- Authors’ Biography -

Authors: Boushra Dalile & Line Dalile.

Boushra and Line Dalile started playing golf since they were at the age
of 12 and 10 years old. After a couple of years of experience, they
decided to put all the information they knew in addition to new ones in
one e-book - Golf 4 Everyone -.

This book is ready to help a complete beginner in golf to be a

knowledgeable amateur, including a lot of things amateurs have never
probably read about, quizzes, vocabularies and a lot more.

Currently, Boushra and Line are working hard on their game to get
better and achieve their dream of turning Qualified Professionals and
Play in the LPGA Events, but their main goal is to be in the Golf
Olympics in 2016, and your support will help make it come true.

We‟re looking forward to your feedbacks and questions.

Don‟t hesitate to send your comment on the following e-mail:

mybookscomments@gmail.com

Enjoy golf, because it’s the game of life.

Boushra & Line.

Contents:
1- About the Game of Golf 1-9

** History of Golf
** The Scorecard
** Golf Handicap
** Golf Types & Formats
** Types of Golf Shots

2- Golf Equipment 10-26

3- Golf Outfits 27-28
4- Golf Warm Up 29-30
5- Golf Etiquette 31-32
6- Golf Tips 33
7- Golf Rules 34-37
8- Golf Definitions 38-44
9- Golf Vocabulary 45-49
10- Golf Swing 50-60

** Golf Swing Instructions

** Golf Swing for Women
** Swing in Arc
** How to Fix Your Golf Swing
** How to Improve Your Golf Swing
** Swing Keys to Hit Longer and Straighter Shots

11- Club Head Speed 61-62

** How to Generate More Club Head Speed

12- Scottish Golf Environment Group 63-84

13- Golf Course Planning Principles 85-93
14- Questions & Answers 94-101

** Golf Clubs
** Golf Rules

15- Quizzes 102-107

** Golf Etiquette Quiz

** Golf Playing Quiz
** Golf Vocabulary Quiz
1- About the Game of

History of Golf

Golf is an old sport; the exact origin is not clear and is often open to
debate as to being either Chinese, Dutch or Scottish. However, the
most accepted golf history theory is that this sport originated in
Scotland during the 1100s. The game was mentioned in two 15th-
century laws prohibiting the playing of the game of golf. Some scholars
have suggested that this refers to another game which is more akin to
modern shinty, hurling or field hockey than golf. A game of putting a
small ball in a hole in the
ground using clubs was
played in 17th -century
Netherlands. The word golf
derives from the Dutch kolf
meaning stick, club or bat.
Flourishing trade over the
North Sea during the middle
Ages and early Modern
Period led to much language
interaction between Scots,
Dutch, Flemish and other
languages. There are reports
of even earlier accounts of
golf from continental Europe.

The major changes in equipment since the 19th century have been
better mowers, especially for the greens, better golf ball designs, using
rubber and man-made materials since about 1900, and the
introduction of the metal shaft beginning in the 1930s. Also in the 1930s
the wooden golf tee was invented. In the 1970s the use of metal to
replace wood heads began, and shafts made of graphite composite
m aterials were introduced in the 1980s.

1
 The scorecard

All golf courses have their own

scorecard (card of the course), which
is unique to that course.

On the card, you will find a whole host

of information regarding the club,
including things like an outline map of
the course layout, and the color of
the flags on the different nines. The
only information you will find on all
cards is:

The scorecard itself – sometimes clubs

have separate cards for different
member categories, but in the main
these are all contained in the one
card

The 'Local Rules' of that Club. There is provision within the rules of golf for a
club committee to agree rules concerning local circumstances and features.
Sometimes these over-ride the rules of golf, but in the main they are intended
to give guidance regarding local conditions. You should always check the
local rules before going out on a course, especially in competitions.
If a particular situation is not covered by local rules, then the rules of golf
apply.

For most competitions, these details will probably have been completed. The
centre part shows the hole number, and the length in yards (or meters) – for
each of the tee types – the colors normally correspond with those on the tee
markers.

In this case, the Stroke Index is the same for both the white (medal) and
yellow (Men's' normal) tees, but different from the Ladies' (red) tees. The card
also has space for 2 players' scores + those of the marker.

The 'out' and 'in' nine totals are summarized at the bottom of the card, and
the total (Nett score/ Stableford points etc, written in the large box.

The card is then signed by both the player and the marker.

Failure to do this will result in disqualification!

Many cards also carry a request to avoid slow play – the worst enemy of
everyone on the golf course!

2
2
 Golf Handicap

What is a handicap?
The Handicap System in Golf allows people of very different golfing abilities to
compete with each other. Other sports do have a 'handicap' system, but
nowhere does it work as effectively as in the game of golf. Basically, this is the
number of strokes a player receives, over and above the 'par' for a course.
The higher the handicap, the more strokes received. The highest 'official'
handicaps are currently 28 (men) and 45 (women). A very good golfer plays
off 'scratch' (zero handicap) or even a 'plus' handicap!

How does it work?

If a player plays off an 18 handicap, then he/she would receive 1 shot per
hole over and above the course par.

If the handicap is lower than 18, the Stroke Index is used to determine on
which holes the strokes are received. In the above example, a 15 handicap
player (man) would get an extra stroke at all of the holes where the S.I is 15 or
less – so no strokes at the 4th, 7th and 15th.

If the handicap is higher than 18, they would receive a second shot at the
holes where the stroke index is equal to or less than the handicap – 18. So a
20-handicapper would get an extra shot at the 5th and 14th holes.

Let's take an example of a player who has a 9 handicap playing against a 16-
handicapper in a Matchplay singles match. They would take the difference
between their handicaps (7) and apply the ¾ of difference principle = 5.25 –
rounded to the nearest full number thus = 5. The 16 handicap player would
get an extra stroke over his opponent at the first 5 stroke index numbered
holes on the course.

Handicaps are administered by the Golf Clubs themselves, according to rules

laid down by their responsible national union. Officially, there is no other way,
despite the claims of a number of bodies to being able to award official
handicaps. Most golf clubs have a committee (council) member responsible
for this. A player's handicap can be varied upwards or downwards as a result
of his/her performance in 'qualifying competitions'. The committee also has
the right under the rules of golf to make merit adjustments to a member's
handicap.

Handicap levels fall into 4 categories for men and 6 for ladies, as follows:

Handicap range:

1. 0–5
2. 6 – 12
3. 13 – 20
4. 21 – 28
5. 29 – 40
6. 41 – 45

3
Handicap Terminology

Stroke Index
All golf clubs are required to publish a Handicap Stroke Table, indicating the
order of holes at which handicap strokes are to be given or received. This
always appears on the course score card under the heading stroke index. The
lower numbers indicate a higher degree of
difficulty, hence a person receiving, for example,
9 strokes, either in a handicap competition or
from a playing opponent, would receive an
extra stroke at each of the holes with a Stroke
Index from 1 to 9 inclusive. The degree of
difficulty is a relative term, as the Club
Committee is requested to observe a number of
recommendations when setting the stroke index,
such as balancing the numbers between the
front and back nine holes of an 18-hole course.
One thing you can guarantee – the stroke index
1 hole has been given that status for a very good
reason.

Qualifying competitions
These are normally club competitions which allow golfers to qualify for his/her
handicap for adjustment purposes. Purely as an example, a competition may
be declared non-qualifying if it is played when many temporary greens are in
use, affecting the overall length of the course.

Standard Scratch Score

This is a fixed number agreed by the Club with the ruling bodies. This is the
score it would be expected a scratch golfer would go round in. This can differ
from the course par by anything up to +3 to –3 of the course par. It is this
number which is used for handicap adjustment, rather than the par of the
course.

Competition Scratch Score

This is arrived at as a result of calculations on the day of a competition, taking
into account the degree of difficulty size of field and generally how the
different handicap categories performed. If this is different to the standard
scratch score, it replaces it for that day.

Qualifying score
Any score, including a „no-return‟ returned in a qualifying competition.

Net differential
Is the difference (+or-) between the net score returned by a player in a
qualifying competition and the competition scratch score.

Adjustments. Changes to handicaps are made in accordance with a set of

rules administered by the national/regional authority. For simplicity‟s sake, a
player‟s handicap may increase or decrease by a tenth of a point for every
full shot that player is above or below the CSS x the number of their category.

4
4
So a 10- handicap player (category 2) coming in 3 below the CSS would
expect to see his handicap reduced by 3 x 0.2 shots = 0.6.

There is a so-called „buffer zone‟ which prevents handicaps increasing quite

so directly. Again, the category number is used, but this time as a whole
number, and this is applied before any adjustments are made. So a score of 3
over CSS for our 10-handicapper (category 2) would result in an increase in
handicap of just 0.1.

Exact versus playing handicap

It will be immediately apparent that there is no point moving handicaps up
and down by the odd decimal place if there is no record kept of other than
round numbers. Every player has an exact handicap as well as a playing one.
The playing one is simply the „rounded‟ whole number of the exact one. Thus
8.4 = 8, 8.5 = 9

5
 Golf Types & Formats

Stroke play

Stroke play is the format of scoring where a golfer counts every shot over the
course of 18 holes. To win at stroke play you need to have the lowest score
once your handicap has been deducted. If 2 or more players finish with the
same number, a method of „countback‟ is used to determine the winner
(best score on the back nine, then last 6, last 3 etc). This format is the most
used in club competitions because this method is the least forgiving of all of
the game formats, as one disastrous hole can ruin the complete card,
whereas in other formats each hole is in effect a separate entity.

Handicap allowance – Singles full handicap

Foursomes ½ of the total handicap of the partners.
Fourball ¾ of the full handicap for each partner.

Stableford

Stableford is a point system that is becoming increasingly popular because it

is a more forgiving form of scoring. Points are awarded after each hole
depending on the net score, and the winner is the player with the most points
after the agreed number of holes in the competition (normally 18). The
handicap allowance for this format is the same as above for strokeplay. The
points are awarded as follows;
5 points for an albatross
4 points for an eagle
3 points for a birdie
2 points for par
1 point for a bogey
0 points for anything worse

Bogey / Par

In this context, Bogey and Par have the same meaning. In effect, the player
or players are playing against the par of the course, and the net score for
each hole is compared with the par for that hole. So a player would record a
win (less than par, +1), a half (par, 0) or a loss (more than par, -1). At the end
of the game, the scores for each hole are totaled to produce an overall
score in relation to the course par, normally expressed as „2 up‟ or „3 down‟.
The handicap allowance for this format is the same as above for strokeplay.

Matchplay

Matchplay is where players compete against each other rather than against
the course as in all of the above formats. Matches can take the form of
singles, fourballs and foursomes. In this format, the par of the course is ignored
because it is a straightforward matter witch player or side has the lowest net
score on each hole. The player or side that has the lowest score is considered
to have won the hole, and they are said to be „one up‟ etc. If the match
reaches the point where a player/side is more holes up than there remain to

6
be played, he/they have won. Matchplay is frequently used in club knock-out
competitions and requires a result to be achieved. If the match is unresolved
after 18 holes (or whatever the match is being played over), then extra holes
are played until one player/side emerges as the winner.

Texas scramble
This game is played by a team of 2, 3 or 4 players all on the same side. The
best shot of the side is selected, and all players then play from the (marked)
position of this ball.
It is customary for a side to be required to take a fixed number of tee-shots
from each player. This adds an additional dimension (and pressure!) to the
game. The handicap allowance varies from location to location but normally
is 1/10th of the combined handicaps rounded to the nearest decimal point.

Skins
Normally played as a 3 or 4-ball (sometimes more!). A single player has to win
a hole outright to win a „skin‟. Holes where there is no outright winner are
normally accumulated until a hole is won. Often followed by hours of
argument in the bar as to who owes how much to whom!

On the perch
A variant of the „skins‟ theme for 3 or 4 players. A player can only win holes,
once he/she is „on the perch‟ – is having already won a hole. That player
stays on the perch until knocked off it by losing a hole to any of the other
players.

American points
An excellent game for 3 players, avoiding the imbalance of 2 against 1! 6
points are played for at each hole, and shared out on the basis of 2:2:2 if all
players halve the hole, 3:3 if 2 players halve through to 4:1:1 for an outright
win with the other 2 halving, or 4:2:0 for an outright win and second place.

For ease of keeping the score, the lowest number is returned to zero after
each hole (pro-rata for the other scores). The total points of the other 2
players should always be divisible by 3.

Flag
All players carry a marker, or Flag, with them, which is inserted in the ground
at the point where the number of strokes allowed (course par + handicap
allowance) expires. The furthest-placed flag (sometimes part-way round the
2nd 18 holes, depending on the format!) is the winner.

Yellow Ball
This is frequently introduced as an additional competition in open golf events
and society days, in addition to the normal format/type of competition. Each
player in the 3 or 4 takes strict turns to play a hole with the Yellow Ball, and a
separate yellow-ball scorecard is kept. If the yellow ball is lost, the game is
over at that point.

7
Singles

Singles is where the player competes purely on his/her own account, no

matter what the game format is.

Fourball

Fourball is where two players play as a team against the other two players,
regardless of the game format.

Foursomes

Foursomes is probably the oldest game type of all because a foursomes

game, if played properly, is considerably faster than the other formats.
Traditional foursomes are where the partners, in advance of a round, agree
which holes (on an alternating basis) each will tee off at, with one player
driving at the odd-numbered holes (1,3,5 etc) and the other the evens.
Thereafter, the ball in play is struck alternately by the players until holed out.
There are a number of „variants‟ on the foursomes theme:

Greensomes (or Greensome Foursomes)

In this game type, both players drive at each hole, and select the most
advantageous tee-shot. The partner then plays this ball, and the players then
take alternate shots as in foursomes until the ball is holed.

Fensome or St Andrews Foursomes

Both players drive at each hole, but have pre-determined who will play the
second shot (odds and evens, as above). It is rumored that this game type
was invented by better golfers (possibly pros) on the basis that this gives them
the chance to play their own tee-shot on at least half the holes!

8
 Types Of Golf Shots

The most memorable golf shots go „straight down the middle‟, or arrow-
straight at the pin, combined with perfect judgment of the length of shot
required. Equally memorable are those occasions when a „draw‟ or „fade‟ is
employed to take advantage of wind conditions, or to get round an
obstruction such as trees.

There are many types of shots taken in the game

of golf especially due to the many different clubs
that can be used and unfortunately, not all golf
shots are considered to be good shots. The
following are examples of many of the different
types of golf shots.

The hook shot starts straight or to the right of the

target and swings away to the left (opposite for a
left handed swinger).

The slice starts straight or to the left of the target and swings away to the right
(opposite for
a left handed
swinger).

The push
starts to the
right of the
target and
stays there.

The pull starts

to the left of
the target
and stays
there.

The skied
shot goes up
in the air and
little forward
distance.

The duff/fat
shot is often
straight, but
with no
power.

The thin shot does not climb into the air. The topped shot is an extreme version
of this.

9
2- Equipment

Golf clubs

A player usually carries several clubs during the game (but no more than
fourteen, the limit defined by the rules). There are three major types of clubs,
known as woods, irons, and putters. Wedges are irons used to play shorter
shots. Woods are played for long shots from the tee or fairway, and
occasionally rough, while irons are for precision shots from fairways as well as
from the rough. A new type of wood known as a "hybrid" combines the
straight-hitting characteristics of irons with the easy-to-hit-in-the-air
characteristics of higher-lofted woods. A "hybrid" is often used for long shots
from difficult rough. Hybrids are also used by players who have a difficult time
getting the ball airborne with long irons. Wedges are played from difficult
ground such as sand or the rough and for approach shots to the green.
Putters are mostly played on the green, but can also be useful when playing
from bunkers or for some approach shots.

10
Golf balls

A Golf ball is a small white ball with a tough rubber

core, the minimum allowed diameter of a golf ball
is 42.67mm and its mass may not exceed 45.93g.
Modern golf balls have a two-, three-, or four-layer
design constructed from various synthetic
materials. The surface usually has a pattern of 300-
400 dimples designed to improve the ball's
aerodynamics. The method of construction and
materials used greatly affect the ball's playing characteristics such as
distance, trajectory, spin and feel. Harder materials, such as Surlyn, usually
result in the ball's traveling longer distances, while softer covers, such as
Balata, tend to generate higher spin, more "feel" and greater stopping
potential. Golf balls are separated into three groups depending on their
construction: two-, three-, or four-piece covers. Generally four-piece golf balls
tend to be the most expensive, though price is no assurance of quality. As of
2006 there are even golf balls that utilize RFID technology, which allows golfers
to more easily locate errant shots using a handheld homing device.

Deep Golf Ball Info

The first golf ball similar in size to today's came into existence around five or six
hundred years ago, when the Dutchmen stuffed feathers into a 1.5 in (3.75
cm) leather pouch. This type of ball lasted for about 450 years. To make a
feathery, the ball maker.

11
The dimple pattern on the golf ball surface results in good Right performance.
As a general rule, the more dimples a ball has the better it flies, provided
those dimples are about 0.15 in (0.38 cm) in diameter.
Stitched together a round pod made from strips of bull or horse hide that had
been softened into leather. The pod was turned inside out, carefully leaving a
small opening into which goose or chicken feathers were stuffed. In order to
retain a spherical shape, the ball maker used a leather cup as a crude mold.
The opening was stitched up, the ball dried, hammered into a round shape,
and rubbed with oil and chalk.

Finished featherbeds were made in different diameters and weights and were
graded according to weight (measured in drams). Ball makers determined
the size and weight of each ball by adjusting the lengths and thickness of the
leather used for the cover. Typically, feathery balls were made in the range of
20-29 drams. The featheriness was first numbered according to their size and
later according to diameter rather than weight. This numbering system has
continued into the twentieth century.

The feathery was replaced when a much cheaper ball made out of gutta-
percha, a natural gum from Southeast Asia, was developed around 1850 in
Italy. To make a gutta percha ball or gutty, a slice of resin rope that had been
pre-mixed with a stabilizer was heated to make it pliable and then shaped
into a sphere. Despite being rounder and smoother than the feathery, this ball
had poorer flight performance. However, the new ball's affordability (dozens
could be made per day instead of just a handful) made it practical for the
working class to take up the sport in large numbers and this ball remained
popular until about 1910.

The gutty ball went through several transformations during this time. Once ball
makers discovered that a rough surface was better aerodynamically, grooves
were cut in the balls with a knife to simulate the stitching of the feathery. Next,
the ball makers pounded the ball with a chisel-faced hammer to produce
nicks and bruises on the surface.

Further experimentation with the gutty through the mid-nineteenth century

sought to improve
the ball's flight
performance.

Ball makers tried

incorporating other
substances such as
cork dust, India
rubber, bits of
leather, and other
materials into the
pure gutta percha
before shaping the
ball. Though these
balls were more

12
durable, they lacked capacity for distance.

By the end of the 1870s, machined iron molds that had regular patterns
inscribed on their inside were developed. One of the most popular of these
was the brambleberry design with raised dimples. These molds created a
regular pattern over the surface, eliminating hammering by hand. This
refinement began a revolution in aerodynamic design for the golf ball. The
rate of manufacture improved even further.

The game changed considerably in the early twentieth century when the B. F.
Goodrich Company in Akron, Ohio, invented a lighter, tightly wound, rubber-
threaded ball. The recessed dimpled ball was introduced by Spalding in 1908
and proved to be both aerodynamically and cosmetically a success. By 1930,
it dominated the market, with the spherical dimple becoming the standard.
Other dimple shapes have since evolved, including truncated cone and
elliptical dimples.

Raw Materials

A golf ball is made up of mostly plastic and rubber materials. A two-piece ball
consists of a solid rubber core with a durable thermoplastic (ionomer resin)
cover. The rubber starts out as a hard block, which must be heated and
pressed to form a sphere.

The three-piece ball consists of a smaller solid rubber or liquid-filled center with
rubber thread wound around it under tension, and an ionomer or balata
rubber cover.

During the 1970s the interior of the ball improved further, thanks to a material
called polybutadiene, a petroleum-based polymer. Though this material
produced more bounce it was also too soft. Research at Spalding
determined that zinc strengthened the material. This reinforced
polybutadiene soon became widely used by the rest of the manufacturers.

The Manufacturing
Process

Three-piece golf balls are more difficult to make and can require more than
80 different manufacturing steps and 32 inspections, taking up to 30 days to
make one ball. Two-piece balls require about half of these steps and can be
produced in as little as one day.

Forming the center

 1 The center of the two-piece ball is a molded core. It is a blend of

several different ingredients, all of which are chemically reactive to
give a rubber type compound. After heat and pressure is applied, a
core of about 1.5 inches (3.75 cm) is formed.

13
Forming the cover and dimples

 2 Injection molding or compression molding is used to form the cover

and dimples on a two-piece ball using a two-piece mold. In injection
molding, the core is centered within a mold cavity by pins, and molten
thermoplastic is injected into the dimpled cavity surrounding the core.
Heat and pressure cause the cover material to flow to join with the
center forming the dimpled shape and size of the finished ball. As the
plastic cools and hardens, the pins are retracted and the finished balls
are removed.
 3 With compression molding, the cover is first injection molded into two
hollow hemispheres. These are positioned around the core, heated
and then pressed together, using a mold which fuses the cover to the
core and also forms the dimples. Three-piece balls are all compression
molded since the hot plastic flowing through would distort and
probably cause breaks in the rubber threads.

Polishing, painting, and final coating

 4 "Flash" or rough spots and the seam on the molded cover are
removed. Two coats of paint are applied to the ball. Each ball sits on
two posts, which spins so that the paint is applied uniformly. Spray guns
that are automatically controlled are used to apply the paint. Next,
the ball is stamped with the logo. The final step is the application of a
clear coat for high sheen and scuff resistance.

Drying and packaging

 5 After the paint is applied, the balls are loaded into containers and
placed in large dryers. After drying, the balls are ready for packaging
in boxes and other containers.

Quality Control

In addition to monitoring the manufacturing process using computers and

monitors, three-piece balls are x-rayed to make sure the centers are perfectly
round. Compression ratings are also used to measure compression-molded,
wound golf balls. These ratings have no meaning when applied to two-piece
balls, however. Instead, these balls are measured by a co-efficiency rating,
which is the ratio of initial speed to return speed after the ball has struck a
metal plate. This procedure measures the coefficient of restitution.

Mechanical testing is also used to verify that the ball's performance meets the
USGA's standards. Special equipment has been developed and some
manufacturers even use wind tunnels to determine wind resistance and lift
action. A machine called the True Temper Mechanical Golfer or Iron Byron,
modeled after the swing of golf leg-end Byron Nelson, can be fitted for any
club and can be set up at various swing speeds. For normal testing, the Iron
Byron is configured using a driver, 5 iron, and 9 iron.

14
Another machine called the Ball Launcher provides the capability to propel
balls through the air at any velocity, spin rate, and launch angle. This has the
advantage of using launch conditions typical of a wide cross-section of
golfers. Using both types of equipment, performance data associated with
the flight of a golf ball can be measured and analyzed. These include the
apogee angle, carry distance, total distance, roll distance, and statistical
accuracy area.

The apogee angle indicates the height the trajectory of a ball reaches. It is
measured using a camera with a telescopic lens pointing down range in
conjunction with a gridded monitor. Carry distance is the distance a golf ball
travels in the air and is measured using a grid system with markers in the
landing zone. Total distance is the distance a golf ball travels in the air plus
the roll distance. Roll distance is the total distance minus the carry distance.

The statistical accuracy area (SAA) or dispersion area is used as a measure of

a golf ball's accuracy. For a given ball, the SAA value is based on the
deviations of the ball's performance in the directions of carry and left/right of
the centerline. These deviations are used to calculate an equivalent elliptical
landing area.

The Future

As improvements in aerodynamic design continue, golf balls will be able to

go even further. In fact, one golf ball manufacturer is already advertising that
its balls can be driven 400 yards. However, some professional players are
complaining that golf balls go too far and want the ball adjusted back about
10%. This means the USGA would have to tighten current requirements for
carry and roll and for velocity in its ball-testing procedure. A 10% cutback
would reduce drives by most tour pros by approximately 25 yards (22.5 m).

On the other hand, some experts believe that golf balls have reached their
limit on distance and will not improve in this area over the next 20 years. Golf
manufacturers will be challenged to achieve the ultimate consistency from
one ball to the next, make balls that feel softer and stop faster on the greens,
develop balls with greater durability, and invent the perfect dimple pattern.
Space age materials may achieve some of these goals and metal matrix
composites based on titanium are being considered. In addition, golf ball
companies will have to manufacture more balls for specific categories of
golfers. For example, four or five different types of trajectories might become
available.

15
Golf shafts

Golf shafts are used between the grip and the "club head". The profile of the
golf shaft is circular in shape and some of the strongest and lightest materials
are used to make the golf shaft. Graphite and tempered steels are used for
the best strength. In 2006 the newest profiles that are USGA approved and
have ultimate strength are Triangle Golf Shafts or some call the shaft
Trigraphite Shafts.

Other Golf Items

Golf Tees are used to prop up the ball

Sometimes transport is by special golf carts.
Clubs and other equipment are carried in golf
bags. Golfers wear special shoes with
exchangeable spikes (or small plastic claws
termed soft spikes) attached to the soles. They
also often wear gloves that help grip the club
and prevent blistering. Golf tees resemble nails
with a small cup on the head and are usually
made of wood or plastic. A tee is pushed into
the ground to rest a ball on top of for an easier
shot; however, this is only allowed for the first
stroke (tee shot or drive) of each hole. When on the green, the ball may be
picked up to be cleaned or if it is in the way of an opponent's putting line; its
position must then be marked using a ball marker (usually a flat, round piece
of plastic or a coin). A ball mark repair tool (or pitchfork) is used to repair a
ball mark (depression in the green where a ball has hit the ground). To repair
a ball mark, one pushes the tool under the mark, and lifts upwards gently,
loosening the compacted turf to allow rapid re-growth of grass. Scores are
recorded on a score card during the round.

16
Antique Golf Equipment

Brassie...Cleek...Jigger...Mashie...Niblick...Rake...Spoon...are such
great names for golf clubs. What are these clubs anyway? After a bit
of research and using numerous sources here is a list of what was
found.

 Brassie: It gets its name from the brass-plated sole. The brass sole
was to protect the underside for the clubhead from gouges. It is
a wood with the loft and appearance of a modern 2-wood.
Used for long low shots.
 Cleek: A driving iron or maybe a 2-iron. A shepherd's crook in
ancient Scotland was called a cleek. So who cares, right. Well,
the origin of golf may go back to a game shepherds played
thousands of years ago.
 Jigger: An ancient golf club with the loft and utility of a modern
wedge.
 Mashie: A wooden shafted pre-20th century club that is close in
resemblance to a 5-iron. It was a middle distance iron.
 Niblick: Pre-20th century equivalent to a modern 9-iron. A wooden
shaft club, iron-headed, with a greater face angle than all but a
wedge.
 Rake: An ancient specialty club, constructed like a wedge but had
several parallel slots. It was designed to be used in puddles and wet
sand, where the channels would reduce the club's resistance.
 Spoon: A wooden-shafted club with clubfaces that were concave,
shaped like a spoon. In appearance, loft and purpose, the spoon is
the antique golf club that most resembles a 3-wood.

None of the old clubs really look like our modern clubs. To match them to
modern golf clubs can only be done by their face angles and the use they
were put to. All the old golf clubs were hand crafted so even a mashie by
one blacksmith varied in design from another blacksmith.

17
Antiques Golf Clubs From Scotland

The Carnoustie Set

Date: 1905

18
The Edinburgh Set

Date: 1905

19
The Royal Troon Set

Date: 1905

20
The St Andrews Set

Date: 1905

21
Scareneck Patrick Spoon

Date: 1901

Watt scareneck spoon

Date: 1904

22
Beech scareneck spoon

Date: 1902

23
Bent neck putter

Date: 1915

Ladies' putting cleek

Date: 1925

24
Craigie putter

Date: 1910

25
Golf Old Balls

Shoor Flite square dimple

Date: 1920

Penfold Dimple Ball

Date: 1950

26
3- Outfits

Learn What To Wear When You Play Golf

Of all the preconceptions that exist about the

game of golf, it is players' clothing that has
perhaps inspired the most heated conversation.

Remarkably, however, no dress code is stipulated

in the rules of the game, and any decision about
what you can and can't wear on a particular golf
course rests with each individual golf club.
However, it's generally accepted that you should
never wear jeans or sneakers, and that a shirt with
a collar is always preferable to one without.

Thankfully, though, the days of pastel shades and

dubious golf pants are long gone. Now some of
the most stylish brands in fashion are moving into
golf wear, creating clothes that are both
fashionable and practical-so much so that there
really is no excuse for being badly dressed on the
golf course. But note that when playing in warm climates choose clothing in
lightweight cotton to keep cool on the course. You should also wear a hat
and apply sunscreen regularly for sun protection.

You'll also need a waterproof jacket and pants for those days when the
weather turns bad. They should be made so that you can still swing freely
while wearing them. Golf gloves made from leather or synthetic fabrics can
help to give you a better grip on your club. Baseball-style caps and sun visors
are invaluable for keeping the sun out of your eyes when you're playing.

Fast becoming a mainstay of golf wear, wristbands provide support and

comfort for the wrists, helping with swing. In addition to shorts and pants,
women have the option of wearing a skirt, which may have a split for ease of
movement. The classic polo shirt is popular golf wear. Comfortable, loose,
and easy to swing in, it is also stylish enough for any golf course

During an average round of golf you will walk over five miles (8km) so it's
imperative that you have the right footwear for the task ahead. A pair of
good-quality golf shoes will make your rounds much more comfortable and
provide you with a solid foundation, allowing you to swing the golf club
without worrying about losing your balance. Like most golf equipment, the
golf shoe has evolved. Players no longer wear the sharp metal spikes of old-
instead, soft spikes or cleats have become widely fashionable.

27
Before you begin playing golf, it's a good idea to assemble an outfit that you
not only feel comfortable in, but which also complies with the club's dress
code. That means a pair of pants or skirt (no jeans), a collared shirt, and a pair
of golf shoes with soft spikes. But if you're still not sure what is acceptable on
the golf course, call the club to check beforehand.

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4- Warm Up Exercises

1.BUILDING UP YOUR `GOLF FEEL’

Using the Flexibility & Mobility Warm-up Drill

Get into the lunge position, feel

stretch at right hip. Maintain an
upright posture and tuck in your
lower abdomen. Hold golf club
above head with pistol grip. Bend
trunk to left side, keeping head
aligned on shoulders.

2. BUILDING UP YOUR `GOLF FEEL’

Using the Balance & Static Posture

Warm-up drill

Standing upright in the `angel wings

position‟ against the wall, place a
golf ball between the balls of your
feet. Keep your nose and belly
button in line with the ball. Tuck in
your chin and look at the bottom of
your lower eyelids. Keeping your
arms by your side and forming a
pistol grip in both hands, slowly lift
the ball

up with your feet. Feel yourself

getting taller as you pump up.

29
3. BUILDING UP YOUR `GOLF FEEL’

Using the Core Stability Golf Drill

Push

Slowly extend your arms and thrust the

body in a slow pushing movement
against an imaginary truck. Feel your
shoulders, neck, abdominals, gluteals
and legs all work together as if you are
simulating a hydraulic pump.

4. BUILDING UP YOUR `GOLF FEEL’

Using Core Stability & Rotation

Keep yourself in an upright and stable

posture. Place your elbows in by the
side of our ribcage. Slowly rotate your
trunk to the right maintaining your hips
in a stable position to the front. Keep
your elbows into your ribcage, feel the
tension between your inside thigh and
lower abdominals.

5. BUILDING UP YOUR `GOLF FEEL’

Using Core Stability, Rotation & Dynamic

Posture

Stand in an upright position and

maintaining good spinal posture at all
times, cross your right elbow to the top
of your left knee. Then cross your left
elbow on to your right knee. The
movements should be smooth and the
speed of the exercise gradually
increased.

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5- etiquette

Golf etiquette rules are more so common courtesy that is practiced by golf
players among one another. These are often common sense and golf clubs
often implement their own versions and sometimes post their own. They are
designed basically for the consideration of all the people using the course as
well as the care of the course, to help reduce unnecessary maintenance of
the course.

Safety & Consideration for other players

Prior to playing a stroke or making a practice swing, the player should ensure
that no-one is standing close by, or in a position to be hit by the club, the ball,
or by any stones, pebbles, twigs or that may be moved by the stroke or swing.
The player who has the honor should be allowed to play before his opponent
or fellow-competitor tees his ball. No one should move, talk or stand too close
to or directly behind the ball when a player is addressing a ball or making a
stroke. You should not begin play until the players in front are well out of
range of your possible shot.

Pace of Play
In the interests of all players on the course, you should play without delay.
Players searching for a ball should signal the players behind them to pass as
soon as it becomes apparent that the ball will not easily be found and you
should not search for over five minutes.

Before doing so. You should then wait until the players following you have
passed and are well ahead out of range before continuing play. When the
play of a hole has been completed, players should immediately leave the
putting green. If a match fails to keep its place on the course and loses more
than one complete hole on the players in front, it should invite the match
following to pass.

CARE OF THE COURSE

Holes in Bunkers
Before leaving a bunker, it is good general practice for a player to carefully fill
up and smooth over all holes and footprints that they made in the bunker.
Replace Divots; Repair Ball-Marks and Damage by Spikes
Through the green, a player should ensure that any turf cut or displaced by
him is replaced at once and pressed down and that any damage to the
putting green made by a ball is carefully repaired. On completion of the hole
by all players in the group, damage to the putting green caused by golf shoe
spikes should be repaired.

Damage to Greens – Flag sticks, Bags etc.

Players should ensure that, when putting down bags or the flag stick, no
damage is done to the putting green and that neither they nor their caddies
damage the hole by standing close to it, in handling the flag stick or
removing the ball from the hole. The flag stick should be properly replaced in
the hole before the players leave the putting green. Players should not

31
damage the green by leaning on their putters, particularly when removing
the ball from the hole.

Golf Carts
Local notices regulating the movement of golf carts should be strictly
observed.

Damage Through Practice Swings

In taking practice swings, players should avoid causing damage to the
course, particularly the tees, by removing divots.

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6- Tips

The best way to master the game of golf is to begin closest to the hole to
farthest away from short putts to the full swing.

The reason is simple: the short game is a microcosm of the full swing. In many
cases, the skills utilized in short game shots the same as those used in the full
swing, just on a smaller scale.

Closer to the hole, the swing is at its shortest and least complex: a smaller
motion made using fewer body parts and thus less to coordinate. The full
swing is the most complex, a much larger motion with many more moving
parts at a higher rate of speed. Trying to master the full swing without first
mastering the short game is like trying to gallop on a horse before you‟ve
learned to climb on.

A corollary of this truth is that many problems in the full swing can be spotted
within the short game and vice versa. For example, if you come out of posture
in your full swing, you will tend to do the same in your short game and will
probably miss a fair number of putts. If you tend to reverse-pivot in your full
swing, chances are you do this in your pitch shots as well. Improving your short
game will not only make you a better scorer overall, but it will have positive
repercussions throughout your game. As you work on and master your short-
game shots, you will not only iron out the problems you are having in these
particular shots, but your full swing will likewise benefit.

You will also develop feelings you need to understand and incorporate (e.g.,
what a proper pivot feels like) while working through your short game that you
should also feel in your full swing.

This is not to say you won‟t be using both short game shots and full swing as
you play a full round but during practice time, which you must incorporate
into your golf time to develop a solid game, the best way is to start small and
work up from there.

23

33
7- Rules

Who administers them and how?

It is only comparatively recently in the history of the game that the rules have
been „standardized‟ across regional and national borders. These days, the
official body responsible for the rules is one formed of representatives of the
US Golf Association (USGA) and Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in
Scotland (R&A). A new set of rules of golf is issued every 4 years (subject to
need), the next one falling due in 2004. In between, the rules committee may
be called upon for a „decision‟ affecting the rules, and the results of these
decisions are published – see the web sites at www.usga.com and
www.randa.org for a list of current decisions. Every 4 years it is decided
whether the rules themselves require to be update as a result of these
decisions.

Introduction to the Rules of Golf

For a relatively uncomplicated game, where the principle
is to knock a ball into a distant hole and repeat the
exercise up to 18 times, golf does have a large and
seemingly complex rule book. In fact, the rules of golf are
one of the most discussed subjects on the planet, and new
situations always seem to arise which cause the ruling
bodies to issue „decisions‟ on the rules. These are eventually
incorporated into the rules of the game.

Golf prides itself on being an honorable game, and

depends to a very large extent on the Honesty and
integrity of the players themselves. It is a frequent
occurrence on the course to hear a player „own up‟ to the
fact that they hit the ball twice when playing out of a
hazard, or disturbed the ball or the ground around it whilst
playing a shot – and taking the necessary penalty. Sadly,
this is not always the case, and the rules were largely put in
place to prevent cheating and other unseemly behavior!
Rules are rules, and there are even penalties for players
agreeing to waive them. But remember, the most
important element of all is the „spirit‟ of the game and the way in which it is
played.

The following section covers the main areas of etiquette on the golf course,
definitions, and the rules themselves. These are extracted from the rules of
golf, as defined by the US Golf Association in conjunction with the Royal and
Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland. It is for guidance only. If you
require a full definition of the rules, for example, to settle a dispute over a
situation arising in a game you were involved in, you should refer to the full
official „rules of golf‟. These can be found on the USGA web site.

34
In addition, there is provision for „Local Rules‟ These are set by the Committee
of a Club and are intended to cover specific local situations such as roads
crossing the course. They will normally be found on the scorecard of the
course in question.

GENERAL POINTS
Before commencing your round of golf:

of ball and if you can't identify your ball, it's lost.

lubs.

or caddie. Don't give advice to anyone except your partner.

TEEING OFF
Be sure to tee off between and not in front of the designated tee-markers.
You may tee off up to two club-lengths behind the front line of the tee-
markers. If you do outside this area - in match play there is no penalty but
your opponent may ask you to replay your stroke; in stroke play you incur a
two-stroke penalty and must then play from within the proper area.

You must play the ball as it lies. Don't improve the lie of the ball, the area of
your intended swing or your line of play by moving, bending or breaking
anything fixed or growing except in fairly taking your stance or making your
swing. Don't press anything down or build a stance. If your ball lies in a bunker
or a water hazard don't touch the ground in the bunker, or the ground or
water in the water hazard, before your downswing. The ball must be fairly
struck, not pushed or spooned. Playing a wrong ball (except in a hazard) - in
match play you lose the hole; in stroke play you incur a two-stroke penalty
and you must then play the correct ball.

ON THE PUTTING GREEN

You may repair ball marks and old hole plugs on
the line of your putt but not any other damage,
including spike marks. You may mark, lift and clean
your ball on the putting green. Always replace it on
the exact spot. Don't test the putting surface by
scraping it or rolling a ball over it. Ball played from
putting green strikes flag stick - in match play you
lose the hole; in stroke play you incur a two-stroke
penalty.

BALL AT REST MOVED

If your ball is at rest and it is moved by you, your
partner or your caddie, except as permitted by the
Rules, or if it moves after you have addressed it,
add a penalty stroke and replace your ball. If your
ball is at rest and is moved by someone else or
another ball, replace it without penalty to you.

35
BALL IN MOTION DEFLECTED OR STOPPED
Ball struck by you is deflected or stopped by you, your partner or your caddie
- in match play you lose the hole; in stroke play you incur a two-stroke penalty
and the ball is played as it lies. Ball struck by you is deflected or stopped by
someone else - play your ball as it lies without penalty, except (a) in match
play, if an opponent or his caddie deflects the ball you have an option to
replay the stroke or (b) in stroke play, if the ball is deflected after a stroke from
on the putting green, you must replay it.

Ball struck by you is deflected or stopped by another ball at rest- in match

play, no penalty and the ball is played as it lies except. In stroke play you
incur a two-stroke penalty if your ball and the other ball were on the putting
green before you played.

LIFTING, DROPPING AND PLACING THE BALL

If a lifted ball is to be replaced, its position must be marked. If a ball is to be
dropped or placed in any other position (e.g. taking relief from GUR, etc.) it is
recommended that the ball's original position be marked. When dropping,
stand erect, hold the ball at shoulder height and arm's length and drop it. If a
dropped ball strikes you or your partner, caddie or equipment it must be re-
dropped without penalty.

BALL INTERFERING WITH OR ASSISTING PLAY

You may lift your ball if it might assist any other player. You may have any ball
lifted if it might interfere with your play or assist any other player.

LOOSE IMPEDIMENTS
You may move a loose impediment unless it and your ball are in a hazard.
However, if you have touched a loose impediment within one club-length of
your ball and your ball moves, the ball must be replaced and (unless your ball
was on the putting green) you incur a penalty stroke.

OBSTRUCTIONS
Check the Local Rules on the scorecard for guidance on immovable
obstructions (e.g. surfaced roads and paths etc). Movable obstructions (e.g.
rakes, tin cans etc.) anywhere on the course may be moved. If the ball moves
it must be replaced without penalty. If an immovable obstruction (e.g. a
water fountain) interferes with your stance or swing, you may drop the ball
within one club-length of the nearest point of relief not nearer the hole. There
is no relief for intervention on your line of play unless your ball and the
obstruction are on the putting green.

CASUAL WATER, GROUND UNDER REPAIR etc.

If your ball is in casual water, ground under repair or a hole or cast made by a
burrowing animal e.g. a rabbit, you may drop without penalty within one
club-length of the nearest point of relief not nearer the hole.

WATER HAZARDS
Check the Local Rules on the scorecard to establish whether the sea, lake,
river etc. is a `water hazard' or a `lateral water hazard'. Ball in watery hazard -

36
play the ball as it lies or, under penalty of one stroke, (a) drop any distance
behind the water hazard keeping a straight line between the hole, the point
where the ball crossed the margin of the water hazard and spot on which the
ball is dropped, or (b) play again from where you hit the ball into the hazard.
Ball in lateral water hazard - in addition to the options for a ball in a water
hazard (see above), under penalty of one stroke, you may drop within two
club-lengths of (a) the point where the ball crossed the margin of the hazard
or (b) a point on the opposite side of the hazard equidistant from the hole.

BALL LOST OR OUT OF BOUNDS

Check the Local Rules on the scorecard to identify the boundaries of the
course. If your ball is lost outside a water hazard or out of bounds you must
play another ball from the spot where the last shot was played under penalty
of one stroke i.e. stroke and distance. You are allowed 5 minutes to search for
a ball, after which if it is not found or identified it is lost. If, after playing a shot,
you think your ball may be lost outside a water hazard or out of bounds you
may play a `provisional ball'. You must state that it is a provisional ball and
play it before you go forward to search for the original ball. If the original ball
is lost or out of bounds you must continue with the provisional ball under
penalty of one stroke. If the original ball is not lost or out of bounds, you must
continue play of the hole with it and the provisional ball must be abandoned.

BALL UNPLAYABLE
If you believe your ball is unplayable outside a water hazard (and you are the
sole judge), you may under penalty of one stroke, (a) drop within two club-
lengths of where the ball lies not nearer the hole, (b) drop any distance
behind the point where the ball lay keeping a straight line between the hole,
the point where the ball lay and the spot on which the ball is dropped, or (c)
replay the shot. If your ball is in a bunker you may proceed under (a), (b) and
(c). However, if you elect to proceed under (a) or (b) you must drop in the
bunker.

CONCLUSION
A good score may be spoiled, or a match lost, due to a penalty incurred
through ignorance or confusion concerning the Rules. A sound knowledge of
the above summary should aid the golfer in tackling a "Rules problem".
Nevertheless, the complete Rules of Golf as approved by the Royal and
Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews and the United States Golf Association,
should be consulted where
any doubt arises.

37
8- Definitions

Addressing the Ball

A player has “addressed the ball‟‟ when he has taken his stance and has also
grounded his club, except that in a hazard a player has addressed the ball
when he has taken his stance.

Advice
Known as any counsel or suggestion that could influence a player in
determining his play, the choice of a club or the method of making a stroke.
Information on the Rules or on matters of public information, such as the
position of hazards or the flag stick on the putting green, is not considered
advice.

Ball in Play
A ball is “in play‟‟ as soon as the player has made a stroke on the teeing
ground. It remains in play until holed out, except when it is lost, out of bounds
or lifted, or another ball has been substituted whether or not such substitution
is permitted; a ball so substituted becomes the ball in play.

Bunker
A hazard consisting of a prepared area of ground, often a hollow, from which
turf or soil has been removed and replaced with soft sand. Grass-covered
ground bordering or within a bunker is not part of the bunker. The margin of a
bunker extends vertically downwards, but not upwards. A ball is in a bunker
when it lies in or any part of it touches the bunker.

Caddie
The person who carries or handles a player‟s clubs during play and otherwise
assists him in accordance with the Rules. When a caddie is employed by
more than one player, he is always deemed to be the caddie of the player
whose ball is involved, and equipment carried by him is deemed to be that
player‟s equipment, except when the caddie acts upon specific directions of
another player, in which case he is considered to be that other player‟s
caddie.

Casual Water
Any temporary accumulation of water on the course which is visible before or
after the player takes his stance and is not in a water hazard. Snow and
natural ice, other than frost, are either casual water or loose impediments, at
the option of the player. Manufactured ice is an obstruction. Dew and frost
are not casual water. A ball is in casual water when it lies in or any part of it
touches the casual water.

Committee
The committee in charge of the competition or, if the matter does not arise in
a competition, the committee in charge of the course.

38
Competitor
Any player in a stroke competition. A “fellow-competitor‟‟is any person with
whom the competitor plays. Neither is partner of the other. In stroke play
foursome and four-ball competitions, where the context so admits, the word
“competitor‟‟ or “fellow-competitor‟‟ includes his partner.

Course
The whole area within which play is permitted

Equipment
Considered to be anything used, worn or carried by or for the player except
any ball he has played at the hole being played and any small object, such
as a coin or a tee, when used to mark the position of a ball or the extent of an
area in which a ball is to be dropped. Equipment includes a golf cart,
whether or not motorized. If such a cart is shared by two or more players, the
cart and everything in it are deemed to be the equipment of the player
whose ball is involved except that, when the cart is being moved by one of
the players sharing it, the cart and everything in it are deemed to be that
player‟s equipment.

Flag stick
The movable straight indicator, with or without bunting or other material
attached, centered in the hole to show its position. It shall be circular in cross-
section.

Ground Under Repair

Ground under repair is considered any part of the course that is marked by
order of the Committee or so declared by its authorized representative. It
includes material piled for removal and a hole made by a green keeper,
even if not so marked. All ground and any grass, bush, tree or other growing
thing within the ground under repair is part of the ground under repair. The
margin of ground under repair extends vertically downwards, but not
upwards. Stakes and lines defining ground under repair are in such ground
such stakes are obstructions. A ball is in ground under repair when it lies in or
any part of it touches the ground under repair.

Hazards
Any bunker or water hazard.

Hole
The “hole‟‟ shall be 4¼ inches in diameter and at least 4 inches deep. If a
lining is used, it shall be sunk at least 1 inch below the putting green surface
unless the nature of the soil makes it impracticable to do so; its outer diameter
shall not exceed 4¼ inches.

Holed
A ball is “holed‟‟ when it is at rest within the circumference of the hole and all
of it is below the level of the lip of the hole.

Honour
The player who is to play first from the teeing ground is said to have the

39
“honour.‟‟

Lateral Water Hazard

A water hazard or that part of a water hazard so situated that it is not possible
or is deemed by the Committee to be impracticable to drop a ball behind
the water hazard in accordance with That part of a water hazard to be
played as a lateral water hazard should be distinctively marked. A ball is in a
lateral water hazard when it lies in or any part of it touches the lateral water
hazard.

Line of Play
The direction which the player wishes his ball to take after a stroke, plus a
reasonable distance on either side of the intended direction. The line of play
extends vertically upwards from the ground, but does not extend beyond the
hole.

Line of Putt
The line which the player wishes his ball to take after a stroke on the putting
green. The line of putt does not extend beyond the hole.

Loose Impediments
Natural objects such as stones, leaves, twigs, branches and the like, worms
and insects and casts or heaps made by them, provided they are not fixed or
growing, are not solidly embedded and do not adhere to the ball. Sand and
loose soil is considered loose impediment on the putting green, but not
elsewhere. Snow and natural ice, other than frost, are either casual water or
loose impediments, at the option of the player.

Lost Ball
A ball is “lost‟‟ when it is not found or identified as his by the player within five
minutes after the player‟s side or his or their caddies have begun to search for
it; or if the player has put another ball into play under the Rules, even though
he may not have searched for the original ball; or the player has played any
stroke with a provisional ball from the place where the original ball is likely to
be or from a point nearer the hole than that place, whereupon the
provisional ball becomes the ball in play.

Marker
Someone who is appointed by the Committee to record a competitor‟s score
in stroke play. He may be a fellow competitor, however he is not a referee.

Match play
In “match play” the game is played by holes. A hole is won by the side which
holes its balls in the fewer strokes. The reckoning of the holes is kept by the
terms: so many “holes up” or “all square”, and so many “to play”. A match is
won by the side which is leading by a number of holes greater than the
number of holes remaining to be played.

40
Move or Moved
A ball is deemed to have “moved‟‟ if it leaves its position and comes to rest in
any other place.

Observer
An “observer‟‟ is one who is appointed by the Committee to assist a referee
to decide questions of fact and to report to him any breach of a Rule. An
observer should not attend the flag stick, stand at or mark the position of the
hole, or lift the ball or mark its position.

Obstructions
An “obstruction‟‟ is anything artificial, including the artificial surfaces and sides
of roads and paths and manufactured ice, except:

ing out of bounds, such as walls, fences, stakes and railings;

the course.
obstruction if it may be moved without
unreasonable effort, without unduly delaying play and without causing
damage. Otherwise it is an immovable obstruction.

Out of Bounds
“Out of bounds‟‟ is beyond the boundaries of the course or any part of the
course so marked by the Committee. When out of bounds is defined by
reference to stakes or a fence or as being beyond stakes or a fence, the out
of bounds line is determined by the nearest inside points of the stakes or
fence posts at ground level excluding angled supports. Objects defining out
of bounds such as walls, fences, stakes and railings, are not obstructions and
are deemed to be fixed.

When out of bounds is defined by a line on the ground, the line itself is out of
bounds. The out of bounds line extends vertically upwards and downwards. A
ball is out of bounds when all of it lies out of bounds. A player may stand out
of bounds to play a ball lying within bounds.

Outside Agency
An “outside agency‟‟ is any agency not part of the match or, in stroke play,
not part of the competitor‟s side, and includes a referee, a marker, an
observer and a forecaddie. Neither wind nor water is an outside agency.

Partner
A “partner‟‟ is a player associated with another player on the same side. In a
threesome, foursome, best-ball or four-ball match, where the context so
admits, the word “player‟‟ includes his partner or partners.

Penalty Stroke
A “penalt+y stroke‟‟ is one added to the score of a player or side under
certain Rules. In a threesome or foursome, penalty strokes do not affect the
order of play.

41
Provisional Ball
A “provisional ball‟‟ is a ball played under Rule 27-2 for a ball which may be
lost outside a water hazard or may be out of bounds.

Putting Green
The “putting green‟‟ is all ground of the hole being played which is specially
prepared for putting or otherwise defined as such by the Committee. A ball is
on the putting green when any part of it touches the putting green.

Referee
A “referee‟‟ is one who is appointed by the Committee to accompany
players to decide questions of fact and apply the Rules. He shall act on any
breach of a Rule which he observes or is reported to him. A referee should not
attend the flag stick, stand at or mark the position of the hole, or lift the ball or
mark its position.
Rub of the Green
A “rub of the green‟‟ occurs when a ball in motion is accidentally deflected
or stopped by any outside agency (see Rule 19-1).

Rule
The term “Rules‟‟ include: The Rules of Golf; Any Local Rules made by the
Committee under Rule 33-8a and Appendix I; and The specifications on clubs
and the ball in Appendices II and III.

Sides and Matches

Side: A player, or two or more players who are partners.

Single: A match in which one plays against another.

Threesome: A match in which one plays against two, and each side plays
one ball.

Foursome: A match in which two play against two, and each side plays one
ball.

Three-Ball: A match play competition in which three play against one

another, each playing his own ball.
Each player is playing two distinct matches.

Best-Ball: A match in which one plays against the better ball of two or the
best ball of three players.

Four-Ball: A match in which two play their better ball against the better ball of
two other players.

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Stableford Points

This is a Competition where points are awarded at each hole as follows:

Nett bogey – one over par 1 point

Nett par 2 points

Nett birdie 3 points

Nett eagle 4 points

Nett albatross 5 points

The winner is the competitor who scores the highest number of points.

Stance
Taking the “stance‟‟ consists in a player placing his feet in position for and
preparatory to make a stroke.

Stipulated Round
The “stipulated round‟‟ consists of playing the holes of the course in their
correct sequence unless otherwise authorized by the Committee. The number
of holes in a stipulated round is 18 unless a smaller number is authorized by the
Committee. As to extension of stipulated round in match play, see Rule 2-3.

Stroke
A “stroke‟‟ is the forward movement of the club made with the intention of
fairly striking at and moving the ball, but if a player checks his downswing
voluntarily before the club head reaches the ball he is deemed not to have
made a stroke.

Stroke Index
Each hole on a golf course is rated, using several variables and is given a
stroke index between 1 and 18. If a player has a handicap of 18, he/she
receives one shot per hole. If the handicap is 9, the player receives a shot on
holes with a stroke index of 1 – 9.

Stroke Play
The competitor who plays the stipulated round or rounds in the fewest strokes
is the winner. If a competitor fails to hole out and does not correct the mistake
before a stroke is played from the next teeing ground, or in the case of the
last hole, before leaving the putting green, the penalty is disqualification.

Teeing Ground
The “teeing ground‟‟ is the starting place for the hole to be played. It is a
rectangular area two club-lengths in depth, the front and the sides of which

43
are defined by the outside limits of two tee-markers. A ball is outside the
teeing ground when all of it lies outside the teeing ground.

Through the Green

“Through the green‟‟ is the whole area of the course except: The teeing
ground and putting green of the hole being played; and all hazards on the
course.

Water Hazard
A “water hazard‟‟ is any sea, lake, pond, river, ditch, surface drainage ditch
or other open water course (whether or not containing water) and anything
of a similar nature.
All ground or water within the margin of a water hazard is part of the water
hazard. The margin of a water hazard extends vertically upwards and
downwards. Stakes and lines defining the margins of water hazards are in the
hazards. Such stakes are obstructions. A ball is in a water hazard when it lies in
or any part of it touches the water hazard.

Wrong Ball
A “wrong ball‟‟ is any ball other than the player‟s:
a) Ball in play,
b) Provisional ball, or
c) Second ball played under Rule 3-3 or Rule 20-7b in stroke play.

Note: Ball in play includes a ball substituted for the ball in play whether or not
such substitution is permitted.

Wrong Putting Green

A “wrong putting green” is any putting green other than that of the hole
being played. Unless otherwise prescribed by the Committee, this term
includes a practice putting green or pitching green on the course.

44
9- Vocabulary

Albatross:
Example Sentence: People play golf all their lives and never hit
an albatross.
Meaning: Score of three strokes under par.
Birdie:
Example Sentence: His birdie on the 17th hole made him win the
match.
Meaning: Score of one stroke under par.
Bogey:
Example Sentence: If she gets a bogey on the 18th hole, she'll
lose the match.
Meaning: Score of one stroke over par.
Break:
Example Sentence: Professionals read the greens and then allow
for the breaks when putting.
Meaning: The amount a putt curves because of the slope and
grain of the green
Buggy (also cart or golf cart):
Example Sentence: Using the buggy won't give us much exercise
like walking.
Meaning: Small vehicle for transporting players and their golf
bags.
Bunker:
Example Sentence: He hit a beautiful shot out of the bunker and
it rolled into the hole.
Meaning: Hollow obstruction or hazard, often containing sand.
Caddie:
Example Sentence: A good caddie always studies a golf course
before working on it.
Meaning: Person who carries a player's golf bag and gives
advice.
Chip:
Example Sentence: John practices everyday on his chip shots to
the green.
Meaning: Short, low shot to the green.
Course (also golf course):
Example Sentence: Some people think golf courses are a waste
of important resources like land and water.
Meaning: Large area of land designed for playing golf
Divot:
Example Sentence: Players should replace their divots to keep
the course in good condition.
Meaning: Piece of earth and grass that a golf shot cuts from the
ground.

45
Dog leg:
Example Sentence: On many dog legs you can't see the green
when you tee off.
Meaning: Fairway that turns left or right.
Double bogey:
Example Sentence: I got a double bogey when I took 5 shots on
a par-3 hole.
Meaning: a score of two over par on a hole.
Drive:
Example Sentence: Tiger hit a beautiful drive nearly 300 yards
down the middle of the fairway.
Meaning: Shot played using the number one wood, often the first
shot on a long hole.
Driver:
Example Sentence: One of the hardest clubs to use well is the
driver.
Meaning: Number one wood and the longest hitting club.
Eagle:
Example Sentence: I'm one shot behind, so I'll need an eagle on
the last hole to win the match outright.
Meaning: Two strokes under par.
Fade:
Example Sentence: He hit a long fade and it followed the curve
of the fairway to the right.
Meaning: A right-handed player's shot that moves slightly from
left to right.
Fairway:
Example Sentence: Peter's drives aren't long, but he nearly
always gets them on the fairway.
Meaning: Longest part of a hole, from the tee to the green.
Flag stick:
Example Sentence: A caddie took the flag stick out of the hole
before the players putted.
Meaning: Stick with a flag on it that stands in the cup on a green.
Green:
Example Sentence: On each day of the tournament, the cups
are put in different positions on the greens.
Meaning: Area of very short grass at the end of each hole, on
which balls are putted into a cup.
Grip:
Example Sentence: The most common grip is with the right hand
positioned just below the left hand.
Meaning: The positioning of the hands on the shaft of a club.
Hazard:
Example Sentence: A well-designed course has enough hazards
to make it challenging, but not so many that it becomes unfair.

46
Meaning: Places on a golf course such as lakes, creeks, and
bunkers that are difficult or impossible to play from.
Hole:
Example Sentence: The first nine holes are called the 'front nine'
and the second nine are called the 'back nine'.
Meaning: One of many playing areas on a golf course, including
a tee, a fairway and a green.
Hook:
Example Sentence: I tried to hit a long drive, but I hit a hook and
the ball went into a water hazard on the left of the fairway.
Meaning: A right-handed player's shot that moves from right to
left in the air.
Iron:
Example Sentence: A one iron is for long, low shots, and a nine
iron is for shorter, higher shots.
Meaning: Metal golf clubs with blade-shaped club-heads.
Lie:
Example Sentence: Her shot missed the fairway and went into
the rough, but luckily she got a good lie.
Meaning: The position of the ball when it has come to rest.
Links:
Example Sentence: Many links courses are built on land which
has been reclaimed from the sea.
Meaning: Golf course beside the sea.
Par:
Example Sentence: Most par-72 courses have four par-three
holes, ten par-fours and four par-fives.
Meaning: Number of strokes a good player should take on a hole
or a round.
Pitch-and-run:
Example Sentence: Marian played a pitch-and-run shot over the
bunker, and it landed on the green and rolled into the hole.
Meaning: A shot that spends more time in the air, less time on the
green.
Putt:
Example Sentence: After hitting an excellent approach shot, she
was left with an easy three-foot putt.
Meaning: A shot played along the ground on the green.
Putter:
Example Sentence: Putters come in many shapes and sizes, with
shafts of various lengths and heads of various shapes.
Meaning: Club used to putt the ball on the green.
Rough:
Example Sentence: On some courses the rough is very thick and
nearly impossible to play from.
Meaning: Area on a golf course where the grass is longer and
thicker than on the fairway.
47
Round:
Example Sentence: In major tournaments, four eighteen-hole
rounds are played over four days.
Meaning: The completion of nine or eighteen holes on a golf
course.
Shoot:
Example Sentence: The winner shoot a 4-under par 68 on the last
round.
Meaning: To make a score.
Shot:
Example Sentence: She hit a perfect shot out of the bunker and it
went straight into the cup.
Meaning: A stroke
Slice:
Example Sentence: She tried to hit an iron shot onto the green,
but she hit a slice and it went right of the green.
Meaning: A right-handed player's shot that moves sharply from
left to right in the air.
Stroke:
Example Sentence: She had seventy strokes on her first round,
which was two shots under par.
Meaning: Strike on a golf ball with a golf club.
Swing:
Example Sentence: Golfers can improve a lot by having a golf
instructor help them to work on their swing.
Meaning: Rhythmic movement which enables a golfer to hit the
ball.
Tee:
Example Sentence: Players can only put the ball on a tee when
they're hitting their first shot on a hole.
Meaning: Small peg (wooden or plastic) on which the ball is
placed for the first shot of each hole.
Tee box:
Example Sentence: Many courses have tees for women which
are closer to the green than the men's tees.
Meaning: Small area from which golfers play their first shot on
each hole.
Tee off:
Example Sentence: The last group of players will tee off at 2.30
p.m.
Meaning: Play the first shot to start a round of golf.
Tee shot:
Example Sentence: Tiger took out his driver and hit a perfect tee
shot, right down the middle of the fairway.
Meaning: Shot hit from a tee box.

48
Woods:
Example Sentence: Woods used to be made of wood, but most
are made of metal these days.
Meaning: Clubs with bulbous club heads that are used to hit the
longest shots.

49
10- Swing

Golf Swing Instructions

There is nothing else in the world like excelling at the sport

of golf. Having the ability to shoot well among friends or in
heated competition will gain you both respect and
admiration among your peers. It is not beyond anyone to
play a solid round of golf once a consistent and steady
golf swing is established. This article serves to provide golf
swing instructions to the readers in the hopes that it will
enlighten them, as well as improve their golf game.

One's golf swing can be broken down into three portions: the back-swing, the
forward-swing, and the follow-through. Avoiding the common mistakes made
during each of these three portions will help to ensure a proper and effective
golf swing.

During the back-swing, try not to pick the club up too quickly off the ground.
Let the club sweep across the ground smoothly as it rises into the air letting
the head of the club draw a circle starting at the ball location and ending
with the shaft and club head parallel to the ground and pointing at the
target. Keep your posture steady throughout the back-swing taking special
care to keep your head down looking at the ball and shifting your weight
from your center to your right hip and foot.

As you begin your forward-swing, you will start to move your weight from the
right side of your body over to the left. Try to avoid jerking the club down; let
the club head act as if it were a pendulum. The club head will gain speed
gradually as it descends from its location parallel to the ground approaching
its highest speed when it impacts the ball. Once the ball is impacted, a
majority of your weight should now be primarily on your left hip and foot.

Your swing's follow-through is just as important as the other two parts. Make
sure not to underestimate the significance of this part of your swing. After
impact, try to rotate your torso to face the target and move your head to
look down the line of your shot. During this rotation of your torso, you will start
to move your right foot lifting the heel, rotating, and finally balancing your
stance with your right foot's toes.

Practicing in front of a mirror can be a good exercise. In order to perform this

exercise properly however, you should practice each portion of the swing
separately, then as whole. Pay close attention to your posture, the club head
sweeping the ground and the shift of your weight from one side of the body
to the other.

50
Keep in mind that correctly practicing your swing will get you well on your
way to playing consistently good golf. You may find it helpful to stop by the
range a few times a week and play a game of golf in your head. Before each
shot, remember your golf swing instructions, and work to break as few of the
rules as possible.

After quite a bit of practicing, you will find that your golf swing has become
much more consistent. Keeping your swing consistent is the key to play quality
golf. Before you know it, all your friends will be asking you for golf swing
instructions!

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Golf Swing for Women

Ladies have it easier on the golf course! What a load of nonsense. I am well
aware that the ladies tee box is twenty or thirty yards ahead of the male tee
box but that is not really an advantage. It is well recognized that women do
not drive their ball with the same strength as men do, but the rudiments of the
game are exactly the same, they do not change one iota for the women.

We all play off the same rules. There is no difference. Women compete in the
same way as men do. They still play to their maximum ability to try and lower
their handicap, they try to gain as much distance as they can with their drives
off the tee box. They play on the same courses, they face the same hazards
and are expected to come in with at least a level par for the course. Now
that we have cleared that little misconception up let us now get on with the
real reason why this article is so vital to women golfers.

Firstly let's take golf swings for women and how they cope with the different
grips and clubs. It is very important that women purchase clubs that are
suitable for their size and not try to play with clubs which are designed for
taller people or smaller people. In order for a woman to hit the ball the
required distance down the fairway, she must first follow the routine standard
set up. She must settle herself into the correct stance with which she feels
comfortable when addressing the ball. If she does not do this, then her whole
game will collapse.

It is a scientific fact that female spatial judgment is not the same as men. This
is, as far as I am concerned, a great asset when it comes to golf swings
particularly if they want to gain that twenty or thirty extra yards down the
fairway. Why I say that is because they have to take greater care when
setting up shots. This is a huge advantage for the simple reason, they do not
rush their drives. They take meticulous care when setting up and this is an
enormous help to make the correct contact with the ball.

Using the correct grip is the key to successful golf drives. If your grip is wrong
then your whole effort is in vain and you will hit your drive completely into the
wrong area, possibly the rough, the lake, or worst of all out of bounds.
Acquiring the correct grip can be hard to get used to, because it may mean
you have to position your hands and fingers in an awkward shape as they curl
around the club.

Once this grip problem is resolved and you feel comfortable with it, then you
are ready for the golf swing. You are ready to begin lowering your handicap
because you will be hitting the ball longer down the fairway than any of your
opponents which means you will be taking less shots than them to find the
green.

It is no lie that women have much more relaxed swings than men and this is
because of reasons already spoken about above. To cover the distance
required whether it be off the tee box or fairway can only be done when the

52
club face makes contact with the centre of the golf ball. To do this you
should take a few practice swings before actually driving off. You should
make sure your stance and set up is comfortable for you.

Remember this vital piece of advice, if you are not comfortable with your
swing as you take your shot, stop immediately and set yourself up again. This
you can do once your club has not touched the ball. These are just a handful
of the techniques involved in the wonderful game of golf. There is just this final
piece of information I will leave you with. Practice, Practice and Practice.

53
 Swing in Arc

Do you hit "over the top"? Does your swing move from outside to inside? Do
others tell you that you swing too hard? On the range, do you hit maybe one
out of 10 balls far and straight?

Did you know that all this happens because you are using just your arms? In
order to hit the golf ball well, you have to use your hips and legs, not your
arms. Think of your arms as simple attachments to the club. Other than that,
your arms do nothing to give your swing power. Nothing at all!

I've tried a lot of swing fixes over the years, but the one I keep coming back to
involves imagining that you are swing in an circular arc. In other words, on the
back swing, imagine your club is moving clockwise from 12 o'clock to 3
o'clock or 90 degrees(if you are a leftie, then it's 12 o'clock to 9 o'clock). Once
you get to 3 o'clock, rotate your hips back to their original position, keeping
the club back the whole time.

When you are taking your back swing, be sure to rotate your shoulders only,
not your hips. This shoulder rotation will build up a lot of power that you will
release later. Think of your body as a fulcrum. Rotate your shoulders around
this fulcrum to 3 o'clock.

On the downswing, rotate your hips and the club will follow naturally. Now
you are letting your large leg and hip muscles move through the hitting area
first. The club will naturally come second, as it is attached to your arms. You
will release your built up power at this point and the club will make excellent
contact with the ball. All this without any extra effort or help on your part.

On the driving range or at home, practice this swing in slow motion. Once you
rotate your club back in a nice arc, rotate your hips back to their original
forward-facing position and stop. Take a look back at your club. Is the club
bisecting your body? In other words, is the club laying fairly flat? It will be if
you have not moved your arms forward.

Now start again, taking another swing in slow motion. After you take the club
back to 3 o'clock and then rotate your hips, look back at your club again. If it
is bisecting your body, then start to move your hips and legs through the
hitting area. If you do this in slow motion, you should notice that the arc the
club is taking back to the ball is the same(or nearly so) as the arc you made
on the back swing. Now you are moving from 3 o'clock back to 12 o'clock.
Notice that you have not consciously moved the club with your arms; it simply
follows your hips and legs through the ball.

Once you pass through the hitting area, you want to swing in an arc that
moves from 12 o'clock to 9 o'clock(or 12 o'clock to 3 o'clock if you are a
leftie). Moving through the hitting area in an arc will help your body turn
through the ball and make a good follow through. If you do all this right, you
should be able to watch the ball for about five seconds until it comes down.
54
Here's something else you can do that might help you with this type of swing.
Imagine you hitting a baseball with a bat. This is that type of swing, flat and
moving back 90 degrees, forward 90 degrees, and again forward 90 degrees
on your follow through. As you take the club back 90 degrees with your
shoulders, you are storing up a lot of power. When you rotate your hips back
to their original position, the club will start to come down with its own
momentum and more than adequate swing speed to make the ball go far
and straight.

Bottom of the Swing Arc.

The Photograph shows the difference between the way High

Handicapped golfers and Professional golfers strike the ball.

The swing of the average PGA Tour player bottoms out four
inches in front of the ball.

The average swing bottom of a high-handicapper is an inch or so

behind the ball.

A high-handicap golfer would reduce his or her average score by

four strokes for every forward inch of improvement made on the
swing bottom.

In other words, if you want to break a scoring barrier, focus on

improving your club's position through the impact zone. This also
applies to the short game.

55
How to Fix Your Golf Swing

Learn how to fix your golf swing by using and applying the following swing tips.
Now keep in mind that these tips will not cure your swing issues overnight.
These tips are designed to be used in conjunction with a training aid. It is very
easy to get caught up in the latest and greatest thing to fix this or that. Well I
am here to tell you to develop some goals and a plan and stick to it through
thick and thin.

Here are some tips that you can try the next time you hit the range.

1. Swing easy when you first start out. The natural tendency for almost every
golfer I know is to try and swing out. Guess what the results will show. When
you are trying to re-work your swing, focus on solid contact by swinging at 75
or 80%.

2. One of biggest mistakes I see for those golfers who slice the ball is to
compensate for it by turning left or turn right for left hand players. The tip here
is to understand why you slice and take corrective measures to fix the slice
instead of trying to compensate for it.

3. Most swing issues people have is a derivative of improper arm mechanics.

Keep it simple. On the back swing keep the wrists from breaking at any time.
Keep the lead elbow straight and the trailing elbow tucked into the side.

4. Weight transfer is also very important to consistent play. On the back swing
your weight should be evenly distributed between the lead and trailing foot.
On the down swing the weight should transfer onto the front foot. Weight
transfer is the key to power in the golf swing.

Keep it simple in your training for the best results. Furthermore, develop a
game plan and schedule and then stick to it until you get the desired results.
Lastly, have fun and always remember this is just a game.

What if I told you that you could break 80 in just 60 days from right now?
Would you believe me, most likely not I'm assuming. So don't take my word for
it, listen to the 19,000 golfers in more than 36 countries who have found the
system that fixed their swing problems.

56
 How to improve your Golf Swing

Improving your game and being good at it each time you take your club and
hit the greens entails a three-step process. This article will show you how to
improve your golf swing to help your club stay on plane, the ball straight to
the hole, and ultimately, play the game like a pro.

1. Look at the status of your game and how you play - This will give you a
good view of what you're doing and what's holding you back. This will also
help you identify your strengths and your weak spots. Upon unearthing the
strongest and weakest links in playing golf, your next step is to find the best
route for you to advance and perfect your game.

2. Look for a solid and reliable golf instructions and guidelines, but you have to
keep in mind that it is still best to put everything into practice, rather than just
storing all the learned strategies in ones mind. Browse through massive online
and offline library and make certain that you execute each swing you deem
essential in developing your skills.

3. Look through and track your progress - How to improve golf swing
necessitates tracking and recording your performances to allow you to strive
harder in moving up your level. Understanding the principles and rules of
putts, fairways hit and greens in regulation will allow you to devise an
excellent game plan to further develop the kind of approach you have with
the game as well as your putting.

57
 3 Swing Keys to hit Longer and Straighter Shots

One of the best and easiest ways to improve your golf swing is to focus on
two or three simple golf swing keys and learn to master these. If you try to
focus on too many things while you are on the course then you are likely to
fail, however if you are willing to practice and focus on just a few things,
mainly one key on each shot then you will be able to play better golf in no
time.

1. The first idea that can have you playing better golf in a hurry is to make sure
that you visualize the shot that you want to hit before you take action. Most
people focus on what can go wrong on a shot, but by changing your mindset
to focus on where you want to hit it as opposed to where you do not want to
hit it will improve your golf shots.

2. Another thing to focus on is your backswing. Most people take the club too
far to the inside on their backswing, and as a result they either hook the ball or
slice the ball. The easiest way to hit better golf shots is to make sure that when
your club reaches hip high in the back swing that the toe of the cub is
pointed to the sky. From this point all you have to do is turn your shoulders to
get into the perfect position at the top of the backswing.

3. Tip number 3 dealing with golf swing keys is to "squat" on the downswing.
What this does is that it helps you compress that ball better which in turn will
help you hit longer and straighter golf shots, and you will put more spin on
your short irons and wedges. Tiger does this, and this is one reason he is able
to hit the ball so solid time after time.

Try these golf swing keys and see if they do not improve your golf swing
drastically next time you play golf!

58
 Best Golf Training

Who else wants to know what the best golf training is? Wouldn't it be great if
you could surprise your friends on the course as you drive your way to the best
score of your life - and theirs?

If you want to improve your golf swing, you need to find out what kind of
technique will work best with your body. For example, one golf swing
technique may work for a tall thin person, but not for a short slim person.

Make sure your clubs suit you, not the other way around. Hold your club in a
firm but relaxed grip. Don't choke the club to death. It won't help your game!

The best golf training includes mastering the basics. Mastering the basics is like
learning to walk. Once you know how to walk and do it all the time, then you
can learn how to run.

Some of the basics include:

1. Focus on the ball

2. Keep your body relaxed
3. Keep your knees straight, feet firmly on the ground
4. Shut out all distractions
5. Don't swing too far back during the back-swing
6. Hit the ball dead center

Make sure you wear the right clothing when you play. Proper golf attire won't
restrict movement in any way. And make sure you're wearing appropriate
shoes too, as you'll be on your feet quite a bit, unless you hire a buggy.

Playing on the course with the best golf training is a great way to improve
your golf swing as quickly as possible, while still having fun!

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Stop Slicing The Golf Ball

The most common mistake in golf is a golf swing slice. A lot of golfer are
saying that this their biggest problem. But to lower your score and better your
game you have to know how to fix a slice. If you want to improve your game
just follow these 3 golf swing tips.

I know that golf is a complex game with a few difficulties in it. The pros make it
look easy but this in not the case.

Repairing a slice in a golf game can make a big difference to the score at
the end of the round. So, here are 3 golf swing technique tips you can use.

1. Your shoulders should be in the correct position. Are they moving in the right
way? A shoulder tilt happens when the body is not turning as it should be. To
fix it cross your arms around your chest and turn back and forth. Once you
have your shoulder swing right you can take a golf club and start swinging.

2. Do not swing the ball to steep. This makes it difficult to not slice the ball. Try
to hit the ball not downward because this is what causes a slice. This is just a
matter of a golf swing technique. Fix your basics in that way.

3. A weak grip will cause in slicing. Left hand will cause the ball to slice far to
the right. You have to tighten your grip. Maybe through golf fitness workout or
changing the grip from the left to the right.

The most important technique is to keep practicing. This will end up in better
results and a lower handicap.

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11- Club Head Speed

How to Generate More Club Head Speed

When swinging the golf club, to generate more club head speed means to
get more distance. The trick is keeping the club head under control while you
increase the swing speed. Many golfers find that even though they can hit
the ball further by 'swinging harder', they'd rather use an easy swing to keep
the control.

Luckily 'swinging harder' is not the only way to generate more club head
speed. More club head speed should be achieved by improving swing
mechanics and making efficient use of the energy that you are already
producing in your swing.

Here are 5 Tips to Generate More Club Head Speed:

1. Loosen Your Grip. Grip is an often underrated part of the golf swing.
A looser grip will allow the club to swing through quicker and
release earlier. For golfers who struggle with a slice, gripping the
club loosely and in the base of the fingers (not the palm) will help
with timing and should not only cure the slice, but add distance
too.
2. Stand on the Balls of Your Feet. Setting up with your weight on the
balls of your feet will help you to maintain a good balance and
bring a smooth swing through the ball. Some golfers put too much
weight on their heels and end up wasting energy trying to keep
their balance during the swing, or can't get a proper weight shift
fast enough to get more club head speed before contact.
3. Rotate Your Shoulders Back as Far as Possible. The shoulders play a
huge role in generating more club head speed. You need to have
a straight back and turn from the back so that your shoulders stay
square with each other, but 'spin' on the axis of your spine. The
more you turn your shoulders back, the more potential energy you
are 'winding up' in your back muscles. You want to try to get your
back facing the target.
4. Straighten Your Right Arm. Straightening your right arm in the
downswing is another thing that is often overlooked. Bringing your
arms through together with a full extension is key to get a long axis
that will generate high club head speed. When you begin your
downswing, make sure to straighten that right arm as early as
possible without causing any hindrance to your shoulder rotation.
You shouldn't 'reach out' with your arm, just make sure it straightens
out early.
5. Use Your Hips. The rotation energy you produce is called torque,
which is generated by minimizing your hip movement in the
backswing to act as resistance, or an anchor, to your rotating
upper torso. You can boost the torque even more by turning your
hips towards the target before you come through contact. With

61
 the right timing you'll be able to give one last big 'twist' to the 'coil'
before releasing, and the energy will be tremendous.

Just remember that you need to channel that energy through a long straight
axis by straightening that right arm early, keeping your balance steady (and
energy focused), and having a loose grip that allows the club to swing
through and square up before it's too late! These tips will help you generate
more club head speed without having to consciously 'swing harder'.

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12- Scottish Golf Environment Group

Scotland is the home of golf and our courses are famous the world over. The
game and the courses are a part of our national heritage. Our golf courses
are also a significant part of our landscape. There are over 600 golf courses in
Scotland all of which are permanent green areas which are important
sanctuaries for plants and wildlife. Of all the major land based sports, golf has
the greatest interaction with the environment.

We believe a round of golf is better in an attractive natural setting. As Colin

Montgomerie, one of the world's top players, has said, "A golf course which
has been sensitively designed and managed in a way which works with
nature rather than against it, is normally more interesting and challenging."

For him and for many golfers a natural course is an opportunity to get back to
the roots of the game. It is, in Montgomery's words, "a test against the hazards
that nature provided."

So as the key asset of any golf club is the golf course itself, it is vital that this is
of the highest possible quality to retain and attract members and visitors. In
addition to quality playing services, issues such as nature conservation and
enhancement, landscape and cultural heritage, climate change, sustainable
turf management and pollution prevention all need to be considered

Clubhouses maintenance facilities and professional shops are all areas where
significant cost savings can be achieved though water and waste
management and energy efficiency.

Addressing environmental issues in conjunction with making your golf facility

economically efficient and socially inclusive will enable you to sustainably
manage your business.

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Golf facilities by their vary nature interact with the environment in a wide
range of ways. Out on the course, issues such as nature conservation,
landscape, cultural heritage, pollution prevention, water resources
management, waste and energy management and environmental
interpretation are all relevant. Clubhouses, maintenance facilities,
professional shops and other built elements are areas where waste
management, energy efficiency and communication of environmental issues
equally apply.

Golf course management is not simply about maintaining well presented

turfgrass, it is about the overall integrated management of the golf course
estate. This involves understanding the management of a wide range of
habitats beyond the turf. Integration of sound environmental principles can
ensure that Clubs:

 Reduce over-management.
 Minimize maintenance costs.
 Look after important landscape features such a woodlands, heather
and hedgerows.
 Enhance the aesthetic character, atmosphere and challenge of the
course.
 Avoid unwitting environmental damage such as pollution incidents.
 Ensure all policies and practices meet relevant legislation.
 Raise member, visitor and local community awareness of the Clubs
stewardship of the golf course.

The conservation of biodiversity is one area where golf is already making real
progress. With over 27,000 hectares of golf course nationally, golf courses
contain a wide range of species and habitat diversity. More and more clubs
are undertaking specific actions to conserve and enhance these species
populations and their associated habitats. Many of these actions are drawn
from Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs)– which highlight the priority
species and habitats for regions of Scotland.

By contributing to an LBAP, golf clubs are helping the UK Government's

commitment to Sustainable Development as set out in the Rio Earth Summit of
1992.

The Scottish Golf Environment Group is interested in developing holistic

environmental management plans for golf courses, so that all relevant
environmental issues are recognized for different parts of the golf facility.
These management plans emphasize the process of AUDIT, EVALUATION AND
ACTION, resulting in working plans from which successive committees and
green-staff can draw more specific annual action plans.

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Achieving sustainable development is a long term goal. In 1999, the Advisory
Group on Sustainable Development set out a 10 point plan for the Scottish
Parliament aiming to set out a vision for a Sustainable Scotland by 2030. It
defines sustainable development as follows:

"Sustainable development is about the wise use of all resources within a

framework in which environmental, economic and social factors are
integrated."

The action points contained within this document relevant to the golfing
sector include:

 Support innovation in sustainable development.

The Scottish Government, in conjunction with the voluntary and private
sectors, should encourage new ideas and experiments in sustainable
development that could lead to mainstream implementation.
 Be part of the international dimension of sustainable development
Scotland should contribute to thinking and activities that go well
beyond its own boundaries. Decisions made in Scotland on natural
resource use have an impact on the life and environment of other
communities in all parts of the world.
 Put sustainable development at the heart of education, and
education at the heart of sustainable development
The Scottish Executive should ensure that education in all its
manifestations – formal and informal, and for all sectors and ages – is
incorporated in all policies. Equally, sustainable development should
be embedded into the education system.

Golf, as part and parcel of Scotland’s history and tradition, as part of our
culture, as a social pastime, as a recreation, as an economy, as a sector of
business and as a land use, interacts with all themes of sustainability.

In a report by the Sustainable Development Commission in May 2002 relating

to the pioneering of sustainable development by individual sectors it was
stated that:

"Sustainable development strategies provide a framework to help business

sectors identify and manage economic, environmental and social risks in an
integrated way, and to unlock opportunities to improve competitiveness and
enhance reputation. There are some key points to remember about such
strategies:

 They are business-owned and therefore an important step in

enhancing the profile and effectiveness of voluntary business action.
 There’s no blueprint – approaches reflect the individual circumstances
and priorities of each sector.

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  They build on existing activities and don’t start from a blank sheet of
paper.
 It’s a long term process of continuous improvement – all about learning
by doing."

The above government statements highlight a determination that sustainable

development must be delivered in the future. It supports the notion of
individual sectors establishing their own sustainable development strategies,
which when linked to those of other sectors, ensures that the development
and management of Scotland‟s resources is not detrimental to the quality of
life of future generations.

The promotion of sustainability in golf meets the targets for this sectoral
acceptance of responsibility. It also meets with the concept of innovation in
sustainable development which encourages private and voluntary sectors to
work on their own ideas. A project developed in golf could rub off on other
associated sectors of business, sport and communities.
The potential for the golfing sector to be a leader in sustainable development
and management is great. Golf has the potential to act as the interface
between governmental and non governmental agencies and environmental
organisations, and other sectors such as sport, secondary education, green
keeping and horticulture, the chemical industry, tourism, business (through the
diverse business interests of golf club members), and a wide range of
consultancies including forestry, drainage, construction, agronomy.

Golf provides a high profile vehicle to promote the concepts of sustainability.

Importantly it can adopt these principles without compromising the
fundamental needs of the game itself. Indeed the principles of sustainable
development and management can be adopted by the many sub-sectors of
the golf industry to their benefit.

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The key asset to any golf club is the golf course itself, so it is vital that this is of
the highest quality to retain and attract members and visitors. In addition to
quality playing surfaces, issues such as nature conservation and
enhancement, landscape and cultural heritage, climate change, sustainable
turf management, water resource management and pollution prevention all
need to be considered.

Clubhouses, maintenance facilities and professional shops are all areas where
significant cost savings can be achieved through water and waste
management and energy efficiency.

Addressing environmental issues in conjunction with making a golf facility

economically efficient and socially inclusive will result in a sustainably
managed business.

These pages contain information on issues relating to sustainable golf facility

management. In this section you will find a range of guidance, case studies
and other material which will assist you in your efforts to tackle environmental
management of golf facilities.

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Scotland is a country rich in wildlife, with a wide diversity for such a small area.
This diversity of species is linked to our wide variety of habitats, ranging from
Coastal Dune systems to Pit Bings, from Ancient Woodland to Freshwater
Lochs, Ponds and Streams, from Heather Moorland to Raised Bog, and from
Lowland Heath to Saltmarshes and Estuaries.

Golf courses occupy approximately 27,000 hectares of our urban and rural
landscapes and are connected to many of these and other habitats. Over 33
courses have designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on them,
demonstrating that golfing areas are often important for their wildlife and
habitats. Many more are affected by other statutory and non statutory
designations.

All golf courses have something to offer in terms of wildlife conservation. All
courses have some wildlife. The amount of wildlife found on a course
depends upon the locality of the course, its soils, topography, vegetation,
climate and so on. However, golf courses can become more valuable for
wildlife if they wish. There are many things any club can do to increase the
amount and diversity of wildlife on their courses. Many cost little or nothing,
and many can actually save the club money. Most relate to the creation and
enhancement of habitats, on which the species depend.

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Scotland is renowned the world over for its scenic beauty and stunning
landscapes. Many areas are popular for visitors purely because of the quality
of the scenery and their character. Indeed, many areas are designated as
National Scenic Areas, or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Areas of
Great Landscape Value. Golf courses are found in all of these areas, and are
present in areas of local landscape sensitivity.

Indeed all golf courses have an impact on the aesthetic qualities of their
surroundings and on the character of their local landscapes. Many of the best
courses are those which work with local landscape character, and feel part
of the landscape. The older links courses for example were designed out of
the original topography and vegetation. They are part of the evolution of
those landscapes. Conversely, more recent golf courses have had a greater
and perhaps sharper impact on landscapes, borne out of greater earth-
shifting and redesign, and resulting in courses which are less harmonious with
their surroundings.

As with the management of habitats, golf clubs can take their surroundings
into account when considering the character and structure of the course.
There is much they can learn by looking at local tree cover, the presence of
heather and other vegetation types, the views and vistas from the course into
the wider countryside, and most importantly the characteristics of the golf
course landscape itself.

By taking such things into account clubs can ensure that future proposals are
not going to detract from the ambience of the golf course. By looking to the
local landscape clubs can ensure their efforts have maximum benefit to local
landscape character, and by so doing, to the golfer. Golf is a game to be
played in pleasant and attractive surroundings, appropriate for the courses'
location. The majority of golfers prefer to play on courses which have a sense
of place, and by learning from your surroundings you can develop and
enhance that sense of place.

Many landscapes are of historical significance. For example many old estates
comprise Historic Parklands and Designed Landscapes. Many golf courses are
situated in such landscapes. Those that are should consider the historical
qualities of their site when preparing proposals for landscaping and course
development. Indeed they should speak to their local authority or local office
of Scottish Natural Heritage to receive guidance on the exact qualities of their
particular landscape. Again this is beneficial to the club as they can then
appreciate the landscape history and features which attracted golf to that
area in the first place. We see so many clubs over planting parkland golf
courses, and thereby removing the parkland character so typical of the
course. Remember there is a distinction between a parkland and woodland
golf course, and it's not always the best thing to turn the former into the latter.

69
Scotland‟s golf courses contain many archaeological sites, ruins and
monuments that are incidental to golf but important in their own right.
Although golf course development nowadays comes under planning rules
designed to preserve heritage features, ancient sites have always tended to
survive well on courses. This is because golf course management is usually a
benevolent regime: natural and manmade features tend to be appreciated
and enhanced for the variety and character they afford each course, rather
than being swept away in radical improvements.

As courses change to reflect new technology and the ambitions of their

members, and as new courses are planned and established, the Group assists
clubs in finding sources of sound information and practical advice about their
share of the nation‟s heritage. There is little doubt that golfers, following a
game founded upon tradition, are in sympathy with the Group‟s aims: to turn
that sympathy into practical conservation for the benefit of golfers, public
and environment.

The earliest remains of human settlement in eastern Scotland lie under a

course at Fife Ness near to the intriguing Dane‟s Dyke. The new course at
Drumoig, Fife, was planned around a range of archaeological sites. The Muir
of Ord course in Easter Ross owns a prehistoric ritual enclosure, or henge,
dating from around 2000 BC. The sitting of the pin in the middle of the sacred
area has a certain resonance, although archaeologically one would always
prefer to see such sites undisturbed a rare case of a "hole in one" being less
than desirable! Iron Age forts feature on several courses, sometimes making
unusual approach hazards to greens, as at the Royal Tarlair at Macduff,
Aberdeenshire.

Remains of at least two medieval castles associated with the Bruce family
feature, at Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire and, most famously, Bruce‟s Castle, the
9th hole at Turnberry, Ayrshire, which recently appeared on a British postage
stamp. Remains of pre-Improvement agriculture, in the form of rig and furrow
cultivation ridges, are an almost ubiquitous reminder of more recent
centuries. This is no accident, since many courses were established on
marginal land around settlements just before the arrival of mechanised
ploughing, which has wiped out rig and furrow on most land that continued in
farming use.

The Defence of Britain project has identified coast defence and anti-aircraft
batteries on golf courses, for example at Stromness, Orkney. Sometimes
completely unknown features, such as the 18th-century bridge at Kingsbarns,
Fife, are discovered during course development.

70
One of the key areas in which golf clubs can contribute to the conservation
of their local environment is through the careful and judicious use of fertilisers
and pesticides on the golf course. All clubs should be striving to minimize the
use of additional fertilizers and pesticides as it makes good financial sense,
and ensures good turf grass quality. Use of chemicals does not automatically
result in good turf. If other practices are not taking place such as regular
aeration, anti compaction, thatch control, topdressing and traffic
management, and clubs are relying on feeding and chemical treatments
then they are following a downward spiral of chemical dependence.

Chemicals alone will not encourage strong, healthy, deep rooting, drought
and disease resistant turf. It may cure problems such as fungal disease in the
short term, but will not affect the real problem, which may be heavy thatch.

We therefore recommend that all clubs have a written turf maintenance

policy, detailing their cultural and mechanical practices geared to achieving
good turf quality. We advise that chemical treatments should only be applied
as a last resort, once all other means have been considered. If using
chemicals, we recommend that clubs look to minimize the quantities used
and follow policies for their safe and effective use.

71
Every time we switch on machinery, lighting or turn up the thermostat we use
energy. Whatever kind of fuel we use (whether we burn it directly or
indirectly), when electricity is generated, we are releasing greenhouse gases,
including carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere, contributing to climate
change.

It is now widely accepted that climate change is the most serious

environmental threat to our planet. Left unchecked, it will have profound
effect on weather patterns globally. Recent research suggests that in
Scotland there will be:

 more severe weather events

 rainfall may increase by up to 50% in the west
 storms, floods and gales are likely to be more common

These effects will impact on golf. Traditional links courses are already
experiencing problems of coastal erosion, while the general change in
weather patterns may affect golf courses in terms of different prevalence of
turf grass pests and diseases, seasonality of play, changes required to
drainage and irrigation systems, pricing of energy and fuel supplies, as well as
less predictable revenue streams from tourism and events.

While climate change policy is being tackled at government and

international levels, everyone should recognize that it will affect their lives;
how they live, work and play, and that there is something they can do, by
taking some personal responsibility for energy conservation. Individual efforts
may seem trivial in the big picture but collectively they add up - for example,
over a quarter of the CO2 produced in the UK comes from domestic energy
use alone.

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This is an issue which affects all golf clubs. The separation, handling and
disposal of waste takes place in golf clubs through the clubhouse,
professional's shop and green keeper workplace.

We recommend that all clubs seek to:

 Minimize the amount of waste they produce

 Re-use whatever they can.
 Recycle as much as possible, and
 Ensure all disposal meets with relevant legislation, and best practice.

In relation to the clubhouse there is much that can be done regarding waste.
In particular, waste can be separated for collection. Aluminum cans, bottles,
paper, plastic cups, cardboard and office equipment can all be recycled
simply by storing them in separate bins and contacting local organizations.

In relation to the green staff, things are perhaps more complex. The safe
storage, handling and disposal of pesticides and their empty containers have
to be looked at closely as part of Health and Safety and COSHH Legislation.
However, the principle of reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible
remains the same. For example, why not seek to reduce insecticide use, reuse
any batches that are made up and unused, and recycle containers through
the appropriate outlets.

Here are some guidelines which may help you assess your current practices
and offer some ideas for future projects.

Waste Management is a very important aspect of any golf courses'

environmental stewardship as much good work can be undone through
pollution, spillages, and dumping of contaminated liquids and materials. For
this reason it is important that a golf club has a policy for the appropriate and
responsible management of waste. The following is an outline for the content
of such a policy.

Grass cuttings, corings and other organic material:

Many courses are currently setting up systems for the collection and
centralized composting of cuttings, for possible re-application as an organic
top dressing on walkways, worn areas, eroded channels etc. However, the
clippings could also contribute to many other areas of horticultural practice
on the estate. Collection points are commonly made from bunded concrete
or slabbed bays, bins or sealed containers (often sunk in to the ground to
avoid visual intrusion). These could be located at every tee and green and

73
regularly emptied. A properly constructed composting area would have to
be designed to avoid leachate and groundwater contamination.

Storage and Disposal of Used Oil:

 Avoid any incidences of oil being tipped into any drains or onto any
areas of land.
 Ensure all used oils such as hydraulic fluid or lubricants are stored
securely for collection by a registered waste carrier, who may actually
pay for the oil, as a valuable material.
 If considering redevelopment of the existing maintenance facility,
ensure that an impervious base with oil tight bund is constructed for the
storage of an oil storage tank, or oil stored in drums. The bunded areas
should be capable of holding at least 110% of the tank or drum
volume. Fill pipes, funnels and sight gauges should be enclosed within
the bunded area.
 A similar area could be investigated for the storage of used oil
awaiting removal from site.

Pesticide storage and preparation:

 Storage of products should be to statutory requirements and BASIS

standard.
 Metal containers stored off the ground to prevent corrosion.
 On site storages hold be minimal - only what is required for immediate
use.
 Aim to minimize the volume of waste, and produce no waste if
possible. The amount required should be calculated carefully and the
application rate and calibration of equipment precisely assessed.
 Avoid back siphoning of pesticide into water by use of a siphon break.
Ensure there are no direct connections between a spray tank and
water supply.

Pesticide Disposal and Containers:

After spraying all equipment should be cleaned, washed and rinsed. The tank
should be flushed with small volumes of water rather than simply filling and
emptying. This will reduce the volume of water used in the rinsing process.

Empty containers of gassing powders should be filled with dry sand or earth
and punctured before disposal.

Dilute pesticides should never be poured into soakaway drains, or into drains
connected to septic tanks. They should be:

 Re-used in further batches of same spray

 Applied to previously treated areas
 Sprayed onto turfed land of minimal wildlife and habitat value eg.
practice ground
 Employ a specialist waste disposal contractor to remove

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Concentrate pesticide should be used in the approved manner. If the
pesticide is unused and unwanted it may be able to return it to the supplier.
Otherwise a specialist waste disposal contractor should be used. Contact the
Council Waste Recycling Officer.

Containers may be returned to suppliers or manufacturers. Empty containers

must be triple rinsed before disposal, ideally during mixing and preparation
opportunities.

Puncture and crush containers after cleaning. Contact SEPA to confirm most
appropriate methods of disposal for your area.

Spillages and Training

 Establish appropriate emergency procedures and train all staff in their

operation.
 Contain spillages using absorbent material or sand.
 Do not hose into any drains, soakaways or streams.
 Contaminated materials should be removed by specialist disposal
contractors.
 If there is a risk that ground or surface waters have before
contaminated contact SEPA immediately.
 Ensure all staff are properly and fully qualified and trained for the safe,
efficient and humane use of pesticides and are competent in their
duties.
 All efforts should be made to minimize chemical use through the
adoption of an Integrated Approach to Turf grass and Pest
Management.

By following this approach, golf clubs will be fulfilling the waste management
criteria for the Scottish Awards for Environmental Excellence.

75
Energy use spans across all areas of a golf club‟s activities: in the club house
(offices, meeting rooms, bar, restaurant, kitchens, locker rooms, pro-shop…)
and on the golf course (use of green keeping machinery, pumping irrigation
water, operation of maintenance facilities).

Although in the grand scheme of things, golf clubs are relatively modest users
of energy – average annual expenditure on energy for a typical Scottish golf
club is some £15,000 – this is nevertheless a significant part of a club‟s
controllable running costs. Potential savings of 10-20% of a club‟s energy bill
would certainly be worthwhile, and in many cases quite easily achievable,
simply through good housekeeping management in and around the club
house.

Benefits from being more energy aware may be apparent in other ways too:
by more careful management and upkeep of machinery it is possible to
extend the working life of equipment through less wear and tear, less frequent
breakdowns, less noise and less wastage of fuels and lubricants. While these
benefits may not be so visible to golfers, they are, for example, likely to
appreciate higher quality, less disease prone playing surfaces resulting from
having better maintained mowing machines that run more evenly and have
sharper cutting blades.

This is a good illustration to show that energy management is not a stand-

alone topic aside from day-to-day golf course management. It is an integral
part of best practice turfgrass management, it relates to waste and water
management, all of which form part of the wider
environmental dimension of golf course and golf club
management.

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Good communication is the most important element in the successful and
effective management of golf courses. It is vital that committee members,
green staff, members and even visitors have an understanding of what it is
the club are trying to achieve, what their longer term aims and objectives
are, what the shorter term actions are, who is responsible for specific issues,
when actions are to be carried out, and how they will be resourced etc.

With regard to the environmental management of golf courses, there is a

great deal of Green keeper knowledge which would be beneficial and
interesting to members and visitors. Also it is important that green staff are part
of the decision making team within the club. It is important that the club
committee have consulted properly when forming an opinion on what and
how the club should progress.

All of this requires good communication. For there to be good

communication, clubs must have the correct structures in place. These
structures must recognize the key people within and outwith the club for
consultation, and cover the full range of relevant issues. For example a club
managing a woodland golf course should ensure that all relevant people
within the club are represented on a committee, which discusses woodland
management at every meeting. This could be the greens committee, or
perhaps a dedicated environment committee could be set up to look at such
issues. It is important that the responsible committee liaises with outside
experts and seeks advice relating to the issues facing them. This will help
ensure their decisions are based on full information and are as informed as
possible.

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Regardless of whether you are a commercial operator, a private members
club or a local authority, you need to run your golf facilities in a sustainable
business like manner. In order to do this as effectively and efficiently as
possible, more and more people involved in golf course management are
setting up integrated management plans, which outline their strategy for the
future upkeep and development of their facilities.

The benefit of having a recognized management plan in place is that more

people within and outwith the club will appreciate where the club is heading,
what it is trying to achieve, and how it is going to get there. Management
plans can also help raise members' awareness, increase the success of
funding applications, add continuity to the management of the course and
ensure that all decision makers are working towards the same aims and vision
for the course.

We would recommend to all clubs and local authorities to utilise our free
guidelines and advisory service to discuss how they can set up a
management plan which covers all the relevant issues affecting a golf
course.

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In the past few years increasing numbers of clubs across Scotland have been
expressing interest in environmental issues. Many are now able to
demonstrate a great deal of good practice relating to wildlife and habitat
conservation, pollution prevention, minimization of chemical use, best
practice waste handling and disposal, and improved communication within
their clubs and with local organizations.

These clubs are undertaking different tasks and actions, depending on their
own priorities and interests. However the one thing they do have in common
is a written, well structured management plan. Each club has such a
document which covers golf course and out of play management issues.
These plans have been drawn up with input from a range of individuals within
the club, and in consultation with other organizations like our own. It is
amazing how much free advice and information is available to clubs on such
matters.

We would encourage others to follow in the footsteps of these clubs. You too
can experience the positive benefits from addressing environmental issues at
your own pace, and through your own means. Such a proactive approach
will put your club in a stronger position with regards to the future of your
course, and the reputation of your club.

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This section handles issues relating to the planning, design and construction of
new golf courses. You will find summaries of guidance relating to the issues
surrounding the development of new golf courses. You will also be able to
download copies of any guidance you find useful, free of charge.

The development of new golf facilities in Scotland has been steady since the
boom period of early 1980's to mid 1990's. This period saw the greatest
number of new developments in golf's history in Scotland. Not since the
development of the coastal links around resorts such as St Andrews, Troon,
East Lothian, East Neuk of Fife, Prestwick and Montrose had we seen such a
rapid increase in the number of courses.

Of course, the development of the 1980's and 90's was more diverse than that
of the same period one hundred years earlier. With a hugely increased
capacity to shift earth and landscape courses, the potential to transform
unsuitable sites into golf courses was exploited. This resulted in courses being
developed on agricultural land, flood plains, hillsides and even contaminated
'brownfield' sites. Development continued to take place in coastal dunes,
lowland heath land and Historic Parklands as it had done in the past.

The period of growth, has also seen an increasing emphasis on environmental

concern and protection. Increasing numbers of designations and legislation,
covering ever- wider issues has led golf course development to be more
closely scrutinized than ever before.

Most recently the application of new European Environmental Assessment

Regulations to new golf course development has resulted in the need or
developers to detail all environmental implications of their proposals.

We have researched and prepared guidance on a range of the

environmental issues to affect golf course development.

We hope they assist you in identifying what best practice is in terms of course
development, and increase your understanding of the mutual benefits of
taking an environmentally sound approach.

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One of the main environmental concerns relating to the development of new
golf courses and their associated facilities is that of disturbance to wildlife and
damage to their habitats. Worldwide, golf courses are criticised for their
destruction of woodlands, grasslands, heathland and wetlands with the
negative impact this can have on an areas biological diversity. What is not so
often recognized is that a carefully located, planned, designed and
constructed golf course can bring with it many environmental gains.

The development of a new golf course brings with it threats and opportunities
for the environment. In relation to nature conservation, golf course architects
can contribute greatly to the overall impact of the project by looking closely
at the existing provision of habitats on the site. They should also assess how
important those habitats are. What species are present and how important
are they? They can avoid the most sensitive areas, and design the course to
fit in with existing vegetation patterns and topography.

Clearly every site is unique and brings with it its own constraints and
opportunities. However, one thing that is common to all development is the
process.

Nature Conservation should be a key aim of any new development. The

needs of local species and habitats should be considered from the outset.
Ecologists should be advising the golf course architect from the start.
Architects should then be integrating this information and advice into their
designs. In this way projects will contribute more to the local environment
than they take away.

All too often developers and architects view interesting habitats and
vegetation as a threat to the project, which may bring too many constraints
on design and layout. This need not be the case. Existing habitats should be
embraced as characteristics which will strengthen the structure and texture of
the course. Golf courses which take heed of local vegetation and features
such as woodlands, wetlands and grasslands will sit in greater harmony with
the local landscape, and as a result have a more mature feel and sense of
place.

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The visual impact and presence of golf courses, particularly out with towns
and cities, has often been criticsed for its part in the 'suburbanization of the
countryside' Developers prefer to locate golf courses on areas of interesting
topography and landscape setting, in order for the golfing experience to be
more enjoyable. Areas such as Coastal Dunes and Links, Coastal Clifftop,
Undulating and Prominent Hillsides and Lowland Heath are all chosen
because of their landscape character. Golf courses situated in such areas are
often the most memorable because of the association with the surrounding
landscape.

The debate is: How can golf courses be designed and constructed in such a
way that their presence in such landscapes does not detract from landscape
quality?

In the same way as Nature Conservation, the architect will be unable to

ensure the golf course is designed in harmony with the existing landscape
character if they are not aware of what the current strengths and weaknesses
of that landscape are. For this reason we advise all developers to undertake
a Landscape Character Assessment of the site before designs are prepared.

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Golf course developments are now commonly asked to supply detailed
information on the construction techniques and methods. It is recognized that
although a course may be located, designed and managed appropriately,
there is considerable potential for the construction phase to impact on the
environment.

On site management, haul routes, contractor's compounds, soil stripping and

mixing, earth shifting, landscaping, drainage and application of pesticides
and fertilizers during construction and grow in all have potential
environmental impacts. Increasingly, planning authorities and consultants
within the planning process are keen for developers to pinpoint what the
operations are likely to entail, and for details of measures to minimize the
environmental impacts of these operations.

For some time now SGEG have received requests from a number of sources
for guidance on the construction techniques associated with golf course
development. In particular, we have often been asked how a construction
methods statement should be presented, and what the contents of such as
report should include. Given that all golf courses will involve similar
construction procedures, although varied to a lesser or greater degree
depending on the scale of the development, we have prepared the
following generic guidance that will assist developers, architects and others in
the preparation of this important piece of planning material.

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An increasing number of new developments are taking environmental
protection and enhancement seriously. Architects are striving to improve the
environment through golf course construction. Importantly they are striving to
ensure that benefits to the environment, and the avoidance of negative
impacts, are planned and designed as part of the development. No longer
can we simply allow care for the environment to come down to that which
occurs accidentally.

We highlight some of the more recent developments to have had a positive

effect on the local environment, not just because of the ground they are built
on, but because environmental issues were carefully considered and planned
at every stage of the development process.

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13- Course Planning Principles

The following planning principles are intended for those activities which
are considering the construction of a new golf course or expansion of
an existing golf facility. The information provided herein is a
compilation from various sources within the Navy and golf professionals
from the private sector. It is intended to be a design guidance tool
from lessons learned to assist you during your planning process.

GENERAL PLANNING

When constructing a new course or adding to an existing one priority

should be placed on playing conditions which are user friendly, can
safely accommodate a large number of rounds of golf, and be easily
maintained and attractive. The vast majority of patrons demonstrate
average proficiency with only about 2% to 3% being accomplished
golfers. Accordingly, the course should be designed with wide
landing areas and gentle green surrounds making it user friendly to
mid and high handicappers who comprise the majority of our patrons,
and also provide challenging opportunities to low handicappers. The
design should also acknowledge the tendency of the majority of
golfers (predominantly right handed players) slicing the ball or playing
to the right of their intended target. The course should be designed to
provide good turf and playing conditions with a minimum of hand work
and/or maintenance. New golf course layout should incorporate a
creative routing which is environmentally sensitive. Greens and
following tees should be in close proximity to one another to allow
golfers to walk the course and accelerate play. Safety of golfers with
regard to avoiding errant shots should receive strong consideration.
All slopes around greens, tees, bunkers, and mounds should be no
greater than 5:1. Cut and fill slopes in fairways, roughs, and non-use
areas should not exceed 3:1. Man-made grades shall taper into the
natural grades.

HOLE LENGTH PLANNING:

1) The preferable golf course design length for a regulation 18 hole par
72 course ranges in length from 7,000 yards from the championship tees
to 5,500 yards from the forward tees.

2) An 18 hole course will usually include four (4) par 5 holes, four (4) par
3 holes and ten (10) par 4 holes. Par 3 holes should be as follows two
holes between 130-160 yards and 2 holes between 170-220. Par 5 holes
should be as follows: two holes between 460-500 yards and 2 holes
between 520-550 yards. Par 4 holes of 251-320 yards should be
avoided and increased to a maximum of 445 yards.
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3) The first and tenth holes should be easy get away holes to
expedite play off the opening tees.

4) Holes should grow increasingly difficult to play as the round

proceeds and end with an easier finishing hole.

5) Holes # 1,9,10, and 18 should not be par 3 holes.

6) Holes of like par should vary in length and direction of play.

7) Consecutive par 5 or par 3 holes should be avoided.

TEES:

1) Tee complexes should include 3-4 sets of tees per hole.

2) The minimum surface area of 8,000 square feet should be used for
par 4 and 5 holes and 10,000 square feet on par 3 holes. Short holes
which require an iron tee shot should be larger due to the amount of
abuse they will receive.

3) The forward and rear tees should be smaller in size (30% of the total
tee surface) and 70% of the tee surface equally distributed between
the middle tee(s).

4) The course length from the back tee should be about 7,000 yards,
6,000- 6,500 from the middle tees and about 5,500 from the front tees.

5) All tees should be slightly elevated.

6) Teeing surfaces shall be level from side to side.

7) All tees should have a 11/2% fall in the direction of play. On holes
that play uphill, this slope will be from front to back. On holes that play
downhill, the slope shall be from back to front.

8) Don't have multiple tees unless land constraints dictate this due to
the increase in maintenance time.

9) Slopes around teeing surfaces shall not exceed 5:1.

10) Construct tee sub-grades with at least 1% pitch to allow for sub-
surface drainage. Finished surface grades shall be flat from side to
side. All tee tops shall have a 4" thick native sand cap root zone for
improved drainage purposes.

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11) Sod all slopes on new tees.

12) Tees should be constructed with no trees within 60' of the base of
the tee on the east, south, and west to promote air circulation for
healthy turf growth.

GREENS:

1) The green is the heart of the golf course.

2) Each green shall have a putting surface of 6,000-8,000 square feet

depending on the length of the hole.

3) The shape of the green will depend upon the strategy of the design,
area geography, location and size of the bunkers, and the length of
the shot playing to the green.

4) Poor drainage contributes to more turf trouble on the greens than

any other factor. Therefore greens should be shaped so the surface
slopes to drain in two or more directions.

5) A variety of pin placements must be accommodated to minimize

wear and maintenance to the greens.

6) Undulations on the green should begin in the mounding around the

perimeter working subtlety into the green. Severe undulations should
be avoided.

7) Greens and surrounds shall be constructed to accommodate triplex

mowing equipment. Slope on pinable areas shall not exceed 4%.

8) Green construction should follow USGA guidelines. The final soil

mixture percolation rate should be a minimum of 5 inches per hour.
Part of the USGA green construction is a sub-surface drainage system.
A removable vent drain cap shall be provided at the upper ends of all
main sub-surface drain lines to permit air input and flushing of the line in
the future.

9) Greens should be constructed with no trees within 90' of the base on

the east, south, and west to promote air circulation for healthy turf
growth.

FAIRWAYS and ROUGHS:

1) Fairway landing areas should generally be about 60-70 yards wide.

A yardstick of fairway widths is as follows: 75-120 yards from the tee the
width should be 40-50 yards wide: 120-180 yards from the tee the width

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should be 50-60 yards wide: 180-220 yards from the tee the width
should be 60-70 yards wide.

2) Fairways should not be flat in appearance, but should have minor

undulations to provide visual interest as well as facilitate drainage.

3) The minimum surface grade on fairways shall be 3% to provide

proper drainage.

4) Any area that cannot be properly surfaced drained shall be drained

utilizing a catch basin or drainage trenches with 4 inch perforated
drainage pipe in a gravel bed extending to ditches, wetlands or other
non-play areas.

5) Provide at least 6 inches of topsoil in fairways, 12-14 inches around

features (i.e. bunkers, aprons, etc.) and 4 inches of topsoil in roughs. All
debris and stones 1 inch or larger in diameter shall be removed.

6) Be selective of the types of new trees planted or the existing trees

incorporated within the fairway design due to debris or leaves dropped
by the tree which may increase maintenance, slow play, or detract
from the course appearance.

BUNKERS:

1) Judiciously place bunkers due to the maintenance required. Some

golf course managers are eliminating sand bunkers on existing courses
that have little impact on play or converting some to grass bunkers
which are easier to maintain. Construct bunkers in such a manner to
reduce hand labor required to maintain the bunkers.

2) All fairway sand bunkers shall be clearly visible from tees.

3) All bunkers shall be properly drained to prevent ponding water.

Provide sub-surface drainage systems consisting of rigid tile and sub-
drain for all greens and bunkers in accordance with USGA
recommendations. Wrap drain lines within bunkers with filter fabric to
prevent infiltration of solids which could compromise the drain system.
All bunkers shall drain to daylight and out of play areas.

5) Don't construct bunkers below the elevation of the fairway to ensure

proper drainage.

6) Bunkers which are a long iron shot from the green should be
shallower and have a minimal lip.

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7) Bunkers which are a short iron shot from the green can be deeper
and have more of a lip.

8) Avoid drainage from greens into bunkers through the use of swales
between the green and bunker. Drainage within bunkers especially
around greens should be removed with drain tiles connected into the
green drainage system.

CART PATHS:

1) Cart paths should be laid-out in a manner which is safe, visually

pleasing, and if possible serves two holes to reduce the initial
installation cost and reduces future maintenance.

2) Cart paths shall be at least 8 feet wide. In areas of heavier cart

congestion such as adjacent to tees and greens consideration should
be given to wider cart paths. Cart paths constructed with asphalt shall
be at least a 2" asphalt surface course over a minimum 4" gravel base.
Concrete cart paths shall be 4" thick on compacted sub-grade.

3) Provide cart path curbs adjacent to all greens and tees to keep
carts on the paths and reduce turf wear.

4) Holes with turn-around adjacent to tee boxes or greens should be

sized appropriately to eliminate turf wear due to tight turning radius.

5) Set paving flush with adjacent ground to allow the flow of surface
water over pavements.

6) Bridges for golf carts shall be a minimum of 6' wide and support a
loads of at least two tons. Bridges which provide access for golf
maintenance equipment/golf carts shall be 10' wide and support loads
of five tons. Bridges should be visually compatible with the rest of the
golf course.

IRRIGATION:

1) The irrigation system design shall be prepared by a certified sprinkler

system consultant/designer with demonstrated experience in golf
course planning and design. The design process shall consider the soil
characteristics, humidity and rainfall characteristics, prevailing winds
and their effect on adequate coverage, water supply source and
economics. The sprinkler consultant shall design an irrigation system
based on the existing environmental characteristics which addresses
the line sizing and spacing, head spacing/size, pump location/size to
ensure adequate coverage of all areas to be irrigated based upon the
funding available. There are two basic types of irrigation systems, those
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being the manual and the automatic with many variations of each.
 A manual system with quick-coupling valves is the least
expensive to install. Each sprinkler head must be set by hand
and individually turned on and off. With this system human error
is often a problem when watering is done at night. Generally
water consumption is higher, because there is a tendency to
over water. Additionally there may not be enough time to
physically move all the heads in the allotted time to all areas
requiring irrigation. Operation of a quick- coupler system is not a
cost effective irrigation solution but, used for addressing areas
which require special or infrequent irrigation vice an entire
course. The automatic irrigation system is the recommended
system.

 The automatic system is the ultimate for golf course irrigation.

There are several different types of automatic systems with
varying costs associated with each. The automatic system is the
most accurate, reduces water and labor costs, offers variations in
control, and eliminates human error.

Each sprinkler head covers a circular spray area with the heaviest
distribution of water being at the center neatest the sprinkler head, with
gradual reduction to the peripheral circumference of the spray. To
obtain an even distribution of water, it is necessary to overlap the spray
areas of adjacent sprinklers. Most manufacturers recommend a head
spacing to obtain an even water distribution. In lieu of the
manufactures recommended spacing, the following is suggested:

- 60% of diameter of coverage where wind is 0-5 mph

- 50% of diameter of coverage where wind is 5-10 mph
- 40% of diameter of coverage where wind is over 10 mph

2) There are various water sources which should be considered for

irrigation purposes during golf course development. They are ponds,
lakes, wells, water main, and grey water (sewerage treatment plant
water).

3) Do not exceed 5 feet per second flow of water through any section
of pipe. Do not exceed manufactures recommended flow velocities.

4) Consider during the planning stage of a new course or the

expansion of an existing course the adequacy of the irrigation water
source.

5) When expanding a golf course, the irrigation system components

should be manufactured by the same company which manufactured
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the system and components for the original system. Sprinkler system
components shall be provided by recognized golf course sprinkler
system manufacturers with easily accessible service and parts
distributors.

6) All non-ferrous utilities shall have copper tracer wires permanently

affixed to the pipe. All utility trenches shall be marked with buried tape
6 to 12 inches below grade. The tape shall indicate the type of utility.

7) If budget allows provide metal distance tags on all fairway sprinkler

heads measured to the center of the green out to 250 yards from the
green.

CLUBHOUSE:

1) Careful consideration must be given the elements considered within

a golf clubhouse. Some elements to consider when planning a golf
course clubhouse are: the proposed site and it's relationship to other
golf course elements, Men's and women's rest rooms, shower and
locker rooms, dining room/snack bar, kitchen/short order grill with
storage, deliveries, bar/lounge, pro shop with office and storage, lobby
and parking. Consider an outside food service window or golfers
service counter to serve golfing patron's making the turn to
accelerate play. Additionally during the planning process thought
should be given to after hour programming. Provide maximum visibility
of the 1st. and 10th tees and 9th and 18th greens from the pro shop.
Provide a golf cart staging area visible from the pro shop. The number
of carts readily available for check-out from the staging area is
dependent upon the distance to the cart storage area. The cart
storage area should be located relatively close to the clubhouse to
reduce cart staging labor. Consideration should be given to the type
of carts purchased or leased. If a new facility is being planned
consideration should be given to electric cart storage under the
clubhouse if the construction budget allows.

2) The golf course clubhouse and related maintenance facilities will be

addressed in depth in a future BUPERS design principles checklist.

MAINTENANCE FACILITY/GOLF CART BARN:

1) A maintenance building contains several basis areas: equipment

storage, material storage, chemical storage, repair shop, employees
locker room and restrooms/showers, and superintendent's office. The
recommended square footage for a maintenance facility for an 18
hole course is 6-8,000 square feet. The golf cart barn should be sized to
accommodate cart storage, cart repair area, parts storage and
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restrooms/showers/locker room if the cart barn if separate from the
maintenance facility.
DRIVING RANGE and PRACTICE GREENS:

1) Locate the driving range adjacent to the clubhouse.

2) The driving range should be a minimum of 70 yards wide and 250-300

yards long. The tee area should be 40 yards wide and 30 yards deep
to maximize tee turf regeneration.

3) Side netting and/or screen planting should be considered to protect

people and property outside of the driving range.

4) Some activities may consider artificial turf driving stations to eliminate

turf damage especially in those parts of the country where turf
regeneration and maintenance are a concern. Another consideration
may be to sheltered driving stations with golf artificial turf and heat for
winter usage. Enclosed stations should be a minimum of 8 ft. wide, 8 ft.
deep and 11 ft. high with a 30" high divider wall between stations.

5) Consideration may be given to development of a practice chipping

green with possible green side bunker for practicing chipping. The
green should be a minimum 6,000 square feet and built to USGA
specifications.

6) A practice putting green should be developed adjacent to the

clubhouse. The green should be approximately 12,000 square feet built
to USGA specifications.

7) Provide irrigation to all practice and putting greens. The irrigation

system should be considered during the initial irrigation planning and
design calculations. The system can be either manual or automatic.

LAKES and PONDS:

1) Visually integrate existing and new water features within the overall
design scheme. Provide electric power adjacent to all water features
for future aerators.

2) Sod all banks to lessen erosion.

3) Consider creation of wetlands environments on the edges of lakes

and ponds or reforestation of selected areas. Contact local activity
Environmentalist for further construction guidance.

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SIGNAGE:

1) Consider a distinctive entrance sign --- or logo --- to create an image

or identity which could be used throughout the facility.

2) Provide logo tee markers which graphically depicts the hole and
provides sufficient other information about the hole.

3) Provide markers at the 100 yards, 150 yards and 200 yards from the
center of the green.

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14- Question & Answers:

 Golf Equipment:

1- What is the difference between men's and women's golf clubs?

As a general rule, women's clubs are shorter, lighter, and have more flexible
shafts than men's clubs. Sometimes the color of the grips (powder blue, etc.)
or the model name (Annika Sorenstam, etc.) may give it away. However,
anyone can have clubs custom made to any length, weight and shaft flex.

2- How do you measure the shaft length of your club?

You measure down the 'back' of the club, roughly from the end of the butt...
to the 'heel' of the club as it rests on the ground at normal address position.
The 'Rules of Golf' require that (if testing for maximum limit length - 48") you
make this measurement when your club is set at a 60 lie angle

 The correct way to measure your club length, is to place a straight

edge ruler down the rear of the club in its playing position

3- How do you decide whether to purchase graphite or steel golf club shafts?

It all depends on your swing speed and tempo, graphite is normally for a
slower swing speed so you get more flex out of your shafts on the down swing.
Go to a golf shop and ask to get your swing critiqued, they should be able to
tell you what type of shaft you'll need for your swing.

4- What is a wood and driver in a golf set?

"Woods" are the things with the big bulbous heads. They got the name
because they used to be made out of wood, but wooden woods have pretty
much disappeared in favor of metal ones. They're "woods" whether they are
made of persimmon, laminated maple, stainless steel, titanium, or plastic.

The "driver" is the number1 wood. It is the largest and lowest lofted of the
woods. The others are usually called "fairway woods".

5- How are golf clubs made?

They are either forged or cast:

Forged irons are made by metal compacted to form a specific shape

Cast irons are molded metal when in liquid form.

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6- How heavy is a golf ball?

The weight of a golf ball, according to the rules of golf, must not exceed
1.620 ounces or 45.93 grams.

7- What are the four types of golf clubs?

There are irons, woods, wedges and a putter, and sometimes utility clubs or
hybrids.

8- What is the Acushnet putter's age?

Early 20th century.

9-How many dimples does a regulation golf ball have?

It can range from 300- 450. A Titleist pro v 1 has 392, and a pro v 1x 332.
There is no regulation amount.

10- When was the golf ball invented?

In 1898, the Haskell ball was invented.

11- How is a 9 iron different than a 3 iron?

The angle of the head is different. A 3 iron is not much of an angle, and a 9
iron is like at 50 degrees or so.

12- What is firm shaft flex?

Callaway make this shaft flex, it is designed in between a regular flex and
stiff flex shaft.

13- What are some of the old names for golf clubs?

Brassie, spoon, mallet.

14- Why can you hit your 3 wood further than your driver?

Many players can hit a 3 wood farther than a driver. Because of the very
low loft on the driver, it's necessary to hit the ball with high club head
speed and with a slight upswing at impact. If you're not doing both of
those things, a higher lofted club will give you better distance AND better
control. You might benefit from a higher lofted driver. They are available in
12 to 15 degree lofts now.

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 15- Is there a proper way to arrange the clubs in a golf bag?

it depends on whether or not you are riding in a cart, pulling a hand cart,
carrying your clubs, or using a caddy. It really is a matter of personal
preference. Group short to long so that they accessible and don't bang short
irons against longer clubs with graphite shafts.

You could "just throw them in the bag; however the way I was taught is to
arrange them in your dividers or individual tubes with the longest clubs
(woods) on the high end of the bag through the shortest clubs (wedges) at
the lowest side of the bag. However I have always put my putter with my
woods, even though it is my shortest club. It really is a matter of preference.

16- Does a golf ball go farther in the winter or the summer?

The ball goes farther in the summer than the winter. In warmer air, the
contents of the ball are softer letting it compress and rebound at a greater
rate than when it is cold. This rebound causes the ball to receive more energy
making it go farther. This is another reason that they have 100 compression
(harder) balls and 90 compression (softer) balls. You cannot hit a 100
compression ball in the winter because it is literally hard as a rock!

17- What is the difference between offset woods and regular woods?

Offset woods are designed to give the golfer a different angle of attack that
differs from the regular woods. A golfer, who has trouble getting his/her shots
of the ground with woods, should try the offsets. Offsets help the ball come off
the face with a higher trajectory.

18- How can you repair a golf club when the head is broken off?

You can't. The only way it would be possible is if it is only the club head that
comes off. If there is just a piece of the shaft in the hossle, it is irreplaceable
and you have to buy a whole new club.

19- What is a hossle?

The socket or neck in the head of a golf club into which the shaft is inserted.

20- What does RTG stand for in the term 'Cleveland 588 RTG wedge'?

Raw Tour Grind.

21- What does a cavity back do for your golf swing and do the pros use it?

Cavity backs don't affect your swing. They make the club more forgiving with
any swing by placing the weight around the perimeter of the club. This
increases the clubs moment of inertia, and makes it less apt to torque when

96
struck off center. Some pros use them, some use a variation on the theme,
and some use the "flat-backed" irons.

22- What is firm shaft flex?

Callaway make this shaft flex, it is designed in between a regular flex and stiff
flex shaft.

23- Should all the clubs in your bag have the same shaft flex?

Having different flex shafts in your bag is common. The most popular
deviation is to go one grade stiffer with your driver. After all, most golfers swing
harder/faster with their driver because they are hitting a ball that is teed up
and not lying on the grass. Some golfers play more flexible shafts in their long
irons as well. It helps them get the ball up in the air. One note, if you are
having problems getting your long irons air born, then you may want to go
down in flex on your irons in general. It is easier to adapt to more flexible shafts
by controlling your swing speed than to adapt to stiffer shafts by trying to
increase your swing speed. Remember, one can be taught technique and
control, but speed is a natural phenomenon and can't be taught.

24- How can you make a golf ball go past its limits?

You can microwave them, though this might be for "wound" golf balls which
aren't that common anymore.

25- Why do some companies rate golf balls in colors such as Callaway Red or
Callaway Blue?

In the days of old the color that the number was marked in was supposed to
relate it to its compression. However, this practice was done away with about
15 years ago. Even then it wasn't an exact science as balls would come in a
range and then be grouped as if they were all the same. Nowadays it is
purely marketing...I can attest to selling them for the last 20 or so years that
very few people have any idea what the difference would be nor could they
tell a difference in a blind test. A professional would opt for a softer
performance ball while most amateurs would play a harder 'distance' ball.
Today we have the best of both worlds. The most major improvement in many
people's minds may be clubs but any tour player will confess that the ball has
revolutionized the game more than any other piece of equipment in the last
10 years.

26- Does higher loft really make that much difference?

It really does, if you are hitting low darts with a driver, then go to your local
range or somewhere where you can hit drivers with an extra degree or two of
loft, and marvel over the new results. Get fitted to a shaft and loft, you will be
amazing. Just recently a switched from a 9.5* loft on a low kick point stiff shaft
to a 10.5* loft on a high kick point and the changes have been huge.

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  Golf Rules:

1- How many clubs can you have in your bag during a golf tournament?

You may only have 14 clubs in your bag during one round of competition
golf. The penalty for more than 14 is a 2 shot penalty per hole the extra club
was carried, in 2009 this rule was amended so the maximum penalty was 4
shots, although if you have already signed your score card and then notice
your mistake you will be disqualified for signing for an incorrect score.

2- What happens when a golf ball goes into water?

If this happens there is a one shot penalty. You take the ball out of the water
and you drop it either two club lengths away from the edge of the hazard on
the line you entered; or take advantage of the stroke and distance rule and
drop the ball as far back as you want, keeping the point where you entered
the hazard between you and the pin. One thing with a hazard is, you cannot
drop in another hazard, so that is obviously any area marked as a hazard or a
bunker, or the final option is to go back to as near as possible to where you
played the previous stroke from and play another.
Where there is a designated drop zone, you must use it.
Where a water hazard varies from other penalty drop situations is you do not
have to actually find the ball, you simply need to know it entered the hazard.
If you cannot get the ball you may drop another.

3- Do you have to use a golf tee every time you tee off or can you just play
from the ground?

You don't always have to use a golf tee. If you see the pros play they will mark
where their ball is and when it's their turn they will continue on.

4- If you are playing a round and at the end of 18 holes you are tied due to
your 5 stroke handicap - do you go to the first hole and give another 5 strokes
or do you play square?

According to the USGA Handicap Manual, "Rule 33-6 empowers the

committee in charge of the competition to determine how and when a
halved match or a stroke play tie is decided. The decision should be
published in advance." So there's no firm answer to your question. The USGA
recommends that the handicap be assigned in proportion to the number of
holes being played in the tie breaking playoff. In other words, if it was a 9 hole
playoff you would get half of your five (three, they recommend round up 1/2
strokes). If it was a four hole playoff. you would get 5*4/18, which would be
one.

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5- What is the Max time to look for lost golf ball?

5 minutes.

6- Where do you tee off from while playing golf?

It is called the tee box. The ladies tee off from a line somewhere forward of
the men's line. You are allowed to go two club lengths back from a line
drawn from one marker to the other inside of the tee box. There are normally
four different tee boxes in golf, White and Blue usually being Men's tees, and
Red and Yellow normally ladies or seniors tees.

7- What score do you need to get a 28 handicap?

For a man 28 is the highest handicap you can have, so anything over 28 over
par will give you a 28 handicap. Say CSS = PAR every week, you will need to
consistently shoot 27 over par to get cut to 27.

8- What is the penalty for carrying more than fourteen golf clubs?

This has been updated recently by the USGA and R&A. The new rule is as
follows, 2 shot penalty per hole that the extra club was carried, with a
maximum of 4 penalty shots in total. If you have signed your score card and
then realize it, you have signed for an incorrect score and you shall be
disqualified.

9- How many rounds in US golf open?

Like any major, the US Open has 4 rounds of golf. The cut is made after 2
rounds. This year's tournament has been plagued by bad weather; so the
second round is being played on Saturday, instead of the usual Friday.

10- Does an amateur win a PGA card if he wins a major championship?

Yes, they do. A major championship win carries a 5 year exemption on the
PGA Tour, and the player may accept this. However, due to the huge
amounts of money earned on the PGA Tour they will most likely turn pro, as
amateurs cannot collect winnings.

11- What should you do after you step out of a sand trap?

Tap the bottoms of your shoes with your club so the sand goes back in the
bunker and then rake the bunker with the rake provided.

12- What is the penalty in golf if you play holes out of sequence?

Unless specified by the tournament committee, playing the holes in the

incorrect sequence will result in disqualification.

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13- Does your handicap relate exactly to the number of shots you receive?

Yes, your handicap directly relates to how many shots you get. In stroke play,
a handicap of 10 would give you 10 shots. In match play you would get the
difference between your handicap and your opponents, or have to give
them shots. Some competitions stipulate that 3/4 of the difference be given.

14- Procedures for looking for a golf ball?

From the time you arrive at the location at which you believe your golf ball
last entered you have five minutes to find it before you must return to where
you last hit your shot and replay it. Good etiquette would suggest your
playing partners help you look for it.

15- How many stableford points does a player get for a hole in one on a par 3
when the player in question gets 1 shot on that hole does he score 4pts or
5pts?

5 points.

16- What the mass of a golf ball?

45.9 Gm

17- Can you have a swing trainer in your golf bag during a tournament?

Yes but just don't use it. In a tournament breaking this rule is disqualification.

18- How many golf balls can you have in your bag during a golf
tournament?

You can carry as many golf balls as you want.

19- Are chipper golf clubs legal?

It Depends. There's nothing wrong with a club that looks sort of like a putter
with loft. It can't, however, be usable from both sides.

According to the rules: Appendix II, 4c states that: The club head must only
have one striking face, except that a putter may have two such faces if their
characteristics are the same, and they are opposite each other.

This rule was intended to specifically prohibit clubs with two striking faces, but
they made an exception for plain blade putters with two identical opposing
faces.

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20- How many sticks can a golfer use in one game?

Depends upon the course. Usually on a standard course, most every club
could be used in a round of golf.

PGA and USGA Rules allow a maximum of 14 clubs (including the putter) in
competitive games.

21- What is the ruling if your ball lands in some one else fairway in golf?

Simply play the ball as it lies, there is no penalty. There are two issues, make
sure it is not out of bounds as there may be an internal out of bounds and
secondly be careful, people will be hitting shots onto that fairway and you
may be in danger.

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 15- Quizzes

 GolF Etiquette Quiz

Test your golf etiquette by doing this quiz.

1) What should you be careful for when you step onto the green?

a) Goose droppings

b) To keep an eye out for loose change that you might pick up

c) Look at the faces of the other players, make sure those are the same people
you started with (make sure you've chipped onto the right green)

d) Look for ball markers to make sure you don't step on someone's ball path.

2) What should you do if you hit your ball toward another group of people?

a) Quickly hand your club to another player in your group

b) Call your lawyer on your cell phone

c) Announce to the other members of your group that you'll be taking another
Mulligan

d) Holler "Fore!" so the unsuspecting players can take cover.

3) What should you carry in your pocket every time you play golf?

a) (If you're under a 20 handicap) A rabbit's foot

b) (If you're over a 20 handicap) the entire rabbit

c) A list of your favorite excuses

d) A ball mark repair tool for repairing marks on the green and 2 ball markers

4) What should you do if you lose your golf ball out on the course?

a) Spend all day looking for it, even if it means holding up every group behind you

b) Drop another ball from the secret compartment in your pants leg and yell to
the other members of your group, "Oh, here it is. And it's still in bounds!"

c) Break several clubs and destroy the property of the golf course in a fit of rage
and ruin everyone else's day

d) Look for a couple of quick minutes, take a drop, count the appropriate
number of strokes and move on

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5) When someone in your group is hitting off the tee, what should you be
doing?

a) Take the opportunity to eat a few potato chips and crumple the bag up when
you're putting it back into your pocket

b) Point out to the others in your group some of the many things the hitter is doing
wrong in his swing

c) Shout, "Oh, look! A bald eagle!" right when he's at the top of his back swing

d) Stand quietly out of view and watch where his ball lands

6) What is the proper thing to do after your fairway shot has dislodged a huge
divot?

a) Stick it in the ear of the guy who yelled, "Oh, look! A bald eagle!"

b) If it went farther than the ball, blame the divot and kick it up and down the
fairway for a little while

c) Focus your attention further down the fairway and say, "Divot? What divot? I
didn't see a divot."

d) Retrieve the dislodged divot and replace it in the hole and press it down firmly
with your foot

7) After your group has completed putting out, what should you do next?

a) Take a few minutes to re-practice the 40-footer that you missed for double
bogey

b) Take a few more minutes to re-practice the 10- footer you missed for triple
bogey

c) Stand around the middle of the green and tally up your shots and mark it down
on your score card

d) Replace the flag in the cup and quickly and quietly move on to the next tee.

8) What should you do if someone in your group is having a terrible day and
really struggling in his game?

a) Ask him what is handicap REALLY is

b) Give him pointers after every shot on his grip, his stance, his swing, and his
follow through

c) Double the bet

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9) What should you do if you encounter a slow group playing ahead of you?

a) Send a warning shot over their heads with a Big Bertha

b) Stand on the tee with the other members of your group and shout in unison,
"HURRY UP YOU MORONS!"

c) Lasso them and drag them off the course kicking and screaming behind an
electric golf cart

d) Patiently play behind them until such time that you can courteously request
permission to play through.

10) What is the best way to promote the principles of good golf etiquette?

a) Make your opponents take extra strokes each time they do something you
don't like

b) Ridicule your friends when they don't get it right

c) Wear a Mr. Golf Etiquette hat when you're playing

d) Through your own exemplary behavior out on the course

Do you want to check your answers? Look at the end of the page.

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  Golf Playing Quiz

If you think you are a Professional, figure the answers yourself.

Q1- What is the first part of the set up routine?

a) Take your hold on the club

b) Aim the clubhead at the target
c) Place your feet either side of the ball

Q2- What do we try to achieve when we hold the golf club?

a) White knuckles
b) Maximum distance when we hit the ball
c) Both palms square with the clubface

Q3- Where would you position the ball to play a 9 iron?

a) In the middle of your stance

b) In the line with your right foot
c) In the line of your left foot

Q4- How wide your stance be if you were playing a full 5 iron shot?

a) As wide as possible
b) Whit your feet nearly touching each other
c) Just a little wider than your shoulders

Q5- When playing a wood shot, you should …

a) Hit the ball as hard as possible

b) Swing fast and lose your balance
c) Swing away low and slow

Q6- Which of these clubs will hit the ball the farthest?

a) 3 iron
b) 5 iron
c) 9 iron

Q7- Which of these clubs will go the highest?

a) 3 iron
b) 5 iron
c) 9 iron

Q8- What do you need to do to play a successful bunker shot?

a) Panic
b) Play it just like a chip shot
c) Accelerate right through the ball to a full follow through

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Q9- When playing an uphill shot, you should …

a) Hit a lower numbered club

b) Hit the ball harder
c) Take a higher numbered club

Q10- When the ball is below your feet, you should …

a) Stand up straighter
b) Hold the club lower down the grip
c) Flex your knees more and swing with the hands and arms

Q11- What is the key to playing all shots from sloping lies?

a) Balance
b) Imagination
c) A shorter swing

Q12- What does the tern "plugged ball" mean?

a) The ball is sat perfectly for you to be able to hit it

b) The ball is unplayable
c) The ball is embedded in its own pitch mark

Q13- Which of these is an immovable obstruction?

a) An apple core
b) A sprinkler head
c) A tree

Q14- What happens if you play your opponent's ball in a match play?
competition?

a) Your opponent must play your ball.

b) It is a 2 shot penalty
c) You lose the hole

Q15- Which one of the following should be classed as an "outside agency"?

a) A tree
b) The wind
c) A dog

Q16- Shelley plays off a handicap of 54, which means …

a) She will receive 2 extra shots on each hole
b) She has to stop playing when she takes her 54th shot
c) She will receive 3 extra shots on each hole

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  Golf Vocabulary Quiz

Q1- If a right-handed player "slices" the ball, it curves to the ( Right, left )
Q2- The person who carries a player's clubs is called a ( Buggy, caddie )
Q3- A score of one under par on a hole is called ( A birdie, an eagle )
Q4- A hazard containing sand is called ( Bunker, a tee box )
Q5- The club for hitting the ball along the ground on the greens is (A putter, a
driver)
Q6- A shot by a right-handed player that curves to the left is (A hook, a slice )
Q7- A double bogey is a score of ( One, two ) over a par.
Q8- A short shot that lands on the green is ( A chip, a putt )
Q9- A hole with a fairway that curves to the left or the right is called a ( Dog
leg, blind shot )
Q10- Players should pick up and replace their ( Caddies, divots )
Q11- On a golf course, cups are located on the ( Tee boxes, greens )
Q12- The longest grass on a golf course is in the ( Fairways, rough )
Q13- The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews is in ( China, Scotland )
Q14- The object of golf is to get the ball into a ( Hazard, cup )
Q15- The club designed to hit the ball the greatest distance is ( A 9 iron, a
driver )
Q16- A putter is usually used ( in the rough, in the green )
Q17- The birdie is a score of ( Two, one ) under a par.

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