Etiquette – Good Behavior on the Golf Course
Golf behavior is simply normal courteous behavior. Over its long history, golf courses have developed their own culture, but in practice, it is just about safe, considerate behavior that respects other players and the course.
The essential aspects of golf behavior are summarized as follows:
- Consideration for other players – do not move or make noise while others are hitting
- Safety on the course and practice areas
- A brisk pace of play – no need to run
- Taking care of the course: always repair your marks
- Dressing according to the course guidelines
- Keep your phone on silent
Common rules bring joy to the game for everyone, aiming for a safe and briskly progressing game.
Spirit of the Game
Unlike other sports, golf is played most of the time without the supervision of a referee. The game relies on the player’s unwavering adherence to the rules. Players are expected to exhibit restrained behavior and considerate sportsmanship towards other players. This is what the spirit of the game means.
Dress Code and Equipment
Proper golf attire on the course includes neat clothing and a collared shirt, not jeans or sweatpants. Playing without a shirt on the golf course is prohibited, even in scorching heat.
Shoes should be suitable for the golf course, either specially designed and manufactured golf shoes or sneakers with a tread pattern suitable for the course. Keep in mind that you will walk approximately 4-5 km during a round of golf, and one round (9 holes) takes 1.5 – 2 hours.
All players must have their own clubs, balls, and bag. Rental carts are included in the round price.
Taking Care of the Course
All players are responsible to ensure they do not damage the condition of the course. Players should leave the course in the same condition it was before their round.
Pace of Play
The recommended playing time for Lepaa’s 9-hole course for a group of four is 2 hours, so the second round is 2 hours and 10 minutes from the first start. Remember to book a time with the caddie master for the second round as well. This is important, especially during peak times, to avoid unnecessary conflicts at the starting point.
To ensure the game is brisk and enjoyable for everyone, players should consider the following points:
- The group should progress briskly on the course, keeping pace with the group ahead.
- Play “ready golf,” meaning the player hits when ready, regardless of who is farther from the hole, while always considering safety on the course.
- Shout “FORE!” if there is even a slight chance of the ball hitting other people.
- Everyone should watch the shots of other players in the group to prevent losing balls.
- Hit a provisional ball if necessary.
- A lost ball on the playing area can be searched for up to 3 minutes. Do not search for balls in water or outside the playing area.
- When approaching the green, bags and carts should be left in a place that allows easy continuation to the next tee.
- Once the hole is completed, leave the green as quickly as possible. You can mark your scorecard at the next tee.
- If there is an empty fairway ahead and the group cannot catch up with the group in front, allow the faster group behind to pass.
- If the course is crowded, it is advisable to pick up the ball when the maximum number of strokes for the hole has been reached (net double bogey, i.e., two strokes over your par).
Repairing Marks on the Course
To maintain the condition of the course and ensure player enjoyment, the following simple practices should be followed:
Divots
On the fairways, divots should be repaired by carefully replacing the dislodged turf. On the teeing grounds, there are filling containers for repairing divots.
Ball Marks on the Green
Ball marks on the green must be repaired. The ball mark is repaired by pressing a green fork next to the hole and pushing the turf towards the hole, not by lifting the hole up. Repeat this around the hole. You can watch the USGA’s instructional video on repairing ball marks.
Bunkers
Smooth out all marks in the bunker carefully with a rake. The rake should be left entirely inside the bunker, parallel to the fairway, to facilitate mechanical mowing.
Other Considerations
- The player with the lowest handicap is responsible for the actions of the entire group.
- Bag carts are included in the green fee.
- We adhere to the behavior outlined in the Golf Rules to ensure safety and enjoyable play.