Dear Linda,
What should I do with the flagstick after I take it out of the hole? I notice people just dropping it on the green. Is it okay to do that?
Lulu
Dear Lulu,
Dropping the flagstick on the green is a no-no, Lulu. Players should be very careful not to damage the putting green when they lay the flagstick down. Dropping it is bound to leave a dent on the green.
Ideally, the flagstick should be removed and gently laid on the fringe. That procedure has two clear benefits: (1) no chance of damage to the green, and (2) the flagstick will be out of everyone’s way.
As long as we’re discussing flagstick etiquette, I’m going to sneak in a pace of play suggestion. Once everyone’s ball is on the green, the player whose ball is closest to the hole should remove the flagstick (and place it on the fringe). The first player who holes his putt should retrieve the flagstick and replace it as soon as the last person holes out.
I’m glad to see you’re concerned about taking care of the course, Lulu. Your fellow golfers and your course greenkeeper will appreciate your efforts.
Linda
Copyright © 2008 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
