Bunker Rake Etiquette

We ask Members from Wednesday, 6 April 2022 to leave bunker rakes inside the bunker.

This is a change from the previous practice of leaving them outside of the bunker.

There are many reasons for the change. It will reduce the likelihood of a ball being deflected into or kept out of a bunker, make bunker rakes easier to find and assist our course staff with maintenance.

With this change it is important to ensure bunker rakes are not left at the side on the side slope of the bunker which may stop a ball rolling into the flat part (base) of the bunker, resulting in a much more difficult shot. Bunker rakes are to be returned to the base of the bunker (raked area) with the handle in the direction of play, the way you are playing the hole.

Bunker rakes are considered movable obstructions. If you find your ball against a bunker rake you may lift and remove the bunker rake. If your ball moves you may replace it. Then play without penalty.

The instructions below have been prepared to assist Members understand correct bunker rake etiquette.

Correct bunker rake etiquette includes:

• Walk in and exit the bunker at the lowest point.
• Avoid walking down steep faces.
• Once you have played your shot use the bunker rake in a push and pull motion to smooth footprints and other indents in readiness for the next player.
• Two hands on the bunker rake makes it a lot easier.
• As you approach the edge, flick turn the bunker rake over and use the back of it to push the sand into the middle of the bunker and smooth your final footprints.
• Once you’ve finished raking the bunker, return the bunker rake to the base of the bunker (raked area) with the handle in the direction of play, the way you are playing the hole.

I take this opportunity to thank Members in advance for their assistance with the implementation of this change.

Regards

David Mason, Course Superintendent