We certainly have no wish to preach but it IS important that everyone on the golf course understands, and has a sound knowledge of, the etiquette of golf, and the reasons for it. Etiquette is simply a code of behaviour used to promote good manners. It's not rocket science, and it's certainly not as difficult to follow as the rules of golf themselves! Put simply, it is there to help us all show due consideration to each other, and to help us understand what sort of behaviour is expected of ourselves and others on the golf course. It's really nothing more than common courtesy and common sense.

A surprisingly small number of people realise that the R&A have modernised the wording of their section covering etiquette in the Rules of Golf. In particular, please note that the etiquette no longer makes any reference to priority on the course depending upon numbers of players: they now simply refer to the speed of a group.

The R&A's actual words are, "It is a group's responsibility to keep up with the group in front. If it loses a clear hole and it is delaying the group behind, it should invite the group behind to play through, irrespective of the number of players in that group."

There is no longer any mention of a single player having no standing on the course. Players who mistakenly quote "etiquette" instead of simply showing a little courtesy and consideration please take note! If you have lost ground on the group in front and you are holding up anyone who is clearly playing more quickly, do please invite the player or players to play through. With a little thought, this can be done with a minimum of delay and everyone will be happy. And if you ARE invited through, don't forget to thank those who have been courteous enough to have done so.

Please take time to follow the link to the R&A rules of golf page in our "Links" section and read the "Etiquette" section if you have any doubts at all about how to behave towards others on the golf course.