Kudos for making it this far! You’ve been pushing toward success, one competition at a time. All those golf cart rides do have a purpose.
Whether you’re aiming to be an amateur or a pro, it’s important to stick to the rules of the game. Golf has specific rules and etiquette, governed by the R&A Rules Limited (from the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews) and the USGA (United States Golf Association). The R&A oversees golf worldwide, while the USGA focuses on tournaments in the U.S. and Mexico.
The first thing you should do is 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 get updated regularly, like the major changes made in 2019 affecting pros, amateurs, and recreational players alike.
Here’s a brief rundown of essential rules for your first golf tournament:
The main rule in golf, stated in rule 1, describes it as a game of 18 or fewer holes where a player hits a ball. You need to play the ball as it lies and play the course as you find it. There are few exceptions where you can change conditions, like removing loose impediments and movable obstructions.
Player conduct is vital. You should play with integrity, respect others, and avoid damaging the course. If you break the rules, you might get penalized, either by the general Rules of Golf or local rules set by the tournament committee. To stay safe from penalties, play by the rules.
Get to know the course boundaries, out-of-bounds areas, and specific terms related to playing the ball where it lies and the course as it is, taking into account the available relief from these rules.
Before heading to the course, ensure you have the right equipment to win. Bring golf balls and clubs that meet the standards. Other tools like gloves must also comply with the relevant rules.
Your round starts with a stroke to the first hole, and each round should be played quickly, ideally taking 40 seconds or less for each stroke. Practice strokes during a hole aren’t allowed, but you can practice your putt or chip when it’s not from a bunker and doesn’t delay the game. Unreasonable delays can lead to penalties unless you have a valid reason.
You have three minutes to search for a lost ball, down from the previous five minutes. You may substitute a ball when taking a stroke-and-distance relief.
Check with the tournament and course about golf cart usage. For instance, can you bring your own cart or must you use one from the course? What restrictions are there on where carts can be used or parked?
In USGA championships, you and your caddie usually have to walk, unless you have a medical certificate under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During the round, carts, mowers, and cars can be removed as movable obstructions without penalty. Your caddie, if you have one, can handle your equipment using a cart or trolley.
Make sure to review the 24 Rules of Golf and their subsections on the R&A’s website. Despite the rules, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy your first golf tournament!