Divot repair tool

Abstract

A divot repair tool for a golf club is provided. The repair tool includes a tool body having a base with a bottom surface, and a plurality of teeth extending from the base and spaced from one another about a periphery of the base. The repair tool also has an adapter having a tool-engaging side configured to engage the bottom surface of the base, and a grip- engaging side configured to engage the grip of the golf club. The grip-engaging side is shaped and sized to at least partially conform to a shape of the grip. The tool also has a fastening assembly configured to secure the tool body to the grip and a cap releasably coupled to the tool body and adapted to cover the teeth.

Description

DIVOT REPAIR TOOLTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The technical field generally relates to golf clubs, and more particularly relates to a tool for the grip of the golf club for repairing divots formed on the playing field.BACKGROUND

[0002] In the sport of golf, the putting green, or simply the green, is the area surrounding the hole. The green is typically made from very closely trimmed grass on relatively even, smooth ground configured to allow players to make precision strokes on it. It is traditionally important to maintain the green in good condition, and players can sometimes be expected to assist in the upkeep thereof, for example, when damages occur. In some instances, on an approach shot, balls landing on the green can create indentations, commonly called a ball mark.

[0003] These small divots can become permanent flaws in the green if not repaired quickly. The best people to repair quickly are the golfers themselves. Divot repair tools are available to golfers and are adapted to be carried around to be used when required.

[0004] For instance, US Patent No. 8,882,611 discloses such as divot repair tool, which includes a blade member coupled to a handle disposed relative to the blade at an angle advantageous to repair ball marks. The blade member is movable between an open position and a closed position to facilitate transport and security when handling the tool.

[0005] However, known divot repair tools have to be carried around in addition to the player’s golfing gear, and can be uncomfortable to operate. Therefore, it would be particularly advantageous to provide an apparatus, such as a divot repair tool for assisting a player to repair divots in a more efficient, more precise, more accurate, more reliable, more adjustable, more versatile, more adaptable, more ergonomic and / or more desirable manner, than what is possible with available products and devices.SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect, a divot repair tool for a golf club having a grip at a proximal end thereof is provided. The divot repair tool includes a tool body comprising a base having a bottom surface and a plurality of teeth extending from the base and spaced from one another about a periphery of the base; an adapter having a tool-engaging side configured to engage the bottom surface of the base, and a grip-engaging side configured to engage the grip of the golf club, the grip-engaging side being shaped and sized to at least partially conform to a shape of the grip, a fastening assembly configured to secure the tool body to the grip; and a cap releasably coupled to the tool body and adapted to cover the teeth.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the base is circular, and the adapter is disk-shaped.

[0008] According to an embodiment, the grip-engaging side is curved to at least partially conform to the shape of the grip.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the bottom surface of the base and the toolengaging side of the adapter comprise complementarily-shaped components configured to engage one another to position the tool body in a predetermined configuration relative to the adapter.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components comprise a recess defined in one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and a protrusion extending from the other one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, the protrusion being configured to engage the recess.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the recess and the protrusion have a polygonal shape configured to block rotational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter when the recess and the protrusion are engaged with one another.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the recess and the protrusion have a hexagonal shape.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components comprise a raised rim extending from one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and arabbeted edge defined about the other one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, the raised rim being configured to engage the rabbeted edge.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the rabbeted edge is defined along the periphery of the base, and the raised rim extends from a perimeter of the adapter.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the protrusion extends from the adapter and is centrally positioned relative to the raised rim, and wherein the recess is defined in the bottom surface and is centrally positioned relative to the rabbeted edge.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the fastening assembly comprises an adhesive pad adapted to be positioned between the adapter and the grip and adhere the adapter to the grip.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the adhesive pad is flexible and configured to conform to the shape of at least one of the grip and the grip-engaging side.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the adhesive pad is a double-sided adhesive pad.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the fastening assembly comprises a mechanical fastener configured to extend through the tool body and the adapter to fasten same to the top of the grip.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the tool body and the adapter comprise respective fastener openings defined therethrough and adapted to enable the mechanical fastener to extend through the tool body and the adapter.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the fastener openings are oblong.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the fastener opening of the adapter is centrally positioned relative to the protrusion, and the fastener opening of the tool body is centrally positioned relative to the recess.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the teeth of the tool body extend substantially parallel to one another.

[0024] According to an embodiment, each one of the teeth comprises a bottom end connected to and extending from the base, and a pointed end, opposite the bottom end.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the cap comprises an inwardly extending band, and each one of the teeth comprises an outwardly extending bump, and wherein the cap is adapted to be releasably coupled to the tool body by sliding the inwardly extending band over the outwardly extending bumps of the teeth.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the outwardly extending bumps are co-planar.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the cap comprises a top surface and a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain a ball marker.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the top surface comprises a chamfered edge adjacent the lip, the chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the cap, and wherein the chamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the cap comprises a magnet configured to assist in holding the ball marker within the containment space.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the magnet is connected to an underside of the top surface, inside the cap.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the cap is manually operable to selectively release and disconnect from the tool body.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the adapter comprises a sleeve configured to slide onto the grip of the golf club.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the sleeve comprises a resilient collar configured to be expanded over the grip and to contract about the grip to connect the adapter thereto.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components comprise adapter ridges extending from the tool-engaging side and base ridges extending from the bottom surface of the base, the adapter ridges and the base ridges being configured to engage one another to block rotational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components comprise a projection extending from one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and a cavity defined in the other one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, the projection being configured to engage the cavity to block translational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the projection comprises a neck and a head, the head being wider than the neck, and wherein the cavity comprises an inlet and a headreceiving space shaped and sized to receive the neck and the head, respectively.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the sleeve is made of silicone.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the tool body is made of nylon.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the cap is made of plastic.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the tool body and the adapter are integrally made as a single piece.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the adapter is configured to be integrated with the grip of the golf club.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the adapter is connected to the grip of the golf club during a manufacturing process of the grip.

[0044] According to another aspect, a golf club comprising the divot repair tool as defined above is provided.

[0045] According to another aspect, a golf club grip for connecting to a golf club is provided, the golf club grip includes the divot repair tool as defined above.

[0046] According to another aspect, a divot repair tool for a golf club having a grip at a proximal end thereof is provided. The divot repair tool includes a tool body comprising a base having a base periphery and a plurality of prongs spaced from one another about the base periphery; an adapter having a tool-engaging side configured to engage the base of the tool body and a grip-engaging side configured to engage the grip of the golf club; and a fastening assembly configured to removably secure the tool body to the adapter, wherein the tool body is coupled to the grip upon engaging the grip-engaging side with the grip.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the prongs extend from the base on a first side thereof, and wherein the tool-engaging side of the adapter is configured to engage the base on a second side thereof, opposite the first side.

[0048] According to an embodiment, the second side of the base and the tool-engaging side of the adapter are complementarily shaped and configured to cooperate to have the tool body engage the adapter in a predetermined configuration.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the second side of the base and the tool-engaging side of the adapter are configured to cooperate to block at least one of a rotational movement and an axial movement between the tool body and the adapter when in the predetermined configuration.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the grip-engaging side comprises a sleeve defining an internal cavity and having a bottom opening adapted to enable insertion of the grip into the internal cavity.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the sleeve comprises a resilient collar proximate the bottom opening, the resilient collar being adapted to be deformed to adjust a size of the bottom opening in order to facilitate insertion of the grip into the internal cavity.

[0052] According to an embodiment, upon having the grip inserted into the internal cavity, the resilient collar is adapted to contract about the grip to at least partially secure the adapter thereto.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the sleeve is made of silicone.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the tool body comprises a base opening defined through the base, and the adapter comprises an adapter opening defined through the toolengaging side, and wherein the fastening assembly is configured to extend through the base opening and the adapter opening to removably secure the tool body to the adapter.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the adapter opening opens into the internal cavity of the sleeve, and wherein the fastening assembly is adapted to extend through the base opening to engage the first side of the base, and through the adapter opening to engage surfaces of the internal cavity.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the fastening assembly includes a clip configured to extend through the base opening and the adapter opening from within the internal cavity of the sleeve.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the clip includes a resilient element operable to selectively disengage the base and enable disconnection of the tool body from the adapter.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the resilient element is manually operable.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the tool body, the adapter and the clip are independent components configured to cooperate and connect to one another.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the divot repair tool further includes a cap releasably connectable to the tool body and having a cap housing adapted to cover the prongs.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises an inwardly protruding band, and at least one of the plurality of prongs comprises an outwardly protruding bump, and wherein the cap is releasably connected to the tool body upon sliding the inwardly protruding band over the outwardly protruding bump, thereby preventing removal of the cap from the tool body.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises a top surface adapted to have a ball marker placed thereon, and wherein the cap housing includes a magnet-receiving area enabling a magnet to be connected to the cap housing for assisting in holding the ball marker on the top surface.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the magnet-receiving area is provided on an underside of the top surface, within the cap housing.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain the ball marker.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the top surface comprises a chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the top surface, and wherein the chamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the cap is manually operable to have the inwardly protruding band disengage from the outwardly protruding bump in order to selectively release and disconnect the cap from the tool body.

[0068] According to another aspect, a golf club grip for connecting to a golf club is provided. The golf club grip includes a cylindrical grip body having a hollow interior; an adapter rod adapted to engage the hollow interior of the cylindrical grip body, the adapter rod and the cylindrical grip body defining an annular region therebetween; and a divot repair tool having a tool body comprising a base connectable to the adapter rod and having a base periphery; a plurality of prongs connected to the base about the base periphery and extending therefrom, the plurality of prongs being adapted to engage a ground surface for repairing damage caused thereto during a game of golf; and an elongated portion extending from the base adapted to engage the annular region for integrating the divot repair tool to the grip of the golf club.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the elongated portion and the base of the tool body form a single monolithic piece.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the elongated portion, the base and the plurality of prongs of the tool body form a single monolithic piece.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the tool body is manufactured as a single monolithic piece.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the elongated portion is adapted to slidably engage the annular region to enable sliding the tool body towards the adapter rod for connection therewith.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the adapter rod includes a tool-engaging end adapted to protrude from the cylindrical grip body to facilitate connection with the tool body.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the divot repair tool further comprises a cap removably connectable to at least one of the tool body and the cylindrical grip body, the cap having a cap housing adapted to cover the prongs.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises an inwardly protruding band, and the tool body comprises an outwardly protruding bump, and wherein the cap is releasably connectable to the tool body upon sliding the inwardly protruding band over the outwardly protruding bump, thereby preventing removal of the cap from the tool body.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises a top surface adapted to have a ball marker placed thereon, and wherein the cap housing includes a ball marker retainer configured to assist in holding the ball marker on the top surface.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the ball marker retainer includes a magnet-holder adapted to enable a magnet to be connected to the cap housing for magnetically holding the ball marker on the top surface.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the magnet-holder is provided on an underside of the top surface, within the cap housing.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the cap housing comprises a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain the ball marker.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the top surface comprises a chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the top surface, and wherein the chamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the cap is manually operable to have the inwardly protruding band disengage from the outwardly protruding bump in order to selectively release and disconnect the cap from the tool body.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the golf club is a putter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] Figure 1 is a representation of a golf club having a golf club grip, according to an embodiment.

[0085] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a divot repair tool according to an embodiment.

[0086] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 2, showing a cap disconnected from a tool body, according to an embodiment.

[0087] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 2, showing the tool body connected to an adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0088] Figure 5 is a side view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 4, showing the tool body connected to a tool-engaging side of the adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0089] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 5, taken along line 6-6 and showing complementarily-shaped components enabling connection of the tool body and the adapter.

[0090] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the tool body shown in Figure 4, showing teeth extending from a tool body base, according to an embodiment.

[0091] Figure 8 is a side view of the tool body shown in Figure 7, showing a groove defined proximate the base of the tool body, according to an embodiment.

[0092] Figure 9 is a bottom view of the tool body shown in Figure 7, showing ridges defined on a bottom surface thereof, according to an embodiment.

[0093] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the adapter shown in Figure 4, showing a sleeve adapted to slide over a golf club grip, according to an embodiment.

[0094] Figure 11 is a side view of the adapter shown in Figure 10, showing ridges defined on the tool-engaging side of the adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0095] Figure 12 is a side view of the adapter shown in Figure 11, showing an outline of the tool body coupled to the tool-engaging side of the adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0096] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the cap shown in Figure 3, showing a containment space adapted to hold a ball marker, according to an embodiment.

[0097] Figure 14 is a side view of the cap shown in Figure 13, showing depressions defined on opposite sides thereof, according to an embodiment.

[0098] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the cap shown in Figure 14, taken along line 15-15, showing a magnet chamber defined within the cap, according to an embodiment.

[0099] Figures 16 and 17 are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the divot repair tool, showing a tool body and an adapter configured to be connected using a mechanical fastener, according to an embodiment.

[0100] Figures 18 to 20 are cross-sectional views of the tool body shown in Figure 16 connected to different adapters, each adapter having respective curved surfaces, according to some embodiments.

[0101] Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 16, showing an adhesive pad for connecting the adapter to a golf club grip, according to an embodiment.

[0102] Figures 22 to 24 are top perspective views of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 21 , showing caps connected to the different adapters shown in Figures 18 to 20, according to some embodiments.

[0103] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a golf club grip, showing a cap covering a tool body of a divot repair tool coupled to a distal end of the grip, according to an embodiment.

[0104] Figure 25A is an enlarged view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 25.

[0105] Figures 26 and 27 are exploded perspective views of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 25, showing the cap disconnected from the tool body, according to an embodiment.

[0106] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the golf club grip shown in Figure 25A, showing the adapter and the tool body integrated into the structure of the golf club grip, according to an embodiment.

[0107] Figure 29 is a perspective view of a divot repair tool according to an alternative embodiment.

[0108] Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 29, showing a cap disconnected from a tool body and a ball marker, according to an embodiment.

[0109] Figure 31 is a perspective view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 29, showing the tool body connected to an adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0110] Figure 32 is a side view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 31 , showing the tool body connected to a tool-engaging side of the adapter, according to an embodiment.

[0111] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of the divot repair tool shown in Figure 32, taken along line 33-33 and showing a connector engaging the tool body and the adapter for connecting them together, according to an embodiment.

[0112] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the connector shown in Figure 33, showing resilient arms extending from a circular body, according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] As will be explained below in relation to various implementations, the present disclosure describes apparatuses, devices, methods and / or systems related to golfing equipment, such as golf club accessories and / or attachable tools configured to assist and facilitate golf course upkeep and maintenance. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a divot repair tool (also referred to as “repair tool”, or simply “tool”) configured to assist in repairing ball marks and divots created on a golf course, such as on the green. The repair tool is configured to be connected to a golf club, such as to the grip portion thereof. It is appreciated that the golf club can therefore be manually flipped (e.g., turned upside-down) in order to enable engagement of the ground and / or grass with the repair tool.

[0114] The repair tool includes a tool body having a plurality of teeth or prongs extending therefrom. The teeth are configured to be inserted into the ground, such as into a grassy surface, for displacing patches thereof, for instance, in order to repair defects in the ground. The repair tool can also include an adapter configured to be connected to a wide range of golf club grips. The adapter includes a tool-engaging side configured to enable the tool body to be connected to the adapter. It is therefore noted that the adapter enables or at least facilitates connection of the tool body with the grip of the golf club. The repair tool includes a fastening assembly configured to connect the tool body, the adapter and / or the grip to each other. In addition, the repair tool includes a cap securable to the tool body for covering the prongs when the repair tool is not in use, therefore increasing security of the user, protection of the tool body and improving the general aesthetics of the tool and corresponding golf club.

[0115] The repair tool can also include a ball marker holder configured to hold a ball marker typically used during a game of golf. More specifically, the cap has an upwardlyextending lip provided about a top periphery thereof and defining a containment space for holding the ball marker. The ball marker holder is shaped and sized to assist in holding the ball marker on the cap, and is further configured to facilitate withdrawal and use of the ball marker. It is thus noted that the ball marker can remain readily accessible on the top of the player’s club, instead of being transported in a separate bag or at the bottom of a pants pocket, amidst various other items, for example. The cap can be magnetic, or configured to hold a magnet in order to have the ball marker be magnetized and held within the containment space, although other configurations are possible.

[0116] With reference to Figure 1 , a golf club 5 is shown. The golf club includes a clubhead 6 at a distal end 7 thereof, a shaft 8 and a grip 9 opposite the clubhead 7 at a proximal end 10 thereof. It should be understood that the grip of the golf club can be disconnected from the shaft to allow for maintenance, replacement, etc. As will be described further below, a repair tool is connectable to a top end of the grip 9 such that the golf club can be flipped upside down to enable the grip 9 to engage the ground. It is thus noted that the tool can be similarly removed from the golf club with the grip, thereby allowing the tool to be carried with the grip. Alternatively, the tool can be simply removed from the grip, replaced by another tool, among other possible operations. In some embodiments, the golf club 5 corresponds to a putter such that the divot repair tool can be used while putting. However, it is appreciated that any type of golf club can be provided with the divot repair tool of the present disclosure. It should be further noted that the divot repair tool of the present disclosure can be connected to any other suitable component, such as a simple rod or walking cane, for instance, which can be used to operate the divot repair tool.

[0117] Now referring to Figures 2 to 15, in addition to Figure 1 , an embodiment of the repair tool 12 is shown. In this embodiment, the repair tool 12 includes a tool body 14, an adapter 16 and a cap 18. Broadly described, the adapter 16 is configured to be connected to the top end of the grip 9 of the golf club, with the tool body 14 being connectable to the adapter 16. The cap 18 is adapted to be removably connected to the tool body and is shaped and sized to cover the tool body 14. In some embodiments, the tool body 14 can be referred to as a “crown” and includes a base 20 and a plurality of teeth 22 extending from the base 20. The tool body 14 can be a monolithic structure, where the base 20 and the teeth 22 are integrally formed together as a single piece. The tool body 14 and adapter16 can be generally circular to at least partially match the shape of the grip 9, which is also typically circular, although other configurations are possible.

[0118] Referring more specifically to Figures 4 to 8, the teeth 22 can be spaced from one another about a periphery of the base 20. In this embodiment, the teeth 22 are spaced at regular intervals around the base 20, although spacing the teeth at irregular intervals is also possible and may be implemented. Each one of the teeth illustratively have a bottom end 23 connected to and extending from the base 20, and a pointed end 25, opposite the bottom end 23. The pointed ends 25 are free ends configured to be inserted into the grass to enable displacing (e.g., raising) a portion thereof for repairing defects. Each one of the teeth 22 can extend generally in the same direction. In some embodiments, the teeth 22 are parallel to each other although it is appreciated that the teeth 22 can alternatively extend at an angle. For example, the teeth can extend towards one another (e.g., towards a common center) and / or away from each other by any suitable angle. In this embodiment, the teeth 22 extend generally perpendicularly relative to the base 20 and define a central depression or pit 24 therebetween.

[0119] In some embodiments, the tool body 14 can include ridges 98 extending between and connecting adjacent teeth 22 to one another. The ridges 98 are configured to provide increased rigidity to the teeth 22. In this embodiment, the ridges 98 illustratively extend between adjacent teeth proximate the bottom end 23 of each tooth, although other configurations are possible. It is noted that providing ridges 98 proximate the bottom end 23 allows for a greater insertion length of the teeth 22 into the ground / grass, while providing bigger / taller ridges can provide additional structural rigidity but define a shorter insertion length of the teeth into the ground. In this embodiment, each one of the ridges 98 is generally identical, although it is appreciated that ridges of varying sizes can be used.

[0120] In this embodiment, and as seen in Figures 10 to 12, the adapter 16 includes a first side, or tool-engaging side 26, and a second side, or grip-engaging side 28. The gripengaging side 28 is configured to contact and engage with the grip of the golf club. More specifically, the grip-engaging side 28 can include an arcuate or curved surface adapted to at least partially conform to the shape of the grip, and more particularly, to conform to the shape of a top end (e.g., pommel) of the grip. The adapter 16 is securable to the grip and cooperates with the tool body 14 to facilitate securing the tool body 14 to the grip (andtherefore to the golf club). In this embodiment, the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 include cooperating features configured to enable cooperation and engagement between the tool body 14 and the adapter 16. In some embodiments, the cooperating features can include complementarily-shaped components 30 configured to engage one another to position the tool body 14 and / or the adapter 16 in predetermined configurations relative to each other and / or the grip.

[0121] The repair tool 12 can also include a fastening assembly 40 configured to secure the tool body 14 and / or the adapter 16 to the grip, either directly or indirectly. In some embodiments, the fastening assembly 40 can be configured to permanently attach the adapter to the grip and / or the tool body to the adapter, although it is noted that the fastening assembly 40 can alternatively be configured to releasably attach the adapter to the grip and / or the tool body to the adapter. In this embodiment, the adapter 16 includes a sleeve 70 configured slide onto the grip of the golf club for connecting the repair tool 12 to the grip. The tool body 14 is adapted to be coupled to the tool-engaging side 26 of the sleeve 70 via the complementarily-shaped components 30, as described above. The cap 18 can be adapted to clip onto the tool body 14 in order to protect the repair tool 12 and the golfer.

[0122] The sleeve 70 can have a substantially hollow interior 72 defining an internal cavity adapted to receive the grip of the golf club. In this embodiment, the sleeve 70 includes a bottom end 74 provided with an opening 75 through which the golf club can extend. The sleeve includes a resilient collar 76 provided proximate the bottom end 74 and configured to be manually deformed (e.g., expanded) to fit over the grip. Once in position, the resilient collar 76 is released and configured to revert to an initial configuration (e.g., contract) around the grip, thereby connecting the adapter (i.e. , the sleeve) thereto. The resilient collar 76 has a smaller diameter than the opening 75 and / or the hollow interior 72, and is configured to constrict the grip when positioned over it. The resilient collar 76 therefore holds the sleeve 70 in place on the grip. It should however be noted that applying sufficient force (e.g., by pulling the sleeve and the grip apart), the sleeve can be made to disengage the grip. It should also be noted that the adapter (e.g., the sleeve 70) can have an integrated fastening assembly 40, and can therefore be installed and removed from the grip of the golf club as desired, when required and / or without the use of tools.

[0123] It should be noted that, while the collar 76 of the sleeve has been described as being stretchable and resilient, the sleeve 70 can be made of a material allowing additional parts of the sleeve to be flexible, stretchable and / or resilient. In some embodiments, generally the entire body of the sleeve 70 which defines the hollow interior 72 can be flexible, stretchable and / or resilient to allow the sleeve to fit over various sizes of golf club grips.

[0124] In this embodiment, the tool body 14 is adapted to be coupled to the toolengaging side 26 of the adapter 16 via the complementarily-shaped components 30. For example, and reference to Figures 4 to 12, the base 20 of the tool body 14 includes a bottom surface 21 having a first complementarily-shaped component 30a. The toolengaging side 26 of the adapter 16 can include a second complementarily-shaped component 30b configured to engage the first complementarily-shaped component to position the tool body 14 in a predetermined configuration relative to the adapter 16, and / or vice-versa. In this embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components 30 can include complementarily-shaped ridges 78 provided on each one of the tool body 14 and the adapter (e.g., the sleeve 70). More specifically, the complementarily-shaped ridges 78 can include adapter ridges 78a extending from the tool-engaging side of the adapter 16, and base ridges 78b extending from the bottom surface 21 of the base 20. The adapter ridges 78a and the base ridges 78b are configured to engage one another for coupling the tool body to the adapter.

[0125] In some embodiments, the complementarily-shaped components 30 (e.g., the complementarily-shaped ridges 78) can have specific shapes which, when engaged with one another, allows positioning the tool body 14 in a predetermined configuration. In addition, engaging the complementarily-shaped components 30 together can block one or more degrees of freedom of the tool body 14 relative to the adapter to maintain the tool body 14 in the predetermined configuration. For example, in this embodiment, the complementarily-shaped ridges 78 have matching profiles configured to block rotational movement of the tool body 14 relative to the adapter 16 when engaged with one another.

[0126] In addition, and as seen in Figures 6 and 10 to 12, the bottom surface 21 and the tool-engaging side 26 can include alternate, or additional complementarily-shaped components 30. For example, in this embodiment, the complementarily-shapedcomponents 30 can include a projection 80 extending from one of the tool body and the adapter, and a cavity 82 defined in the other one of the tool body and the adapter. The projection 80 is configured to engage the cavity 82 to block relative movement between the tool body and the adapter, and therefore secure the tool body to the adapter 16. In this embodiment, the projection 80 extends from the tool-engaging side of the adapter 16, and the cavity 82 is defined in the tool body 14. The projection 80 and the cavity 82 are configured to cooperate in order to secure the tool body 14 in position. For example, the projection 80 includes a neck 84 and a head 85, and the cavity 82 comprises an inlet 86 and a head-receiving space 87 shaped and sized to receive the neck 84 and the head 85, respectively. As seen in Figure 10, the head can be wider than the neck, such that, once the head is inserted into the head-receiving space 87, the geometry of the projection and of the cavity prevents the projection from disengaging the cavity. The tool body 14 is therefore secured to the adapter.

[0127] In some embodiments, the projection 80 can be malleable and / or flexible and can thus be deformed to allow the head 85 to initially enter the head-receiving space 87 via the inlet 86. Once inserted, the head 85 reverts to its initial shape, which can prevent accidental disengagement thereof. It should however be noted that applying sufficient force (e.g., by pulling the tool body and the adapter apart), the head can be made to disengage the head-receiving space. Alternatively, the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 can be molded together, such as a singular piece. Alternatively, the tool body 14 can be molded separately, but atop the adapter 16 to encase the projection 80 in the cavity 82 during manufacturing. Other manufacturing methods can be used and are possible for forming the repair tool.

[0128] Now referring to Figures 2, 3 and 13 to 15, the cap 18 of the repair tool 12 is shown in a disconnected position (Figure 3) and a connected position (Figures 2). It is noted that the cap 18 can be connected to the tool body and / or the adapter, which are secured to the grip of the golf club.

[0129] The cap 18 can be removably connectable to either one or both of the tool body 14 and the adapter 16. In this embodiment, the cap includes the inwardly extending band 51 provided proximate a bottom edge thereof. The inwardly extending band 51 is configured to slide over the tool body 14 and engage a groove 94 (seen in Figures 7 and8) defined therealong. The cap 18 can thus be coupled to the tool body 14. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cap 18 includes a pair of the slits 52, provided opposite each other and configured to facilitate disconnection of the cap from the tool body 14. Moreover, the cap 18 is provided with a pair of depressions 96 defined proximate respective slits 52 and configured to facilitate placement of fingers, for example. To operate the cap 18 and disconnect it from the tool body, a force can be applied to each depression (e.g., manually), which biases the bottom edge of the cap outwardly due to the shape of the slits 52. It is noted that biasing the bottom edge outwardly causes the inwardly extending band 51 to disengage from the groove 94, allowing the cap to be removed.

[0130] In this embodiment, the cap 18 can be configured to hold another component, such as a ball marker 110 (shown in Figures 29 and 30) used during a game of golf. As seen in Figures 13 to 15, the cap 18 can include a lip 54 or wall extending above a top surface 55 thereof. The lip 54 extends about a periphery of the top surface 55 to define a containment space 56 for holding the ball marker 110. It is appreciated that the lip 54 is shaped and sized to assist in holding the ball marker on the top surface 55. For example, the height of the lip 54 can correspond to the thickness of a typical ball marker 110, although other configurations are possible. In some embodiments, the lip 54 includes a single lip portion 58 extending by any suitable length around the periphery of the top surface 55. Alternatively, and as illustrated in Figures 22 to 24, the lip 54 can include two or more lip portions 58 spaced from one another about the periphery of the top surface 55, defining gaps 60 therebetween. It should be noted that, when the lip 54 includes a single lip portion 58, a single gap 60 is defined between opposite ends of the lip portion 58. The gaps 60 can be shaped and sized to facilitate withdrawal of the ball marker from the containment space 56.

[0131] In some embodiments, the top surface 55 has one or more chamfered edges 62 defined adjacent the lip portions 58. The chamfered edges 62 illustratively extend downwardly relative to the top surface 55 and can further facilitate withdrawal of the ball marker 110. It should be understood that the chamfered edges 62 comprises chamfered edge portions 64 provided along the periphery of the top surface 55 within the gaps 60 (e.g., between two adjacent lip portions 58). In this embodiment, the cap 18 further includes a magnet 66 (represented in stippled lines in Figure 21) connected to an inner side of the cap 18, such as against the top surface 55. The magnet is configured tomagnetize to the ball marker (e.g., through the top surface 55) positioned within the containment space 56 to hold it in place. In this embodiment, the cap 18 includes a magnet chamber 90 provided within the hollow interior 72. The magnet chamber 90 illustratively includes one or more resilient hooks 92 extending from the top surface 55 and configured to enable the magnet to be pushed or “clipped” into the magnet chamber. In other embodiments, the magnet can be glued to the inside of the cap 18, although other configurations are possible.

[0132] Now referring to Figures 16 to 21 , another embodiment of the repair tool 12 is shown. In this embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components 30 include a recess 32 defined in one of the bottom surface 21 and the tool-engaging side 26, and a protrusion 34 extending from the other one of the bottom surface 21 and the tool-engaging side 26. It should thus be noted that the protrusion 34 is shaped, sized and configured to engage the recess 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the recess 32 is defined in the bottom surface 21 of the base 20, while the protrusion 34 extends from the tool-engaging side 26 of the adapter 16. The recess 32 and the protrusion 34 illustratively have matching polygonal shapes, such as a hexagonal shape, although it is appreciated that they can have any other suitable shape adapted to prevent rotation of the tool body 14. It is appreciated that the matching shape of the recess and protrusion can be configured to block rotational movement of the tool body and the adapter relative to each other when engaged together.

[0133] In some embodiments, the shape of the recess 32 and the protrusion 34 can include one or more lines of symmetry, which allows for the tool body 14 to engage the adapter 16 in a corresponding number of positions. For example, in this embodiment, the tool body 14 can be rotated in six (6) different positions (due to the hexagonal shape) and still be able to engage the adapter 16. However, in alternate embodiments, the recess and the protrusion can include a feature or structure which limits the relative position of the tool body 14 and the adapter 16. For instance, a notch (not shown) can be defined about the protrusion 34, with a corresponding protuberance (not shown) extending from the recess 32 for engaging the notch. Therefore, the tool body 14 can be connected to the adapter 16 in a single, predetermined position.

[0134] Still referring to Figures 16 to 21 , the bottom surface 21 and the tool-engaging side 26 can include alternate, or additional complementarily-shaped components 30. Inthis embodiment, the complementarily-shaped components 30 can include a raised rim 36 extending from one of the bottom surface 21 and the tool-engaging side 26, and a rabbeted edge 38 defined about the other one of the bottom surface 21 and the toolengaging side 26. The raised rim 36 and the rabbeted edge 38 are configured to engage one another to assist in positioning and connecting the tool body 14 to the adapter 16. It is noted that the combination of the raised rim 36 and rabbeted edge 38, along with the recess 32 and the protrusion 34, can facilitate connecting the tool body 14 to the adapter 16.

[0135] In this embodiment, the rabbeted edge 38 is defined along the periphery of the base 20, and the raised rim 36 extends from a perimeter of the adapter 16. In addition, the protrusion 34 can be positioned in a center of the tool-engaging side 26, such as in a center of the raised rim 36. Similarly, the recess 32 can be defined in a center of the bottom surface 21 , such as in a center of the rabbeted edge 28. It is therefore noted that engaging the raised rim with the rabbeted edge aligns the protrusion with the recess, thereby facilitating engagement.

[0136] In this embodiment, the fastening assembly 40 includes a mechanical fastener 42 (e.g., screw, nail, bolt, etc.) configured to extend through the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 for connection thereof to the grip. As seen in Figures 16 to 21 , the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 can include respective fastener openings 44 defined therethrough and adapted to enable the mechanical fastener 42 to extend through the tool body and the adapter. The mechanical fastener 42 can include a head 43 configured to engage the tool body 14 within the pit 24 to fasten the tool body 14 onto the adapter 16. It is appreciated that the mechanical fastener 42 is also configured to fasten the assembled tool body 14 and adapter 16 onto the grip of the golf club.

[0137] In some embodiments, the fastener openings 44 can be oblong to allow the position of the adapter (and the tool body 14 engaged therewith) to be adjusted on the grip prior to fastening the repair tool completely. In other words, the mechanical fastener 42 extends through the fastener openings 44 and at least partially into the grip, with the size and shape of the fastener openings 44 enabling movement of the adapter and tool body. Once the repair tool is in the desired position, such as on the center of the grip, the mechanical fastener 42 can be fully fastened to secure the tool onto the grip. In thisembodiment, the fastener openings 44 are centrally positioned. More particularly, the fastener opening 44 of the tool body 14 extends through a center of the bottom surface 21 , which can correspond to the center of the recess 32, and opens in the pit 24. Similarly, the fastener opening 44 of the adapter 16 is defined in the center thereof, which can correspond to the center of the protrusion 34, and opens on the grip-engaging side 28 (as seen in Figure 17).

[0138] Referring more specifically to Figure 21 , the fastening assembly 40 can include an adhesive configured to connect the adapter to the grip. In this embodiment, the fastening assembly 40 includes an adhesive pad 46 adapted to be positioned between the adapter 16 and the grip to enable adhering the adapter to the grip. It is noted that the adhesive pad 46 corresponds to a double-sided adhesive pad, with adhesive provided on both sides thereof. In this embodiment, the adhesive pad 46 is flexible and can thus be configured to at least partially conform to the shape of the grip when overlaid and adhered thereto. The grip-engaging side 28 of the adapter 16 can then be pressed onto the adhesive pad 46 for securing the adapter to the grip. The tool body 14 can then be made to engage the adapter 16, and the mechanical fastener 42 can then extend through the fastener openings 44 to secure the assembly (i.e. , the tool body and the adapter) to the grip.

[0139] In some embodiments, with the adapter 16 secured to the grip via the adhesive pad 46, the mechanical fastener 42 can be configured to only connect the tool body 14 to the adapter 16, without extending into the grip. However, it should be noted that the mechanical fastener 42 can alternatively extend through the tool body, the adapter and the adhesive pad to further secure the components of the repair tool to the grip.

[0140] As seen in Figures 22 to 24, the cap 18 can be installed over the different adapters 16a, 16b, 16c, which can be differentiated while the cap is in the connected position. For example, the different adapters can be color coded, enabling identification thereof without having to disassemble and disconnect the repair tool 12 from the grip or remove the cap from the tool.

[0141] In this embodiment, the cap 18 is configured to be coupled with the tool body 14. As seen in Figure 21 , the teeth 22 of the tool body can each include an outwardly extendingbulge or bump 50, and the cap 18 includes an inwardly extending band 51 (seen in Figures 15 and 17) adapted to slide over the bumps 50 of each one of the teeth 22. It is therefore noted that the cap 18 can be selectively connected and disconnected from the tool body 14 by applying sufficient force to slide the inwardly extending band over the bumps. In this embodiment, to facilitate connection and disconnection of the cap 18, the cap can be flexible, such as made from flexible material and / or include slits 52, as previously described, facilitating deformation of the cap 18 to enable disengagement of the inwardly extending band 51 from the tool body 14. When the inwardly extending band 51 is disengaged (e.g., no longer contacts the tool body 14), the cap 18 can be removed.

[0142] Now referring to Figures 25 to 28, in some embodiments, the repair tool 12 can be integrated with the golf club, and more specifically, with the grip of the golf club. The tool body 14 and the cap 18 can be substantially the same as previously described. However, the adapter 16 can correspond to one or more structural components 100 of the golf club or golf club grip, such that the tool body 14 is connectable to the adapter, and is thus built into the grip. In some embodiments, the repair tool can be integrated to an after market third-party grip or integrated to the grip during the manufacturing process of the club, although other configurations are possible.

[0143] As seen in Figure 28, the grip 9 can include a hollow interior 102 in which the adapter can be inserted. In this embodiment, the adapter has a cylindrical body 104 configured to be inserted in the hollow interior of the grip 9. The tool-engaging side 26 can at least partially protrude from the grip (i.e., from the hollow interior) to enable the tool body 14 to be connected thereto. In addition, the cylindrical body 104 of the adapter and the grip (e.g., a body or casing of the grip) can define an annular region 105 therebetween. In some embodiments, the tool body 14 can include an elongated portion configured to engage the grip, such as a tail or tube 106. The tube 106 is configured to engage the annular region 105 upon connecting the tool body 14 with the adapter, thereby providing increased structural rigidity to the tool body 14 and to the grip 9. The tool body 14 can be made of a singular monolithic piece such that the teeth, the base and the tube 106 form a single part. The tool body 14 can thus be coupled to the adapter, and therefore to the grip 9, by engaging the tube 106 with the annular region 105 until the base can be connected to the tool-engaging side 26 of the adapter. The repair tool 12 can thus be an integratedcomponent of the club grip 9 and can be selectively connected to various clubs along with said grip.

[0144] Now referring to Figures 29 to 34, another embodiment of the repair tool 12 is shown. In this embodiment, the repair tool 12 includes the tool body 14 and the adapter 16, similar to previously described embodiments. More specifically, the tool body 14 includes a base 20 and a plurality of teeth 22 extending from the base 20. The base is connectable to the adapter 16, which is in turn connectable to a golf club grip. In this embodiment, the adapter corresponds to a grip sleeve 70 configured slide onto the grip of the golf club for connecting the repair tool 12 to the grip.

[0145] The tool body and adapter include complementarily-shaped components 30 configured to engage one another to position the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 in predetermined configurations relative to each other. In this embodiment, the sleeve 70 includes the rabbeted edge 38 and the base 20 of the tool body 14 includes the complementarily-shaped rim 36 configured to engage the rabbeted edge. In addition, the tool body 14 can be removably secured to the adapter 16 via a connector 112 configured to engage both the tool body and the adapter. Particularly, the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 can also include respective connector openings 114 adapted to substantially align with one another, for example, upon engaging the complementarily-shaped components 30 together. The connector 112 is then adapted to extend through the aligned connector openings 114 to secure the tool body 14 and the adapter 16 together.

[0146] As seen in Figures 33 and 34, the connector 112 can include a connector body 116 and connector arms 118 extending from the connector body 116. The connector arms 118 are configured to extend through the connector openings 114 such that a distal end thereof is adapted to engage one of the tool body 14 and the adapter 16, while the connector body 116 engages the other one of the tool body 14 and the adapter 16. In this embodiment, the connector 112 is adapted to “clip” into the connector openings. The connector arms are generally resilient and can be at least partially bent to enable disengagement of the connector arms (and thus of the connector 112) from the connector openings 114, which enables disconnection of the tool body from the adapter. In this embodiment, the connector 112 is configured to clip into the aligned connector openings from within the sleeve 70 such that the connector arms engage the tool body and theconnector body engages the sleeve. However, it is appreciated that other configurations are possible, such as having the connector clip into the connector openings from above (e.g., from the tool body).

[0147] In some embodiments, the tool body, the adapter and the connector 112 can have complementarily-shaped features configured to bias the connector 112 in engagement with the tool body and the adapter in a predetermined position and / or configuration. For instance, the connector 112 can include a central aperture 120 configured to engage central parts 122, 124 of each one of the tool body and the adapter. The connector can thus be centrally positioned relative to the adapter and the tool body upon engaging the connector openings. This configuration can facilitate operation of the connector 112.

[0148] In some embodiments, the components of the repair tool 12 can be made of any suitable material. For instance, the tool body 14 and the disk-shaped adapter 16 (Figures 2 to 10) can be made of nylon, while the cap 18 can be made of plastic. The adapter sleeve 70 can be made of silicone, although other materials, or combination thereof are possible.

[0149] It should be noted that different adapters can be used depending on the golf club to which the repair tool is being connected. Broadly referring to Figures 1 to 24, the different adapters can include the grip-engaging side 28 having an engagement surface 29 with respective geometries. For example, the curvature of each engagement surface 29 can vary from one adapter 16 to the other. More specifically, the engagement surface 29 can have a dome-shaped configuration, and depending on the shape of the grip of the golf club, a steeper and / or deeper dome can be required to increase conformity. However, each adapter 16 can have substantially identical tool-engaging sides, and corresponding parts (e.g., ridges, raised rim, protrusion, etc.) such that the tool body 14 can easily be coupled to the adapter, and therefore connected to the golf club. In other words, whatever the shape or the size of the grip of the golf club, an adapter can be chosen which at least partially conforms to that shape and size. Therefore, the contact surface between the repair tool and the grip can be increased compared with if the tool body 14 was directly coupled to the grip. It is therefore noted that the repair tool comprises a one-piece adaptivesystem enabling the tool body (i.e., the crown) to be coupled to substantially any grip, having any geometry, via the one-piece adaptive system (i.e., via the adapter).

[0150] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the subject matter of the claims. The described example implementations are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. The present disclosure intends to cover and embrace all suitable changes in technology. The scope of the present disclosure is, therefore, described by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the implementations set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

[0151] In the present disclosure, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the described features. The various appearances of “one embodiment,” “an embodiment” or “some embodiments” do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments. Although various features may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the system and / or the associated units may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, it may also be embodied in a single embodiment. Reference in the specification to “some embodiments”, “an embodiment”, “one embodiment”, or “other embodiments”, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily in all embodiments.

[0152] As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “coupling”, “attached”, “connected” or variants thereof as used herein can have several different meanings depending in the context in which these terms are used. For example, the terms coupled, coupling, connected or attached can have a mechanical connotation. For example, as used herein, the terms coupled, coupling or attached can indicate that two elements or devices are directly connected to one another or connected to one another through one or more intermediate elements or devices via a mechanical element depending on the particular context.

[0153] In the above description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several references numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features may be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The implementations, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and / or dimensions shown in the figures are optional, and are given for exemplification purposes only.

[0154] In addition, although the optional configurations as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprises various components and although the optional configurations of the divot repair tool as shown may consist of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e., should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that other suitable components and cooperations thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the implementation and use of the divot repair tool, and corresponding parts, as briefly explained and as can be easily inferred herefrom, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A divot repair tool for a golf club having a grip at a proximal end thereof, the divot repair tool comprising : a tool body comprising a base having a bottom surface and a plurality of teeth extending from the base and spaced from one another about a periphery of the base; an adapter having a tool-engaging side configured to engage the bottom surface of the base, and a grip-engaging side configured to engage the grip of the golf club, the grip-engaging side being shaped and sized to at least partially conform to a shape of the grip, a fastening assembly configured to secure the tool body to the grip; and a cap releasably coupled to the tool body and adapted to cover the teeth.

2. The divot repair tool of claim 1 , wherein the base is circular and the adapter is diskshaped.

3. The divot repair tool of claim 1 or 2, wherein the grip-engaging side is curved to at least partially conform to the shape of the grip.

4. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bottom surface of the base and the tool-engaging side of the adapter comprise complementarily-shaped components configured to engage one another to position the tool body in a predetermined configuration relative to the adapter.

5. The divot repair tool of claim 4, wherein the complementarily-shaped components comprise a recess defined in one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and a protrusion extending from the other one of the bottom surface and the toolengaging side, the protrusion being configured to engage the recess.

6. The divot repair tool of claim 5, wherein the recess and the protrusion have a polygonal shape configured to block rotational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter when the recess and the protrusion are engaged with one another.

7. The divot repair tool of claim 5 or 6, wherein the recess and the protrusion have a hexagonal shape.

8. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the complementarily- shaped components comprise a raised rim extending from one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and a rabbeted edge defined about the other one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, the raised rim being configured to engage the rabbeted edge.

9. The divot repair tool of claim 8, wherein the rabbeted edge is defined along the periphery of the base, and the raised rim extends from a perimeter of the adapter.

10. The divot repair tool of claim 8 or 9, wherein the protrusion extends from the adapter and is centrally positioned relative to the raised rim, and wherein the recess is defined in the bottom surface and is centrally positioned relative to the rabbeted edge.

11. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the fastening assembly comprises an adhesive pad adapted to be positioned between the adapter and the grip and adhere the adapter to the grip.

12. The divot repair tool of claim 11 , wherein the adhesive pad is flexible and configured to conform to the shape of at least one of the grip and the grip-engaging side.

13. The divot repair tool of claim 11 or 12, wherein the adhesive pad is a double-sided adhesive pad.

14. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the fastening assembly comprises a mechanical fastener configured to extend through the tool body and the adapter to fasten same to the top of the grip.

15. The divot repair tool of claim 14, wherein the tool body and the adapter comprise respective fastener openings defined therethrough and adapted to enable the mechanical fastener to extend through the tool body and the adapter.

16. The divot repair tool of claim 15, wherein the fastener openings are oblong.

17. The divot repair tool of claim 15 or 16, wherein the fastener opening of the adapter is centrally positioned relative to the protrusion, and the fastener opening of the tool body is centrally positioned relative to the recess.

18. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the teeth of the tool body extend substantially parallel to one another.

19. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein each one of the teeth comprises a bottom end connected to and extending from the base, and a pointed end, opposite the bottom end.

20. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the cap comprises an inwardly extending band, and each one of the teeth comprises an outwardly extending bump, and wherein the cap is adapted to be releasably coupled to the tool body by sliding the inwardly extending band over the outwardly extending bumps of the teeth.

21. The divot repair tool of claim 20, wherein the outwardly extending bumps are coplanar.

22. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the cap comprises a top surface and a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain a ball marker.

23. The divot repair tool of claim 22, wherein the top surface comprises a chamfered edge adjacent the lip, the chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

24. The divot repair tool of claim 22 or 23, wherein the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the cap, and wherein thechamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

25. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the cap comprises a magnet configured to assist in holding the ball marker within the containment space.

26. The divot repair tool of claim 25, wherein the magnet is connected to an underside of the top surface, inside the cap.

27. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the cap is manually operable to selectively release and disconnect from the tool body.

28. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the adapter comprises a sleeve configured to slide onto the grip of the golf club.

29. The divot repair tool of claim 28, wherein the sleeve comprises a resilient collar configured to be expanded over the grip and to contract about the grip to connect the adapter thereto.

30. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 4 to 29, wherein the complementarily- shaped components comprise adapter ridges extending from the tool-engaging side and base ridges extending from the bottom surface of the base, the adapter ridges and the base ridges being configured to engage one another to block rotational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter.

31. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 4 to 30, wherein the complementarily- shaped components comprise a projection extending from one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, and a cavity defined in the other one of the bottom surface and the tool-engaging side, the projection being configured to engage the cavity to block translational movement of the tool body relative to the adapter.

32. The divot repair tool of claim 31 , wherein the projection comprises a neck and a head, the head being wider than the neck, and wherein the cavity comprises aninlet and a head-receiving space shaped and sized to receive the neck and the head, respectively.

33. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the sleeve is made of silicone.

34. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the tool body is made of nylon.

35. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the cap is made of plastic.

36. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the tool body and the adapter are integrally made as a single piece.

37. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the adapter is configured to be integrated with the grip of the golf club.

38. The divot repair tool of claim 37, wherein the adapter is connected to the grip of the golf club during a manufacturing process of the grip.

39. A golf club comprising the divot repair tool defined in any one of claims 1 to 38.

40. A golf club grip for connecting to a golf club, the golf club grip comprising the divot repair tool defined in any one of claims 1 to 38.

41. A divot repair tool for a golf club having a grip at a proximal end thereof, the divot repair tool comprising : a tool body comprising a base having a base periphery and a plurality of prongs spaced from one another about the base periphery; an adapter having a tool-engaging side configured to engage the base of the tool body and a grip-engaging side configured to engage the grip of the golf club; anda fastening assembly configured to removably secure the tool body to the adapter, wherein the tool body is coupled to the grip upon engaging the grip-engaging side with the grip.

42. The divot repair tool of claim 41 , wherein the prongs extend from the base on a first side thereof, and wherein the tool-engaging side of the adapter is configured to engage the base on a second side thereof, opposite the first side.

43. The divot repair tool of claim 42, wherein the second side of the base and the toolengaging side of the adapter are complementarily shaped and configured to cooperate to have the tool body engage the adapter in a predetermined configuration.

44. The divot repair tool of claim 43, wherein the second side of the base and the toolengaging side of the adapter are configured to cooperate to block at least one of a rotational movement and an axial movement between the tool body and the adapter when in the predetermined configuration.

45. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the grip-engaging side comprises a sleeve defining an internal cavity and having a bottom opening adapted to enable insertion of the grip into the internal cavity.

46. The divot repair tool of claim 45, wherein the sleeve comprises a resilient collar proximate the bottom opening, the resilient collar being adapted to be deformed to adjust a size of the bottom opening in order to facilitate insertion of the grip into the internal cavity.

47. The divot repair tool of claim 46, wherein, upon having the grip inserted into the internal cavity, the resilient collar is adapted to contract about the grip to at least partially secure the adapter thereto.

48. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the sleeve is made of silicone.

49. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 41 to 48, wherein the tool body comprises a base opening defined through the base, and the adapter comprises an adapteropening defined through the tool-engaging side, and wherein the fastening assembly is configured to extend through the base opening and the adapter opening to removably secure the tool body to the adapter.

50. The divot repair tool of claim 49, wherein the adapter opening opens into the internal cavity of the sleeve, and wherein the fastening assembly is adapted to extend through the base opening to engage the first side of the base, and through the adapter opening to engage surfaces of the internal cavity.

51. The divot repair tool of claim 49 or 50, wherein the fastening assembly includes a clip configured to extend through the base opening and the adapter opening from within the internal cavity of the sleeve.

52. The divot repair tool of claim 51 , wherein the clip includes a resilient element operable to selectively disengage the base and enable disconnection of the tool body from the adapter.

53. The divot repair tool of claim 52, wherein the resilient element is manually operable.

54. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein the tool body, the adapter and the clip are independent components configured to cooperate and connect to one another.

55. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 41 to 54, further comprising a cap releasably connectable to the tool body and having a cap housing adapted to cover the prongs.

56. The divot repair tool of claim 55, wherein the cap housing comprises an inwardly protruding band, and at least one of the plurality of prongs comprises an outwardly protruding bump, and wherein the cap is releasably connected to the tool body upon sliding the inwardly protruding band over the outwardly protruding bump, thereby preventing removal of the cap from the tool body.

57. The divot repair tool of claim 55 or 56, wherein the cap housing comprises a top surface adapted to have a ball marker placed thereon, and wherein the caphousing includes a magnet-receiving area enabling a magnet to be connected to the cap housing for assisting in holding the ball marker on the top surface.

58. The divot repair tool of claim 57, wherein the magnet-receiving area is provided on an underside of the top surface, within the cap housing.

59. The divot repair tool of claim 57 or 58, wherein the cap housing comprises a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain the ball marker.

60. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 57 to 59, wherein the top surface comprises a chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

61. The divot repair tool of claim 60, wherein the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the top surface, and wherein the chamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

62. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 55 to 61 , wherein the cap is manually operable to have the inwardly protruding band disengage from the outwardly protruding bump in order to selectively release and disconnect the cap from the tool body.

63. A golf club grip for connecting to a golf club, the golf club grip comprising : a cylindrical grip body having a hollow interior; an adapter rod adapted to engage the hollow interior of the cylindrical grip body, the adapter rod and the cylindrical grip body defining an annular region therebetween; and a divot repair tool having a tool body comprising : a base connectable to the adapter rod and having a base periphery; a plurality of prongs connected to the base about the base periphery and extending therefrom, the plurality of prongs being adapted toengage a ground surface for repairing damage caused thereto during a game of golf; and an elongated portion extending from the base adapted to engage the annular region for integrating the divot repair tool to the grip of the golf club.

64. The golf club grip of claim 63, wherein the elongated portion and the base of the tool body form a single monolithic piece.

65. The golf club grip of claim 63, wherein the elongated portion, the base and the plurality of prongs of the tool body form a single monolithic piece.

66. The golf club grip of claim 63, wherein the tool body is manufactured as a single monolithic piece.

67. The golf club grip of any one of claims 63 to 66, wherein the elongated portion is adapted to slidably engage the annular region to enable sliding the tool body towards the adapter rod for connection therewith.

68. The golf club grip of any one of claims 63 to 67, wherein the adapter rod includes a tool-engaging end adapted to protrude from the cylindrical grip body to facilitate connection with the tool body.

69. The golf club grip of any one of claims 63 to 68, wherein the divot repair tool further comprises a cap removably connectable to at least one of the tool body and the cylindrical grip body, the cap having a cap housing adapted to cover the prongs.

70. The golf club grip of claim 69, wherein the cap housing comprises an inwardly protruding band, and the tool body comprises an outwardly protruding bump, and wherein the cap is releasably connectable to the tool body upon sliding the inwardly protruding band over the outwardly protruding bump, thereby preventing removal of the cap from the tool body.

71. The golf club grip of claim 69 or 70, wherein the cap housing comprises a top surface adapted to have a ball marker placed thereon, and wherein the caphousing includes a ball marker retainer configured to assist in holding the ball marker on the top surface.

72. The golf club grip of claim 71 , wherein the ball marker retainer includes a magnetholder adapted to enable a magnet to be connected to the cap housing for magnetically holding the ball marker on the top surface.

73. The golf club grip of claim 72, wherein the magnet-holder is provided on an underside of the top surface, within the cap housing.

74. The golf club grip of any one of claims 71 to 73, wherein the cap housing comprises a lip extending at least partially about a periphery of the top surface and defining a containment space adapted to contain the ball marker.

75. The golf club grip of any one of claims 71 to 74, wherein the top surface comprises a chamfered edge extending downwardly relative to the top surface.

76. The golf club grip of claim 75, wherein the lip comprises at least two lip portions spaced from one another about the periphery of the top surface, and wherein the chamfered edge comprises chamfered edge portions defined between two adjacent lip portions.

77. The golf club grip of any one of claims 70 to 76, wherein the cap is manually operable to have the inwardly protruding band disengage from the outwardly protruding bump in order to selectively release and disconnect the cap from the tool body.

78. The golf club grip of any one of claims 63 to 77, wherein the golf club is a putter.

79. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 41 to 61 , wherein the golf club is a putter.

80. The divot repair tool of any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the golf club is a putter.

81. The golf club of claim 39, wherein the golf club is a putter.

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