In this topic we will learn about the rules that govern golfing etiquette, these are the rules that guide the behavior of golfers on the course, being respectful of this etiquette is the golden rule for making sure the game is safe and enjoyable for all players. The key values of golfing are discipline, honesty, courtesy and sportsmanship, we should all keep theme in mind when we make our way to the course. Golf etiquette can be divided into two main elements: respecting other players and respecting the course itself.
Respecting other players:
- Always make sure that other players are out of the range of your club before swinging.
- When you’re ready to play your ball, pay attention to the environment around you, it should be clear of any people and objects such as rocks or branches, your shot might take an unexpected trajectory which could be dangerous for other players.
- Shout “FORE” to warn them and give them a chance to protect themselves in case your shot goes in an unexpected trajectory.
- For your safety, you should also always be aware of your surroundings, never walk out in front of a player ready to hit a ball and never walk across the fairway without looking when a player is concentrating and ready to hit the ball.
- Stand behind the players out of reach of their golf club and respect their concentration in silence.
- On the green, always avoid walking on other players putting line (the line between the ball and the hole), even if they are not putting; you risk modifying the surface of the green and altering the player’s path.
Respecting the course:
- Golf is played in a natural and fragile environment, therefore you should not leave traces or bad scars on the course behind you, to do this fill in any divots by the pieces of turf displaced when the golf club makes impact with the ground.
- Always fix the divots left by the ball when impacting the green.
- When you exit a bunker use a rake to smooth over the sand and get rid of your footprints and any holes.
These are some of the rules for proper conduct on the course when playing golf, you should remember that you can have fun whilst respecting other players and the course you are playing on.
