The fair question is if you follow all the rules of golf? There are many different rules that govern how to play any particular golf shot. There are local rules that apply only to a specific golf course to make playing at that track easier. There some traditions many players consider rules, but in fact are not. Playing by all the rules of golf is a challenge for most players. I will admit that if I am playing a friendly match with my friends, I will bend a few rules just for fun. During a competitive match, absolutely not! I play by all the rules and try to ensure he integrity of the game is kept at all times. Having said that, Golf.com conducted a survey that I think is worth reading. I want to touch on a bit of their findings today.

All the information I cut and past from their article: How many golfers actually follow every rule? We asked 10,000 of them will be in bold and italic. That way you can distinguish what they say and what thoughts are mine. The findings are pretty interesting, but I do recommend you read the entire article. The first two questions and answers are pretty straight forward:

Do you play by the Rules of Golf?

Yes, always: 38%
Yes, mostly: 61%
No: 1%

How often do you knowingly bend the rules or flat-out cheat?

Never: 57%
Once every few rounds: 32%
Once or twice per round: 10%
As many chances as I get: 1%

I think most amateurs try and play by the rules, but will bend then without hesitation depending on how their round is going. Being focused on the score has a great deal to do with how often they bend/break the rules. Two questions that should have also been asked are: Have you read the rules of golf? Do you understand all the rules of golf? These two questions would also set the foundation of knowledge of the people answering the questions in the survey.

What length of putt is acceptable to scoop up as a “gimme”?

Within 5 feet: 3%
Within 4 feet: 1%
Within 3 feet: 13%
Within 2 feet: 40%
Within 1 foot: 31%
No length. You should hole out everything: 12%

Except during a competitive match, I have never played with someone who putted every putt out. I have watched my opponents give themselves a “gimmie” which I think is not appropriate. If you are playing in a group, it should be up to your playing partners to offer the gimmie. That would be my version of etiquette when breaking the rules. 😉

The respondents to the survey were given an opportunity to offer suggestions on how to improve the rules of golf. Many are very interesting and I have selected three which are a common theme when I play a friendly:

“No more than triple bogey — for any level of player. It would speed up play.”

“First-tee mulligans should be permitted under the rules. Everyone uses them, especially at courses with no ranges.”

“Player who makes an ace should not buy drinks for others. The player should have drinks purchased for them.”

As you can see, the suggestions are varied and many of you are nodding your head up and down right now. Personally, I agree with them, especially the last on as I accumulated 3 holes in one over the years. I bought for the players in my group only as I could not afford anything more. Unfortunately, my last hole in one was 14 years ago, but I am still trying!

The rules of golf are meant to even the playing field for all players. Sometimes they are a bit harsh and players have taken upon themselves to enjoy the game more by bending/breaking certain rules. Personally, if it is a friendly match, do what you want. In a tournament follow all the rules without question. Alas, golf is suppose to be fun and if bending a few rules helps, who am I to judge!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!