Golf Etiquette: The Basics Every Golfer Should Know
- Keep It Safe. Do not swing your club until you know that others in your group are at a safe distance. Likewise, keep your distance when others are swinging.
- Maintain a Good Pace. Keep the round moving by being prepared to hit your shot when it is your turn. ...
- Be Kind to the Course. Observe cart rules. Some courses will post " cart path only" signs; others will ask you to observe the " 90-degree rule ."
What are 3 examples of good golf etiquette?
Keep It Safe
- Do not swing your club until you know that others in your group are at a safe distance. ...
- When practicing your swing, never swing in the direction of another player. ...
- Do not hit the ball until you are certain that the group ahead of you is out of range.
What is proper golf course etiquette?
On the Green
- No Golf Bags. Never bring your golf bag onto the putting surface of the green. ...
- Fixing Ball Marks. This is another cornerstone in golf etiquette, yet so many lazy and inexperienced golfers don’t fix their ball marks.
- Mind Your Steps. The green is obviously made up of very fine grass that compresses easily. ...
- Tend the Pin. ...
- Ball Marker. ...
- Gimme’s. ...
What are the rules for playing golf?
Well, generally you should step aside and let them get on with it. Rule 6.4b (2) reveals that if it is their turn, they’re ready to go, and “indicate that he or she wants to play first”, you should wait until they’ve been. What if you were trying to get ahead to gain an advantage?
What are the PGA golf rules?
- Videos
- Visual Assets
- Rules of Golf
- Player’s Edition
- Poster – Top 20 Rules Changes for 2019
- COVID-19 Rules of Golf and Rules of Handicapping Guidance (Updated July 13, 2020)
- Clarifications of the 2019 Rules of Golf (Updated April 7, 2021)
- 2021 Golf Canada Local Rules and Terms of the Competition
What are the five rules of golf etiquette?
5 Golf Etiquette RulesSilence is golden. As a courtesy, do not move or make any noise when a fellow player is up to putt. ... Take your time, but not too much. ... Losing the game can be frustrating, but losing your cool is significantly worse. ... Watch where you stand. ... Respect the green.
What are the 3 categories of golf etiquette?
Let's look at some golf etiquette rules. We will break it down into three categories: before the game, during the game, and after the game.
Is it proper golf etiquette to let a group of golfers play through if you or your group are playing slow golf?
There's no specific Rule in golf stating you must let faster groups play through on the golf course, but it's accepted etiquette that makes sense. If your group is travelling around the course slowly and another group appears behind, you should let them pass (or at least offer to do so.)
How do you let a group play in golf?
The process here is easy, says Lou Riccio, author of Golf's Pace of Play Bible: “Wave them up while you are near the green, let them putt while you are planning your putts, then let them go to the next tee first.”
What is bad golf etiquette?
Making *every* putt 2. Saying “get left” when the ball is clearly slicing 3. Not picking up on bad holes 4. Taking many practice swings … only to top the ball 10 feet 5. Talking too much 6.
What is the most important rule in golf?
Teeing up the ball is not only one of the most important rules of golf, it's one of the simplest to follow. However, it is often broken by excessively keen players looking to shorten a hole. The teeing area is a rectangle marked by the two tee markers and two-club lengths back, often around 40 square feet.
When should you let a group play through?
The Best Time to Let a Group Play Through If your foursome has just teed off and you notice the group behind you is made up of just two or three golfers, consider letting them play through immediately. Otherwise, play a few holes before you let a group play through.
Why do golfers stab the green?
A ball mark is a little depression or crater in the grass left by a golf ball when it lands on the green from a tee shot or approach shot. They're formed usually by an extremely high or hard-hit shot in which the golf ball reaches enough velocity and direct impact to leave a golfball-sized dent on the putting surface.
What are 2 etiquette rules on the golf course?
10 Rules for Good Golf EtiquetteI. Don't be the slowest player.II. Keep your temper under control.III. Respect other people's time.IV. Repair the ground you play on.V. Be a silent partner.VI. Make your golf cart 'invisible'VII. Always look your best.VIII. Turn off the cell phone.More items...•
Who has right of way on a golf course?
Members of the public have the right to use these paths to cross the land, and have priority at all times. Golfers may not hit balls deliberately towards walkers, and are required to take reasonable care before driving their ball towards the green, even if nobody is in sight from their position.
Where do you stand when someone is teeing off?
Directly behind. To either side. It shouldn't matter. So long as you're at a safe distance and you aren't moving, your presence is no different than that of a parked cart, or a ball washer or any number of inanimate objects one encounters on a course.
Who tees off first in golf first hole?
10-1. In match play, golfers play in this order: On the tee – On the first hole, the player listed first on the scorecard (as determined by the committee) tees off first; otherwise, the order is decided by lot or other fair means (e.g., a coin flip).
What is the etiquette of golf?
Golf Etiquette: Rules To Know on the Golf Course. If you’re new to the game of golf, it’s likely that you’re not aware of the etiquette observed on and off the course in the game of golf. The truth is that good players will always be willing to play with newer players, but they will expect that you show respect to the rules ...
Why is it important to observe golf etiquette?
Observing golf etiquette really serves 2 main purposes: keeping pace of play at a good speed, and leaving the golf course in the best possible condition . Keeping pace of play up is extremely important, as your pace will affect golfers both in your group and all golfers who are playing behind you. Leaving the golf course in ...
What does it mean to replace a divot in golf?
Chances are, if you’ve hit a good shot you will have taken a divot out of the ground. Replacing your divots is a fundamental of good golf etiquette; you always want to do your best to leave the course the way you found it. Doing this shows that you care about keeping the golf course in good shape, and helps maintain the golf course. Most golf courses will have a mixture of sand and seed to help fill in your divot, and it’s imperative you do so. Just do it.
What to do when playing out of a bunker?
Bunker Etiquette. There are a few basic things to know about etiquette when you need to play out of a bunker. First off, locate the most convenient rake; the rake should always be outside the bunker, so that the ball doesn’t come to rest against the rake.
How long should you be on time for a golf tee?
Being on time for your tee time means arriving at the course at least 20 minutes before you’re due to tee off as a group; you should be ready at the tee box at least 5 minutes before your time.
How to use a golf cart?
Using the golf cart in a time efficient manner helps everybody. Locate the ball that has the furthest to the hole, and drop that player off with their clubs to hit their shot while you go to your ball to set up. Once the first player hits, have them walk up to where the golf cart is, and you’ll be on your way.
What do you wear to a golf course?
This is typical dress, but it’s important to know you can usually wear either golf shorts or golf pants at any golf course, and a golf polo is standard. Playing great starts with looking the part, so make sure you put in the effort.
How to putt a ball down after marking?
After you have marked your ball, place your putter down at a 90-degree angle with the heel touching your marker. Move the marker from the heel to the toe of your putter. Reverse the procedure to return the ball to its original position. Do not stand where you might distract a fellow player and don't move.
How to finish warming up for golf?
It's often a good idea to finish warming up by hitting a few soft wedge shots before heading for the practice green and hitting a few putts. Don't hit hundreds of balls and leave your game on the practice tee.
Why are caddies important?
If caddies are available: Remember caddie programs are an excellent way for young people to earn some money and be exposed to a - sport that they can enjoy and might help shape their character. A good caddie can make the round more enjoyable by giving you hints that might lower your score.
What happens if you hit a tee shot into the woods?
If you hit a tee shot into the woods and suspect that it might be either lost or out-of-bounds, the Rules of Golf allow you to play a second or provisional ball.
What do you do when your ball is on a putting line?
If your ball is on a player's line, volunteer to mark the ball. If your ball is not furthest from the cup: mark your ball, either with a plastic marker or a small, thin, dark coin such as an old penny.
What to do when playing with companions?
If you're playing companions suggest a match, it's a good idea to make sure everyone is comfortable with the stakes. Make sure to place an identifying mark on your ball and inform the other players the type and number ball you are playing.
How to avoid slow play?
Avoid Slow play: Walk at a reasonable speed between shots. Begin planning your next shot as you approach the ball by studying the strength and direction of the wind. When you reach your ball, check the lie, select your club, visualize your swing and shot, and then play your shot.
What is golf etiquette?
Golf Etiquette – The Unwritten Rules Of The Game. The golf rule book has the title R & A, for Royal and Ancient. The game was played by the Gentry and Noblemen, not the peasants, and has a long history and tradition. Fortunately, we can now all play.
How early should you putt before a golf game?
Starting before the game, know your tee-off time and ensure you are there at least 30 minutes early. Nothing is more irritating than delays on the first tee as it disrupts the whole field. You should also allow some time to warm up and try a few putts on the practice green.
How many strokes can you take in golf cart?
Seriously, especially if you at a course that you are not familiar with their advice could be invaluable, worth five or more strokes. If you choose to take a cart, obey the local rules. Some clubs do not allow you to leave the cart paths, where this is allowed, remember the 90-degree rule.
How long does a golf round last?
Most importantly to make sure everyone has an enjoyable time out there, as a round can last about 5 to 6 hours and you don’t want any external distraction or irritations.
Do you talk on the first tee in golf?
On the first tee and throughout the game do not talk while another player in your four ball is addressing the ball. Cell phones are a hazard and should be on silent or preferably left in the change room.
Can you go up the fairway at full tilt?
Enter the fairway opposite the lie of the ball and exit back to the path at the same place, do not go cruising up the fairway at full tilt. When carrying your own bag, for the young, tough and confident only be aware of where you place the bag on the tee and around the greens.
1. Arrive Early
In golf, on-time is late. Always plan to arrive with ample time to get your gear ready and make your way to the beginning of the course.
2. Respect the Course
To dedicated golfers, a course is a holy place. As such, you should never disrespect it.
3. Keep Good Pace
You may not know all of the groups that are playing golf on the same day as you, but you all have an impact on the quality of each other's games. A big part of this has to do with the pace of play.
4. 3-Ball Warm-Up
We get it. When the round begins, you want to play your best. But that doesn't mean you should take up time and room on the green for an elaborate warm-up routine. If you want to take a few shots, use a maximum of three balls.
5. Quiet While Others Hit
Studies have shown that ambient noise can negatively affect a person's focus and even damage mental health over time. While you may not be able to control the sound level around you in daily life, it is possible to increase your focus on the golf course by minimizing ambient noise.
6. Don't Waste Time Looking for a Lost Ball
The old rule of thumb for looking for a lost ball was to search for no more than a few minutes. Today, the common thinking is that it is too much time.
8. Don't Talk on the Phone
As obvious as this one seems, it unfortunately still bears mentioning: do not talk on the phone when you're playing golf.
How many golfers walk up the fairway?
Three golfers walk up the fairway at a course. Either keep up your pace or know the rules to let others play through. But let’s assume congestion isn’t an issue (and if there’s a hole open ahead of you, it’s not), and your group is on the green, with golfers standing, arms-crossed, in the fairway behind you — the golf equivalent ...
What is the difference between traffic on a golf course and traffic on a city street?
The difference is that traffic on a course is mostly self-policed.
What is Riccio's emphasis on golf?
Riccio’s emphasis is pace of play. But pace and etiquette are interrelated. Most golfers understand this. Sadly, a myopic few do not. They refuse to let folks through, or they piss and moan about it. Why is sometimes hard to say, though it often boils down to ego or entitlement, or, most likely, a little bit of both.
Is the 16th tee a good cutoff?
The 16th tee is a reasonable cutoff, unless the group behind you is shattering a land-speed record. Though the rules of etiquette do not require it, you’re wise to let them through whenever they catch you, even as late as the 18th tee. That’s a rare occurrence. But golf’s a funny game; odd things happen. Good thing is, when it comes ...
What are the driving range rules?
Rules. The Etiquetteist: 9 driving-range rules you absolutely must follow. 1. Measure the Degree of Malice. As with the Rules of Golf, the rules of etiquette often hinge on intent.
What to do if a shot nearly hit you?
If the shot that nearly hit you was a blind drive or approach and the group behind you can’t see your reaction, you can still send them a message. One common practice is to stomp the ball into the turf, a blunt-edged response without much personality.
How far past the hole does a putter's line go?
Walking in a player’s “through line”. Many amateurs are unaware that a putter’s line extends two-three feet past the hole. This is essential, as if a putt misses long, the through line is where the ball will end up, and it is the path for a golfer to finish the hole out.
Do strokes carry over to the next hole?
The beauty of match play is that strokes don't carry over to the next hole. If its apparent you've already lost, pocket the balata and get moving. It's one thing to check a score or send a text between holes. But continually attached to your phone goes against the spirit of being with friends or one with nature.
Can you shoulder your stick off the tee box?
Alas, many that shoulder their sticks fail to keep their stand off the tee box. There's the potential to scuff up the hitting area, but of greater note, bags can be distracting if it's in a player's striking vision. Speaking of bags... Be mindful of where you place your bag.
Should divots be in a row?
There are differing opinions on the right method -- some belief your divots should be in a row, others in vertical lines -- but there's unquestionably a wrong one, as scattering your shots chews up more turf than you need. If you're terribly behind on a match play hole, pick up.
Why Is This A Thing?
Pre Round
- Yes, there are some expectations of you even before your round begins. Pre round expectations are pretty straight forward, but they set you up for success for the rest of the day.
on The Course
- Golf Cart Etiquette
This can make or break the pace of play for a group. Using the golf cart in a time efficient manner helps everybody. Locate the ball that has the furthest to the hole, and drop that player off with their clubs to hit their shot while you go to your ball to set up. Once the first player hits, have the… - Phone
Unless it’s an emergency, the best practice is to keep your phone use to a minimum while playing golf. Staying off your phone helps you be in the right mindset to play well, and gives you a chance to chat with the people you’re playing with.
Bunker Etiquette
- There are a few basic things to know about etiquette when you need to play out of a bunker. First off, locate the most convenient rake; the rake should always be outside the bunker, so that the ball doesn’t come to rest against the rake. There are usually a few, so grab one and place it near where you’d like to enter and exit the bunker. Next, try to give yourself as little work as possible in the b…
on The Green
- No Golf Bags
Never bring your golf bag onto the putting surface of the green. Doing so will create marks on the green that are unwanted, and can potentially ruin someone else’s approach to the cup. Instead, leave your golf bag on the fringe completely off the putting surface, or leave it near the next tee f… - Fixing Ball Marks
This is another cornerstone in golf etiquette, yet so many lazy and inexperienced golfers don’t fix their ball marks. Nothing is worse than getting to the green and seeing several ball marks carelessly left by others; not only does this hurt the green, but not catching this could mess up a …
Post Round
- Shake Hands
I’m sure you’ve seen this at some point on tv in professional golf; on the green once a group has finished the 18th hole, they’ll all shake hands. Doing this shows the people you’ve played with that you enjoyed playing with them, and is another cornerstone of sportsman-like conduct. - Before You Go Inside
It’s always a good idea to just do a quick check and make sure you have everything you came with before going into the clubhouse or hitting the 19th hole. One key here is, do not go inside the clubhouse with dirty golf shoes. Use whatever the course provides to clean the grass and dirt of…
Final Thoughts
- Golf has plenty of rules, and honestly it can be overwhelming to try and remember them all. Golf etiquette is pretty important, and boils down to helping the game move faster while keeping the golf course in the best condition possible. I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide on golf etiquette, and can use these best practices in your next round! Like this post? Check out more like it in our Ga…