Pitch Mark Repair

Correctly repairing a pitch mark on the green takes a feww seconds to do properly but will maintain the high quality of our greens.

Rule 16-1c. Repair of hole plugs, ball marks and other damage

The player may repair an old hole plug or damage to the putting green caused by the impact of a ball, whether or not the player's ball lies on the putting green. If the ball is moved in the process of such repair, it shall be replaced without penalty. Any other damage to the putting green shall not be repaired if it might assist the player in their subsequent play of the hole.

A pitchmark repaired incorrectly takes over 3 weeks to heal. Please take the time to look at the photograph on how to correctly repair pitchmarks. Correct repair will help protect the grass root system and benefit all members and visitors to the course.

Good Practice

1. Discard the loose piece of turf taken out by the ball.
2. Insert the pitchmark repairer tool just outside of the back of the pitchmark.
3. Lever the turf towards the centre of the pitchmark.
4. Repeat this motion from all sides of the pitchmark.
5. Gently tap the repaired area with your putter. This action stretches undamaged turf over the pitchmark. providing instant recovery.

Bad Practice

1. DO NOT replace the loose piece of turf taken out by the ball. It will die and delay the healing process.
2. DO NOT pry up the centre of the depression with the repair tool as it exposes the soil and will delay the healing process.
3. DO NOT insert the repair tool and twist it. This only breaks more turf loose.