Understanding Golf Etiquette

Golf is an ancient game that carries age-old rules of etiquette. Among the many codes of golf etiquette are some strict attire guidelines. Most golfers will happily respect and comply with the rules of etiquette, and these polite players are welcome at proper golf courses.

If you scoff and consider the rules "stodgy", on the other hand, you'll be destined to play your games at golf courses that share your disdain. That is, of course, if you can find one.

Most private and public golf courses enforce etiquette rules to some degree, and nearly all have restrictions on golf apparel. Wearing proper attire is considered to be one of the most important areas of golf etiquette, and respectful players will happily oblige. The most common requirements of golf course dress codes are proper golf shoes, collared shirts and long pants (not jeans). These guidelines are followed on the links and in the clubhouse.

Arriving promptly for your tee time is one of the primary rules of golf etiquette. Plan on being at the course at least twenty to thirty minutes before you will tee off. This will give you plenty of time to park the car, get changed, buy extra balls, get a cart, practice and warm up. Don't expect to be able to arrive five minutes before tee time and immediately hit the driving range.

Another important rule of golf etiquette is a sign of modern times. Cell phones and pagers are not welcome on the links. Leave your phone in the car or in your locker. If you absolutely must bring the phone along in case of emergency, turn the ringer off and tuck it into your bag.

Golf etiquette is all about being mindful of other players. Have a clear understanding of how the other players in your group want to play, and keep their wishes in mind. Should the first golfer to tee off be the first person who's ready to go, or should the player with the best score on the last hole start first? You can very easily offend a stranger if you join their group and don't play by their rules, so be careful.

Above all, respect the other golfers' need for a quiet place to play. Golf requires precision and a great deal of concentration, and golfers are unforgiving if they think you've blown their big shot. In following golf etiquette it is absolutely essential that you keep quiet and stay out of the shooter's direct line of vision. This can be a hard rule to remember when you're having fun with you buddies, but it is golf etiquette in its most basic form.

There's much more to golf than just a fun game. To many, it's a social springboard and a showcase of their good breeding. Even if you just play for the fun of it, you've got to appreciate that fact that golf etiquette represents more than just a persnickety dress code. Centuries of culture and tradition have created the rules of the modern game. So now, you can button your collared shirt, pull on your chinos and lace up your golf shoes with pride.

Article Source: http://publisherscloninghouse.com

Author Emery Deiryme writes for several popular web sites, on family recreation and hobbies and leisure issues.

Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5  Not yet Rated

Click this Icon to Receive Golf Articles Via RSS!