By Richard Todd, The Golf Rules Guy
The golf season is beginning for those in the northern states, which means many golfers will spend time on ‘the range’, possibly even more than on an actual course. While most golfer’s etiquette on the links may be impeccable, that may not be true on the practice facility.
Here are some suggestions for different areas of the practice areas.
Driving Range
- Hit each subsequent golf balls in a line, facing down the line
Doing this will create a minimal divot patter than can be repaired more easily than a scatter pattern.
- Do not hit outside the designed area
The hitting areas are set by the grounds crew to allow each area time to heal and grow while others are used. Don’t make their job harder.
- Never cross the front line of the range
I’ve seen golfers hit by skulled shots or hit others with their slices. Be careful out there!
- Respect your neighbors
Do you like to listen to music or talk on the phone while practicing? Not everyone else may feel the same. Use earbuds and be as quiet as possible.
- Don’t aim at anyone
It may seem harmless but aiming at the ball picker could cause serious injury should something unusual happen. Instead, aim for a flag or sign.
Practice Bunkers
- Limit damage
Limit spraying sand repeatedly onto the putting green if possible. If you must then follow posted protocol for cleaning up.
- Clean up
After you’re finished in the bunker, use the rake so others can start their practice time with a clean area. And lay the rake outside the bunker, preferably where you found it, or as requested by the course.
Putting Green
- Follow any posted guidelines, especially when pertaining to which clubs are allowed
Many putting greens stay in great shape because wedges aren’t allowed. Help keep the area in perfect playing condition by following the rules.
Unless the area has ample room and the putting surface is open, don’t practice those fifty-foot lags. I’ve had putts hit my ankles by golfers doing just this.
- Only bring two or three balls to the green
This isn’t the time to bring a bucket and practice putting like you were on the range.
- Don’t be a hole hog.
Don’t stay in one location and hit to all the available holes. And don’t monopolize a hole for an extended amount of time. As my mother said, ‘sharing is caring’.
General Items
- Consider the practice area an extension of the course
While this area may be more relaxed, keeping a similar mindset can make the time for everyone more enjoyable. That includes avoiding vulgar language, yelling, and even dress code.
- Range Balls need to be returned.
Range balls are rented. They are not to be taken home. Even those Practice ProV’s.
Have you experienced any issues while on the practice range? Do you have any tips to share?
I would love to hear about them at Richard@TheGolfRules.com
