The term etiquette has been associated with golf more than any other sport, but the truth is etiquette is part of the game. The United States Golf Association and the Royal and Ancient govern the rules of golf and find etiquette to be so important they dedicate an entire section of the rule book to explaining proper procedures.
Teaching new golfers, the proper etiquette is a time-honored tradition that more experienced golfers feel obligated to do. There are many things you must learn when first coming into the game it can be overwhelming. But understanding the traditions of the game will certainly help you feel more comfortable on the golf course.
We work so hard to learn how to hit the ball but no matter how good we get, hitting bad shots never goes away. Experienced golfers certainly will be sympathetic to your bad shots because they have been there, but they are much less understanding if you are not adhering to basic etiquette on the course.
If you are new to the game or just need to brush up on your golf etiquette, here are some basic rules that will help keep the game enjoyable for you and those around you.
- Did you know the person closest to the flagstick when arriving at the green is responsible for pulling the flag? At the same time, the first one who putts out should replace the flag.
- Did you know that a player should never walk through, stand on or cast a shadow on another player’s line of putt?
- Did you know that the purpose of a golf cart is to assist in play but whenever it is safe, you should take whatever clubs you need and walk to your ball to help speed up play?
- The same applies for hitting shots within 100 yards of the green. You should always take all the clubs you need, including your putter. You should never walk back to your cart to get your putter; it slows play down.
- Did you know that when a foursome loses the group in front of them and now has an open hole ahead of them, they should always offer to let the group behind play through?
- Did you know that it is proper etiquette to repair your ball mark and one other every time you are on the Green?
- Did you know that anytime you take a divot it is your duty to repair it? Most courses will have divot mix on the tees or in sand bottles in the carts to make it easier for you to repair any damage to the course.
Following some basic etiquette will make golf more enjoyable. Remember, the principle of golf etiquette is that consideration should always shown to others on the course for all players to enjoy the game.