Golf Ball Markers

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Nov

24

2009

Golf Ball Markers

Written by Kevin

Golf ball markers... probably the least talked about item "in your bag", but something that every golfer uses. Boring subject? Yes. But have you really ever thought about your ball marker? Some people are superstitious about what they use, some just use whatever is in their pocket at the time. Rule 20-1 discusses the ball marker but doesn't specify what you can use. A coin, rock, button, or even a beer can is legal.

Prior to the early 1950's, ball markers were not used. Instead, if your opponents ball was more than 6" away from yours, your only option was to chip over their ball, or go around it. It was called a "stymie" and from what I've read, it was often used to prevent your opponent from having a clear putt to the hole. You can read more about the stymie here.

Commercially sold ball markers come in all sizes, shapes, colors, and forms. Some are inexpensive, some aren't cheap. They usually range in size from a dime to a quarter. Some come with matching divot tools. one of my favorites

I usually use the free ones you receive at golf tournaments, or whatever is attached to my glove or in my pocket (usually coins). What do you use? I'm curious so either send me an email with a photo attached, or post a quick comment at the end of this post. Any photos I receive will be posted in a follow up article (as long as I get enough submissions)

Oh, and do you ever wonder what the professional golfers use? Click on the "Read More" button below and you'll see

This one actually looks useful in that you can set up your aim point using the guide on the marker, pick up your ball, and while cleaning it still read the green.

Anyways, just more useless information for you to file away in your brain's golf locker.

Kevin
Roseville, CA

Photo Credit: Golf Digest