The Advantages of Using a Golf Cart Instead Of Walking
There are many advantages to using a golf cart rather than walking between holes on the course. But, properly using one without bothering other golfers can be a challenge. Let's examine some of the many benefits of using a cart, and how to be considerate when using one.
The greatest advantage of using a cart, of course, is that it eliminates the need to walk. Golf courses are often quite large. Even if you're in good shape, it's easy to become fatigued if you have to carry your clubs and bags all over the course. A golf cart will help you conserve your energy for your golf game, and you can carry more equipment if you use a cart.
You'll also be able to stay out of bad weather. For instance, if it's more than about eighty degrees, you'll find yourself getting tired and overheated if you walk. Take a cart and plenty of water to prevent problems from excessive heat, and stay in the shade instead. Driving a golf cart can help you avoid summer's heat and spring and fall's rains without a lot of trouble.
However, if you don't often use a cart, you may have trouble remembering when to move it, or realizing how to drive it effectively. That could send you running back and forth and cause you to get in other golfers' way, making the cart more trouble than it's worth.
Take extra care when driving the cart on wet grass or damp ground, and make sure to avoid muddy areas. Many courses prohibit driving on the rough to minimize the impact on the course. If your partner is old enough to drive the cart and is sitting in the driver's seat, assume that he or she will do the driving.
Come to agreement with your partner about who will move the cart. This will prevent you from leaving it behind and having to walk back to get it. Be considerate, and return to the cart path once you approach the green. Remember to bring the clubs you need with you, and make sure to bring your partner's club if necessary. Remind your partner if you notice that facilities are nearby and you need to take a rest stop.
Plan ahead about where you'll place the cart. A good strategy is to park where it can provide shade if there are no trees or buildings nearby. If you are driving the cart and you partner's ball is next in play, pull up around the right side of the ball with the ball placed mid-way down the cart's length. This way, your partner will have less distance to cover.
Don't drive your cart while other players are hitting, and make sure to never move in front of them. When parking the cart near the green, position it on the side where you'll exit the green. If the ball in play is on a hill you can park nearby, but don't drive on the hill. This can be dangerous.
Estimate how far it is to the green by reading the distance or making note of landmarks, like bushes and other landscape features. Estimate how far you are likely to send the ball. If you don't know which club you'll need, bring more than one so you want have to walk back to the cart multiple times.
Soeren is an expert in golf carts in all shapes and forms. Cheap models, expensive models and anything in between. Read his latest review article titled: Review of Melex Golf Carts. Come visit the site for more cart information.
Filed under Auto by .