Dressing part almost as important as play on golf course Published Sept. 24, 2007 By Kimberly Woodruff Services Marketing TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- Golf is much more than just a sport -- it is tradition, history and lore, and maybe a little attitude kicked in. Golf has been played since the 16th century and is a game steeped in traditions, and proper dress is just one of those many traditions. Tinker Golf Course takes pride in the appearance of the course, and the same pride is expected from the people who play here. Tinker Golf Course officials are asking that everyone adhere to the dress code in place at the Tinker course. While a dress code may leave some golfers hot under the collar, it is important to remember Tinker is an Air Force base with high standards and officials strive for perfection. It has been said that a person only has one chance to make a first impression. Let's face it, most folks are not pros on the golf course but do want to be cool while among their piers. Looking the part can mean the difference between looking like "Joe Schmoe" or looking like Tiger Woods. After the perception has been created, none would be the wiser, at least until that first slice. Golf is just about the only sport that a person could go out on the course and exhibit no skill, but if they look good, they're accepted as a golfer. Impressions are important in the golf world just as they are in the military and business sector, and a first impression is always appearance. "Golf is a game where we strive for our personal best, and proper dress is just one of the ways we can achieve it," said Dan Hayes, Tinker Golf Course director. "Tinker Golf Course takes pride in the appearance of the course, and we encourage authorized participants and their guests to conform to a dress code policy based on pride in personal appearance to ensure that first impressions are always good ones." A dress code need not be perceived as negative. Think of the perception one would have if everyone on the PGA tour wore tank tops and cut-off shorts. Perhaps golf would not be as impressive, nor would it have become one of the fastest growing sports in America. The Tinker Golf Course dress policy does allow for denim pants and shorts as long as they are not cut off, ripped or worn. Even non-collared shirts such as the ones now being sported on the PGA circuit are permitted; however, T-shirts or tank tops are not. Appropriate golf attire will be worn at all times. Military personnel may practice on the putting and chipping green and the driving range while in uniform. Combat boots are permitted at the driving range, but are not allowed on the putting and chipping green to avoid damage to those areas. The following items are prohibited: T-shirts, undershirts, muscle shirts, tank tops, cut-offs or pants with frayed edges or rips. Appropriate shoes also play an important role for the well-dressed golfer. High-heeled shoes, hiking or combat boots, GI brogans, orthopedic foot casts, flip flops or any other type of shoe that can cause damage to the course are prohibited. Smooth soled canvas or rubber shoes and spikeless or soft spiked shoes are permitted. Metal spikes are no longer allowed. In any instance of questionable attire or cases not covered by the dress policy, the manager on duty has the responsibility and authority to determine what is appropriate dress and proper golf attire. Tinker Golf Course has a well-equipped pro shop that is ready to meet people's need for sporty golf attire including shirts, hats and shoes. Those going to golf at the driving range or putting greens in their uniform should refer to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel, or call 734-2909 for any questions. A Fall Demo Day is scheduled for 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 27. Participants can try out the latest golf products from vendors such as Hogan, Maxfli, Ping, Wilson, Callaway, Titleist, Taylor Made, Cleveland, Mizuno, Cobra, Paradym, Nike and Adams. For more information, call the Tinker Golf Course at 734-2909.