Question:
Although the rules of golf state only that the person farthest from the hole goes first, when not on the tee, I’m wondering what most people do near the green. It seems to me that it makes more sense for everyone to get on the green, so the flag stick can then be removed. However, this past Sunday, I was playing with someone who insisted that I should go first because I was farthest away (but on the green). Another player was closer, but he was chipping onto the green. So the flag had to be tended while I putt, then replaced for the other person to chip, then removed for everyone to putt. I think it is much simpler, and quicker, for everyone to get on the green first, and then the farthest is the first one to putt. Comments? — Bob Smith
Response:
Bob, He’s technically correct (Rule 10-2b), but in anything less than strict tournament play, naturally you just let everyone play onto the green first. If I was playing in your group and he insisted on the right order of play, I’d just roll my eyes and say, "Yep, you sure know the rules. Make sure you don’t fix that spike mark, by the way." Steve
Response:
Robert, He is correct by the USGA Rules of Golf. However, many golf courses have a local rule requiring ‘ready golf’ be played. Check with your course. Good Golf Dan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Although the rules of golf state only that the person farthest from the hole goes first, when not on the tee, I’m wondering what most people do near the green. It seems to me that it makes more sense for everyone to get on the green, so the flag stick can then be removed. However, this past Sunday, I was playing with someone who insisted that I should go first because I was farthest away (but on the green). Another player was closer, but he was chipping onto the green. So the flag had to be tended while I putt, then replaced for the other person to chip, then removed for everyone to putt. I think it is much simpler, and quicker, for everyone to get on the green first, and then the farthest is the first one to putt. Comments? — Bob Smith
Response:
Even when playing a match we generally ask who needs the flag when we are all on or near the green. The golfer that needs the flag goes first whether he/she is closer or not. So if you are off the green but closer to the flag and need the stick you go first and so on. I’ll bet the guy does tap down spike marks. Dave — where ever you go, there you are.