up easy completions. So play all the courses, play some 18 hole rounds and post all your scores...do that and you'll be in the tier that is right for you.
oneflyswatter: Does the practice give you less points then the other types of play.
You will earn EX points in practice mode...but not as much as in rated rounds. You can earn EX points by playing everyday...but be careful, this place can be habit forming. More info on that in the FAQ Home under Levels. Remember, EX points have nothing to do with how well you can play...they only unlock toys in the Pro Shop.
Joey