26 Feb Repairing Pitch Marks & Divots
Pitch Marks
It is essential that all players are diligent in their repair of pitch marks on greens. A pitch mark that is repaired correctly and as soon as it happens will recover in 24 hours. A badly repaired or unrepaired one will take several weeks to heal. Unrepaired pitch marks also foster disease and infections in the green and can also create an ideal bed for weed seed.
Correctly repairing a pitch mark is as simple as:
- Start at the back of the mark and push forward with your ball repairer (avoid the use of tees or keys)
- Use the repairer around all sides and slowly ease turf toward the centre of the mark. Do not lift the soil upwards this only brings the soil to the surface and largely affects the root system.
- Lastly, flatten by gently tapping the surface using your foot or the sole of your putter.
Replace & Repair Divots
All players must carry and actively use a sand bucket irrespective of whether a cart is used or a player is carrying their clubs.
The following tips are provided on repairing divots:
- The sand provided must be used to repair divots both on the fairways and in the rough.
- Remove any loose turf from the divot.
- Replace the dislodged divot if it is intact back in the scar.
- Gently knock in all sides of the edge of the divot with your club or your shoe to level the surface.
- Lightly fill the divot with sand
- Smooth off the sand with your foot creating a smooth playing surface.
- Players should avoid walking on bare patches to give the grass every opportunity to recover.
Fixing the ground will improve the pace of game since the golf course conditions will be optimal. In addition, our members and visitors will have a better experience at the Maroochy River Golf Club, as the course will be in perfect condition.
