Columnist Peter Benton: Etiquette on course appreciated

Peter Benton

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1998 | 10:43 a.m.

AS COOLER weather is just around the corner, we can anticipate our courses will be inundated with both local and visiting golfers. Because of this combination, we also must make the assumption that there will be more extensive damage inflicted upon fairways and greens alike.

With that in mind, here is my annual reminder to those who enjoy the game, but A, couldn't care less how they leave the course, or B, lack the necessary knowledge regarding etiquette and manners that apparently does not come naturally to some players.

Remember, a golfer's obligation is to repair any damage he causes the layout.

Failing to rake a bunker with the idea that it doesn't matter or that a following player will take care of it for you is not the way the game should be played.

Taking a divot when hitting your ball, then neglecting to either replace the divot or evenly fill the hole with sand, or allowing an indentation on the green (ball mark) to go unrepaired are two more examples of unacceptable behavior.

You could add dragging or twisting your feet when on the putting surface, digging your ball out of the cup with your putterhead, driving your cart too close to greens and tees, carelessly throwing the flagstick to the ground, and, last but not least, littering.

As it is not practical, nor feasible, for workmen to follow each and every player to repair damage done by the uncaring, it is expected each golfer will take a moment to rectify damage inflicted. This shows consideration for fellow golfers and the course itself.

ACE IN THE HOLE: Congratulations to Greg Johnson, who recorded his second hole in one last week while playing in the Hilton Hotel's annual Casino Classic. This ace came on the par-3, 160-yard, 14th at The Las Vegas Country Club via a 5-iron.

SNGA FINALE: The Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association's 1998 season concluded with the three-day Tournament of Champions. at Spanish Trail and the TPC Summerlin. Those 10-under competed in their two-day event at the Desert Willow Golf Club. Winners included: Boys 15-18, Joe Matyas, 75-75-78--228; Boys 13-14, Alano Massi, 75-76-76-- 227; Boys 11-12 (9 holes), Aaron Stevens, 40-39-36--115; Girls 15-18, Kimberly Kindig, 77-81-73--231; Girls 11-14 (9 holes), Kim Braaten, 46-45-44--135; Pee-Wees, Alex Scott, 85; Super Pee-Wees, Kevin Collignon, 74; Girls 9-10, Elizabeth Burrus, 84; Girls 6-8, Sydnee Mack, 104.