Golf Tournaments Have Rules

Have you ever noticed all golf tournaments have rules? In most tournaments, there is even a "rules sheet" that contains all the local rules for the course. When tee times or starting times are used, the "starter" will hand out the rules sheet. It is ALWAYS a good idea to get to first tee 10 minutes early so you will have some time to read the local rules sheet.

For example, in all ASGA and Arkansas PGA Chapter Tournaments, distance measuring devices such as Bushnell Rangefinders or Skycaddies, etc. are allowed by "local rule" in accordance with USGA Decision 14-3/0.5. This decision, one of over 1,200 in the USGA Decision Book, states the device must measure distance only and the measuring device cannot contain gradient (slope) or wind - even if that particular feature is turned off or diabled. The penalty for using a measuring device that does not conform is pretty severe - DISQUALIFICATION! Or as my friend Tom Meeks, the retired Senior Director of Rules and Competitions for the USGA says, "they are a trunk slammer."

The USGA does not allow the use of such a measuring device in USGA Qualifying Rounds and USGA Championships. Not all state and regional golf associations allow them either - although well over 50% of state associations are now allowing the use of these devices.