MANSFIELD, P.A. (WENY) - While you are golfing, it is always important to take care of the course as well. In episode 3 of Twin Tiers Tee Time, WENY's Ryan Campbell and Corey Creek Golf Club PGA Professional, Shawn Mitcheltree discuss and demonstrate how to properly fix ball marks on the greens to keep them in great shape. 

Ball marks are the dents golf balls make in a green when someone hits a shot and lands it on the green on the fly. Shawn stresses the importance of fixing ball marks because if done so properly, the mark will heal in about 3 days. If left alone or not fixed properly, it will take about 30 days for the mark to heal and it can kill the effected grass on the green.

Below are the proper steps to take when fixing a ball mark and what to avoid. Ball marks can be fixed with a two-pronged repair tool as seen in the attached video, or a tee can be used as well.

Properly Fixing Ball Marks:

1. Put your ball repair tool or tee in the ground right next to the ball mark and push your hand inward towards the mark.

2. Perform this movement around the entire ball mark.

3. After using your repair tool, step on the ball mark or use your putter to even out the mark.

4. You may notice a small hole still present, but it will fill in within 3 days if the mark was fixed properly.

What to Avoid:

  • Do not twist your repair tool or tee in the ground
  • Do not pull up on the repair tool or tee while in the ground
    • Both of these movements will rip the root system and will kill the grass

To view the full demonstration on properly fixing ball marks on the golf course, click on the attached video.