Google+
Rip One Golf- Golf Instruction, Golf Coaching, Golf Classes and Golf Lessons in Austin, TX

Garry Rippy Golf offers golf lessons, golf coaching, golf instruction, golf classes and golf schools in Austin, TX. This blog contains golf instruction articles, golf tips and golf instruction videos by Garry Rippy, PGA.

Monday, May 16, 2016

Lightning!!

It is that time of year in Texas when late afternoon "pop up" thunderstorms happen and lightning is a likely part of this scenario.  These storms can turn severe very quickly and it is important you know what to do if you get caught on the course.   

Fortunately during this indoor instruction session at the Barton Creek Golf Academy we were safe from the elements, but this bolt came out of nowhere as they commonly do.


When you are on the golf course or practice area, you are vulnerable.  Even when storms are miles away, lightning can be a threat.  In fact, I was in Tarpon Springs, Florida, playing last summer and there was a storm at least 15 miles away near the coast.   Out of nowhere a lightning bolt hit the golf course near the hole we were playing and it sounded like an explosion!  Needless to say we hightailed it to the clubhouse.  This event really made an impact to me how unpredictable lightning can be.

If you are playing or practicing and the course has sounded the horn, immediately stop play and head to a safe place.  If the course does not take this step, it is up to you to take charge and seek shelter if a storm is nearby.

Taking shelter under a tree is NOT the correct course of action.

If you are playing in a tournament and lightning is near, you have the right to discontinue play until it is safe.

Follow this link to the NOAA for information on lightning and safety procedures.

http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/

Let's all be safe!