Have you ever hit a ball during a practice swing? Of course it was unintentional and besides the embarrassment, there should be no penalty for this faux pas. Over the years I was asked about this mistake and since the rules changed in 2019, the embarrassment would be compounded by extra strokes on your scorecard. As I think about this scary scenario, I often wonder if people understand rule that the rule has changed and there is still a chance to be assessed a penalty stroke depending on where the incident happened. Let me explain further.
Continue readinggolf rules official
Discussing A Ruling In Golf
The rules of golf do not always provide a clear answer. Sometimes, a ruling is required through a discussion of the playing group. If a consensus on the interpretation cannot be found, then an alternative resolution process engages to ensure that the field is protected. Of course, these rules discussion rarely happens in a friendly because the stakes are generally not that high. In a competition, however, the proper interpretation is needed. Therefore, a process of finding an equitable solution is needed. This process needs to be simple, easy to enforce, and relatively quick. It just so happens I have a process that you might find useful if you are planning to play in any golf competition.
Continue readingCalling A Golf Rules Infraction On A Competitor
This particular article has nothing to do with a friendly match. The reason I say this is that I do not pay any attention to any golfers game outside of a competition. I do follow all the happenings of the round, but I do not care what other golfers are doing with respect to what they record as a score. In competitions, focusing on ensuring all my competitors and myself follows the rules to the best of our ability.
Continue readingGolfing For The Fun Of The Game
Mentally, golf can either bring you joy or despair. How we approach our round will determine if we are feel before, during and after the round. Personally, I always try to have fun win a mix of self-driven competitiveness. It is a balance I developed over the years and fortunately the group I play in helps me keep that balance. I believe that if we are not having fun, then what is the point of play.
Continue readingLearning the Rules of Golf
I have decided to become a golf rules official. I figure after all these years of learning and reading about golf, this is the next step in my education. Currently, I would assess my knowledge as better than the average, however I feel I am lacking in knowledge somehow. So, in 2018, I have decided to achieve the Level 2 Rules Official from Golf Canada. Continue reading
The Grateful Golfer 