THE SPIRIT OF THE GAME: Unlike many sports, golf is played for the most part, without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and to abide by the rules. While players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrate courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, regardless of how competitive they may be, this is the spirit of the game of golf.
TIPS FOR READY GOLF The key to "ready golf" is to keep pace with the group ahead of you.
Always be ready to hit Players are encouraged to develop foursomes if possible with 2 persons per cart. Proceed directly to your ball. Plan your shot and select your club while approaching your ball. Take one practice swing and get set while others are hitting. Hit when ready. Carry an extra ball, ball marker and tees in your pocket. When in doubt, hit a provisional ball.
Don't waste time Always record your scores at the next tee box - not on or near the green. Ask for or give instruction on the Driving Range - not on the course. When the group ahead is realistically out of range, don't delay, play your shot. Try to limit your foursome to 2 carts.
On the tee The first player ready to hit should do so. Other players should wait right next to the tee markers. After you hit, get your clubs and be ready to proceed to where the ball was hit. Don't cause a distraction while someone is hitting.
On the Green Park your cart and clubs behind the rear of the green in line with the next tee. Have all your equipment in hand before the last player has putted out. Keep conversation to a minimum on the green. Verbally establish the order of putting so no one stands around wondering who is away. Lift and clean your ball when necessary. Read the line of your putt while others are putting. The player closest to the hole should attend the flag stick or pull it out and set it out of the way. The first player to putt out should collect the flag stick and replace it after everyone in the group is done. Repair ball marks on the green (yours and others).
On the Course Mark errant shots by lining them up between a landmark and the location of the original shot. Play a provisional ball if you hit a shot that may be out of bounds or lost. Golf rules state that you can play a provisional ball from the tee after all others in your group play their shot.
Pace yourself by focusing on where you are in relation to the group ahead of you.
If your group loses pace with the players ahead (i.e. falls one hole behind), let faster players play through.
When appropriate, upon reaching a par 3 green, mark your shots, step to the side and "wave" those players waiting on the tee to hit.
Walk briskly between shots.
Know when it is your turn and be ready to take your shot.
It is acceptable to move slightly in front of someone in your group playing a shot, providing you are safely to the side and not disturbing them while they are preparing to hit.