Golf is a sport of many rules which are essential to the pacing and play of the game. However, with that comes the traditions and the unspoken etiquette one is expected to know before hitting the tee box. Some of these unwritten rules are practical, like yelling ‘Fore’ when a golfer hits a ball near someone, but others are less practical like dress codes.
Some general rules of etiquette can really affect the game if they’re not practiced. For example, other players need to be silent when someone is hitting a ball, as loud noises can affect someone’s shot. Others are for safety, like standing behind someone when they hit or waiting for another group to advance before you tee off. It’s always important to take safety into consideration on the course, as well as efficiency. Many players value punctuality when it comes to tee times, usually expecting that their group is at least half an hour early to the course. There’s even an official Professional Golf Association (PGA) rule that when searching for a lost ball, there is a time limit of three minutes to find it. Both of these rules can keep the game efficient and steady, to make sure nobody is held up. Also, a general rule of thumb is that if a group is playing slower, they should let the group behind them play ahead. This is especially important for larger groups and smaller groups, because a larger group will usually take longer to play through a hole. Rules of etiquette about pacing and safety are all essential, and make sense for the game. Some other rules, however, are less practical.
Every course is unique, and in Altoona, the main course is Park Hills Golf and Country Club. Luckily, this course doesn’t enforce strict dress code rules and is pretty relaxed when it comes to driving golf carts. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for some others, particularly private or more expensive golf courses. There are many rules about golf attire, like wearing a collared shirt, long pants and even sometimes prohibiting denim. While these rules assure that people playing golf keep a neat appearance, it’s turning people away from the sport. Some people can’t afford to buy expensive golf clothing, and most of it is more expensive because it’s labeled as golf attire. A great example of this is seen on Nike’s website, where there is a men’s golf sweater priced at $130, and a men’s crewneck sweater is $90. A $40 difference is a big deal, and it’s all in the name. The golf dress code makes it nearly impossible to find affordable clothing that fits the course rules. On a more positive note, it seems like more courses are relaxing with the dress code due to the recent uptick in criticism. Another unnecessary rule is to only drive carts on the golf path, and sometimes they even charge for using a push cart, which is just used to push a golf bag. Protecting the grass is understandable, especially on putting greens, but with professional landscapers doing course maintenance, this shouldn’t be an issue. Many courses use this as a cash grab, often charging more to play with a push cart.
Golfers hold traditions near and dear to their hearts, and it’s really what shapes the game. However, as the game changes, so should the rules. Pointless restrictions on carts and the clothing golfers wear are deterring people from the fun, relaxing game. Of course there are reasons for some rules of etiquette, like safety or efficiency, but some just hinder the game. People who play golf change, and so does the game. As a result of that, the rules should too.
