By Michael D Elliott
We all know golf is a gentleman's game. At least most of us who have been around the game for any time at all know this. Problem is, a lot of Sunday warriors don't give much thought to this and don't even follow the simplest of golf etiquette practices.
To avid golfers, this is pretty frustrating and viewed as plain rude. It doesn't matter if it is a public or private golf course. Basic golf etiquette is just that "GOLF" etiquette. It applies to any golf course and any golfer. Know, learn and follow the basic golf etiquette every time you step on the golf course on the golf driving range.
Can I get a golf clap please? There's a reason there is a specific term for how to clap on a golf course. You clap quietly, no yelling, shouting or cheering (ok, ignore the PGA tour. We're talking about you and you group on a Sunday afternoon at the local golf course). How well do you follow simple etiquette? Ok, here is a small list of do's and don'ts.
Do follow the golf course's dress code.
Do show up to the tee box a little early for your tee time.
Do follow the golf course's golf cart rules (don't drive on the greens or in the sand traps).
Do take your own set of golf clubs to the golf course. Do not share clubs on the course.
Do be ready to play when it is your turn.
Do play ‘ready golf'.
Do let faster players or groups play thorough.
Do play by the rules.
Do keep your golf round to 4 hours or less.
Do yell "four" when you believe there is even the slightest chance of your golf ball hitting someone. It's always better to be safe than sorry. I know it's embarrassing sometimes to make it public information you hit a wild shot, but don't risk someone's safety. Yell "four".
Do not honk your car horn when you are in the parking lot (this means if your car honks when you lock the doors with your remote, lock them manually).
Do not yell over to your friends when you are in the parking lot (remember, when you arrive at the golf course, including the parking lot, follow golf etiquette).
Do not talk or walk behind others when they are hitting the golf ball. The easiest thing to do is to always stand to someone's back when they are hitting. This reduces the risk of you distracting them then they are about to hit the ball or during their swing.
Do not hit into slower groups or golf players in front of you (again, never do something that can risk someone's safety).
These are some of the basic etiquette standards all golfers should know and are expected to follow on the golf course and even on the golf range. Have a great time, but never have your fun at someone else's expense. It's like being in a movie theatre. Everyone has paid to be there and enjoy themselves, so keep that in mind.
Michael Elliott
Source:www.isnare.com |
