When do you feel hard-done-by on the golf course?
In my case it’s:
- when my ball lands in a bunker and nestles down in a footprint
- when my ball rolls onto the green but comes to a stop in a pitchmark
- when the players in front have lost a hole but fail to call my group through
- when a phone rings in the middle of my backswing
In the new edition of the Rules of Golf Rule 1.2a addresses player conduct:
All players are expected to play in the spirit of the game by:
- Acting with integrity – for example, by following the Rules, applying all penalties, and being honest in all aspects of play.
- Showing consideration to others – for example, by playing at a prompt pace, looking out for the safety of others, and not distracting the play of another player.
- Taking good care of the course– for example, by replacing divots, smoothing bunkers, repairing ball-marks, and not causing unnecessary damage to the course.
If you’re new to golf the following video from Golf Monthly is very useful as it demonstrates some things that you may be doing unwittingly that can cause frustration to your playing partners. If you’re a seasoned golfer it’s worth watching, as it may make you think about one or two of your habits. Alternatively, if you reckon that you display exemplary etiquette on the course it may help you to explain (politely, of course) to the culprits you come across on your round what they should be doing!