[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] "What is a Gimme Putt?"

Kim Mi is when the distance from the ball to the hole is within the short length of the putter grip wrapped in leather.

"Okay, give."

This is a Korean term used when giving a concession on the green. The correct expressions are ‘gimme’ or ‘concession.’ This rule naturally applies only in match play. In stroke play, holing out is the principle (Match play it’s OK. Stroke play it’s not). However, it is often used in amateur golf friendly stroke games.

By mutual agreement between players (A ‘gimme’ is an agreement between golfers), a short putt is conceded without holing out. At this time, it is decided in advance by saying "We will play in-the-leather today." A gimme is not given unconditionally. Usually, it is only within the short length of the grip wrapped in leather from the ball to the hole (Only within the leather of a standard putter, give or take), about 30cm.

In the past, putter grips were wrapped in leather, which is how this term originated. The gimme distance tends to get longer as the status is higher and during hospitality golf beyond the standard rules. American golfers do not accept gimmes for pars or birdies and must hole out (Par or birdie you have to putt). Recently, I saw a commentator on TV say ‘concede.’ Concede is a verb.

Therefore, the noun ‘concession’ or the abbreviation ‘gimme’ for ‘give it to me’ is appropriate. When making a concession, it should be said loudly and clearly so the opponent can understand (A concession should be made loud and clear). Phrases include That’s a gimme, Pick it up, That’s good, Inside the leather, etc. If you receive a gimme, do not putt but pick up the ball immediately (Never putt a gimme).

A: Roll! Go in! Your ball stopped two inches from the cup.

B: Is that a gimme?

A: Nice try! It’s inside the leather. That’s conceded (good).

B: Thank you. Just a little too weak.

Written and photographed by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist