How to: Be a Gentleman on the Golf Course

Sorry, we can’t help fix your wonky swing or increase your club-head speed. But we can tell what you what not to do on the golf course. Avoid these bunker blunders:

COURTESY FOR OTHER GROUPS
You just made a nice putt, good for you. Now get off the green-there’s another group waiting to make their approach shots. If the tables are turned and there’s a group ahead of you, wait until they are out of range before you take your shot-unless you’re trying to send a message. Finally, if the group behind you has been on your tail for the last three holes, consider letting them play through.

DON’T LEAVE A TRAIL
Golf courses have staff devoted to keeping the grounds in pristine shape, but that doesn’t excuse you from raking the bunkers or replacing divots on the fairways. Also, never, ever, park your bag or cart on the green. For the sake of those playing behind you, be sure to leave the course exactly how you found it.

VERBAL INTERFERENCE
There’s a reason no one hired you as a club pro: only give advice if you’re asked for it. Also, no one cares how bad your tee shot was two holes ago. Stop bringing everyone down with your grumbling.

CARTIQUETTE
It’s next to impossible to pull off a solid swing with an electric cart in your peripheral vision (not to mention the annoying whine). You should be walking the course, anyways, but if you must cart it, stay out of the way.

PAY ATTENTION
Golf is a game of focus, and nothing is worse than playing with someone who’s competing for yours. When your partner is teeing off, keep quiet and don’t stand too close to his swing range. Also, be aware of where the sun is: it’s impossible to line up a putt when your shadow is lounging right in the middle of the green.

FORESIGHT
Use the time between shots to plan your next one. Don’t take more than two practice swings, either-this isn’t the PGA, and you aren’t Sergio Garcia. JD