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Golf – A Timeless Sport of Precision and Skill
Unlike many ball sports, golf does not conform to a standardized playing field. The challenge lies in navigating the diverse terrains of each course. These courses typically feature 9 or 18 holes, each with a distinct layout comprising a teeing ground and a putting green with a cup. Between these points, players encounter various landscapes, including fairways, rough areas with tall grass, and hazards such as water, rocks, or sand bunkers. The uniqueness of each hole is a defining characteristic of the sport.
Golf can be played in two main formats: stroke play and match play. Stroke play focuses on achieving the lowest number of strokes over a round, while match play centers on winning the most individual holes in a round, either individually or as a team. Stroke play is the more prevalent format, especially at elite levels of competition.
The modern form of golf traces its roots to 15th century Scotland. The iconic 18-hole round was first introduced at the Old Course at St Andrews in 1764. The Open Championship, known also as the British Open, is golf’s oldest major tournament, first held in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club in Ayrshire, Scotland. This championship is one of the four major tournaments in men’s professional golf, alongside The Masters, the U.S. Open, and the PGA Championship, all of which are hosted in the United States.
In addition to the historical and competitive aspects of golf, the sport enjoys a broad appeal, with institutions like Golf Philippines playing a pivotal role in promoting and organizing golf activities nationwide. Whether engaging in a round at a local course or following the latest events on the Golf Channel, enthusiasts find numerous ways to immerse themselves in the sport. The popularity of mini golf and establishments like Top Golf also highlight the diverse and inclusive nature of golf, making it accessible and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels.
The Rules and Etiquette of Golf
The rules of golf are universally standardized, overseen by The R&A, an organization that was established in 2004 as a successor to The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, and the United States Golf Association (USGA). In an effort to make the rules more accessible and understandable, the USGA and R&A undertook a comprehensive rewrite in 2017, with the revised rule book coming into effect in January 2019.
At the core of golf’s regulations is the principle of fairness, encapsulated by the mantra found on the back cover of the official rule book: “Play the ball as it lies, play the course as you find it, and if you cannot do either, do what is fair.”
Strict regulations govern the amateur status of golfers. Individuals who have received payment for instruction or have played golf for money are not considered amateurs and are barred from amateur-only competitions. However, amateurs may receive certain expenses and non-cash prizes within the boundaries set by the Rules of Amateur Status.
Beyond the formal rules, golfers adhere to a set of unwritten guidelines known as golf etiquette. These guidelines address aspects such as safety, fairness, pace of play, and a golfer’s responsibility to care for the course. While breaches of etiquette do not carry formal penalties, following these guidelines is essential to ensuring a positive experience for all players.
Golf clubs around the world, including those featured in global golf events and platforms like Global Golf Canada, emphasize the importance of these rules and etiquette to maintain the integrity and enjoyment of the sport. For those involved in the sport, whether at a local golf club or at prestigious tournaments like the US Open Golf, adhering to these principles is paramount.
The First Filipino Golf Champion
In 1929, Larry Montes became the first Filipino to compete in the Philippine Open. Montes had developed his golf skills as a caddie at Muni Links and was sponsored by a generous American, though this sponsor’s identity remains unknown.
At that time, winners of the Philippine Open were traditionally invited to sit at the presidential table during the awards dinner. Montes was briefly allowed to sit there but was later asked to leave due to the golf club’s rule that caddies could not enter the clubhouse. This incident led to American member William “Bill” Shaw founding the Wack Wack Golf & Country Club. Shaw was upset by the treatment Montes received and created the Wack Wack Golf & Country Club as a place open to all races and free from discrimination.
Golf in the Philippines
Beginnings
Golf was introduced to the Philippines in 1886 by British workers from the Manila Railway Company, during the Spanish colonial era. They created a simple three-hole course in the paddy fields south of Intramuros, Manila. By 1901, under American rule, a nine-hole course was built near the railway station. This course led to the establishment of the Manila Golf Club and the creation of the Philippine Open in 1913, the country’s first golf tournament.
The Philippine Open
The Philippine Open, also known as the National Open, is the oldest national golf championship in Asia. The first tournament took place in 1913 at a site in Caloocan, where it continued until 1934. Initially, only non-Filipinos could compete in the event from 1913 to 1928.
