Columnist Peter Benton: Be sure to follow course etiquette

Peter Benton

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2000 | 10:42 a.m.

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

With a new golf season soon to be upon us, I would like to think that many local golfers -- both low and high handicappers -- will not only review their course etiquette, but also brush up on the rules of the game.

I know many of you have read something similar to this before. But to me, there is nothing more frustrating than following golfers who are intolerably slow and don't care one whit about it.

There is absolutely no excuse for ignorance on a golf course. And it is interesting to note that those who have the couldn't-care-less attitude about holding up play have the same pathetic mentality about caring for the course.

If you play in a group with an ignoramus or two who are oblivious to slow play, lack all knowledge of golf etiquette and seem to be talking on their cellular phones incessantly, please give them a nudge and point out the error of their ways.

Obviously, they are the type who meander all over the layout as if on a sightseeing tour and never deem it necessary to sand or replace their divots. It also goes without saying that ball marks are left unrepaired while golf carts invariably are parked anywhere and everywhere except where designated.

With this new season rapidly approaching, more experienced players should keep close tabs on their foursome and not hesitate to advise any one of the group. If following groups are being held up, it is incumbent on those holding up play to call other groups through. Additionally, if there are people in your foursome who are either too hesitant or too ignorant to repair a ball mark or replace a divot, tell them. It is what all golfers should do.

To those who may be requested to do the aforementioned, or perhaps are asked to rake a sandtrap, do it and do it with grace. Etiquette and being cognizant of the rules are what the game is all about.

* SNJGA NEWS: At the recent Las Vegas Chapter Southwest Section PGA awards banquet, the section presented a check for $5,000 to the Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association to establish developmental level programs for youngsters.