The Etiquette of Using a Golf Cart
Golf is a game where politeness is an essential component of play. While it’s important to mind your manners on the golf course itself, you should also be a responsible golf cart operator. Whether you’re going to and from the course or making your way between shots, it’s essential to always follow the unspoken etiquette of operating a golf cart. If you’re new to the game, here’s what you need to know to avoid creating an awkward situation.
1. Follow the Cart Path
For the most part, your golf cart shouldn’t be going willy-nilly over the actual grass of the golf course. Sure, you might have seen runaway golf carts doing this in the movies, but it’s actually very rude in practice. In fact, some golf courses may even institute “Cart Path Only” rules on certain days to avoid damaging the grass.
For you, this means that you’ll have to park your golf cart out of the way on the path and walk your way to the ball. Always check-in at the reception desk to see what the rules are that day, and be mindful of any signs that tell you where you can and cannot drive.
2. Know the 90° Rule
When you’re approaching your golf ball on the course, you need to drive at a 90° angle from the path to the ball. This angle of approach helps to minimize the amount of time your golf cart’s wheels spend on the grass. The less time spent on the grass, the better, as this means you won’t do damage to the turf.
3. Never Joyride
As we mentioned above, golf cart antics are very commonplace in the media, but they are not recommended for the actual course. To this end, don’t let anyone operate your golf cart while intoxicated, and always ensure that you’re going at a reasonable speed.
You should also avoid playing loud music or having loud discussions while you’re making your way around the golf course, as this could be distracting to other players. Also, you should do everything to avoid damaging other players’ golf carts and equipment, and you definitely don’t want to damage any property on the golf course!
Using your common sense and making reasonable decisions should help you to operate your golf cart within the rules of etiquette on the golf course. Looking to purchase a golf cart of your own? Come see us at our dealership in Wilmington, NC, today to check out our fine selection of new and used golf carts for sale. Talk to our sales team if you’d like financing assistance. Revel 42 of Wilmington proudly serves the cities of Leland and Carolina Beach, NC.