"It was so embarrassing - my first shot, on the first tee and I sliced it. I heard the sniggers of the four ball waiting for us to clear; I sensed the disdainful glances of the players already in the 19th hole. And I determined there and then I was never going to set foot on that course again until I was confident my course management was impeccable!

You see, it wasn't just the slice; I'd had some good games but they were not as frequent as I would have liked. My handicap was abysmal; I seemed to end up in the rough far more than my partners and when I found myself in a green side bunker - you could almost guarantee I would have dug through to Australia before I managed to get the ball out and onto the green!

In fact I was reaching the stage where I dreaded asking my friends if they wanted to play a round in case they refused in derision. I was almost ready to give up completely.

Then I discovered an amazing, instructive DVD compilation of golfing tips.

I continued to play my best, most relaxing round. And I did it with total confidence, authority and - even if I say so myself - a little bit of flair! It was the most energizing game I'd ever had. It wasn't perfect; I did manage to go into a bunker - but now I knew how to get out in a single stroke - beautiful!

The Sweet Smell of Success

By the time we reached the 19th hole Gerald was stunned and demanding I tell him my secret; how had I completely transformed my game? I basked in his incredulity! And then - as he bought the loser's round - I shared the secret behind my success."

                                      

You'll enjoy your golf more when you are welcomed at any course; whether it is your local or an unfamiliar course you are visiting. The courtesy you show the other players; your 'golf etiquette' will shout volumes about you as golfer.

Golf etiquette is not only about good manners it's also about safety and consideration on the golf course.

All golf courses have their own idiosyncrasies; little traps to catch you out. Some have sloping fairways; others have hazards such as lakes or immovable obstructions. Having local knowledge helps your game - but more important is how you use that local knowledge. What shots to use; how and when to use straight shots; when is a fade or draw more appropriate?