First time golfers

We encourage first time golfers on our course. Here are some tips on the etiquette and customs of golf to help you enjoy your golfing experience:

Tee Times - it is necessary to reserve a 'tee time'. This is the time that you need to be ready to golf, therefore plan to arrive at the course at least half an hour before your tee time to ensure you are ready to play when your tee time is announced.

Equipment - each player must have their own set of clubs, golf balls, at least 10 per round, tees and a ball mark to mark your ball on the green. Golf shoes will help stabilize your body during your swing but they are not a necessity. Most golfers wear a golf glove, which for right handed golfers would be worn on your left hand. We recommend renting either a golf cart or a pull cart for new golfers. You will find that you will be swinging a lot and will become tired fast. By the 18th hole you will thank us for this advice.

Safety - You should always wait until the group ahead of you is out of range of being hit before you strike your ball. It is customary to yell 'FORE' to warn other golfers of impending danger. If your ball happens to be off the fairway make sure to look for other golfers who may be shooting in your direction before venturing off your fairway.

Pace of Play - Golf is usually played in groups of four people. The single biggest problem with beginning golfers is pace of play. Listen to the marshal and if the group behind you asks to play through, please let them.

Order of Play and 'Ready Golf' - typically those furthest from the hole hit first. However 'Ready Golf' means that you hit whenever you are ready as long as you can hit the ball safely, without endangering others around you.

Ball Markers ­- these are used to mark your ball on the greens. When your ball is in-line with another player in your group, you should mark your ball to ensure that it does not get in the way of the other players. Place your ball marker directly behind your ball and then pick up your ball. You will replace the ball and pick up your marker when it is your turn to putt. Typically those furthest from the 'pin' will putt first.

Walking on the Green - Try to avoid stepping in the line of the other golfers in your group, as footprints leave temporary indentations in the green. Never roll a pull cart across the green.

Gimmes - a 'gimme' is a short putt, less than 2 feet. Typically when you are within 2 feet of the hole you can assume it is a gimme and pick up your ball. This speeds up play amongst friends, however it is not acceptable in competition.

Finishing a Hole - Move to the next tee immediately upon finishing the hole. Write down your score at the next tee so you do not hinder the approach of those behind you.

Socializing - Golf is a social game, however there are times when it is inappropriate to talk. You should avoid conversations when it affects your group's pace of play or when someone is about to strike the ball.

If you have any questions please ask our staff. Have fun and visit our pro-shop for all your golfing needs.