Collecting autographs is fun, rewarding and can even be free if you know the right technique.  Every day, people are going to their mailbox and pulling out autographs from their favorite athletes, movie stars and other notables.  If you are a golf fan and/or a collector of autographs, then you are in luck.  This article will provide you with 10 important tips to making your autograph hunt a successful one.

Tip # 1 of 10
When requesting golf autographs through the mail, the first and most important thing to have is an accurate mailing address.  You can reach male golfers in care of the PGA Tour and women golfers in care of the LPGA.  Both addresses are listed below:

PGA TOUR
112 PGA TOUR Blvd.
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

LPGA
100 International Golf Dr.
Daytona Beach, FL 32124

Tip # 2 of 10
When preparing your letter of request, always be polite and complimentary.  It’s best to keep your letter short as most golf professionals are very busy and may be more likely to read your request if it’s brief.

Tip # 3 of 10
Always handwrite your letter and avoid typing it unless your handwriting is unreadable.  The reason is because a typed letter may seem form-like and impersonal, which may lessen your chances of receiving a free golf autograph.

Tip # 4 of 10
Always include a SASE (Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope) with your request.  More often than not, no SASE equals no response.

Tip # 5 of 10
When preparing your SASE, make sure that you include ample postage for the item to be returned to you.  In most cases, if you are requesting a signed photo, two First Class U.S. postage stamps will be sufficient.

Tip # 6 of 10
Write the following caption in the bottom left hand corner of your SASE: “Photo Enclosed - Please Do Not Bend.”  If possible, use a permanent marker and choose black or blue ink so that the writing is bold and will not be overlooked.

Tip # 7 of 10
As you address your envelopes, including your SASE, pay close attention to handwriting.  Print legibly so that your items will be delivered properly and without delay.

Tip # 8 of 10
If possible, mention some aspect of golf or highlight of the golfer’s career in your fan letter.  This will let him/her know that you are a genuine fan who would truly enjoy an autograph.

Tip # 9 of 10
Have patience.  Depending on the time of year that you write, the golf schedule and/or a golfer’s popularity, a response may take awhile.  If you do not receive a reply within six months, try sending your request again.  In some cases, it may be simply impossible to receive a free autograph from certain notables.  However, many are willing signers and are happy to accommodate the requests of their fans.

Tip # 10 of 10
Limit your request to two items if you are sending your own golf collectibles (i.e., trading cards, index cards, photos, etc.) and one item if you are requesting that the golfer send you their own photo.  If your request exceeds either of these two scenarios, it may be construed as greedy and this will not increase your chances of success.

© The Canadian Press, 2007