This post is based on an article taken from the February 1998 issue of Australian Golf Digest and written by David Owen – there are many interesting articles in this issue!

The game of golf involves some rules to play just like any other sport. In addition to these rules, there are also practices and procedures that are required by players to follow as part of golf etiquette and good practice.

The ultimate object is to try and leave the golf course better than you found it by:

1. Replacing divots (unless specifically instructed to ignore them) or fill your gouges with something else and seek homes for other fragments you find as you walk along
2. On the green, repair your ball mark as well as two or three others

Greens are the most valuable real estate on a golf course requiring detailed and scrupulous care. In fixing ball marks, use a tool intended for the purpose (ideally a ball marker – I used to sometimes use a tee to do the same). Close the wound without unduly disturbing the surface and obey the same injunction physicians are sworn to uphold: First, do no harm.

Happy golfing!