Foul Weather Tips

            In most parts of the country, you wouldn’t play much golf if you went out only on calm, balmy days.  You are bound to encounter some wind, rain and chilly weather of you are a regular.  Some special things to keep in mind:

            RAINY WEATHER—Be equipped with umbrella, rain suit and cap, towels, extra gloves at all times because weather can change suddenly.  Put cover or extra towel over clubs in bag to keep grips as dry as possible in rain.

            Lightning is the greatest safety hazard in golf.  Don’t wait until a thunderstorm reaches you.  Seek shelter ahead of time.  On the course, avoid open spaces, hilltops and high places, isolated trees, overhead wires and wire fences.  If you can’t get back to the clubhouse, go to low or depressed areas, lightning-protected shelters or into dense woods.  Don’t sit in open areas in golf cars with umbrella up.

            When playing in the rain or on a wet course, use more club than normal because the air is “heavier” and the ball will stop much more quickly … Dry grips and clubface before and after hitting shot … Don’t take as much divot; pick the shot off the turf … Carry chip shots closer to cup on fly and putt more strongly … Be sure you know and take advantages of the rules on “casual water.” 

            WINDY WEATHER—Dress for it, but don’t let it bug you … A slight widening of stance may help you keep your balance … Try to keep your shots low and hit them with longer clubs into the wind; get them up and use less club with the wind.  Allow for drift in crosswind … Be careful about soling your club behind a ball resting in a precarious position in strong wind which may cause it to move.

            COLD WEATHER—Dress warmly, but wear loose-fitting clothes that will not bind you and restrict your swing … Keep your hands warm, perhaps by carrying a safe hand-warming device.  Many “winter” golfers wear thin, cloth gloves with leather palms on both hands … Carry a spare ball or two in your pocket and change at every hole.  A cold ball feels like a rock, has less carry.