Etiquette means the code of behavior. Golf etiquette refers to the guidelines to be followed in the golf course. Golf course is actually the vast grass covered area used to play golf. Following the golf etiquette helps making the game better and safe. Beginners should be aware of the etiquette before they enter the course.
Following are the basic etiquettes to be followed:
Safety While Striking
Before going for a swing one should make sure that no one is around him. Also, keeping a safer distance from a player who is about the strike is good. This could avoid being hit by the club. Some players might use heavy club and if hit by this club might lead to worse effects. When going for a long distance hit, the player should be aware that ball never falls into the crowd. If the player feels that the ball is likely to hit a player or a crowd, just a warning should be issues before striking.
Golf Carts
Golf carts will be used by players to reach the ball. Cart should be always kept off the grass and water bunkers. Every golf course will have a separate path for carts. Only this path should be used. Moderate speed should be maintained and extra care should be taken when driving in uneven surfaces.
Tracking the Ball
Golf player should always have an eye on the ball which they are using. He should know the brand of the ball being used to avoid confusion. If the ball gets lost into bush or water hazard, much time should not be spent in searching for the ball. It is good to have more balls in the golf bag before starting the play. While moving to the ball, taking a couple of clubs is advisable.
Bunkers
Every golf course will have bunkers. Bunkers are short depressions filled with sand. When a ball is hit into the bunker, player can enter the bunker to continue his play. But, the player should not ground his club inside the bunker.
Fair play
Most forms of the golf game involve alternative strikes. So, a player must be always ready for his next turn. The game should be watched closely. Taking a long time for making a shot might frustrate the opponent. When a game is played inside the putter, there is a likelihood of the put getting damaged with ball marks. Those ball marks should be made green once the game is finished.
Tee
Right tee should be chosen by the player based on the skill level of the player. The ball should be placed in between the markers. The ball must be either on the marker or behind but never in front.
Be kind
In spite of all the written rules, the attitude of the player should also be good. Maintaining silence while a player is striking is a kind of mandatory on the golf course. Divots if any made by the player should be repaired in a fair way.
