On a daily basis, we are bombarded with tips about how to make our swings better, what to do to cinch the putt, and what not to do so we don’t make the dreaded shank shot. Yet there are plenty of faux pas that golfers do while out on the course even before they take the iron out of their golf bags. Here are some simple things we might do that we later regret as we are leaving the golf course.
Eating Those Heavy Meals Before Playing
Just like scarfing down tons of turkey during a certain November holiday, it isn’t always in your best interest to scarf heavy meals before hitting the course. While you might be thinking about filling up so you don’t get hungry by the 9th hole, you also have to consider that your stomach will be digesting all that food while walking the course. You may end up finding yourself napping in a bunker, or at least having your game play slow down.
Shouting at Other People’s Balls
Shouting at someone’s ball as it flies through the air is like shouting at the actors during the scene of a movie to tell them not to open up the door because the murderer is standing right there wielding an ax. It’s annoying to the other golfers who are around you and it isn’t going to have any effect on where the ball is going to land. Try to just whisper it under your breath and then do the silent fist pump if the ball lands where you wanted it to go.
Whining About Every Mistake You Make
Sometimes this happens when we are seeking free advice from the other players we are playing with on the course. It’s nice to get tips now and again. Yet some people take it so far that it seems like they are turning their golf buddies into their personal golf instruction team. It becomes even worse when they don’t get the tip they wanted to hear and they keep whining about the mistake hoping to get different advice. Just go out and play golf with your friends without making it a difficult experience for everyone.
Taking Way Too Many Practice Swings
It’s great to get yourself set for the swing. It is also great that you want to get in a few practice swings to find your golfing mojo. Yet when you are approaching your tenth practice swing on the same hole, you have gone too far. You are holding up the game for yourself, your golf buddies, and for anyone else who is playing behind your group. Just get out there and make the swing already.
Not Replacing Divots
Okay, we realize it seems like menial work to do and you are too busy getting an early game in before heading to work for a half day. Yet you can’t skip out on tending to the green after you make a shot. Replace the divots and rake the bunkers. When you do this, you are making the course at the best condition it can be for the next golfer behind you. Maintain your golf etiquette.
Source: River’s Edge Golf Blog