[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Originally Posted by photo1902

Us mere mortals will try and leave them in pristine condition for you tour professionals. I mean, they didn’t get back in shape until last week from the previous Christmas.

It is the responsibility of every player, regardless of ability, to leave the course in better conditions than they found it. If you don't understand this or refuse to comply with it, you have no business being on a golf course. It is the second thing in the USGA rule book after defining the game. It is that important.

RULE 1.2 STANDARDS OF PLAYER CONDUCT

All players are expected to play in the spirit of the game by:

Acting with integrity – for example, by following the Rules, applying all penalties, and being honest in all aspects of play.

Showing consideration to others – for example, by playing at a prompt pace, looking out for the safety of others, and not distracting the play of another player.

Taking good care of the course – for example, by replacing divots, smoothing bunkers, repairing ball-marks, and not causing unnecessary damage to the course.

You should check to see whether the Committee has adopted a Code of Conduct, as you could get a penalty if you do not follow it.

It's not only the rules of the game, it's common courtesy and common decency.