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Golf is a sport in which players hit a small ball with a club, on a grass course with 18 holes. The objective of the game is to complete the course with the fewest number of strokes possible. Golf is typically played by individual players, but it can also be played in teams.

Here are some of the basic rules of golf. There are many other intricacies to the game that can vary based on the game version, level of play, and the specific course being played.

• Equipment: Players use clubs to hit a small ball into a series of holes on the course. Each player is allowed to carry a maximum of 14 clubs in their bag. (see more about the equipment for golf)
• The Course: The golf course is made up of 18 holes, each with its unique design and layout. The course includes hazards such as bunkers, water, and rough areas that make it more challenging to hit the ball.
• Teeing Off: Each hole on the golf course has a designated starting point called the tee box. Players must tee off from the tee and hit the ball down the fairway. The player who has the lowest score on the previous hole has the honor of teeing off first.
• Scoring: Golf is scored by counting the number of strokes it takes to complete each hole. The player with the lowest number of strokes at the end of the round wins the game (though there are other ways of scoring too).
• Penalties: If a player hits the ball out of bounds, they must take a penalty stroke and play the ball from where it went out of bounds. Also, if a player cannot find their ball, they must take a penalty stroke and replay the shot.
• Handicaps: Handicaps are used in golf to help level the playing field for players of different skill levels. A player's handicap is a measure of their skill level and is used to adjust their score to reflect their ability.
• Putting: Once the ball is on the green, players use a putter to try and sink the ball into the hole. The number of strokes it takes to get the ball into the hole on the green is called the player's "putt" count.
• Etiquette: Golf has many rules of etiquette, including allowing faster players to play through, repairing any divots or marks on the green, and avoiding distractions or disruptions during other players' turns.

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Related Pages

• Golf Game Variations
• Discussion of golf-type sports
• The Rules of Disc Golf
• Golfing Terms
• A question of honor - taking turns in golf
• Golf Equipment