Golf Etiquette: A Very Important Part Of The Game

By: LISA DAVIES

If you are a novice golfer you need to be aware of the importance of golf etiquette within the Official Rules of Golf. For the inexperienced player, golf etiquette can be a minefield so it pays to get to grips with the appropriate way to behave if you want to remain welcome on the course.

Golf etiquette 1
If you book a tee-off time ensure that you arrive punctually at the first tee, and do not take practice swings on that or any other tee, always take them to the side of the tee.

Golf etiquette tip #2
Always stand to the right of a player taking a shot and never directly behind. Do not get ahead of anyone who is playing a shot.

Golf etiquette tip #3
If you take a divot replace and always repair pitch marks on the green.

Golf etiquette tip #4
If you think a ball may be lost get used to playing a provisional shot so you do not have to return to the tee. If the ball is lost, you are allowed five minutes to look for it but do be aware of people playing behind you and, if necessary, allow them to play through.

Golf etiquette tip #5
Keep up a good pace when walking between shots so as not to hold up play. If a gap opens up between your group and the group in front of you then be prepared to call the players behind you through if they are having to wait for you.

Golf etiquette tip #6
If you land in a bunker rake it when you have finished. If there is no rake available then use your clubhead.

Golf etiquette tip #7
When you are playing up to a green make sure the players ahead of you have finished putting and are well clear of the green. Never put your bag or cart on the green but leave them to the side, preferably near the point at which you will leave the green to get to the next tee.

Golf etiquette tip #8
Never tread on your opponent's putting line and if you have to mark the position of your ball do so by placing a ball marker or coin directly behind the ball (unless it will interfere with another player's line, in which case mark it to the side) and always replace your ball exactly where you picked it up from.

Golf etiquette tip #9
When tending the flag hold it so it doesn't flap in the wind and make sure you do not cast a shadow over the hole. Lift the flag out slightly so that you can remove it with ease as soon as your opponent has struck his putt. When you have finished on the green exit it quickly and do not stand around marking your scorecard.

Golf etiquette tip #10
If you hit a ball that looks like it might hit somebody or if you hit it over trees towards another fairway that you can't see you must always shout "fore". If you hear another player shout "fore" do not stand there looking around to see if the call was for your benefit, just cover your head with your arms and crouch down to make yourself as small a target as possible.

Golf is a fantastic sport and if you follow these guidelines you shouldn't go too far wrong so just go out and have a good game!

Article Source: http://www.bettergolfarticles.com

Lisa Davies is a freelance witer. For more information about golf visit www.the-golf-master.com

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