Arrive at the Golf Course One Hour Early, Take Out Only Three Practice Balls
Limit Ball Search to Three Minutes, Never Step on a Putting Line
Replace Fairway Divots, Always Rake the Bunker
It is the perfect season for golf-neither too cold nor too hot. For beginner golfers, often called "gollini" (a blend of "golf" and "orini," meaning child), who focused solely on training at the driving range throughout the winter, this is an especially exciting time. The anticipation of finally stepping onto the course already lifts the mood. However, golf is a game played with companions. It is a gentleman’s sport. By observing basic etiquette at the golf course, you can make your round much more enjoyable. These are the manners that beginner golfers should pay particular attention to on their first round.
First and foremost, keeping appointments is essential. Some golfers rush into the golf course just 15 minutes before their tee time. This is not the right attitude for stepping onto the field. You should arrive at least one hour before your tee time. You will need time to check in and change clothes. If you are meeting your playing partners for the first time, it is a good idea to get to know them over coffee. You should also check your shots at the driving range and measure the speed on the practice green. Arriving at the course with plenty of time allows you to prepare properly for your round.
The golf course is a place used by many people. You must be considerate of others. Some golfers take out too many balls and putt with them on the practice green. This is not proper etiquette. You should take out no more than about three balls for practice. More and more people are now playing rounds using single-person carts. If you are playing without a caddie, you must be careful in selecting your clubs. If you are unsure about the distance, it is advisable to carry about two clubs with you.
During a round, you may lose a ball due to a missed shot. It is a good idea to carry an extra ball in your pocket. This helps prevent the inconvenience of having to run back to the cart to get another ball. The maximum time to find a lost ball is 3 minutes. Taking longer than this is considered impolite. Some golfers frequently use their mobile phones on the course. Excessive use of mobile phones is not recommended. It is also against etiquette to place your caddie bag on the teeing ground while taking a shot.
Even if you are chatting during the round, you must remain quiet when your playing partner is taking a shot. You should create an environment where your partner can fully concentrate on their shot. Extra care is needed on the green. Some golfers stand behind their playing partner to watch the putting line. This disrupts your partner’s play. You should never step on your partner’s putting line. Once your ball is on the green, mark it promptly.
Hitting the fairway can create divots. You should return the turf that has come off from the divot to its original position. Pressing it down with your foot will usually help it take root again. If the divot is shattered, you should fill the area with sand. Raking the bunker is also basic etiquette. Use the rake to smooth out the sand gently. When exiting the bunker, use the side with a lower slope. Choosing a steep side may damage the bunker.
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