The Best Manners on the Fairways

They say golf is a metaphor for life; how you play the game reflects how you live your life. Golf has its written rules and procedures; these vary, depending on the level and scale of play and the competitors. Golf also has its own set of unwritten rules. These unwritten rules are more commonly known as golf manners or “golftiquetteâ€. Manners, unlike rules, are not enforceable; the players are expected to observe and exercise proper manners during the course of play. In situations where poor manners are displayed, the concerned players will not be penalized for their uncouth behavior. However, the quality of the game itself is severely affected; and the enjoyment derived by the other players suffers as well. Most golfers, competitive and recreational players alike, agree that majority of these breaches of etiquette arise from ignorance; while other instances arise from a lack of concern for others. However, it cannot be denied that there are situations where it can be implied that the subtle annoyances employed are part of a player’s strategy.

Whether you are swinging a club for the first time; or a weekend regular at your country club’s golf course, you might want to brush up on your golftiquette before hitting the fairway.

Leave Your Office Behind

You all know how indispensable cellular phones, blackberries, palms, pocket pc’s and other portable electronic devices have become; but bringing them on the freeway distracts not just ourselves and our group but the other players as well. Many golf courses have banned phones and other similar devices; yet if you happen to play in one that tolerates them, be conscientious. Place it on silent or vibrate mode before you start playing; inform your group as well that you are carrying your phone or device with you throughout the play. If you must answer or make a call, send an email or go over some files, excuse yourself discreetly; do not announce it to the group at an inopportune time, such as when one of your mates is about to tee off. Use your gadget sparingly; do not play or tinker with it while waiting for your turn; do not entertain calls unless it is an emergency.

Do Not Feed The Golfers

Although golf progresses at a rather leisurely pace, it does not mean you can sit down at any point and have a snack or mini picnic. If you are hungry, take a break and eat at the snack bar or restaurant. Otherwise, eat before or after playing. Water and sports drinks are acceptable since games tend to be long and courses do not offer shade or any protection from the sun. Mints or gums discreetly chewed are also common; but make sure you properly dispose of your wrappers and bottles. Litter does not only decrease the beauty of the course, it can also be a safety and game hazard for the other players.

Clean After Yourself

Divots, or those chunks of earth and grass that fly through the air whenever you hit a strong or good shot, are common during play. Unfortunately, most players do not concern themselves with divots. If you took a divot, pick up that chunk of earth and return it to its original place before you move on to the next hole; Mother Nature and the next player will be eternally indebted to you.

Road Rules

Stay on the path when driving a golf cart from one hole to another; driving off the path indiscriminately ruins the grass; it can also create traffic and prevent other drivers from getting to their balls. The only instance golfers are allowed to drive on the grass is when the 90-degree rule is applicable; players who reach a position wherein they are at an even 90 degrees angle from their balls are allowed to drive off the path and approach their balls.

Golf is said to be the game of ladies and gentlemen; a game that relies more on discipline, concentration, refinement and common courtesy rather than brute force and intimidation; so golf should be played in the same way ladies and gentlemen conduct their everyday affairs – with grace, elegance and the very best manners.