Golf Etiquette: Things To Bear In Mind When In The Greens

Most of the sports that we watch and play always involve an umpire, a referee, or an official to facilitate the flow of the game. They ensure that the overall game is well-officiated and working well. Without doubt, everything is in order if they are organized. However, not all games require much needed supervision, but call for tremendous amount of integrity and discipline.

Golf is one of those games which doesn't require supervision of an official all the time, or for the most part. This is one aspect that beginners or amateurs of the game should be aware of, and obviously not take that as an advantage to the point that it's abused. Golf is a gentleman's game - it involves integrity, respect and discipline. It's not just on skills alone - it's also on attitude. The "bad boy" image doesn't apply in this type of sport. Sportsmanship is the backbone of golf.

There are just certain things that is taking part in terms of the attitude and manners in golf. Others may have other guidelines, some have few, or some have more. But, these are the very things that golfers should keep in mind.

Safety is undoubtedly the chief concern: Prior to starting swinging or when another player is swinging, be sure that you're at a safe distance from another player. If you don't want a golf club swordfight, keep a safe distance from another player when making a golf swing, like a practice swing or the actual swing. Shout "fore!" if you will be swinging near or at the direction of others for you to warn them of an incoming shot. Make sure to prevent losing grip of the club as well, to prevent injury. If very irritated, do not take it against the club. You must not throw or slam it to the ground.

Don't interrupt the silence: You have to respect others particularly when it is their time to swing. Don't make pointless actions, noises or even talking to the other player. Cell phones are obviously a no-no, since the smallest noise can affect the shot. Can you imagine it was you who's getting sidetracked? Wait patiently for your turn to stroke or swing, and stop staying near to another golfer's ball, specifically on the putting green.

Keeping the ideal rate: Unless you're certain that it is only you who's playing in the course at that time (which is unlikely), you should not stay in a hole for a long time. Be ready to make the stroke or swing when you can to make way for other groups that are playing. To stop confusion, in some games a player which has the ball farthest from the green swings first, or a rule called as "ready play" is agreed in casual games, where players hit as they are ready. When done with the putt, leave the green immediately to give way to others. Have the clubs that you'll require on hand and not take it from the cart one after the other. It'll definitely consume most of your time.

Treat the course as yours: Though there are people who maintain the good condition of the course, have the initiative to taking care of it yourself. When using carts, stay on the allotted pathways or follow the 90-degree rule. The carts can easily damage the greens and hazards so follow the guidelines for the course. Rake the sand bunkers to make it as good as new. Divots and ball marks can be an eyesore so take the initiative to replace the divot with a sand and seed mixture, or put the piece of the divot back. This acts as a courtesy to the next player. You wouldn't want to see divots or ball marks when it's your turn, aren't you?

This is just a handful of tips a player can follow, but this is an excellent start to reveal the competitive player in you. Fore!