All visually impaired golfers need a guide to help them line up balls, find balls and find their way around the golf course.

The Guide/golfer relationship is a team effort and lifetime friendships are made.  Our Guides tell must how much they gain by helping the golfer to play and can celebrate with them when they do well.

Top Tips for Guiding Blind Golfers

Practical Advice for Supporting Visually Impaired Players on the Golf Course

Introduction

Guiding a blind or visually impaired golfer is a rewarding experience that requires good communication, patience, and understanding. Here are some essential tips to help you provide effective and respectful guidance.

1. Communicate Clearly

• Introduce yourself and explain your role as a guide.
• Describe the environment, including tee box layout, hazards, and weather conditions.
• Use clear, simple language and avoid jargon unless you are sure the golfer is familiar with it.

2. Establish Trust and Comfort

• Ask the golfer how they prefer to be guided – some may like to hold your arm; others may prefer verbal directions.
• Respect their independence and only offer physical assistance when requested.
• Maintain a calm and reassuring tone throughout the round.

3. Describe Distances and Directions

• Use the clock face method (e.g., “the hole is at 2 o’clock”) to indicate direction.
• Clearly state yardages to the green, hazards, or other landmarks.
• Give feedback on shot outcomes, such as “The ball landed just left of the fairway bunker.”

 

4. Assist with Alignment and Stance

• Help the golfer position their feet and club behind the ball as needed.
• Check alignment with them before each shot, ensuring they are aiming correctly.
• Describe the lie of the ball and any potential obstacles in their swing path.

5. Maintain Safety at All Times

• Watch out for hazards like bunkers, water, or uneven ground, and guide the golfer safely around them.
• Alert the golfer to approaching golf carts or other players.
• Ensure clubs and other equipment are placed out of tripping range.

6. Be Patient and Supportive

• Allow a little extra time for decision-making and movement around the course.
• Celebrate successes and offer encouragement after challenging shots.
• Be respectful of the golfer’s pace and preferences throughout the round.

7. Respect Golf Etiquette

• Stay quiet and still when the golfer is preparing to swing.
• Assist in keeping up with the pace of play without causing stress.
• Ensure both you and the golfer remain courteous and considerate to other players.

8.v Communicate Clearly and Honestly

Always use clear verbal instructions and maintain open dialogue about upcoming shots and hazards on the course. Adapt your guidance to suit the golfer’s communication preferences and remain attentive to their feedback and needs.

9. Know the Rules of Golf

As you will be marking the card of another golfer you should have a knowledge of the R&A Rules of Golf.  Downloading the R&A rules app is very useful.

Conclusion

Guiding a blind golfer is about collaboration, trust, and mutual enjoyment of the game. Following these tips will help create a positive and inclusive golfing experience for everyone involved.