Etiquette on the golf course: more respect, less dress code

Golf etiquette - once often synonymous with strict dress codes and old-fashioned rules. Fortunately, the picture has changed. Today, etiquette is all about respect: respect for the golf course, respect for your fellow players and respect for the game itself. If you internalize these simple rules of conduct, you can be sure of being welcome on any course and enjoying the game to the full.

Respect for the golf course: maintenance is a community matter

A well-maintained golf course is the asset of all players. Everyone has a responsibility to leave the course in a better condition than they found it.

• Put divots back and repair pitch marks: This is probably the most important rule on the course. If you hit a divot (a piece of grass) out of the ground with your club, put it back in the right place immediately and kick it firmly. If your ball lands on the green, it often leaves a small dent, a so-called pitch mark. Use your Pitchfork to repair this. A properly repaired dent heals quickly - an ignored one can take weeks.
• Smooth out marks in the Bunker: After hitting out of the sand hazard that is the Bunker, carefully smooth your ruts and footprints with the rake. This way, the Bunker will be in pristine condition for the next player.
• Be careful on the green: Never enter the green with the Trolley and avoid walking over the putting line of other players with your shoes. Be careful when putting down clubs or your golf bag so as not to damage the delicate turf.

Respect for fellow players: Consideration is the key

Many different types of players come together on the golf course. Smooth interaction ensures a relaxed and fair game for everyone.

• Keep calm: Do not disturb other players with loud conversations, noises or sudden movements, especially when they are preparing their shot.
• Safety first: Never tee off if there are still people in front of you within striking distance. Always be aware of the position of other players.
• Position your equipment correctly: Always place your golf bag or Trolley on the side of the green closest to the next tee. This avoids unnecessary detours and keeps the game flowing.

Smooth play: the flow of the game is the top priority

A good game is a flowing game. Nobody likes to wait, and slow groups of players can disrupt the rhythm of the entire course.

• Keep in touch: Make sure you don't lose touch with the playing group in front of you. If a large gap opens up, let the group behind you overtake.
• Ready Golf: This principle says: hit when you are ready, not necessarily when it is your turn. If you can ensure that no one is at risk, this will help to increase the pace of play.
• Quick shot preparation: Plan your shot in advance. Use the time while it is your teammates' turn to choose your club and estimate the distance.
• Three-minute rule: If you lose a ball, you have a maximum of three minutes to look for it. After that, the ball must be declared lost so as not to hold up play unnecessarily. This is not only part of the etiquette, but is even laid down in the rules of golf.

A word about the dress code

While the rules have become more relaxed, there are still some basic recommendations. Clean golf attire, such as collared polo shirts, golf pants or skirts, is the standard on most courses. Jeans and T-shirts with large prints are often undesirable, but are tolerated on some golf courses. Special golf shoes with Softspikes or studs are a good choice as they provide optimal grip and are gentle on the turf.

By following these simple rules of etiquette, you are not only showing respect, but also helping to ensure that golf remains a great experience for everyone involved.