Basic Etiquette in the Sport of Golf

Golf is a wonderful game, with lots of fans from all around. It's a game where participants hit a small ball with a specific type of club, attempting to get it to a golf hole that is very far away from the starting point. The game begins in an area named "teeing ground", and continues into the second portion, "putting green", at the limit of which the target hole is located. The aim of the game is to get the ball from the teeing ground through the green into the hole in the least number of strikes possible. One round involves going through 18 "greens".

There are 2 styles to play this game... One: the victor is the golfer who beats his adversary at the most holes (this is called match play) and second, the winner is the one who completes one round with the smallest amount of hits (stroke play).

Golf is regularly called the "gentlemen game". Because of this, there are some moral guidelines to obey when somebody plays this game. Good manners is a requirement for each golfer. Read here several tips on how to behave while playing golf:

- the favor of striking first is awarded to the participant that currently has the lowest score

- never forget to check the distance and position of golfer groups that are in front of you. Only hit the ball if you previously make sure that you won't unintentionally hit one of the players in front of you.

- be ready to play the ball when it's your turn. Nobody appreciates it when somebody puts the game on hold because he wasn't paying attention and didn't know it was going to be his turn next.

- keep a polite approach towards the group behind you. If you are at par 3, it is advised to drive the ball towards the green, mark and invite the following group to go on with their game.

- pay attention not to deteriorate the green in any way.

- do not begin a conversation with a friend or with who knows who when a golfer is taking his shot.

- if you are waiting for a guy that is organizing his shot, do not stand near him and refrain from making sudden movements.

- don't enter the field unless you are dressed properly.

- you shouldn't take animals to the field, not even if they have muzzles

- don't smoke cigarettes or cigars on the field

- don't bring gadgets that could distract other players (phones, cd-players etc)

- don't go to the golf field if you have been drinking, and please don't drink alcohol while on the green

Don't forget about these rules when you go golfing, for otherwise you you won't be able to understand what this sport is all about. Have fun!