Civility by Diana Olson:Proper Golf Etiquette

Etiquette is as much a part of playing golf as are the tees or golf balls. It is the only sport where the player calls a penalty on himself. There are no umpires nor referees. Following are some tips for etiquette for golfers.

The correct equipment is essential. There is no minimum for the number of clubs that you may have, but 14 clubs is the maximum in your golf bag. Avoid borrowing clubs from another player. Have many balls and tees in your bag. Include a ballmark repair tool to repair the ballmarks on the greens.

Check with the club to see about the required dress code. Most private clubs require collared shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts. Public courses require shirts. While golf shoes and gloves are not always required, they are preferred.

— Several days ahead of time, call to reserve a tee time. At a private course, there can be a group of two or three, usually a pre-arranged group, or the club can place you with other players. On a public course, four or five players are in a group. Come to the course at least 30 minutes to an hour ahead of the play time in order to warm up. Spend the time practicing on the driving range and the putting green. Be ready to take the tee when your group is called. When it is your turn to hit, take no more than two practice swings and address the ball. When others have the tee, there should be no talking or making noise. Try to watch where your partner’s ball lands in addition to the position of your own.

— Play the ball where it lands. Do not improve the placement of the ball (lie).

Replace the divots. Keep your bag adjacent to your ball so that you don’t have to walk back to it after making your shot. Be respectful of the club rules concerning golf carts. Stay on the cart path when required. Spend no more than five minutes looking for a lost ball. Avoid hitting into the group ahead of you. When an errant shot approaches another golfer, yell “fore!” as a warning. Keep up with the group ahead. Hit in the order of who is furthest from the green. Do not walk ahead of your playing partners while they are hitting.

— Mark your ball when in the line of another player. Do not step or stand in the line of another player. Do not talk or make noise when another is putting. Always repair your ball marks. Do not remove your ball from the hole with the head of a putter.

Because respect for the rules of golf affect the play of other golfers, follow the guidelines. Keep an honest score!

Relax and have fun!

contact Diana Olson at (626) 584-9761