Course Care
A very important part of etiquette is the care of the golf course. A few moments of courtesy during a round will assist the club significantly in the way of ground staff time and costs, and ensure a more pleasant round for all golfers.
Repairing Pitch Marks:
The condition of greens can have a major impact on players’ scores, so careful attention must be given to the putting surface. The most important aspect is the repair of pitch marks – the longer a mark stays unrepaired, the longer it takes to mend. A pitch mark should be repaired as follows:
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Commence at the back of the pitch mark and push forward with a pitch mark fork or tee.
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Attend to each side of the pitch mark, easing the turf forward to replace the damaged area.
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When undertaking the repair, turn the pitch mark fork towards the damaged area.
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Do not lift the pitch mark fork or tee upward bringing soil to the surface.
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Complete the repair by tapping down with a putter.
Repairing Divots:
Sand buckets are available at the 1st Hole and divots should be repaired as follows:
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Use the sand to fill the divot hole (and any others nearby).
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Use a foot or a club to level the sand so that a reasonably flat lie remains for following players.
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Only fill the divot to the level of the earth, giving grass the ability to grow and keep the fairway level.
Bunkers:
It is important to leave bunkers in good condition for following players. Bunkers should be smoothed in the following manner:
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Enter and leave the bunker from the lowest point.
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After playing, smooth the area and any footprints using the rake.
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Place the rake in the bunker facing the flag.Â
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Do not place the rake against the inside edge of the bunker as this may cause difficult lies for others and potentially awkward rules situations.
Golf Carts:
Golf carts can be damaging to the course if not used carefully:
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Keep away from green surrounds and teeing grounds.
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Do not drive through damaged or wet areas.
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Drive only where directed.
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Check with the Pro Shop regarding any other course rules.