If you don’t like the rules, don’t play the game

All sports have evolved – they have become more competitive and equipment has changed considerably over the years. Take cricket for example; proclaimed to be a “gentlemen’s game,” this sport has experienced numerous deplorable acts such as sledging and match-fixing. It is an unfortunate reality that the more money that is being poured into the game, the more temptation there is to do “what needs to be done” in order to receive the lucrative pay-out.

Golf, on the other hand, has always prided itself on maintaining a consistent etiquette that contributes to the allure of the game. Golf rules extend to the decorum, which firstly addresses the required dress code. If you think that you can tee off at the first hole, wearing a pair of board shorts, flip flops and a vest, you are sorely mistaken; the marshal will immediately prohibit you from playing your round.

The correct dress code is as follows:

• A golf shirt (preferably one which displays a golfing brand such as TaylorMade® or Mizuno® – they are made of the optimal material.)
• Chinos (these can be of any colour, but general protocol is beige, black, cream or navy) Women wear a golf skirt.
• Golf shoes (These shoes have spikes. They can be made of plastic or metal, but plastic – also known as “soft spikes” is more common. They serve to increase traction and balance.)
• Golf glove – The glove is an essential piece of equipment. It is generally worn on the player’s non-dominant hand. Its function is to aid in the gripping of the club as well as to prevent blisters, which will occur if your hand keeps sliding on the rubber grip; which can become painful.  Through its ability to increase your grip, you will have more control and be able to attempt more powerful swings that will increase your overall distance.

As one would expect, golf equipment is constantly progressing. Brands are continuously advertising pin-point accuracy for all of your irons as well as enhanced sweet spots for longer distance tee shots with your driver. Many of the Pro Shops offer customisation of any of your clubs to ensure that you are able to use them to their optimum potential.

It is a game of patience and mental clarity and if you have the ability to achieve this, you will rapidly reduce your handicap.