Why and how to repair a pitch mark on the golf course

If you’ve ever hit a solid shot from the fairway or the green and left a small crater on the turf—congratulations, that’s a pitch mark. Also known as a divot mark in English, this tiny imperfection might seem trivial, but repairing it properly is crucial for keeping the course in top condition. Let us explain why it matters so much… and how to do it right.

What is a pitch mark, and how is it formed?

A pitch mark is a small indentation or raised section of turf, usually caused by a ball landing with force on the green. It typically forms after a high, spin-heavy shot. Although it may look harmless, the impact of a golf ball falling from several metres in the air can do more damage than you’d expect.

Why it’s so important to repair it

1. Protects the quality of the green. At Mediterráneo Golf, we take great pride in offering fast, smooth and precise greens—maintained to match the standards of the PGA Tour. A single unrepaired pitch mark can ruin a putt line and affect everyone’s round.
2. Prevents long-term damage. If a pitch mark isn’t fixed within minutes, the grass can die. Once that happens, the area may take weeks to recover and regrow.
3. Shows respect for the course and other players. Fixing your own pitch mark (and another one, if you spot it) is part of golf etiquette. It’s not just about rules—it’s common sense and respect.
4. Reinforces our commitment to excellence. Mediterráneo Golf is a course with legacy—home to tournaments like the Castelló Masters and the place where Sergio García took his first swings. Keeping the course pristine is part of the story we continue to build together.

How to properly repair a pitch mark

It might look simple, but there’s a right way to do it. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to repair it like a true Mediterráneo Golf player:

1. Use a pitch mark repair tool. If you don’t have one, just ask in our Pro Shop.
2. Insert the tool around the edges of the mark. Never stab it into the centre. The trick is to gently push the turf inwards from the outside.
3. Avoid lifting the turf. The goal isn’t to dig—it’s to restore and flatten the surface.
4. Tap it down with your putter. Once the mark is level, give it a few light presses with your putter head to compact the area.
5. It takes less than 30 seconds. Quick, easy, and game-changing.

Every small action makes a big impact

Imagine if every golfer who plays our 18-hole course repaired their own pitch mark—and one more. In a single day, we’d see dozens of marks fixed correctly. This small habit has a huge effect on course maintenance, especially at Mediterráneo Golf, where every detail matters.

Our course, designed by Ramón Espinosa in 1978, is a Mediterranean gem—technically demanding, beautifully landscaped, and lovingly cared for. Its charm and playability depend not just on groundskeeping, but on every golfer who walks its fairways

Repairing a pitch mark isn’t just a matter of etiquette—it’s about respect. Respect for the game, for the course, and for everyone who shares it with you. If you love playing on fast, well-kept greens in a truly unique setting like Mediterráneo Golf, this small gesture is essential.

Ready to put what you’ve learned into practice? Book your tee time now and experience an exceptional round where every shot matters and every player contributes.