RULES NOTEBOOK. Amateur Championships

Transcription

1 RULES NOTEBOOK Amateur Championships U.S. Amateur Four-Ball U.S. Women s Amateur Four-Ball U.S. Girls Junior U.S. Junior Amateur U.S. Women s Amateur U.S. Amateur U.S. Mid-Amateur U.S. Women s Mid-Amateur U.S. Senior Amateur U.S. Senior Women s Amateur USGA Men s State Team

2 Referees and Officials, For more than a century, the United States Golf Association has served the game of golf by conducting national championships. Providing the best players in the world an opportunity to contend for a national title continues to be a key pillar of our organization. Players who attempt to qualify for and participate in USGA championships cherish their experiences, often carrying these special memories throughout their lives. Your involvement in our championships is indispensable, and the professionalism you bring to your duties is critical to the game. You ensure a fair and equal playing field for all competitors, and that is the best possible way of preserving the game we all treasure. On behalf of everyone at the USGA, thank you for your contribution, commitment and service to our national championships. We hope you have a very fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Respectfully, Stuart Francis Chairman, Championship Committee USGA RULES NOTEBOOK AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS i

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4 TABLE OF CONTENTS RULES INFORMATION...1 Guidelines for Referees Guidelines for Observers Points to Cover in Match Play (aka Putting Clock) 2016 USGA Hard Card Local Rules and Conditions of Competition Rules Incidents Card Sample STARTING PROCEDURES...13 Duties of Officials in the Starting Tents Procedure for Handling a Late to the Tee Incident Starter s Script for Stroke Play and Match Play Procedure for Announcing Groups After Delays SCORING PROCEDURES Duties of Officials in the Scoring Tents Checking a Score Card Announcing Scores in Match Play PACE OF PLAY Pace of Play Guidelines Pace of Play Summary EVACUATION PLAN, DISCONTINUANCE/ RESUMPTION OF PLAY...41 Discontinuance of Play/Evacuation Procedures for Referees Suspension/Resumption of Play Rules Reminders Discontinuance of Play Card Sample POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Fog Policy Squeegee Policy Call-Up Policy Spectator Mobile Device Usage Policy Spectator Camera/Photography Policy USGA RULES NOTEBOOK AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS iii

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6 RULES INFORMATION GUIDELINES FOR REFEREES 1. Referee s Assignment and Equipment It is the responsibility of the Referees to ensure the competition is fairly played in accordance with the Rules of Golf, Conditions of Competition (Hard Card) and Local Rules for the championship. Each morning, check in at the USGA Office before reporting to your assignment. A. Referees should be sure to have the following items with them on the course: Radio and Earpiece The Rules of Golf Rules Assignment Sheet Groupings and Starting Times/Match Play Draw Umbrella and Rain Gear (if needed) Notice to Players and USGA Hard Card Pace of Play Time Chart Championship Score Card Evacuation Plan Pencil USGA Credential String Watch Rules Notebook Scoring Device (if applicable) Hole-by-Hole Notes B. Check with the staff members in the USGA Office for announcements or messages. C. Pick up a golf cart, if needed for assignment. D. If assigned to a hole or zone, please become familiar with water hazards, lateral water hazards, ground under repair areas and any other potential Rules situations on your hole. Check bunkers and be certain rakes are placed out- USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 1

7 side of bunkers and out of play. The referee is in charge of the hole. Introduce yourself to the marshals/spotters on your hole. Tell them where you will be positioned so that if they need assistance they can find you. E. If assigned to a group or match, plan to arrive on the first tee immediately after the group (match) in front of you has teed off. The starter will introduce you to the players in your group or match. You are to walk in a position that avoids distracting players and spectators. Please ensure that the walking scorer and standard bearer are in the same area. Stay up with your group/match and DO NOT LAG BEHIND. F. In match play, briefly discuss your role as a Referee with your players. The Referee shall keep the official score card and return it to the scoreboard upon completion of the match. Additionally, the Referee may be responsible for inputting the scores for each player into the scoring device at the completion of each hole. G. In match play, announce scores and status of the match after every hole. H. Use the radio with discretion. Use the earpiece to the radio so that you can stay alert to what is happening on the course with all the players. Also, when rain or bad weather threatens, please keep the airwaves open. I. If a player is being disturbed by a reporter or a photographer, speak to the press representative and ask that they be more careful. Please notify the USGA Communications staff of any problems. 2. Rules and Decisions A. Any Referee may make a decision when he/she is certain of a ruling provided he/she first refers to a Rules of Golf book. Be firm and positive, but take your time. If you have the slightest doubt, please use your radio to consult with a Rover. Each Referee shall strive to prevent violations of the Rules of Golf by advising or reminding players of their rights. A Referee in stroke play has an obligation to call any Rules infraction they may observe. In match play, unless a Referee has been assigned to accompany the players throughout the match, he/she has no authority to intervene in a match other than in relation to Rule 1-3, 6-7 or USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION

8 B. Any rulings with which you are involved in stroke play, or that are needed by your match, should be noted on the Rules Incidents Card. This should be done even if a Rover assists you with a ruling. Turn the card(s) into the USGA Office immediately following play. If you do not have any rulings, please note on the Incidents Card, No Rulings. C. It is important to sense when to talk to a player and when to be silent. Although there is no formula to follow, always use tact and good judgment. D. Deciding Questions of Fact: On the tee, position yourself to ensure players tee off within the limits of the teeing ground. Prior to any player making a stroke, inform the player if his/her ball is outside the teeing ground. If a player prepares to play a second ball without stating the purpose, the Referee should ask the player if it is his/her intention to play the ball provisionally. Be alert for any potential breach of Rule When a player s ball comes to rest in bushes or under trees, try to be in a position where you can observe and assist a player when requested. Try to be in a position to observe the player s actions in a hazard. If necessary, advise the player that his/her golf ball is in a hazard. Be alert for any breach of Rule On the putting green, watch to see that players do not touch their line of putt beyond what is permitted by Rule (e.g., in the removal of loose impediments or movable obstructions, to repair ball marks or to lift or replace the ball). When a ball mark is repaired by a player, the Referee should be sure that it is a ball mark and that the repair does not extend beyond the damage made by the impact of the ball. When a ball stops on the lip of the hole, the Referee may have to decide first, whether it overhangs the edge of the hole, and second, whether the player has used the allowable ten seconds to determine whether the ball is at rest. Remind players to move the ball back to its original position if they have moved it to avoid another player s line of putt. In match play, if a player removes his/her ball from near the hole, make certain as to whether or not the putt has been conceded. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 3

9 E. Apply the Rules of Golf: Frequently, in reaching a decision, the intention of the player can be of primary importance. Before any decision can develop, the first order of business often should be the determination of the player s intent. Assist the player with a relief procedure, if asked. When a player is dropping a golf ball, ensure that the procedure is correct. Determine which player is away, if the players are in doubt. Ensure players play in the correct order. 3. Ground Under Repair No one is authorized to mark or otherwise designate any area as ground under repair without the approval of a Rover. 4. Pace of Play Checkpoint Officials are expected to monitor pace of play and be familiar with the Pace of Play Guidelines (see Pace of Play Section). Stroke Play Every Referee is expected to be aware of the pace of play. The Referee should time how long a ruling, a search for a lost ball or other legitimate delay takes on his/her hole and note any time of delay, reason and the player(s) involved in case the group is in breach of the Pace of Play Guidelines. No radio transmission is necessary. The Pace of Play Committee will contact you for this information, if needed. Match Play In match play, the Referee may notify the players when they are approaching being out of position. A Referee shall time how long a ruling, search for a lost ball or other legitimate delay takes and inform the Rovers. 5. Gallery Every Referee should be alert to ensure proper gallery control. Remember that spectators can walk in the fairway. However, please encourage any spectators to stay with their group so as not to slow down play of the group behind. 4 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION

10 6. USGA Tents Starting and Scoring tents are for use only by official(s) assigned there. Please do not linger near them at any time during play. 7. Rovers A. Will be in carts and should ensure they have a Rover Box with supplies. B. Use air horns when advised. C. Assist Referees with rulings. D. Are responsible for timing groups/players according to the Pace of Play Guidelines. E. Must approve areas of ground under repair. GUIDELINES FOR OBSERVERS Preliminary considerations: Before play begins from the first tee, determine from the Referee via the radio the type of ball and markings used by the players. Assist the Referee in any way he/she requests. Notify the Referee if a Rules infraction is observed. Communicate only with the Referee and let the Referee communicate directly with the players. Principal duties of an Observer: Know the location of the players balls at all times. If any balls would be difficult for the players to find, remain at the location of the ball(s) until the player(s) or a forecaddie arrives. Coordinate ball location efforts with forecaddies or marshals, if available. If both balls are in difficult areas, be available if the Referee might want you to assist with one of the players and wait until both situations are resolved. Notify the Referee as soon as possible over the radio of potential rulings (e.g., possible interference with sprinkler head, embedded ball, ball in water hazard, possible need for provisional ball when original ball might be lost or O.B., etc.). USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 5

11 Mark spot with tee on the water hazard/lateral water hazard line where the ball last crossed the hazard margin. Determine and notify the Referee via radio which player/side is away if there is a question. If pacing on the putting green, do not walk in player s line of play or line of putt. Do not go onto the putting greens unless required to determine which ball is away. Assist the Referee with five-minute timing procedure if there is a ball search. If the superintendent needs to syringe or blow debris off of the putting green, remove the flagstick so that the players will not hit into the putting green. Replace the flagstick in the hole when the job is completed. Reposition bunker rakes if needed and time allows. Positions on course: Must be positioned in the traditional forward location; that is, in the landing zone of the stroke being played (e.g., to the side of the drive zone when players are on the tee on a par 4, and by the putting green as approach shots are being played). May be positioned alongside a Referee only in the following two situations: o New Referees who are in training, or o Those persons observing in a ceremonial capacity. Be in a position to see flights of players balls, be able to determine where a ball comes to rest and whether it cleared or is in a water hazard, lateral water hazard, bunker, high rough, etc. If there are two Observers working a match, one should be on one side of the landing zone, and the other should be on the other side of the landing zone. On blind shots, if the landing area is not clear and marshals are unavailable, the Observer should stand in the middle of the fairway to hold up play. If necessary, the Observer will wave the group forward and move to the side when the landing zone is clear. 6 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION

12 Anticipate the worst place a ball might end up (e.g., if ball is in greenside bunker, anticipate the ball being skulled over green and be in position to see where the ball comes to rest). Move to the next hole s landing area when all balls are on the putting green. Stay out of the way of the players so they can maintain the proper pace of play. Attempt to prevent any interference with play or disturbances by spectators in landing areas, particularly those watching the group/match ahead who may lag behind that group/match. Keep landing areas clear of spectators. Notify Rovers if there are spectator problems. POINTS TO COVER IN MATCH PLAY (AKA PUTTING CLOCK) A person should be assigned to give the following review about match play to the players of each match before they tee off in the first round of match play. It is usually done on the practice putting green or at the first tee before the players starting time. The match s Referee should be included in this discussion. The discussion should take only 2-3 minutes. 1. Referee appointed by Committee to decide questions of fact and apply the Rules A. Shall act on any breach, but be in preventative mode. B. Position of Referee be in a position to observe but not overbearing. We are not the show. C. Monitor Pace of Play Guidelines. 2. Order of Play (10-1) A. Teeing Ground Draw dictates honor at 1st Teeing Ground; reckoning of holes thereafter. B. Other than Teeing Ground farthest from hole. Ask Referee if not sure who is away. C. No continuous putting; no penalty but opponent may immediately require player to cancel and replay. D. Four-Ball Competition: balls belonging to the same side may be played in the order the side considers best. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 7

13 3. Claims (2-5) A. Timely before next Teeing Ground or last hole of match before leaving Putting Green. B. Lodge with Referee. 4. Concessions (2-4) A. Loud and clear for opponent and Referee. B. Cannot be declined or withdrawn. C. Four-Ball Competition: if a player holes out after a concession and this act assists his/her partner, the partner is disqualified for the hole. 5. Status of Match A. Announcement and score card. LOCAL RULES AND CONDITIONS OF COMPETITION FOR 2016 USGA CHAMPIONSHIPS The Rules of Golf as approved by the United States Golf Association and The R&A govern play. See applicable championship or qualifying round Notice to Players and Entry Application for additional Local Rules and Conditions. Complete text of Rules and Appendix I may be found in the Rules of Golf, effective January Unless otherwise noted, the penalty for breach of a Local Rule or Condition is: Match play Loss of hole Stroke play Two strokes Local Rules Out of Bounds Defined by inside points, at ground level, of white stakes and fence posts. Rule 27-1b. Water and Lateral Water Hazard Stakes and Lines When a water hazard or a lateral water hazard is defined on only one side, it is deemed to extend to infinity. When a water hazard or lateral water hazard is bounded by out of bounds, the hazard margin extends to and coincides with the out of bounds line. Ground Under Repair Defined by white lines. Fire ant hills, sod-covered trenching for temporary cables and French 8 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION

14 drains are deemed to be ground under repair. Rule (Note: For a player whose ball is in a water hazard and is affected by a fire ant hill see Decision 1-4/10.) Ground under repair may include areas of unusual damage, including areas where spectators or other traffic has combined with wet conditions to affect materially the ground surface, but only when so declared by an authorized member of the Committee. When immediately adjacent to an obstruction, such an area is part of the obstruction. Seams of Cut Turf (Sod Seams) Local Rule as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Turf Plugs on the Putting Green May be repaired even if they are not 4 ¼ inches. Immovable Obstructions Include plastic bumpers on roads and paths and mats secured to the ground with spikes when the bumpers or mats cover cables. White-Lined Areas Tying Into Artificially Surfaced Roads and Paths Have the same status as the roads and paths, that of obstructions. Wood Chips and Mulch Are loose impediments, unless otherwise provided for in the Notice to Players. Embedded Ball Through the Green Local Rule as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Integral Parts of the Course Include cables, rods, wires and wrappings when closely attached to trees; artificial walls and pilings when located in hazards, unless otherwise provided for in the Notice to Players. Temporary Power Lines and Cables Local Rule as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Temporary Immovable Obstructions Local Rule as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Conditions Clubs: Grooves Optional Condition is in effect see applicable championship entry application for details. List of Conforming Driver Heads Optional Condition as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. List of Conforming Golf Balls Optional Condition as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 9

15 Limitation on Golf Balls ( One-Ball Rule ) Optional Condition as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Pace of Play See separate memorandum to players for pace-of-play guidelines, when applicable. Discontinuance of Play Optional Condition as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. All practice areas are closed during suspension for a dangerous situation until the Committee has declared them open. Players who practice on closed practice areas will be asked to cease doing so; failure to comply may result in revocation of entry. Note: A suspension for a dangerous situation will be signaled by one prolonged airhorn note. All other types of suspension will be signaled by three consecutive airhorn notes, repeated. Resumption of play will be signaled by two short airhorn notes, repeated. Practice Prior to and after his round in stroke play, a player may practice on the designated practice areas. Rule 7-1b applies to other practice in stroke play, and Rule 7-1a covers practice before the round in match play. Transportation Optional Condition as prescribed in Appendix I is in effect. Close of Competition The competition is deemed to have closed when the trophy has been presented to the winner or, in the absence of a prize ceremony, when all scores have been approved by the Committee. The result of a match is considered to have been officially announced when the Committee has approved the result as posted on the public scoreboard. 10 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION

16 Rules Incidents U.S. Amateur Championship Chris Jones SP-1 Referee: Date: / / Round: Please detail all incidents for which you were asked to give a ruling and any other incidents that the Rules Committee should be aware of. Please return to USGA Office upon completion of round. Starting Time: : Hole: Starting Tee: Player(s): Incident Facts: Ruling: 15 in fairway. Rule#: 8 33 Tony Smith Stance on sprinkler head NPR established and ball was dropped twice then placed mins Ruling Elapsed Time: 1 Starting Time: : Starting Tee: Hole: Leslie Wilson Player(s): Incident Facts: (TIO) behind green. 10 Ball behind scoring tent Ruling: relief granted under TIO local rule. TIO Rule#: 4 mins Ruling Elapsed Time: Starting Time: : Starting Tee: Hole: Player(s): Incident Facts: Ruling: Rule#: Ruling Elapsed Time: USGA RULES NOTEBOOK RULES INFORMATION 11

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18 STARTING PROCEDURES DUTIES OF OFFICIALS IN THE STARTING TENTS The responsibilities are to ensure that the players start at the time laid down by the Committee and to distribute score cards and special notices to the players. A. Please wear USGA jacket unless Chairman has indicated otherwise. B. Arrive at the appropriate starting tee minutes prior to the first starting time. C. The starter s box will be prepared and distributed by the staff to the starting tents each day. D. Make sure all equipment is set up. Please call the USGA Office if something is not set up when you arrive. E. Starter s box shall contain: Atomic Clock The Rules of Golf and Decisions on the Rules of Golf Groupings and Starting Times Notice to Players and USGA Hard Card Pace of Play Guidelines List of Conforming Golf Balls and One Ball Rule List of Conforming Driver Heads Hole Location Sheets Course Evacuation Procedure Official Score Cards and Extra Score Cards Pencils Tees Permanent Markers Entry Forms PA System possibly Trash Box F. If play is delayed while starting times are in progress, maintain time records on Groupings and Starting Times sheet. Additionally, please notify the Staff-in-Charge and/ or Pace of Play Administrator of any delays. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES 13

19 G. Inform Staff-in-Charge when the last group has teed off. H. Procedures to follow for starting: Review the Notice to Players; if you have any questions, please call the Staff-in-Charge prior to starting players. The atomic clock is the official time. Start each group exactly at the time indicated on the starting sheet. Do not start any group prior to the scheduled time. Begin announcing a group so that the first player will go forward to play his/her ball at the group s starting time. Do not delay a group because a player is late in appearing for his/her starting time. All players in a group must be present and ready to play at the time laid down by the Committee. The order of play is irrelevant. Four-Ball Stroke Play: a side may be represented by either partner for all or any part of a stipulated round. Four-Ball Match Play: a side may be represented by one partner for all or any part of a match. If a player(s) has not arrived at the tee before his/her scheduled time, please refer to the document Procedure for Handling a Late to the Tee Incident. In stroke play, introduce yourself and the Referee (if applicable). In match play, introduce yourself, the Referee, Observer, Walking Scorer and the standard bearer to the players. Give each player a Hole Location Sheet for the day and the Notice to Players and point out the location of the Evacuation Policy and USGA Hard Card. Notify players of any new items on an updated Notice to Players. Remind each player to mark and identify his/her golf ball to fellow-competitors or opponent(s). Remind each player to count his/her clubs before they start. In stroke play, give an overview (briefly) of the Pace of Play Guidelines to the players as you hand out the score cards: o Point out the time on the score cards, o Point out the checkpoint holes (they are shaded on the card). 14 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES

20 Explain the need to be at a checkpoint by the designated time or no later than 14 minutes behind the group in front of them (i.e., don t be a hole behind). Give the players/caddies the official time so they may synchronize their watches. Tell players the following: o They may ask to have their group monitored at any time. o In the case of the last checkpoint if they are out of position they will be liable to a one-stroke penalty (there is no warning). o The hole completion time is when the flagstick is put into the hole. o The appeals process will take place in scoring. In stroke play, the player does not receive his/her own score card. Player 1 keeps Player 2, Player 2 keeps Player 3 and Player 3 keeps Player 1. This is the procedure we would like followed. Four-Ball Stroke Play: each side will keep a score card for the other. One score card per side. Four-Ball Stroke Play: review the requirement of individually identifiable scores. In match play, give the official score card to the Referee. PROCEDURE FOR HANDLING A LATE TO THE TEE INCIDENT The following is the procedure that is to be followed by a starter who is missing a player(s) on the starting tee: At a point three minutes prior to the group s starting time, the starter will get on the radio and announce, Group No. 7, the 9 a.m. starting time on hole No. 1, we have three minutes to go and I m missing Kevin Smith. Four-Ball Competition: I m missing Kevin Smith but his partner is present. At a point one minute prior to the group s starting time, this message is repeated over the radio and the starter should ask that the radio be kept clear of all traffic for the next 60 seconds. At this point, the starter USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES 15

21 should also inform the fellow-competitor(s) or opponent(s) that 60 seconds remain. At a point 30 seconds prior to the group s starting time, this message is repeated over the radio. At this point, the starter should also inform the fellow-competitor(s) or opponent(s) that 30 seconds remain. At a point 10 seconds prior to the group s starting time, the starter counts down each second over the radio and to the fellow competitor(s) or opponent(s), then says over the radio and to the other players, Kevin Smith is late to the tee. Gentlemen, play away please. When the initial radio transmission is broadcast by the starter, a Rover should proceed to that starting hole. It is the USGA s policy to look for players who are missing. However, the starter must not leave the tee to do so. If a player is found by another member of the Committee, there is no need to communicate that fact on the radio. The player must be directed to get to his/her starting tee as soon as possible to avoid a penalty. The player may be transported by anyone and in any type of vehicle. If a player arrives to the tee prior to the group s starting time, the starter must communicate that fact on the radio as follows: Group No. 7, the 9 a.m. starting time on hole No. 1, is now complete. If the player arrives at the tee after the group s starting time, the Rover not the starter will handle the application of the penalty, including communicating with the player s marker. If the group starts late as a result of this issue, the starter must communicate this on the radio to all Rovers and Checkpoint officials. STARTER S SCRIPT FOR STROKE PLAY AND MATCH PLAY Note: Begin announcing a group so that the first player will go forward to play his/her ball at the group s starting time (not earlier). The full name of the player should be used each time, without titles (i.e., Mr. or Ms.). Past Champions: If a player is a past champion from that championship, then he/she should be announced as such for all rounds. 16 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES

22 Stroke Play Script: Before First Group of Each Wave: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the (first or second) round of stroke play of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. For the First Group of Each Wave and Following Groups (Note that the Referee or Observer is not announced): This is the (Time) starting time; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name) play away please from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). Match Play Script: Before First Match of Each Round, Rounds 1-Semifinal: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the (first,second, third, Quarterfinal, or Semifinal) round of match play of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. For the First Match of Each Round and all Following Matches: This is the (Time) match; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), (pause) and from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). The Referee for this match is (Name of Referee). Note Only the Referee is to be announced (i.e., the Observer is not announced). (First Player) has the honor. Play away, please. Before Final Match: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Championship Match of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES 17

23 (Total # entered in Championship) players entered this year s Championship, with (Total # in Championship Proper) players competing in the championship proper. After 36 holes of Stroke Play, the low 64 players began match play, and each player competing in today s (18- or 36-) hole Championship Match has won five matches in order to advance to this point. Please welcome the players; from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), (pause) and from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). The Referee for the match is (Name of Referee). Note Only the Referee is to be announced (i.e., the Observer is not announced). (First Player) has the honor. Play away, please. Before Second 18 Holes of 36-Hole Championship Match: Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the continuation of the 36-hole Championship Match of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association and hosted by (Host Club). Please welcome the players; from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), (pause) and from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). The Referee for the match is (Name of Referee). Note Only the Referee is to be announced (i.e., the Observer is not announced). At the conclusion of the first 18 holes, (a) (Player Name) is (so many) up. OR (b) The match is all square. (Player Name) has the honor. Play away please. 18 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES

24 FOUR-BALL: STARTER S SCRIPT FOR STROKE PLAY AND MATCH PLAY Note: Begin announcing a group so that the first player will go forward to play his/her ball at the group s starting time (not earlier). The full name of the player should be used each time, without titles (i.e., Mr. or Ms.). Past Champions: If a player is a past champion from that championship, then he/she should be announced as such for all rounds. Stroke Play Script: Before First Group of Each Wave: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the (first, second,) round of stroke play of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. For the First Group of Each Wave and Following Groups (Note that the Referee or Observer is not announced): This is the (Time) starting time; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), play away please. from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner, from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). Match Play Script: Before First Match of Each Round, Rounds 1-Semifinal: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the (first, second, Quarterfinal, or Semifinal) round of match play of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES 19

25 For the First Match of Each Round and all Following Matches: This is the (Time) match; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), (pause) and from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). The Referee for the match is (Name of Referee). Note Only the Referee is to be announced (i.e., the Observer is not announced). (Last Name Player 1), (Last Name Player 2), has the honor. Play away, please. Before Final Match: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Championship Match of the (Number) (Championship Name), conducted by the United States Golf Association. (Total # entered in Championship), sides entered this year s championship, with (Total # in Championship Proper), sides competing in the championship proper. After 36 holes of stroke play, the low 32 sides began match play, and each side competing in today s 18-hole Championship Match has won four matches in order to advance to this point. Please welcome the players; from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), and his or her partner from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), The Referee for the match is (Name of Referee). 20 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES

26 Note Only the Referee is to be announced (i.e., the Observer is not announced). (Last Name Player 1), (Last Name Player 2), has the honor. Play away, please. PROCEDURE FOR ANNOUNCING GROUPS AFTER DELAYS When play resumes after a suspension; the starter will announce the following: Stroke Play: This is the originally scheduled (Time) starting time; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), play away please from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). Match Play: This is the originally scheduled (Time) match; please welcome from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name), (pause) and from (City, State, or Country), (Player Name). Note This only applies when there has been an official suspension or delay due to weather, fog, darkness, etc. This procedure does not apply when play is delayed due to another reason such as a ruling on the starting hole or a match going to extra holes. Only if new groupings and starting times have been printed will the starter announce the new starting time. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES 21

27 22 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK STARTING PROCEDURES

28 SCORING PROCEDURES DUTIES OF OFFICIALS IN THE SCORING TENTS It is the responsibility of this assignment to ensure that all official score cards are properly handled and any disputes are settled prior to a player leaving the scoring tent. In order to maintain order in the scoring tent, ONLY the players and USGA officials are allowed in the scoring area. All conversations with players should be kept to a minimum unless answering any Rules disputes. If there are any problems, please notify a Rover or the Review Committee. 1. Scoring Tent Items A. A skirted 8-foot table, an appropriate number of chairs to accommodate all players and scoring officials, and a waste basket will be needed in the scoring area. B. Before leaving the USGA Office, please make sure you have the following items: Pencils with erasers Radio 3 x 5 cards Groupings and Starting Times for the day Day 2 of stroke play phone number for players to call for first round of match play 2. Scoring Procedures USGA officials receiving score cards should establish a routine such as the following: A. Note the finishing time of the group (when the flagstick goes in) on the Groupings and Starting Times sheet, or similar if provided by the SIC, and return it to the USGA Office at the end of your shift. B. Ask the players if they have any Rules questions and/or Pace of Play Appeals. C. Ask each player to check his/her score for each hole. D. Make certain both the player and marker have signed the score card. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES 23

29 E. Make sure the player checks hole-by-hole scores along with his/her marker. F. Check the hole-by-hole scores and verify that scores are recorded for the correct hole (check those that started on a hole other than No. 1.). Total the nines for each score card. G. Make sure the players wait until one of the USGA officials has reviewed all of the score cards. A score card is considered officially returned when the player (or both players on a side) has exited the scoring area. H. Check that the name on the score card belongs to the player whose score it actually is. I. You and the player should agree on the total score. J. Write the correct total score and record it in the upper right-hand corner of the score card and initial the score card. K. Once the players have left the scoring area, please fill in the 3 x 5 cards. 1. Obtain 3 x 5 record cards from the USGA Office also a pencil, an eraser, a file box, a piece of paper to keep a running summary sheet, and a copy of the Groupings and Starting Times. 2. Record the score on the 3 x 5 card. 3. File 3 x 5 cards as follows: After the first round, file in the same order as starting times. After the second round, file in order of scores, with the lowest on top. File ties in order of return. In case of ties in a group, file in order listed on the Groupings and Starting Times sheet. On the second day, if a group plays through another group, their scores are filed in the order of return. Number ties as they come in with a small #1, #2, etc. 4. The 3 x 5 cards are used for the play-off and the match-play draw, so it is essential that they be correct. 5. After completion of each wave, please proof the 3 x 5 cards to the scoreboard. 6. Return the 3 x 5 cards to the USGA Office after your shift. 24 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES

30 L. The score card runner should take the score cards to the scoreboard after every group or as assigned. Incomplete Score Cards It is important for incomplete score cards to accurately reflect what actually happened. Therefore, the scorer should write on the player s score card one of the following notations, if applicable. WD This notation is used in cases where a player officially withdraws by notifying a USGA official or staff member. DQ The appropriate classification for a Rules violation, which necessitates a player s disqualification including when a player fails to appear for his/her starting time without prior notification or fails to return a score card. Note: In four-ball stroke play, a side may be represented by either partner for all or any parts of a stipulated round. ANNOUNCING SCORES IN MATCH PLAY Referees will handle the official score card for each match. Referees are asked to announce the result of each hole and the status of the match at the conclusion of each hole played. Scores are then relayed to the scoreboard and posted on the Internet. Hand-held scoring devices are used in most USGA championships. These devices are updated by a walking scorer or by the Referee. The same score announced at the conclusion of each hole should be entered into the hand-held scoring device. If the hand-held scoring devices are not used, the Referee is requested to radio in to the scoreboard each individual hole-by-hole score at the conclusion of each hole. The Staffin-Charge may also request that scores be called in by radio, in addition to being entered in the hand-held scoring device, during later rounds of match play. This will be determined by the Staff-in-Charge. When scores are required to be radioed in at the conclusion of each hole, please contact the scoreboard. Wait for a response from them. After the scoreboard acknowledges your call, please say match #, hole #, player name on line 1, score, player name on line 2, score, match status. The scoreboard will then repeat your information for confirmation. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES 25

31 Example: Referee: Match 4 to Scoreboard. Scoreboard: Scoreboard, go ahead. Referee: Match No. 4, Hole No. 1. Smith-3, Jones-4. Smith is 1 up. Four-Ball: Adams/Johnson-3, Burns/Haley-4, Adams/Johnson is 1 up. Scoreboard: Match No. 4, Hole No. 1. Smith-3, Jones-4. Smith is 1 up. Referee: Correct. PLEASE NOTE: It may be difficult to reach the scoreboard in some areas of the golf course. If you are unable to reach the scoreboard after two or three attempts, please wait until after the next hole to contact the scoreboard. Also, since there could be many matches in progress, please make sure that no one else is speaking before you try to contact the scoreboard. Referees are asked to announce the status of the match following each hole. At the conclusion of each hole, please announce to the players and spectators as follows: Example: Referee: Smith-3, Jones-4. Smith is 1 up. Four-Ball: Adams/Johnson-3, Burns/Haley-4. Adams/Johnson is 1 up. After announcing the results to the players and spectators following the match, please confirm that the scores are correctly entered in the hand-held scoring device, and if required, radio the results in to the scoreboard. In all rounds of match play, even if hand-held scoring devices are in use, at the conclusion of your match, please radio the scoreboard with the final result. Ensure that the airways are clear before making your announcement. After radioing the scoreboard, please take the score card to the scoreboard. Thank you for your assistance. This will enable others on the golf course as well as the media and those following the match online to be updated. 26 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES

32 EXAMPLES OF HOW TO SCORE VARIOUS SITUATIONS Notes: 1. Players and spectators watching the match normally understand the result of a hole when viewing it in person. However, the results are also posted on the scoreboard and online and it is necessary to record a numeric score in most cases to make the result understandable to those not following the match in person. Therefore, the following are provided as guidelines to record and report this information. 2. When a concession of a hole is made, ALL balls involved in the match are deemed to be holed on their next stroke, regardless of the distance involved. 3. When a concession of a hole is made, any penalty strokes not yet applied are accounted for in scores entered into the hand-held scoring device and radioed to the scoreboard. Example A: A tee shot is played out of bounds and a concession occurs. The player lies 2 (1 stroke and 1 penalty stroke), and the score after the concession for this player would be 3. Example B: A player s second shot is in a water hazard and he then concedes. His score is 4 (2 strokes, 1 penalty stroke and +1 for the conceded stroke). 4. If a player incurs a loss of hole penalty, his score for the hole is reported as X. The opponent s score is the number of strokes already made plus 1 for the conceded stroke. 5. Report any penalties requiring an adjustment to the state of the match to the scoreboard: Rule 4-4a, Rule 6-4, etc. 6. If a hole is conceded when the players have taken the same number of strokes, the player who concedes gets an X for the hole and the score for the other player is the number of strokes taken plus one for the conceded stroke. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES 27

33 SAMPLE SITUATIONS Situation 1: Referee: Situation 2: Referee: Situation 3: Referee: Situation 4: Referee: Situation 5: Referee: Situation 6: Referee: Situation 7: Referee: Situation 8: Referee: Both players lie 3, Smith makes his putt, Jones misses and picks up without holing out. Smith-4, Jones-5. Smith is 1 up. On a par 4, Smith has a 10-foot putt for par. Jones holes a 20-foot putt for birdie. Smith-4, Jones-3. The match is all square. On a par 5, Smith lies 3, 4 feet from the hole. Jones misses his putt for par. Jones then concedes Smith s putt or the hole. Smith-4, Jones-6. Smith is 1 up. Both players have played two strokes. Smith s second shot is out of bounds and he concedes the hole. Smith-4, Jones-3. The match is all square. Both players lie 2. Smith improves the area of his intended swing prior to his third stroke. Smith incurs loss of hole penalty (X), Jones-3. Jones is 1 up. Smith lies 2 near the hole on the putting green. Jones plays his second into a water hazard. Jones surveys his chances of recovering from the hazard and concedes the hole. Smith-3, Jones-4. The match is all square. During the fourth hole, it is discovered that Smith started the round with 16 clubs in his bag. Both players hole out in four strokes. Smith-4, Jones-4. Smith incurred a twohole adjustment to the status of the match penalty. Jones is 2 up. Smith and Jones both lie 2 on the putting green, Smith has a 60-foot putt and Jones is only 3 feet away. Smith concedes the hole. Smith concedes the hole (X). Jones-3. Jones is 3 up. 28 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES

34 Situation 9: Referee: Situation 10: Referee: Smith is 1 up playing the last hole and both players lie 2. Smith holes his putt for 3 and Jones shakes his hand. (See Decision 2-3/2) Smith-3, Jones-3. Smith wins, 1 up. Smith is 1 up playing the last hole and b oth players lie 2. Jones misses, two-putts and then shakes hands with Jones. (See Decision 2-3/2) Smith-3, Jones-5. Smith wins, 2 up. PLEASE NOTE: When reporting the scores over the radio to the scoreboard, do not use Mr., Ms., Mrs. or Miss. Keep the announcement as short as possible to minimize radio time. However, courtesy titles may be used when announcing scores to players and spectators at the completion of each hole. Always announce/report the scores of the players in the order of how their names appear on the score card. In other words, if Smith is listed on the top line and Jones on the second line, announce Smith s score and then Jones score, regardless of who won the hole. If Jones is 2 up with two holes to play, announce that Jones is 2 up and dormie. If a match goes to extra holes, the winner of the match will always win by one hole. Therefore, announce the result of the match as Jones wins in 20 holes. At the conclusion of your match, please radio the scoreboard with the final result of the match and then take the score card to the scoreboard. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES 29

35 C. 1. Check that there are 18 individual hole scores - one in each box. 2. Check that each is legible. B. Marker Signature Checking a Score Card G. When everything is checked and agreed upon, place your own initials in area provided. A. Competitor's Signature matches the name on card. D. Add up each nine holes and fill in the total or confirm/correct the total. F. Add this card's total to previous round(s) total. E. Add the "OUT" and "IN" totals and fill in the total score or confirm/correct the total. 30 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES

36 Checking a Score Card Four-Ball Stroke Play There will be two USGA Scoring Officials in the scoring tent. Each scoring official will work specifically with one side to review the side s score card. Procedure: Introduce yourself to the members of the side. Explain to the side that you will be working individually with them to thoroughly review their score card. Ask the players if there are any outstanding Rules questions or issues remaining. Allow the sides to exchange score cards in order to review. Check that the hole scores are individually identifiable for each player, including any Xs or blanks for a player with no individual score for a hole, and all are legible. Confirm the counting score for each hole, having the players make any corrections of errors, and highlight the counting score. Total each nine, confirm the nine-hole totals with the side, and record the nine-hole totals. Add the OUT and IN totals, confirm the total with the side and record the total score. Ensure competitor s signature matches a name on the card. Only one representative of a side needs to sign. Ensure marker s signature is present - only one representative of the marker s side needs to sign. Record/Add this card s total score to previous round(s) total score in top-right area on score card. Exchange the card with the other scoring official for additional review. When everything is checked and agreed upon, place your initials in verified area provided. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES 31

37 Checking a Score Card Four-Ball Stroke Play 32 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK SCORING PROCEDURES

38 PACE OF PLAY USGA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS PACE OF PLAY GUIDELINES STROKE PLAY SUMMARY The Pace of Play Committee will designate four (4) holes on the course as Pace of Play checkpoint holes. A Checkpoint Official will be stationed at each checkpoint hole to monitor and indicate (if needed) a group s position on the course. When a group is out of position at any checkpoint (including the 4 th checkpoint), the players in the group are liable to penalty under these guidelines and will be notified by the Checkpoint Official. When a group has been notified of a missed checkpoint, the group is expected to regain its position by the next checkpoint. If the group reaches ANY subsequent checkpoint out of position, each player in the group is liable to incur the applicable penalty (see schedule of penalties below). MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE TIME Maximum allowable time is the MAXIMUM time deemed necessary by the Committee for a group to complete its stipulated round. This is expressed in a per-hole and aggregate time format on the chart attached to this document. A group s maximum allowable time begins at its assigned starting time, or if the starting time is delayed, at the adjusted starting time. Checkpoint hole completion times are determined after all players in the group have holed out and the flagstick has been replaced in the hole. Time associated with playing the game, e.g., course difficulty and walking times between holes, is included in all maximum allowable times. USGA RULES NOTEBOOK PACE OF PLAY 33

39 OUT OF POSITION STROKE PLAY A group is out of position when it: Takes more than the maximum allowable time to finish a checkpoint hole and completes play of a checkpoint hole more than 14 minutes after the group ahead of them.* *The first group(s) of each wave is measured only against maximum allowable time until they are within 14 minutes of the group ahead of them. GROUP OUT OF POSITION MONITORED BY A RULES ROVER Any group that is out of position may be monitored by a Rules Rover. A Rules Rover, when monitoring a group, may individually time strokes made by a player(s). A time exceeding 40 seconds to play a stroke may be considered excessive if the group becomes liable to penalty. A player(s) concerned about a non-responsive (slow) fellow-competitor(s) in the group should request a Rules Rover to monitor the group in case it may become or is liable to penalty. Information gathered at any time by a Rules Rover or a member of the Rules Committee may be used by the Pace of Play Committee during the review process to determine whether a group or player(s) is in breach of these guidelines. PENALTIES Players in a group that have missed one or more checkpoints are liable to penalty according to the following schedule of penalties: 1 st missed checkpoint warning* 2 nd missed checkpoint liable to a penalty of one stroke 3 rd missed checkpoint liable to an additional penalty of two strokes 4 th missed checkpoint liable to disqualification *If a group successfully clears each of its first 3 checkpoints, but is out of position (misses) at the 4 th check- 34 USGA RULES NOTEBOOK PACE OF PLAY