It’s no secret that the game of golf has a very clear, very recent line of demarcation on its own historical timeline. And, coincidentally, golf’s watershed moment can also be truncated to the famous abbreviation of “BC,” in which world history denotes an era “before Christ.” On golf’s calendar, however, BC stands for “before COVID.” If you’re a BC golfer, you have undoubtedly noticed the influx of players, the crowded tee sheets and the growing cultural relevance the game has experienced this past half decade. You’ve probably also reconciled with the fact that growing the game certainly comes with more than a few growing pains.
In my own effort to trade in annoyance for acceptance, I’ve started to view golf as a highway — something all of us Southern Californians know better than anyone. Like a golf course, a highway is a shared ecosystem where users of all ages and experience levels occupy parts of the same space at the same time. What makes ecosystems particularly unique is that our own personal enjoyment of the shared space is incredibly dependent on those also using it at the same time.
A slow group of golfers is like a slow car in the fast lane. An errant tee shot without a “FORE!” call is like a lane change without a turn signal. Unrepaired pitch marks and unraked bunkers are like bumps and potholes. Lollygaggers on the tee box are like drivers looking at their phone when the light turns green.
Unlike golf, however, becoming a licensed driver requires education, tests and plenty of hours with an experienced teacher in the front seat. And how much better do all of us feel knowing that everyone on the highway with us went through extensive training before merging from the on-ramp? This is where BC golfers can play a critical, proactive role in caretaking the highway. Instead of bemoaning a newcomer’s shortcomings on the golf course, take a moment to be a gracious teacher. Explain a written or unwritten rule.
Demonstrate how etiquette isn’t a stuffy tradition of yesteryear, but a timeless way to ensure widespread enjoyment and consideration for all. Lead by example and share your wisdom. At one point, all of us learned the game and its nuances from someone more experienced than us. And that’s what makes golf so special. For centuries, it’s been passed down. There’s no test or permit or barrier of entry. Just an unspoken agreement that we will teach what we have learned.
In order to properly grow the game, all of golf’s players must know the game.
And how can anyone know what they aren’t taught?
So get in the front seat with a new driver and go for a spin. I’ll see you both on the highway.
