Course Care

Care – Including the Repair of Pitch Marks:

The condition of greens can have a major impact on players’ scores, so careful attention must be given to the putting surface. The most important aspect is the repair of pitch marks – the longer a mark stays unrepaired, the longer it takes to mend. A pitch mark should be repaired as follows:

• Commence at the back of the pitch mark and push forward with a pitch mark fork or tee.
• Attend to each side of the pitch mark, easing the turf forward to replace the damaged area.
• When undertaking the repair, turn the pitch mark fork towards the damaged area.
• Do not lift the pitch mark fork or tee upward bringing soil to the surface.
• Complete the repair by tapping down with a putter.

Repairing Divots:

Sand buckets are available at the starting tees and divots should be repaired as follows:

• Use the sand to fill the divot hole (and any others nearby).
• Use a foot or a club to level the sand so that a reasonably flat lie remains for following players.
• If buckets are not available or you have run out of sand, replace the divot in its hole if it is intact, or otherwise knock in the sides of the divot hole with a club so that a level lie is maintained.

A careless repair may provide an unfair lie for other players, and may also damage course equipment and will result in the divot taking longer to repair.

Smoothing Bunkers:

It is important to leave bunkers in good condition for following players. Bunkers should be smoothed in the following manner:

• Enter and leave the bunker from the lowest point.
• After playing, smooth the area and any footprints using a rake, if available.
• If a rake is not available, glide a shoe in a half circular motion until the area is smooth.
• After use, place the rake in the bunker in the direction of play.
• Do not place the rake against the inside edge of the bunker as this may cause difficult lies for others and potentially awkward rules situations.

Golf Carts:

Golf carts can be damaging to the course if not used carefully:

• Keep away from green surrounds and teeing grounds.
• Do not drive through damaged or wet areas.
• Drive only where directed.
• Check with the Pro Shop regarding any other course rules.

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