5 Driving Range Etiquettes Every Golfer Must Know About

Golfers are always enthusiastic about finding ways to prove their mettle on the course. While some like to tee off for the sheer fun of the game, others play seriously observing the rules. Etiquette is something that matters the most to many golfers, even if they are on the driving range. That’s because bad manners may attract penalties on the course. Even while choosing the best stay and play golf package at some scenic part of a country, golfers want to be sure of the protocol and manners while practicing on the driving range. So, if you are unsure about how to act or play on the range, here are five etiquettes to keep in mind:

1. Know Your Surroundings

Although the ambiance on the driving range is a bit relaxed than the other areas of the course, you should know your surroundings. In the absence of dividers to segregate tee areas, make it a point to play away from the other golfers to avoid hitting them with your club. Maintain a safe distance of about two driver-club lengths. Look around to ensure that no player is going to pass by or is right behind you while you are swinging your club. Do not walk on the range to pick up the golf balls. You may end up hurting yourself.

2. Be Polite and Respectful to the Other Players

Do not forget that you are practicing on the range with other golfers. Avoid talking loudly while you are on the range. Keep your mobile phone switched off or on vibration mode. A few golf courses of the country prohibit the use of smartphones. If you need to make an urgent call, walk away from the range and talk. Don’t approach a golfer who is about to swing his club. Making a swing shot calls for a lot of concentration. Therefore, avoid distracting others.

3. Take Care of the Facility

Every driving range is different. In some courses, you may need to hit a golf ball from a mat. Other facilities may allow you to attempt a shot off the grass. Whatever it is, obey the rules. When you are hitting a ball from the grass, make sure that you replace the divots. Many golf facilities will ask you to hit every ball from the point where you have attempted the previous shot. This reduces damage to the range and makes repair easier. Wear and tear is unavoidable, but you can always do your bit to minimize the harm.

4. Respect the Greens

Many driving ranges provide short-game areas and putting greens for players who want to improve on putting and chipping. Respect these areas like the greens on a golf course. This makes the experience good even for the next golfer. Avoid chipping on the greens from the practice range to prevent safety hazards. Always hit a golf ball out to the defined collection area where the ball lands.

5. Don’t Take Range Balls

The driving range is the best way to help golfers improve on the game. Do not take others’ golf balls if you find them on the range— fellow golfers won’t appreciate that.

Before you choose the best stay and play golf package, know the driving range etiquettes. It will help you play with dignity. Respect the facility as well as the others joining the range.