Golf Etiquette
Some see golf as a sport with archaic rules and customs, promoting exclusivity. It’s true that some country clubs expect players to act in a certain manner, but there are more courses that promote fun, inclusivity and casual practices.
The most essential rules of etiquette are more about safety and respect for others.
1. My number one rule: be mindful of my space and the space of others, especially when they are ahead on the course.
a. There are numerous instances each year where golfers are seriously hurt by walking in front of another player or someone hitting into the group ahead. It’s best to stand comfortably behind playing partners while on the tee, and always know where the other players are during the course of the hole.
2. It’s also important to communicate with your playing partners and other groups during the round.
a. If someone is looking for a ball in the woods, hollering over “Do you want me to hit while you look?” speeds up play and makes the 9-iron wielding golf ball hunter aware that they should look for their ball quickly and move on. On the flip side, don’t spend too long looking for your ball if it is lost!
b. If you’re feeling pressured by a group behind you, wave them to play through on the next tee.
c. When on the putting green, asking where someone’s ball mark is located avoids any uncomfortable “Whoops! Sorry!” moments as you try to avoid walking through their line.
3. Apart from the other tips mentioned, remember that you’re on the course to have a good time. You don’t need to play every hole like it’s the U.S. Open! If you feel like skipping a hole, picking up, or trying from a different tee, that’s totally up to you. As long as you have fun, congratulate others on their success and smile, you’ll do just fine. I bet you even get invited to play with the same group next week.