The best golfers respect their fellow playersand the rules of the game.
Play safely.
- Stay behind those in your group who are hitting.
- Be sure the group is safely out of range before hitting.
- Don't take practice swings in the direction of others.
Maintain a good pace of play.
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Be ready when it is your turn. Take one practice swing, then hit the ball. Move off the green when play is over.
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When looking for a lost ball, let others play through.
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Keep an eye on every shot played by your group.
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Pick up and start again on the next hole if you're a new player taking too long.
Repair what you have disturbed.
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Replace divots, repair ball marks on the greens, rake bunkers. Don't make spike marks on the green.
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Don't litter. Keep all carts away from the green.
Be respectful of others.
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Leave your cellphone in the car. Be quiet on the tees, in the fairways, and on the greens.
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Be invisible (including your shadow) when someone is hitting.
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Step around the path of other players' putts.
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Let faster groups play through. If there is no room to move ahead, don't request to play through.
Know your game.
- Understand the rules, and play with reasonable expectations. Take lessons.
- Learn how far you can hit each club.
- Control your game — and your temper.
Respect the game.
- Learn about the game.
- You are a part of tradition. Play like it.
Jim Corbett, aka Mr. Golf Etiquette, is based in Seattle. Check out his Web site at www.mrgolf.com.
