Since we are well into the golf season, it is fitting to touch on a very, if not the most important piece of golf etiquette in our minds, repairing ball marks. Every golfer at some point has experienced the frustration of numerous unrepaired ball marks in their line as they prepare to make a putt. Their frustration is shared by our staff as well, primarily because it shows a lack of respect for the golf course and other players.
The turf staff spends on average about 2-3 minutes per green each day repairing ball marks that were either repaired incorrectly, or not repaired at all. This is part of preparing the course every morning for play, but from that time until the next morning it is the responsibility of our guests. We would prefer to spend that time fixing ball marks where an attempt was made, as opposed to unrepaired ball marks.
It is important to repair them before we mow so that they heal properly and to prevent any of the severe ball marks from being scalped. When you add up the time spent repairing ball marks in a given week it adds up to over 6 hours spent just repairing ball marks, per week!! Please don't think of the turf staff when repairing ball marks, but the players who come after you, as their round is better thanks to your efforts. Here is a video the USGA created on this topic.
The video may seem cheesy, but the points illustrated are very important in maintaining a high quality putting surface. Thank you very much for your cooperation.
