Entries Tagged as 'Golf Etiquette'

Golf Game Etiquette and Rules on the Course

Since we often play as a couple we see consistent etiquette and rules problems in addition to sexism on the golf course. As a result we have decided to put together a two part golf etiquette/rules primer based on how the game should be played. It is not based strictly on the USGA Rules of Golf, nor how the PGA professionals play on TV, but based on what is practical to keep the game moving for all players.

Part One – Basic Etiquette 

Women are human beings who enjoy golf like everyone else. They try hard to not hold anyone up and actually play by the rules.

Waiving a faster group through – If you are consistently holding up a faster group who has no one immediately behind them you should let them play through.

Don’t take a practice swing or make a stroke while anyone within striking distance is around you.

Always replace your divot. (Yes you are supposed to take a divot with your irons).

When (not if) you hit into a bunker, try to leave the bunker in better shape than you found it.

If you are lucky enough for your ball to land on the green on the fly it will leave a ball mark, an indentation, which you should repair.

 Never step on the line of another player’s putt

The first person whose putt is in the cup picks up the flagstick so it can be replaced immediately after everyone is done.

 Never ever record your scores until you are on the next tee.

If you are using a golf cart obey the local rules including staying on the cart paths where required. We know this sucks but it protects the fancy course you are playing.

Golf Rules will be coming in our next blog!

Golf Etiquette For Men

On a beautiful Saturday during Memorial Day weekend my two girlfriends and I decided to play golf. We had no problem getting a tee time at a 115 rated course near our homes. When we were ready to tee off the starter matched us up with a single, a man named Rodger.  He seemed very nice and did not seem concerned that he was playing with three women.

Rodger’s golfing skills were adequate at best.  We realize as women sometimes we have trouble keeping up with men and are always more than happy to let foursomes play though. Keeping up with Rodger was not going to be a problem.  

After four or five holes Rodger, like many men, began to give us advice on how to play golf. He was far from a PGA professional so we did not seek nor appreciate his advice. In fact, the pressure from his advice seemed to make us start to play poorly and his constant “help” began to spoil our day.  Thankfully we said goodbye to him after nine holes.

This has happened to us before.  I am not sure if it is a macho thing or simply sexism but it is not appreciated. As women we realize men don’t always want us on the golf course but were are entitled to have a good time playing golf just as much as men. We follow all golf etiquette and do not hold anyone up if possible. Men should learn to follow the same rules.

Becky