Course Etiquette is one of the most overlooked areas in golf. We often talk to golfers who are upset about their playing partners or other groups on the course that are not observing proper etiquette. A few years ago, The Rules of Golf added a section called Etiquette: Behavior on the Course. They considered this section so important that they made it the first section of the book. While it is a section all golfers should read, we will sum up the important topics here.

In the introduction of the section, the book states, “The overriding principle is that consideration should be shown to others on the course at all times.” This not only refers to your playing partners, but to every player on the golf course. Golf is an individual sport which means you need to referee yourself to protect the integrity of the game.

Safety and Care of the Course are also important things to remember. Always make sure that no one could be hit by a swinging club or golf ball. If you think a ball in motion could hit another golfer, you should yell, “FORE.” When taking care of the course, always rake bunkers after a shot, repair your ball marks on the green, and replace divots in the fairways. Golf cars must stay on cart paths if signs are posted saying “Golf Carts Must stay on Cart Paths Only,” or when told by pro shop staff. This will ensure that the course is in good shape for other golfers.

When players are hitting golf shots, other players should be respectful by not moving, talking, or making noises. Be careful not to stand in a player’s line of sight when they are hitting a golf shot because it is distracting.

Our Committee has established Pace of Play guidelines for the amount of time it takes to play a round at our golf course. Nine holes should take no more than 2 hours 15 minutes. We will even go further and say that groups need to keep up with the group in front of them regardless of how fast they are playing. This will ensure that no groups fall behind. If you fall behind by one hole, you should let the group behind you play through. Players should always be ready to play when it is their turn. At the end of a hole, you should immediately proceed to the next hole so the group behind you can keep playing. To save time, if you feel like a golf ball you have hit is lost or out of bounds, you should play a provisional ball.
The part titled “Priority on the Course” is also very important. For this reason, we will include part of the statement here. Priority on the course is determined by a groups pace of play. The term “group” includes a single player. This means that no matter how many players are in a group, you should let faster groups through.

Playing golf at Western Turnpike Golf Course will be more enjoyable for all players by observing these different areas on course etiquette. If you have any questions, please let us know.