Golf Draft
A club-and-ball sport where players hit a ball into a series of holes in as few strokes as possible, played on a course or at a driving range.
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How to start
What you need
- Starter set of clubs (driver, irons, putter) or rental clubs
- Golf balls and tees
- Golf glove and comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen, hat and water
Typical cost
Used starter sets cost $150 to $400; range buckets $5 to $15; a round at a public course is typically $20 to $80 (approximate, varies by city).
Where to play
Driving ranges, par-3 courses, public golf courses and indoor simulators.
Rules
- The goal is to complete each hole in the fewest strokes.
- Play the ball as it lies unless the rules allow relief.
- A hole has a tee box, fairway and green with a cup.
- Par is the expected number of strokes for a hole.
- Count each swing at the ball, plus penalty strokes.
- The player farthest from the hole usually plays first.
- Out-of-bounds and water hazards add penalty strokes.
- Keep score honestly; the lowest total wins.
Drills
Putting ladder 10 min
Place tees at 3, 6 and 9 feet from a hole and try to make 3 putts at each distance.
Chipping to a towel 10 min
Chip balls to land on a towel a few feet in front of the green; focus on a small swing and landing spot.
Tempo swings 8 min
Swing with a smooth 3-to-1 rhythm: slow back, smooth through.
Alignment sticks 6 min
Lay clubs on the ground to check feet, hips and shoulders aim at the target.
Range targets 15 min
Pick targets and hit 10 shots at each with short irons.
Etiquette
- Be ready to hit when it is your turn and keep pace of play.
- Repair divots and ball marks and rake bunkers.
- Stay quiet and still while others hit.
Safety
- Warm up your back and shoulders before swinging.
- Yell 'fore' if your ball goes toward others.
- Take shelter and leave the course during lightning.
Levels
- 1Learning grip and swing at the range.
- 2Can make contact and finish holes with many strokes.
- 3Plays 9 or 18 holes and understands the rules; scores around 100.
- 4Consistent ball striking and short game; scores in the 80s.
- 5Scores around par or better and plays tournaments.
Questions
Do I need to take lessons?
A few lessons help avoid bad habits and speed progress.
How long is a round?
About 4 hours for 18 holes, less for 9.
What is a handicap?
A number that estimates your ability so players of different levels can compete fairly.
Draft guide: written from general knowledge and not yet checked by someone who plays golf. Costs are approximate and vary by city. Check with a coach or doctor before starting anything new.