27 / 42
prepare for your round so that you don’t miss
your tee-time. This also provides a cushion
should something happen on your travel). I left
my clubs at the bag drop, and waited at our
designated spot.
Upon meeting my host, I shook his hand,
thanked him for the invitation, stated I was
looking forward to our round, and presented
him with a gift of this years
‘U.S. Open’branded
hat from the
USGA(everyone appreciates when
you show your gratitude for a kind deed). After
our bags were loaded (always let the member
drive, they know the course better), we were off.
I gave him honors on the first tee and allowed
him to educate me on how the holes were
designed and the best way to play each. I made
sure to keep my attitude upbeat and verbal
comments to my ball in check and play by the
rules, not that I would otherwise (if there are
others in your group you want to be known
as the best guest and not get the member in
trouble with the committee).
During the round I helped track his shots, find
errant shots, aided in flagstick attendance, and
helped with divots, ball marks, and raking. As
we made the turn I offered to pay for drinks and
snacks (it’s only polite), and did the same after
we finished our enjoyable round and went into
the clubhouse restaurant.
Being a polite guest is a great way to show your
appreciation for the invitation, put your host
in the best light with others, and potentially
receive a repeat invitation.
If you receive a special invitation to a round of
golf, keep these points in mind. For that matter,
these are social skills to be used during any
round and makes you a better citizen of the
golfing world.
NWO Golf Links