R&A announces temporary modifications to the Rules of Golf
The Royal & Ancient has announced a series of temporary measures which will enable clubs to remove any hygiene implications from the current Covid-19 outbreak related to complying with the Rules of Golf.
The temporary measures are effective immediately and allow the Rules of Golf, and Model Local Rules to be modified as a result of the current crisis.
The measures include:
Alterations to the way scorecards are handled and returned as well as how scores can be attested by playing partners.
Golf NSW advises that due to the current Covid-19 (Coronavirus) situation, all staff will be working remotely from Monday, March 23 for an initial two week period, after which time the situation will be reassessed.
Despite the disruption, Golf NSW remains fully operational, and the services available to member clubs, districts, & the greater golf community at large will not be affected in any way.
Golf NSW will provide further updates as information comes to hand, or if/when circumstances change.
Requirements around the flagstick and the placement of the hole, including the hole lining, and consideration of when a ball at rest is considered holed.
Bunkers and rakes (if rakes have been removed for hygiene reasons) including allowing committees to introduce Local Rule options which treat all bunkers as ground under repair and in the general area, or allow preferred lies in bunkers.
For more advice from regarding Golf and club operations during the COVID-19 situation, please visit the following sites:
The R&A COVID-19 Related Guidance on the rules of golf please click HERE
For advice from the R&A regarding the COVID-19 Crisis please click HERE
Australian Government Smart Traveller advice click HERE
World Health Organisation advice on the COVID-19 Pandemic click HERE
For advice from Golf Australia regarding the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, please click HERE
For advice on legal issues relating to the management and operation of facilities from Golf NSW club support legal partners, TGLaw, please click HERE