Congrats on making it this far! You’ve been steadily climbing the ranks, participating in one competition after another. All those rides on the golf cart do have a purpose.
Whether you’re aiming to remain an amateur or move up to professional status, it’s crucial to stick to the game’s rules. Golf follows a strict set of rules and etiquette. The R&A Rules Limited and the USGA (United States Golf Association) jointly publish the Rules of Golf. The R&A oversees golf games worldwide, while the USGA focuses on tournaments in the US and Mexico.
First things first, get a copy of the tournament’s official rules and familiarize yourself with the latest edition of the Rules of Golf by the R&A and USGA. These rules are updated regularly, like the significant changes made in 2019 that apply to all levels of golfers.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key rules for your first golf tournament:
The fundamental principle of golf is codified in rule 1. Golf is played over a round of 18 or fewer holes where a player strikes a ball. You must play the ball as it lies and play the course as you find it. However, there are specific situations that allow you to modify conditions, like removing loose impediments and movable obstructions.
Conduct is a significant part of golf. You’re expected to play with integrity, show consideration to others, and take care of the course. If you make any mistakes, you might be penalized according to the Rules of Golf or local rules set by the tournament committee. To avoid penalties, always play by the rules.
Understand the course areas, boundaries, and out-of-bounds definitions. Knowing these terms is crucial for playing the ball where it lies and the course as you find it, with available relief from certain rules.
Before you head to the course, make sure you have the necessary gear to compete. This includes balls and clubs that meet the standards. Besides clubs and balls, other equipment like gloves must align with the relevant rules.
Your round begins when you make a stroke to the first hole, and each round should be played briskly. It’s recommended to take your stroke within 40 seconds. Practice strokes are not allowed during play, although you can practice your putt or chip when it’s not from a bunker and doesn’t delay the match unreasonably. Any unreasonable delays can result in penalties unless justified.
You have three minutes to search for a lost ball; it used to be five minutes. Substituting a ball is allowed when taking stroke-and-distance relief.
Check with the tournament and course about the use of golf carts. Are you allowed to bring your own, or must you use the course’s fleet? Also, confirm where the carts can be used or parked. For example, in USGA championships, you and your caddie are required to walk unless you have a medical certificate per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
According to current rules, golf carts, mowers, and cars are considered movable obstructions you can remove without penalty during play. Your caddie can handle your equipment using a cart or trolley.
For a more in-depth understanding, refer to the current 24 Rules of Golf, broken down into subsections, on the R&A’s official website.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your first golf tournament!