Golfing addict sets rules through new book

Golf rules in Judy Wittenstein’s life, and she has written a book about it.

“I’m a Prisoner of Golf� is its title. In it, Wittenstein, a Newport Beach Country Club member, take on the rules that govern the game to which she claims she is addicted, although she had never played until she was in her 40s.

“I lived in Manhattan and golf was not an option,� said Wittenstein, who moved from New York City to Southern California in the 1980s. “You’d only carry a club to defend yourself.�

Wittenstein’s book, illustrated with cartoons by Terry Mitchell of Corona del Mar, stemmed from her efforts as club rules chairwoman, a position meant to educate members about the rules of golf without boring them to death. She decided the best way to get their undivided attention was to hang vignettes on the inside of each bathroom stall in the women’s locker room.

To make sure the vignettes were read, she made the members part of the story.

“That, my friends, is referred to as a ‘captive audience,’� Wittenstein said. “The object was to make them laugh and remember the rules. It worked.�

“Everyone began looking forward to the next story, hoping â€� even requesting â€� that they be the next ‘victim.’� Wittenstein said. “The stories took on a life of their own.�

To make sure all the rules were accurately written, Wittenstein submitted them to the U.S. Golf Assn. for review. She said the association was happy to do it and thanked her for efforts to educate others about the rules.

Regardless of where Wittenstein’s book got its start, the rules apply equally to men and women, including the option for them to start their round by hitting off of either the men’s or the ladies’ tee.

But who, besides golfers, would think a rule was needed to cover the theft of a ball by an alligator?

“It has happened,� Wittenstein said.

Wittenstein has hit two holes in one on the club course, the same hole just six weeks apart.

Wittenstein and Mitchell consider their collaboration on the book to be a highlight of both their lives.

“I’m a Prisoner of Golfâ€� is available at Martha’s Book Store on Balboa Island, (949) 673-7185 and can also be ordered by e-mailing [email protected]. The book is priced at $9.95.