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COMING HOME MAGAZINE 11 How to Play In golf, all you have to do is get the ball into the designated hole with as few strokes as possible. However, it's not as simple as it sounds. A typical round of golf consists of 18 holes, each with obstacles that add complexity to the game. Here's a breakdown of the rules: • Teeing off: Players take their first swing for a given hole at the tee box, a defined area where they can elevate their ball on a tee before hitting it. • Playing the ball as it lies: Each person then plays the ball from wherever it lands after tee-off. • Counting strokes: Every shot counts as a stroke, even if you miss it. Your score is the total number of strokes it takes to complete the hole. Fewer strokes mean a better score, and the lowest score wins. • Penalties: If your ball lands in the water, goes out of bounds, or ends up in a tough spot, you might have to take a penalty stroke to reposition it. These significantly increase your score, so try to stay on the fairway. Equipment You'll need specific equipment to play with style and skill. Must-have golf gear includes: Clubs A standard golf set includes 14 clubs, with the most popular being: • Drivers: These are the biggest clubs and used for long-distance shots off the tee. • Fairway woods: Also used for long shots, these are a bit smaller than drivers, offering more control and versatility. • Irons: Used for mid-range accuracy, irons range in scale from three to nine. As the scale increases, so will the loft (or clubface angle), while the shaft length shortens. • Hybrids: A cross between woods and irons, hybrids have the same numbering system as irons, allowing for longer shots with the control of a wood. • Wedges: These are the highest lofted clubs, ideal for shorter shots and tricky spots. • Putters: The finishing clubs, putters are designed to smoothly sink the ball into the hole. Gloves Golf gloves help you hold clubs and get a good grip on swings. Balls There are various types of golf balls. Some are for distance, while others, primarily made of softer materials like rubber, are all about control. Tees These little wooden or plastic pegs hold your ball off the ground for the first shot of each hole. They're cheap and easy to carry, so you can stash a handful in your bag. Bag A solid golf bag is your best friend on the course. Look for one with plenty of pockets for balls, tees, gloves, and snacks. Proper Attire Golf courses usually have dress codes to preserve tradition and prevent distractions. They may require players to wear collared shirts, slacks, and spiked golfing shoes. Rules & Etiquette Golf isn't just about skill; it's about regard for the course, your fellow players, and the sport's long legacy. Remember these key points: • Play quickly: There's nothing worse than a slow round of golf. Be ready when it's your turn, and if you're taking a while, let faster players ahead of you. • Respect the course: Leave the course as you found it. Altering the greens is a given, but avoid excessive damage and always clean up after yourself. • Stay quiet: When someone is taking a shot, remain quiet and still so everyone can focus. • Be honest: In golf, you're your own referee. Maintain an accurate score, follow the rules, and play with integrity. Terminology Understanding golf terminology will have you swinging and speaking like a pro. Important terms include: • Par: The expected number of strokes needed to complete a hole. If you make par, you're doing great! • Birdie: Finishing a hole one stroke under par. • Bogey: Finishing a hole one stroke over par. • Eagle: Finishing a hole two strokes under par. • Fore: A call-out to warn others that your ball is headed their way. • Mulligan: An unofficial swing do-over, often permitted in friendly games.