Don't Be That Guy
- Paul Rapley
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
By Paul Rapley:
“Please replace your divots and rake the bunkers.” We’ve all heard these reminders countless times, yet these simple instructions are merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Golf Course Etiquette. It seems in today’s world we hear of increased stories of conflict on the golf course which begs the question Why on earth do golfers get so ornery on the golf course and even after a round? Many reasons pop up but perhaps the more thoughtful question is how we can ingratiate more of our fellow golfing comrades to simply understand the basic tenants of etiquette in a “gentlemen’s game.” Nobody wants to be ‘these guys!” as fun as they may be. So, here’s a few “What Not to Do’s and perhaps a fun tip to avoid.
The Story Teller….the one that just can’t help themselves tell the foursome every detail of their past 10 cruises. No wonder our round lasted 5 hrs. Tip: Nothing wrong with a good story but it’s called the 19th hole for a reason!
The Slow Poke….who lines up every putt from a zillion different angles and still 3 putts! Tip: If it takes you longer than your last relationship to hit a putt, you may want to speed up!
The Close Golfer…..Ah…..the one that stands right behind you on every tee waggling his club. “Oh…I didn’t realize you were hitting!” Tip from the Caddie ranks: Stand where you can only see the players back or front.
Mr. Impatient…also known as the ‘hands on the hips’ guy staring at you back on the tee as if you’re the irritating bug on his windshield! Tip: Well don’t hit your ball back at him for obvious reasons. Maybe a friendly wave or just leave a cold beer on the green. He may need it!
The Not Ready for Primetime Guy….Yes…. the one that waits for everyone to hit then walks out to the fairway to scope his distance and then walks back to the cart to get his club before heading back to his ball. Agony. It’s like waiting for a slow wi-fi connection! Tip: It’s called “Ready Golf” for a reason. Take a few clubs with you on your next hike to play your shot. Surely one of them will work!
The “Sandman”……you know the one’s that take more than 1 attempt to escape the bunker and after digging themselves out, walk right past the 4 rakes around the bunker to their next shot, as if everyone loves playing out of a desert of footprints! Tip: Just a reminder that we’re not at the beach building sandcastles. Keep the bunkers neat for the next golfer, not aspiring architects!
Friendly Reminder. Golf is a game. Keep it light-hearted and be aware of others so you too can be that favorite guy in the group, just not “That Guy”. Fore Please!
PR June/26’
The Heart of Cape Fear National
Cape Fear National Golf Association is not just about playing golf; it’s about building a community. Our members come from many backgrounds, each bringing their unique stories and experiences to the course. This enriches our association, making it a welcoming space for everyone, whether you are a seasoned golfer, just starting, or a seasoned golfer who golfs like he's just starting!
MGA Member Spotlight
Nick Blanchard: Mr. President
Nick and his wife Claudia came to Brunswick Forest from Michigan, having visited the area in 2014, before having a home built in Shelmore 2 years later. They have 2 grown sons that live in the Atlanta area, and both are avid golfers like their dad. Each year around March Madness, the Blanchard men take a 4-day golf getaway which now includes Nick’s grandson. As Nick likes to say, “That is my dream foursome!” How cool is that!
Nick and Claudia became members of the club in 2015 and have witnessed several changes since that time. Nick loves to boast about the beauty and challenge of our great golf course, not to mention the short 5-minute ride to the course. Nick sends a shout-out to all the staff at the club with a special note of praise to our Head Pro, Craig Sandstrum, a great teacher and asset to our membership. In his prior life, Nick spent 33 years at Eastern Michigan University as head of the Management Department, and later the Dean of the business school.
Nick has previously served on Boards that spent too much time talking and not getting anything accomplished. When Joe Rychalski, recruited him to the MGA Board he was leery. However, he soon found that the MGA Board was very efficient and productive. As was the Board under Wild Bill Hagel. As President of our association, Nick would like all our members to know the primary focus of MGA is to provide as enjoyable and fair golf competition as possible. To that end, when the Board cannot come to agreement on best courses of action it will seek input (periodic surveys) from the members. While his six-year Board term will come to an end on January 1, 2027 he doesn’t regret a minute of his service and thanks all the Board members he’s worked with for their commitment to keeping the MGA an excellent organization.