Rules for Tournament Play

January 17, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 1

Rule 1 – Free Relief 2

Purpose of the Rule 2

1.1 General Rule 2

1.2 Preferred Lies – Winter Rules 2

1.3 Taking Free Relief 3

1.4 Conditions for which Rule 1.3.1 Free Relief is Allowed 4

1.5 Abnormal Course Conditions 4

1.6 Ground Under Repair 5

1.7 Ground Deemed Under Repair 5

1.8 Tree Roots and Tree Wells 5

1.9 Bird and Other Animal Dung 6

1.10 Embedded Ball 6

1.11 Worsened Conditions 6

1.12 Wrong Green 7

1.13 Downed Trees, Tree and Plant Debris 7

1.14 Aeration Holes, Mowing Grooves on Green, Cut Turf, Ground Cracks 7

1.15 Bunkers Filled with Water 8

Rule 2 – Relief from Obstructions / Loose Impediments 9

2.1 Movable Obstructions 9

2.2 Immovable Obstructions 10

2.3 Power Lines 10

2.4 Loose Impediments 10

Rule 3 – Penalty Area & No Play Zone Relief 12

3.1 Penalty Areas 12

3.2 Uncertainty Whether Ball in Penalty Area 12

3.3 Yellow Penalty Areas 13

3.4 Red Penalty Areas 13

3.5 No Play Zones 13

3.6 Drop Zones 14

Rule 4 – Lost Balls, Out-of-Bounds & Unplayable Lies 15

4.1 Relief Options for Lost Ball and Ball Out-of-Bounds 15

4.2 Stroke-and-Distance Relief 15

4.3 Local Rule Relief for Lost Ball and Ball Out-of-Bounds 16

4.4 Out-of-Bounds 17

4.5 Unplayable Lies 18

Rule 5 – Equipment 19

5.1 Rangefinders, GPS Devices & Similar Equipment 19

5.2 Green Reading Devices 19

5.3 Allowable Number of Clubs 20

5.4 Adjusting Club Settings During Round 20

Rule 6 – Tournament Round Play 21

6.1 Order of Play 21

6.2 Searching for Ball 21

6.3 Making a Stroke 22

6.4 Missing Tee Markers 23

6.5 Practice During Round 23

6.6 Advice 23

6.7 Wrong Ball 24

6.8 Ball Moves before Next Stroke 24

6.9 Ball Accidently Hits Obstruction 25

6.10 Ball Hits Flagstick in Hole 26

6.11 Holing Out 26

Rule 7 – Handicapping, Money & Championship Points 27

7.1 Handicapping 27

7.2 Tournament Winnings 27

7.3 Tournament Points 28

7.4 Ties 28

Rule 8 – Resolving Rules Issues 29

8.1 Confusion About Rules During Round 29

8.2 Rules Committee Ruling 29

8.3 Correcting Wrong Ruling 29

Rule 9 – Dress Code 30

9.1 Dress Code Requirements 30

9.2 Club Shirts 30

9.3 Uniforms 30

USGA Diagrams 31

Relief from Abnormal Course Conditions - Cart Path 32

Relief from Abnormal Course Condition - Fairway 33

Relief from Abnormal Course Condition - Putting Green 34

Relief from Abnormal Course Condition - Bunker 35

Dropping Ball when Taking Relief 36

Dropping Ball in Relief Area 37

Embedded Ball 38

Embedded Ball – Taking Free Relief 39

Wrong Green - Taking Free Relief 40

Movable Obstruction – Ball In or On Top 41

Moving Movable Obstruction – Ball Moves 42

Yellow Penalty Area Relief 43

Red Penalty Area Relief 44

Playing Provisional Ball More than Once 45

Local Rule for Lost Ball / Out-of-Bounds – Adjacent to Fairway 46

Local Rule for Lost Ball / Out-of-Bounds – Near or Behind Green 47

When Ball Out-of-Bounds 48

Unplayable Lie Relief 49

Unplayable Lie in Bunker Relief 50

Video Links 51

USGA - Playing Course as You Find It (1 minute, 34 seconds) 52

USGA - Nearest Point of Relief (1 minute, 16 seconds) 52

USGA - Abnormal Course Conditions (1 minute, 28 seconds) 52

USGA - Movable Obstructions and Loose Impediments (1 minute, 30 seconds) 52

USGA - Penalty Areas (1 minute, 29 seconds) 52

USGA - Bunkers (53 seconds) 52

USGA - Ball Lost or Out-of-Bounds & Provisional Ball (1 minute, 37 seconds) 53

USGA – Ball Lost or Out-of-Bounds Local Rule (1 minute, 19 seconds) 53

7 Rules (Even Experienced) Golfers Find Confusing (15 minutes, 57 seconds 53

8 Rules Golfers Break Without Realizing (15 minutes, 12 seconds) 53

Footnotes 54

Jesse Johnson Golf Club Rules for Tournament Play

January 17, 2025

Introduction

The Jesse Johnson Golf Club (the JJGC) was founded on the principle of playing by the rules. Therefore, the JJGC plays according to the USGA Rules of Golf and the World Handicap System published by the USGA and R&A. In addition, the JJGC has established Local Rules based on guidance from the USGA Model Local Rules. A player or group of players may not overlook known rule breaches during tournaments because the rules are in place to protect the entire field of players in the competition. 1

This rules package is a compilation of rules that govern reoccurring situations experienced in JJGC tournament play. For those who want to know the source of the JJGC rules, footnotes are included citing the supporting USGA rule. References to “the RC” in this rules package refers to the JJGC Rules Committee.

Links to USGA videos involving reoccurring situations are included to illustrate the application of the rules. These video links can be found in the text of the JJGC Rules below and are also separately listed beginning on page 51. Most of the videos are no longer than two minutes.

Also, on pages 31-50 there are diagrams from the USGA Rules of Golf and Model Rules illustrating the application of certain rules in reoccurring situations. The rule references on the diagrams are to the USGA Rules. Rule references at the top of the page are references to the JJGC Rules.

This rules package does not attempt to cover all situations that might conceivably occur during a tournament round. It covers only the situations commonly encountered during JJGC tournament play. Other situations are covered in the USGA Rules, and those rules also govern JJGC tournament play. Please refer to the following websites for the USGA materials:

• USGA Rules of Golf: < https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub.html >
• USGA Model Local Rules of Golf: < https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules/rules-2019/committee-procedures/rule-8.html >
• USGA and R&A World Handicapping System Rules of Handicapping: < https://www.usga.org/handicapping/roh/2020-rules-of-handicapping.html >

Rule 1 – Free Relief

Purpose of the Rule

Questions often arise concerning relief that may be taken without penalty in certain reoccurring situations. Also, because of the condition of courses the JJGC sometimes plays, it is necessary to identify conditions deemed ground under repair by the RC, consistent with the USGA Rules and Model Local Rules. The purpose of this section is to list the situations in which free relief is granted according to the USGA Rules and the JJGC Local Rules and to state the nature of the relief.

1.1 General Rule

1.1.1 Central Principle: 2

A central principle of the game of golf is “play the ball as it lies.” A player’s ball at rest on the course must be played as it lies. Accordingly, except as otherwise noted in these rules, a player must not intentionally improve the following stroke conditions:

• The lie of the player’s ball at rest,
• The area of the player’s intended stance,
• The area of the player's intended swing,
• The player's line of play (area of intended direction of the ball’s movement or flight),
• The relief area where the player will drop or place the ball.

1.1.2 Foliage: Except as otherwise noted in these rules, the above rule applies to prohibit a player from moving, bending, chopping or breaking any growing or attached natural object for the purpose of improving conditions affecting the stroke. A player who breaches this rule shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty. 3

See USGA video on playing the ball as it lies:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9UqE-30oG4&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=5 > (1 minute, 24 seconds)

1.2 Preferred Lies - Winter Rule 4

1.2.1 Lift, Clean and Place: When this rule is in effect, a player may lift the ball anywhere on the course except bunkers and penalty areas, clean it and replace it in the original spot before making a stroke without penalty.

1.2.2 When Rule In Effect: When there are wet ground conditions from current or past rain, the president or designee may declare this rule is in effect. The declaration shall be made by text message to the players before the round starts. This rule may not be put into effect after the first group tees off.

1.3 Taking Free Relief

1.3.1 Relief: 5

Free relief is available as indicated in these rules. A player must declare his intent to take relief to at least one other player in the playing group and get confirmation from that player that relief is available. Free relief is obtained by dropping the ball in the following relief area:

• Nearest point of complete relief,
• Plus one club length (Can be the longest club in the bag, other than a putter), 6

  6 2023 USGA Rules of Golf Definition of “club length,” p. 216.

• No closer to the hole.

1.3.2 Nearest Point of Complete Relief Defined: The nearest point of relief is the nearest point in the same area (Examples of areas - fairway, rough, bunker) where there is no interference from the condition from which the relief is being taken for the stroke the player would have made with the club the player would have used if the condition had not been there. Estimating this reference point requires the player to identify the choice of club, stance, swing and line of play they would have used for that stroke. 7

See USGA video on taking the relief described in Rule 1.3.1 above:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS3es7UOI8M&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=7 > (1 minute, 16 seconds)

See also the USGA diagrams on pages 32, 33, 34 depicting how to take the relief described in Rule 1.3.1 above.

1.3.3 Additional Nearest Point of Relief: If the player takes relief and then has interference by another condition from which relief is allowed, the player may take relief again by determining a new nearest point of complete relief from the new condition. 8

1.3.4 Relief Taken in Bunker: If the relief is needed from an abnormal course condition in a bunker, the player may take the free relief described in Rule 1.3.1 in the bunker. Alternatively, the player may take Back-on-the-Line Relief outside of the bunker with a one-stroke penalty.

See the USGA diagram on page 35 depicting the options for relief under Rule 1.3.4.

1.3.5 Dropping the Ball: The ball must be dropped in the correct way in the correct area of relief. It must be dropped in the area of relief straight down from knee height. A player who drops the ball in the wrong way into the relief area and plays the next stroke must be assessed a one-stroke penalty. A player who drops the ball outside of the relief area and plays the next stroke must be assessed a two-stroke penalty. 9

See the USGA diagram on page 36 for illustrations on how to drop the ball as required under Rule 1.3.5.

1.3.6 Dropped Ball Comes to Rest Outside Relief Area: If a dropped ball comes to rest outside of the relief area, the ball must be dropped again. If the ball does not stay in the relief area after the second drop, the player must place the ball on the spot where the second drop landed. 10

See the USGA diagram on page 37 illustrating how to re-drop and place the ball.

1.4 Conditions for which Rule 1.3.1 Free Relief is Allowed

• Abnormal course conditions,
• Tree roots,
• Tree well,
• Bird and other animal dung,
• Embedded ball,
• Worsened conditions,
• Wrong green,
• Movable or immovable obstruction.

1.5 Abnormal Course Conditions

1.5.1 List of Abnormal Course Conditions from USGA Rules: 11

• Ground under repair,
• Immovable obstructions,
• Temporary water,
• Animal holes.
  1. List of Local Rule Abnormal Playing Conditions:

• Ground deemed under repair by the RC.
• Downed trees.
• Large broken tree branches or pieces of trunk that are difficult to move.
• Piles of tree and plant debris.
• Aeration holes, grooves from vertical mowing on greens, cut turf, sod seems.
• Cracks in the ground.
• Bunkers flooded with water.

See the USGA video on taking relief from abnormal course conditions:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFKVq4HmMjY&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=11 >

1.6 Ground Under Repair

1.6.1 Relief: A player may take the relief described in Rule 1.3.1 when a ball comes to rest in an area marked ground under repair by the course. 12

1.7 Ground Deemed Under Repair 13

Purpose of the Rule: The JJGC plays on public access courses with varying degrees of maintenance and irrigation coverage. Due to lack of maintenance, poor irrigation and other circumstances, the conditions listed in this rule are sometimes present. These are conditions that are not part of the course design and were not intended as part of the challenge of playing the course. Because these conditions are often not marked as ground under repair by course officials, the RC deems them ground under repair.

1.7.1. Relief: A player may take the relief described in Rule 1.3.1 when a ball comes to rest on ground deemed under repair.

1.7.2 Course Conditions Deemed by the RC to be Under Repair:

• Bare spots obviously caused by carts or foot traffic in the fairway and around a green,
• Bare spots along the side of concrete cart paths,
• Bare spots in the fairway and around the green resulting from poor irrigation or maintenance (bare spots in the rough are not deemed under repair),
• Areas in bunkers where sand has been removed by the movement of water resulting in deep furrows through the sand,
• Wheel ruts caused by riding carts,
• Damage caused by animals,
• Holes made by maintenance staff.
• Any similar conditions that are obviously not part of the course design and not intended as part of the challenge of playing the course.

1.8 Tree Roots and Tree Wells

Purpose of the Rule: The purpose of this rule is to avoid damage to golf equipment and trees and to avoid injury to players.

1.8.1 Tree Root Relief: A player may take the relief described in Rule 1.3.1 when the ball comes to rest on or against a tree root or a tree root interferes with the intended swing anywhere on the course except when the root is under a bush or other foliage or in a penalty area. 14

1.8.2 Tree Wells: A player may take relief under Rule 1.3.1 when the ball comes to rest in a tree well regardless of the age of the tree or whether the tree is staked. 15

1.9 Bird and Other Animal Dung

Purpose of this Rule: The presence of bird dung is a common occurrence on the courses JJGC plays. While the USGA Rules treat dung as loose impediments, 16

the JJGC Local Rule allows players to proceed without touching bird or animal dung or otherwise risking contamination.

1.9.1 Relief: A player may take the free relief described in section 1.3.1 when the player’s ball or intended stance is in or near bird or animal dung or when such dung is in a spot where the player’s potential divot from the player’s intended swing will occur. 17

1.10 Embedded Ball

1.10.1 Embedded Defined: A ball is embedded when it is in its own pitch-mark and part of the ball is below ground level. 18

See the USGA diagram on page 38 depicting when a ball is embedded.

1.10.2 Available Relief: A player make take the relief described in 1.3.1 when a ball is embedded anywhere on the course except in a penalty area or a bunker. 19

See the diagram on page 39 depicting how relief is to be taken from an embedded ball.

1.10.3 Embedded on Putting Green – Relief: When a ball is embedded in the putting green, the player may lift the ball, clean it, repair the damage to the green caused by the ball’s impact and replace the ball on top of the repaired spot. 20

1.11 Worsened Conditions

1.11.1 Conditions Worsened by Another Player: 21

If conditions affecting the stroke are worsened by a person other than the player (Example – golf cart driven by another player runs over player’s ball), the player may do the following without penalty:

• Restore the original conditions as nearly as possible and
• Lift and place the ball in the nearest spot, no closer to the hole, that has the most similar conditions.

1.11.2 Conditions Worsened by the Player: 22

A player may not improve the conditions affecting the stroke if the conditions have been worsened by that player (Example – player driving cart runs over player’s own ball).

1.12 Wrong Green

1.12.1 Mandatory Relief: A player must not make a stroke at a ball that has come to rest on the wrong green. The player must take the relief described in Rule 1.3.1. 23

See the USGA diagram on page 40 depicting how relief is taken for ball hit onto the wrong green.

1.13 Downed Trees, Tree and Plant Debris

Purpose of this Rule: Storms and course maintenance sometimes result in downed trees, large branches and trunks of trees on the course. Course maintenance workers sometimes pile tree and plant debris on the course intending to later remove it. Some such debris could be considered loose impediments but would be difficult to move and would take unwarranted time to do so, thereby negatively impacting pace of play. Some such debris could be considered ground under repair. 24

In any event, such debris is not part of the course design, nor is it intended as part of the challenge of playing the course. Based on these considerations, the following JJGC Local Rule applies.

1.13.1 Relief: Rather than attempting to move downed trees, large branches or pieces of tree trunk or piled tree and plant debris on the course, a player may take the relief described in 1.3.1. While taking this relief is not mandatory, players are encouraged to do so to enhance the pace of play. A player who opts not to take this relief may treat the debris as a loose impediment.

1.14 Aeration Holes, Mowing Grooves on the Green, Cut Turf, Ground Cracks 25

Purpose of the Rule: Maintenance personnel sometimes make temporary changes to the course to enhance growth and prevent disease. On the other hand, lack of maintenance and/or lack of irrigation sometimes results in cracks in the ground in which golf balls can come to rest. These conditions are not part of the design of the course or intended as part of the challenge of playing the course. With these considerations in mind, the following Local Rules apply.

1.14.1 Relief from Turf Maintenance: A player may take free relief when the ball comes to rest in an aeration hole, mowing grooves on the green, or cut turf. Relief from such conditions is taken by lifting the ball and placing it on a spot as near to the original spot as possible to provide full relief, no closer to the hole.

1.14.2 Relief from Cracks in the Ground: When a ball comes to rest in a crack in the ground anywhere on the course and any portion of the ball is below the surface of the ground, a player may take free relief by lifting the ball and placing it on a spot as near to the original spot as possible to provide full relief, no closer to the hole.

1.15 Bunkers Flooded with Water 26

Purpose of the Rule: When a bunker is flooded, free relief described in Rule 1.3.1 in the bunker may not be possible because of this abnormal condition. The USGA Model Local Rules allow a committee to treat such bunkers as ground under repair, deem the bunker not to be a bunker for purposes of the round and allow free relief outside of the bunker. Accordingly, the following JJGC Local Rule applies.

1.15.1 Relief: When a bunker is filled with temporary water and there is no place in the bunker from which to take the free relief described in 1.3.1, the player may take the free relief described in 1.3.1 outside of the bunker.

Rule 2 – Relief from Obstructions/Loose Impediments

2.1 Movable Obstructions 27

2.1.1 Definition / Examples: Movable obstructions are artificial objects that are moveable. Examples of moveable obstructions include, but are not limited to:

• Rake,
• Towel,
• Piece of paper or food wrapping,
• Movable waste containers,
• Moveable yardage poles,
• Penalty area boundary stakes.

2.1.2 Out-of-Bounds/Boundary Stakes: An out-of-bounds stake is not a moveable obstruction, and the player may not move it; nor is the player entitled to any relief. A player who breaches this rule must be assessed a two-stroke penalty. 28

2.1.3 Relief – Stance, Intended Swing, Ball Flight: When a ball comes to rest in a place where a moveable obstruction is in the player’s stance or area of intended swing or intended line of play (Example – the line of flight of the ball or path of a putt), the player may remove the obstruction and proceed to make the next stroke. 29

2.1.4 Relief - Ball on Top of or Next to Moveable Obstruction: When a ball comes to rest on top of or next to a movable obstruction, the player may take relief by removing the ball and dropping the ball one club length in the same area of the course, no closer to the hole. 30

See the USGA diagram on page 41 depicting how to take relief when the ball comes to rest on a movable obstruction.

2.1.5 Ball Moves When Obstruction Removed: If the ball moves while the player moves a movable obstruction, the ball must be replaced in the original spot and no penalty is assessed. 31

See USGA diagram on page 42 depicting relief when ball moves while moving a movable obstruction.

See USGA Video on movable obstructions and loose impediments:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiWcVQZcj9A&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=6 >

2.2 Immovable Obstructions

2.2.1 Definition / Examples: 32

Artificial objects that are immovable or cannot be moved without unreasonable effort or causing damage to the object or the course are immovable obstructions. Immovable obstructions include, but are not limited to:

• Paved and unpaved cart paths,
• Buildings,
• Sprinkler heads,
• Drains, paved or rock irrigation ditches, irrigation boxes,
• Permanently fixed stakes, other than boundary stakes,
• Landscaping equipment, other vehicles,
• Fixed waste containers,
• Signposts,
• Benches,
• Ball washers.

2.2.2 Immovable Obstruction Relief: Free relief described in Rule 1.3.1 may be taken when a ball comes to rest in or on an immovable obstruction or the obstruction interferes with the area of the player’s stance or area of intended swing. 33

2.2.3 Sprinkler Heads Around the Green on a Player’s Line of Play: The RC adopts the following local rule based on the optional USGA Model Local Rule. A player may take relief from a sprinkler head around the green when: 1) The sprinkler head is in the players line of play (Example – it is in the way of a putt or chip the player would make onto the green); 2) The sprinkler head is within two club lengths of the green (measured by any club except the putter), and 3) The sprinkler head is within two club lengths of the ball. When these three conditions are met, the player may take free relief under Rule 1.3.1.

2.3 Power Lines

2.3.1 Mandatory Relief: If a player’s ball hits a power line or tower or a wire or pole supporting a power line during play, the stroke does not count. The player must make another stroke without penalty from the spot where the previous stroke was made. 34

2.4 Loose Impediments

2.4.1 Defined: A loose impediment is an unattached natural object. 35

2.4.2 Removal: A player may remove loose impediments anywhere on the course, including bunkers and penalty areas. 36

2.4.3 Ball Moves During Removal of Loose Impediment: If a ball moves while the player is removing a loose impediment, the ball must be replaced on the original spot. If the ball had been at rest anywhere other than the putting green or teeing area, the player must be assessed a one stroke penalty. 37

See USGA Video on movable obstructions and loose impediments:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiWcVQZcj9A&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=6 >

Rule 3 – Penalty Area & No Play Zone Relief

3.1 Penalty Areas

3.1.1 Penalty Areas Defined: Penalty areas are bodies of water or watercourses (even if not containing water), formerly referred to as “water hazards.” Other areas designated by the course may also be deemed penalty areas. Penalty areas are marked by yellow stakes/lines or red stakes/lines. 38

3.1.2 Relief Options Generally: The relief a player gets from a penalty area depends on whether the area is marked yellow or red. Penalty areas marked yellow provide two options for relief. Penalty areas marked red provide three options for relief. Penalty areas not marked are treated as red. 39

3.1.3 Playing Ball in Penalty Area: A player may play a ball as it lies in a penalty area without penalty. 40

But there is no relief for abnormal course conditions, embedded balls or unplayable lies in a penalty area. 41

41 Rule 17.3.

A player may do the following in a penalty area: 42

42 Rule 8.1b(2)/(4).

• Take a practice swing,
• Ground the club lightly in front of or right behind the ball as long as the player does not press the club on the ground,
• Move loose impediments.

See the USGA video on taking relief from yellow and red penalty areas: < https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfjY8G79MEI&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=8 >

3.2 Uncertainty Whether Ball in Penalty Area

3.2.1 Known or Virtually Certain Rule: If it is known or virtually certain that a ball came to rest in a penalty area, the player may take the penalty area relief described below. “Known or virtually certain” means more than just probable. It means either there is conclusive evidence such as someone’s observation, or although there is a very small degree of doubt, all reasonably available information shows that it is at least 95% likely that the ball is in the penalty area. 43

3.2.2 Not Known nor Virtually Certain: If it is not known nor virtually certain that a ball came to rest in a penalty area and the ball has not been found, it must be treated as a lost ball and the relief specified for lost balls must be taken. 44

3.3 Yellow Penalty Areas 45

3.3.1 Relief Options: A player may take the following relief with a one-stroke penalty:

• Stroke-and-Distance Relief,
• Or Back-on-the-Line Relief.

3.3.2 Stroke-and-Distance Relief: The player may drop another ball within one club length from where the previous stroke was made and make another stroke.

3.3.3 Back-on-the-Line Relief: The player may drop a ball on an estimated line back from the penalty area. The line is determined by keeping the estimated point where the ball crossed the edge of the penalty area between the hole and the spot where the ball is dropped. There is no limit how far back the player may drop the ball. The ball must be dropped on the line.

See the USGA diagram on page 43 depicting how to take relief from a yellow penalty area.

3.4 Red Penalty Areas 46

3.4.1 Relief Options: In addition to Stroke-and-Distance Relief and Back-on-the-Line Relief described above, the player may also take lateral relief with a one-stroke penalty.

3.4.2 Lateral Relief: A player may drop a ball two club-lengths from the point where the ball crossed the edge of the red penalty area, but no closer to the hole.

See the USGA diagram on page 44 depicting how to take relief from a red penalty area.

3.5 No Play Zones

3.5.1 No Play Zone Defined: A No Play Zone is an area marked by the course into which a player may not enter (Example - environmentally sensitive areas, flower and shrub beds). A player may not make a stroke from a No Play Zone. 47

3.5.2 Relief Options: When a no play zone is marked as a penalty area or is otherwise designated as such by the course (Example – designated on the course score card as a no play zone), the player may take Stroke-and-Distance Relief, Back-on-the-Line Relief, or Lateral Relief with a one stroke penalty. Or if the course has designated the no play zone an abnormal course condition or otherwise provided free relief, the player may take free relief described in Rule 1.3.1. 48

3.6 Drop Zones

3.6.1 Alternative Relief: The course may have marked a drop zone area for relief. JJGC players are encouraged to play from the drop zone but may take any other relief for penalty areas discussed above.

Rule 4 – Lost Balls, Out-of-Bounds & Unplayable Lies

4.1 Relief Options for Lost Ball and Ball Out-of-Bounds:

4.1.1 Relief: When a ball is not found within the three-minute search period discussed in Rule 6.2 or when a ball is hit out-of-bounds, a player has two options for relief:

• Stroke-and-Distance Relief.
• Local Rule Relief. 49

  49 Rule 18.1; USGA Local Model Rule E-5.

4.1.2 Relief When Ball Lost in Tree/Plant Debris: When it is known or virtually certain that a ball came to rest in a downed tree, large fallen tree branches, plant debris piled by course maintenance or similar abnormal course conditions, the player need not look for the ball in the debris. To maintain pace of play, the player may take the free relief described in Rule 1.3.1. “Known or virtually certain” means more than just probable. It means either there is conclusive evidence such as someone’s observation, or although there is a very small degree of doubt, all reasonably available information shows that it is at least 95% likely that the ball is in the debris. 50

If it is not known nor reasonably certain that a ball came to rest in such debris and the ball has not been found, it must be treated as a lost ball and the relief specified for lost balls must be taken.

4.2 Stroke-and-Distance Relief:

4.2.1 Relief: A player may add one penalty stroke and play another ball within one club length from where the previous stroke was made, no closer to the hole. 51

See the USGA video on stroke and distance relief:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEwNzgC9ge4&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=12 >

4.2.2 Provisional Ball / Declaration: A player may declare a second ball as “provisional” in case the original ball is found. Unless the player declares the second ball as provisional before making the stroke, the original ball is no longer in play even if it is found. If the player declares the second ball a provisional, the original ball must be played if found within the three-minute search period described in Rule 6.2.1. 52

If the original ball is not found, then the provisional ball is in play. A player may ask the other players in the group to stop looking for the original ball during the three-minute search period and play the provisional ball instead. However, the other players are under no obligation to stop searching before the end of the three-minute search period, and if the original ball is found, it is the ball in play even if the player wanted to play the provisional instead and requested the search be discontinued. 53

53 Rule 18.3c(3).

4.2.3 Making the Provisional Declaration: The player must use the word “provisional” and identify the brand and number of both the original ball and the

provisional ball. Or if the balls are different colors, the player may state the color of the original and provisional.

4.2.4 Playing Provisional Ball More than Once: A player may play a provisional ball more than once without it losing its status as a provisional ball so long as it is played from a spot that is the same distance or farther from the hole than where the original ball is estimated to be. 54

Once a provisional ball is played from a spot nearer the hole from where the original ball is estimated to be, the original ball is no longer in play even if it is found. 55

55 Rule 18.3c(2).

See the USGA diagram on page 45 depicting taking multiple strokes on provisional ball without it losing its status as provisional.

4.2.5 Distinguishing Original and Provisional Balls: If a provisional ball is found in the same general location as the original ball and the player is unable to identify which is which, the player shall choose one of the balls to be the provisional ball and that ball shall be in play. If only one ball is found and the player is unable to identify it as the original or provisional, it shall be deemed the provisional. 56

This problem can be avoided if the player uses a ball with a different number or brand or a different color than the original ball when the provisional is declared and states the identifying characteristics of each ball when declaring a provisional.

4.3 Local Rule Relief for Lost Ball and Ball Out-of-Bounds 57

Purpose of this Rule: One major contributor to slow play is the time taken searching for errant balls. The negative impact on pace of play is compounded when a player must return to the place where the original stroke was made to take Stroke-and-Distance relief. To enhance pace of play, the RC adopts the following local rule based on the optional USGA Model Local Rule.

4.3.1 Relief: When a player is unable to find the ball or when it has gone out-of-bounds or it is virtually certain to have gone out-of-bounds and the player has not hit a provisional ball, the player may add two penalty strokes and take the following relief:

• First, estimate the spot where the original ball was lost or went out-of-bounds and imagine a straight line running from the hole through that spot.
• Second, estimate the point on the nearest edge of the fairway that is not nearer the hole from the first estimated spot. Imagine a straight line running from the hole through that second estimated spot. If the ball is lost or went out-of-bounds short of the fairway, use a grass path or the teeing area as the second reference point.
• Third, measure two club lengths into the fairway, not nearer the hole. A player may drop there. But a player can also drop anywhere in the area two club lengths into the fairway and between the two imaginary lines, but not nearer the hole.

See the USGA video on taking the optional relief for lost or out-of-bounds balls under the USGA Model Rule:

< https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/rules-modernization/major-changes/golfs-new-rules-stroke-and-distance.html >

See the USGA diagram on page 46 depicting how to take the Local Rule relief when the ball is lost or went out-of-bounds adjacent to the fairway.

See the USGA diagram on page 47 depicting how to take the Local Rule relief when the ball is lost or went out-of-bounds behind or around the green.

4.3.2 Provisional Ball Played / Not Played: Instead of taking the Local Rule Relief, a player may hit a provisional ball and take Stroke-and-Distance Relief in case the original ball is not found. However, the player must decide to take Stroke-and-Distance relief before leaving the spot where the stroke was made. Stroke-and-Distance Relief is no longer available if the player leaves the location where the original stroke was taken without hitting a provisional ball. Instead, the player must take Local Rule Relief.

4.3.3 Mandatory Relief when Provisional Ball Lost or Out-of-Bounds: If a provisional ball is played and neither the original ball nor the provisional ball can be found or the provisional ball has been hit out-of-bounds, the player must take the Local Rule Relief instead of returning to the place where the strokes on the original and provisional balls were made to make another stroke.

4.4 Out-of-Bounds

4.4.1 When is Ball Out-of-Bounds: A ball is out-of-bounds if the ball is outside of the boundary edge or if all of the ball is on a boundary line. A ball is in-bounds when any part of the ball lies inside the boundary edge, even if some of the ball is on the boundary line. A player may stand out-of-bounds when making a stroke on a ball that is in-bounds. 58

See the USGA diagram on page 48 depicting when a ball is or is not out-of-bounds.

4.4.2 Relief from Out-of-Bounds Boundaries: There is no free relief from boundary objects, such as boundary fences or stakes. 59

A player may not move boundary markers such as boundary fences, posts or stakes to make a stroke. 60

60 Rule 15.2.

A player who violates this rule must be assessed a two-stroke penalty.

4.5 Unplayable Lies

4.5.1 When Relief Available: A player may take relief from an unplayable lie anywhere on the course except in a penalty area. 61

4.5.2 Relief Options: A player has three options for relief from unplayable lies, each adding a one-stroke penalty. The player may take: 62

• Stroke-and-Distance Relief,
• Back-on-the Line Relief,
• Or Lateral Relief.

4.5.3 Stroke-and-Distance Relief: The player may drop a ball on a spot within one club length from where the previous stroke was made, no closer to the hole. 63

4.5.4 Back-on-the-Line Relief: The player may drop a ball behind the spot of the unplayable lie, keeping that spot between the hole and the spot where the ball is dropped with no limit on how far back the ball may be dropped. 64

4.5.5 Lateral Relief: 65

The player may drop as follows:

• Nearest point of relief,
• Plus two club lengths,
• No closer to the hole.

4.5.6 Lateral Relief - Ball in a Tree: When a ball is unplayable in a tree, the reference point is the ground directly below the ball. 66

4.5.7 Unplayable Lie in Bunker: A player may take any of the above options for relief when the ball is unplayable in a bunker, each under penalty of one-stroke. 67

However, for Back-on-the-Line Relief or lateral relief, the ball must be dropped in the bunker. A fourth option is available; under penalty of two strokes, the player may take Back-on-the-Line relief outside of the bunker. 68

68 Rule 19.3b.

See the USGA video on relief from unplayable lies:

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KYoSvWx3MI&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=9 >

See the USGA diagram on page 49 for an illustration on how to take the three options for relief from unplayable lies generally.

See the USGA diagram on page 50 for an illustration on how to take the four options for relief from unplayable lies in the bunker.

Rule 5 – Equipment

5.1 Rangefinders, GPS Devices & Similar Equipment 69

Purpose of the Rule: Rangefinders, GPS devices and similar equipment can enhance the pace of play. However, under the USGA rules, the use of certain features on such devices is prohibited.

5.1.1 General Rule: Use of rangefinders and GPS devices is permitted during tournament rounds for purposes of determining distance and direction. 70

However, the use of certain features specified below is prohibited and must be disabled before a tournament round begins.

5.1.2 Elevation Measurements (Slope): A feature on a device that measures or accounts for elevation must not be used during tournament play. 71

5.1.3 Club Selection: A feature on a device that provides club selection information based on the location of the player’s ball must not be used during tournament play. 72

5.1.4 Wind Conditions: A feature that measures wind speed at the course must not be used during tournament play. However, a device (such as a cell phone) that provides weather information from public weather forecasts, including wind speed, is permissible. 73

5.1.5 Penalty: If a prohibited feature is not disabled prior to the player’s first use of the device, the player shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty for the first breach and disqualification for a second breach. 74

The first breach penalty shall be applied to the score on the hole where the prohibited feature was used.

5.2 Green Reading Devices 75

Purpose of the Rule: The skill and judgment to read greens and determine the line of putts is essential to the game of golf. Accordingly, the USGA has provided clarification limiting the use of green reading devices or information. Essentially, the clarification limits the size and scale of detailed putting green maps and any similar electronic or digital materials that a player may use during a round.

5.2.1 Use of Green Maps/Diagrams: A player may use electronic images of green maps or diagrams during tournament play that meets the following requirements:

5.2.2 Scale: The scale must be limited to 3/8 inch to 5 yards.

5.2.3 Line of Play: The device must not produce the line-of-putt based on the location of the ball.

5.2.4 Penalty: A player using prohibited green reading features shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty for the first breach of this rule and disqualification for a second breach. The first breach penalty shall be applied to the score on the hole where the prohibited feature was used.

5.3 Allowable Number of Clubs 76

5.3.1 14-Club Limitation: A player may not use more than 14 clubs during a tournament round. 77

5.3.2 Mistake Carrying More Than 14 Clubs Discovered Before Round Starts: A player who mistakenly brings more than 14 clubs to the first tee, but discovers the mistake before taking the first stroke of the round, is permitted to declare excess clubs of the player’s choosing out of play. 78

This declaration shall be made prior to the player taking the first stroke of the round and must be made to the other members of the group. Thereafter, the player must not use the declared excess club(s) during the round.

5.3.3 Discovery of Breach During Round: If a player discovers excess clubs after taking the first stroke of the round, the player must be assessed a two-stroke penalty for each hole where the breach happened, but no more than a maximum of four penalty strokes for the round. The penalty will be assessed to the earliest of the previous holes played. 79

After discovery, the player must choose the club or clubs to be taken out of play and declare that club or clubs out of play to the other members of the group. The player shall be permitted to choose which club or clubs will be taken out of play.

5.3.4 Use of Club Taken Out-of-Play: A player shall be disqualified if the player makes a stroke with a club previously taken out of play. 80

5.4 Adjusting Club Settings During Round 81

5.4.1 Prohibition: After the first stroke of the player’s round, the player may not change the settings on any of the player’s clubs.

5.4.2 Penalty: A player who makes a stroke using a club adjusted after the first stroke of the player’s round shall be disqualified. However, the player shall not be disqualified if the settings are adjusted back to the original settings before a stroke is made.

Rule 6 – Tournament Round Play

6.1 Order of Play

6.1.1 Ready Golf: JJGC members play “ready golf.” 82

There is no penalty for playing out of order. 83

83 Rule 6.4.

6.1.2 Birdie/Eagle Exception to Ready Golf – Teeing Off: When a player has scored a natural birdie or eagle on the previous hole, that player shall have the honour on the next tee. The penalty for teeing off before that player shall be assessed by the golf gods in their eminent discretion at a time and place of their choosing.

6.1.3 Putting: There is no penalty for playing out of order on the putting green, but typically, the person furthest away from the hole should play first. When a player’s ball comes to rest a very short distance from the hole, the player may hole out. 84

6.2 Searching for Ball

6.2.1 Time Limit: A player must take no more than three minutes looking for a ball. The three-minute time period begins after the player gets to the general location where the ball is suspected to be and begins searching for it. If a player deliberately delays the start of the search in order to allow other people to search on their behalf, the search time starts when the player would have been in a position to search had the player not delayed getting to the area. If the search begins, but is interrupted for good reason (Example - standing aside to allow another player to make a stroke), the time between the interrupting event and the resumption of the search does not count towards the three-minute limit. If the ball is not found after three minutes, the player must declare the ball lost and play another ball. 85

6.2.2 Improving Conditions During Search: There is no penalty if conditions affecting the stroke are improved by the player as the player takes reasonable actions to find and identify the ball. 86

6.2.3 Moving/Breaking Foliage: A player may fairly search for a ball by taking reasonable actions to find and identify it, including moving or bending grass, bushes or tree branches and other growing or attached natural objects. This includes breaking such foliage if the breakage is the result of reasonable action taken to find or identify the ball. However, if an improvement in the players lie results from actions that exceed what is reasonable for a fair search, the player must be assessed a one stroke penalty. 87

6.2.4 Bunkers - Identifying Ball Covered in Sand: A player may move sand to identify a ball in a bunker. 88

If a ball covered in sand is removed to identify it, the original lie must be re-created, and the ball must be replaced in that lie. But the player may leave a small part of the ball visible when doing so. 89

89 Rule 7.4, 14.2d(1).

6.2.5 Accidentally Moving Ball During Search: There is no penalty for accidentally moving the ball while searching for it, but it must be replaced on the original spot. 90

6.2.6 Identifying / Cleaning the Ball: If a ball is found that might be the player’s ball but cannot be identified as it lies, the player may lift the ball to identify it. But the ball may not be cleaned more than needed to identify it (except when some other rule applies). After identifying the ball, it must be replaced in the original spot. 91

6.3 Making a Stroke

6.3.1 Teeing Area: If a ball falls off the tee or is knocked off the tee by the player before the player has made an intended stroke at it in the teeing area, it may be re-teed anywhere in the teeing area without penalty. This includes accidentally knocking the ball off a tee during a practice swing. 92

6.3.2 Whiffing: If a player makes an intended stroke at the ball in the teeing area or anywhere else on the course and misses the ball, a stroke must be assessed to the player. 93

6.3.3 Improving Stroke Conditions During Backswing: There is no penalty when conditions are improved during the stroke or when the backswing is made (Example - breaking a tree branch in the backswing). 94

6.3.4 Grounding Club: Except in a bunker, a player may ground the club lightly in front of or right behind the ball as long as the player does not press the club on the ground. This includes strokes taken from balls in a penalty area. 95

6.3.5 Double Hit: If a player’s club hits the ball more than once during a stroke, there has been only one stroke, and there is no penalty. 96

6.3.6 Strokes from a Bunker: A player may not touch the sand with a hand, rake or other object to test the conditions of the sand, change the conditions of the sand or learn information for making the next stroke. A player may not touch the sand with a club before making the stroke, including grounding the club, making a practice swing or during the backswing. However, a player may touch the sand to remove loose impediments or to fairly look for a lost ball or to use the club to maintain balance or prevent fall, and no penalty will be assessed for such actions. 97

A player who violates this rule must be assessed a two-stroke penalty.

See USGA video on play from bunkers.

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9_gXqAE6ZY&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=10 >

6.4 Missing Tee Markers

If one tee marker is missing, the players in the group should use their best judgment to estimate the location of the teeing area. 98

If both tee markers are missing, the players in the group should use their best judgment to estimate the location of the teeing area, using any permanent yardage markers on the teeing area as a reference point.

6.5 Practice During Round

Purpose of this Rule: Slow play is a problem the JJGC seeks avoid. Hitting practice shots during a round can contribute to slow play.

6.5.1 Permissible Practice: As long as the pace of play is not negatively impacted, a player may practice putting and chipping on or near:

• The putting green of the hole just completed and
• The teeing area of the next hole. 99

  99 Rule 5.5b.

6.5.2 Prohibited Practice: Other than as set forth immediately above, a player must not practice by hitting practice shots or practice putts during a round. 100

The penalty for doing so is two strokes. 101

101 Rule 5.5.

6.6 Advice

Purpose of this Rule: A fundamental challenge during our competitions is deciding the strategy, tactics and choices for play. 102

Advice concerning how to play the course given by a player to another player in one group gives the player receiving the advice a potential advantage over other players in that group and other groups in our tournament play.

6.6.1 Prohibition and Penalty: 103

During a round, a player must not give advice concerning how to play the course to anyone in the competition or ask for any such advice. Violation of this rule results in a two-stroke penalty. Prohibited advice includes, but is not limited to, providing information about:

• Choice of club,
• Making a stroke,
• The line or break of a putt,
• How to play a hole.

6.6.2 Permissible Advice: 104

A player may give or solicit the following advice without penalty:

• Public information, such as the distance between one point to another or the general slope of a green (Example - uphill or downhill),
• Pointing out locations of things on the course,
• Wind direction,
• Advice concerning swing/putting mechanics, stance and ball placement relative the stance. 105

  105 This bullet is a local rule adopted by the RC and is believed to be consistent with the spirit of the rules and the game. JJGC members strive to help one another become better golfers for their personal fulfillment and to increase the pace of play. Also, the RC recognizes that golfers all over the world who post away and home course scores under the USGA/R&A World Handicap System sometimes provide advice to persons with whom they are playing concerning swing/putting mechanics without penalty. And such advice has not operated to impact posting of scores for handicap purposes. Accordingly, the RC adopts this local rule permitting such advice during JJGC tournament play.

6.6.3 Team Events: A playing partner may give any advice to or solicit any advice from a playing partner. 106

6.7 Wrong Ball 107

6.7.1 General Rule: A player must not make a stroke at the wrong ball.

6.7.2 Penalty: A player who makes a stroke at the wrong ball shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty and must correct the mistake by playing the correct ball. Strokes made on the wrong ball shall not be counted. If the correct ball cannot be found, then the player must proceed under the lost ball provisions in Rule 4.

6.7.3 Failure to Correct: The player who played the wrong ball shall not be disqualified if the player fails to correct the mistake before the next hole. Instead, the player shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty. 108

6.7.4 Ball Played by Another Player: If it is known or virtually certain that a player’s ball has been mistakenly played by another player (whether the player is in our tournament or is a player not affiliated with the JJGC), the player must replace the original ball or another ball on the original spot. If the original spot is not known, the spot must be estimated. “Known or virtually certain” means more than just probable. It means either there is conclusive evidence such as someone’s observation, or although there is a very small degree of doubt, all reasonably available information shows that it is at least 95% likely that the ball was played by another player. 109

6.8 Ball Moves before Next Stroke

6.8.1 Natural Forces – Anywhere other than Putting Green: If natural forces such as wind cause a ball at rest to move, there is no penalty, and the ball must be played from its new spot. 110

6.8.2 Natural Forces – On Putting Green: When a ball on the putting green moves by natural forces before it has been lifted and marked with a ball marker, the ball must be played from the spot to which it has moved. When a ball on the putting green moves after

having been lifted, marked with a ball marker and replaced, the ball must be replaced to the original spot. 111

6.8.3 Player Accidentally Moves Ball or Ball Marker on Putting Green: There is no penalty when a player accidentally causes the ball or ball marker to move on the putting green, no matter how that happens. However, to avoid penalty, the player must place the ball at its original spot before making a stroke. 112

6.8.4 Ball Moved by Outside Influence: If it is known or virtually certain that an outside influence (Example - another person on the course or animal) moved a player’s ball, the ball must be replaced or substituted on its original spot. If the original spot is not known, the original spot must be estimated. 113

“Known or virtually certain” means more than just probable. It means either there is conclusive evidence such as someone’s observation, or although there is a very small degree of doubt, all reasonably available information shows that it is at least 95% likely that the ball was moved by an outside influence. 114

114 Rule 9.2b(1), 2023 USGA Rule Definitions, p. 222.

6.8.5 Ball Moves When Removing Loose Impediment: A player may remove a loose impediment. But if the ball moves during that process, it must be replaced. And if the ball had been at rest anywhere other than on a putting green or teeing area, a one-stroke penalty must be assessed. 115

6.9 Ball Accidentally Hits Obstruction

6.9.1 Anywhere on the Course: If a player’s ball in motion accidentally hits any person (including the player) or outside influence anywhere on the course, such as a golf cart, golf bag, or golf equipment, there is no penalty to any player. In such circumstances, the ball must be played as it lies after it hit the object (whether the lie is favorable or not), unless it comes to rest in a location where the player is entitled to relief. 116

6.9.2 Ball Stroked on Putting Green Hits Person: If a ball stroked while on the putting green accidentally hits a person other than a person attending the flagstick, the ball must be replayed from the spot where the stroke was made. If the player fails to replay the stroke, the stroke counts and the player must be assessed a two-stroke penalty. 117

If the ball accidentally hits a person attending the flagstick, the ball must be played as it lies after it comes to rest. 118

118 Rule 13.2b(2).

6.9.3 Ball Hits Ball on Putting Green: JJGC players should be courteous and strive to mark their balls on putting greens without other players having to ask. However, if after making a stroke on the putting green a player’s ball in motion hits another ball at rest on the putting green, the player who made the stroke shall be assessed a two-stroke penalty. That player’s ball must be played as it lies after it comes to rest. The ball that was struck must be replaced on the original spot or if that spot is unknown, on the estimated original spot. 119

If a ball played from off the putting green hits a ball at rest on the putting green causing it to

move, the ball that moved must be replaced on the estimated original spot, and there is no penalty. The ball played from off the putting green must be played as it lies after hitting the other ball, and there is no penalty for hitting the ball at rest. 120

6.9.4 Moveable Obstructions on the Putting Green: If a player’s ball in motion hits a movable obstruction on the putting green (Example - other clubs, pulled flagstick laying on green), the player must replay the stroke from the original location. 121

6.9.5 Moving Movable Obstructions and Loose Impediments and Improving Physical Conditions While Ball in Motion: When a ball is in motion, a player may remove a ball at rest, another player’s equipment, a flagstick laying on the ground or other movable obstructions. However, a player may not move loose impediments or improve physical conditions (Example - replacing a divot, fixing a pitch mark) while a ball is in motion. 122

6.10 Ball Hits Flagstick in Hole

6.10.1 Deflection: If the player makes a stroke (putting or other stroke) causing the ball to deflect from the flagstick in the hole, the ball must thereafter be played as it lies, even if it might have gone in the hole had the flagstick been previously removed. 123

6.10.2 Ball Rests Against the Flagstick: When ball comes to rest in the hole against the flagstick, the ball is treated as holed if any part of the ball is below the surface of the putting green. If no part of the ball is in the hole below the putting green surface, the ball must be played as it lies. But if the flagstick is then removed and the ball moves (falls in the hole or moves away from the hole), there is no penalty. The ball must then be played from where it came to rest, or if it fell in the hole, it must be placed on the lip of the hole for the next stroke. 124

6.11 Holing Out 125

6.11.1 Mandatory: A player must hole out at each hole in a tournament round.

6.11.2 Penalty: If the player fails to hole out at any hole:

• The player must correct that mistake before making a stroke at the next hole. Or, if the failure to hole out takes place at the final hole of the round, the player must correct the mistake before turning in the scorecard.
• If the mistake is not corrected, the player is disqualified.

Rule 7 – Handicapping, Money and Championship Points

7.1 Handicapping:

7.1.1 Responsibilities of Members: JJGC members shall post all acceptable scores to provide evidence of their ability and obtain the appropriate handicap. This includes JJGC tournament rounds as well as other rounds. Acceptable scores shall be posted for handicap purposes on the same day of the completed round. 126

7.1.2 Acceptable Scores: “Acceptable scores” are scores for individual stroke play when the play was:

• By the rules of golf,
• Over at least the minimum number of holes required for a 9-hole or 18-hole score,
• In the company of at least one other person,
• And on a course with a course and slope rating. 127

  127 2024 USGA Handicapping Rule 2; 2024 USGA Handicapping Rule Definitions, p. 12.

7.2 Tournament Winnings

7.2.1 Pot Contribution: Each player must contribute to a pot of money from which skins, low putts, closest to the pin and low net awards are paid at the end of each round. Money must be paid to the playing group captain on the first tee.

7.2.2 Handicap Skins: Money is awarded for low scores on each hole. Low scores are the gross score, minus a stroke if the player has a pop on the hole based on the player’s handicap. The skin is not awarded when there is a handicap tie on the hole.

7.2.3 Natural Score Skins: For each round, players have the option of participating in a separate natural score skins game. Participating players shall be awarded money from a separate pot for natural birdies and eagles. Players who wish to participate in this pot shall make it known to the playing group captain and pay the designated amount to the captain before the group’s first ball is struck on the first tee.

7.2.4 Low Putts: Money is awarded to the player with the lowest number of putts for the round. Strokes counted as putts include all strokes taken to hole out beginning from when the ball was first stroked on the putting green. Ties are broken as set forth in Rule 7.4.

7.2.5 Closest-to-the-Pin: Money is awarded to the players who hit their tee shots closest to the pin on the par-3 holes and make at least a natural par on the hole.

7.2.6 Low Net Scores: Money is awarded for the first, second, third and fourth low net scores for each tournament round.

7.2.7 Championship Winnings: At the conclusion of the playoffs, money shall be distributed to the first through eighth place players.

7.2.8 Hole-in-One: If a player makes a hole-in-one during a tournament round, each person playing in that round must pay the player $20.

7.3 Tournament Points

7.3.1 Low Scores: Points are awarded toward the Club Championship playoff for the low net score in each round as follows:

• First place – 5 points.
• Second place – 4 points.
• Third place – 3 points.
• Fourth place – 2 points.

7.3.2 Participation Points: One point is awarded to players who finished the round and who did not place in the first four places.

7.3.3 Majors: Points are doubled for rounds designated as Majors.

7.4 Ties

7.4.1 Breaking Ties: Ties are broken for low putts and low net score as follows:

• Low putts / low net score for all holes on the back nine.
• Low putts / low net score for the last six holes on the back nine.
• Low putts / low net score for the last three holes on the back nine.
• Low putts / low net score on each individual hole beginning with the number-one handicap hole according to course rating down to the number-18 handicap hole.

7.4.2 Low Net Score per Hole: The low net score on each hole is determined by the actual score minus any pop based on the player’s handicap.

Rule 8 – Resolving Rules Issues

8.1 Confusion About Rules During the Round

8.1.1 No Right to Decide Issues by Agreement: Players must protect the interests of all players in the competition and therefore must resolve issues by use of the rules. They may not ignore the rules and decide issues by agreement. 128

8.1.2 Uncertainty During Round: When it is uncertain how to proceed under the rules, the player may play a second ball on the hole and determine the appropriate procedure after the round. 129

The JJGC Rules and the USGA Rules should be consulted to determine the correct procedure. 130

130 Rule 6.3d; 20.1c(3).

Also, qualified staff in the clubhouse may be consulted. The score for the hole in question shall be based on the correct procedure.

8.2 Rules Committee Ruling:

8.2.1 Decision of RC: In the event of a rules dispute, it shall be decided by the majority of the RC members present after the round. Any RC member who has a conflict of interest because they are the affected player shall recuse themself from the deliberations and decision.

8.3 Correcting Wrong Ruling

8.3.1 Correction of Ruling: If it is later determined that a ruling by the RC was wrong, the correct score shall be applied and, if necessary, any Club Championship points awarded for the round will be adjusted.

8.3.2 Correction of Ruling – Money: The money distribution after a round will not be changed if a ruling is later determined to be wrong.

Rule 9 – Dress Code

Purpose of the Rule

The JJGC is a club and prides itself on its brotherhood and brand. The Founders adopted a logo for the club to be worn on club shirts and other apparel. The purpose of this rule is to foster brotherhood and advertise the JJGC brand.

9.1 Dress Code Requirements

9.1.1 No Other Requirements / Restrictions: Other than what is set forth below, there is no dress code for JJGC tournament rounds.

9.2 Club Shirts

9.2.1 JJGC Logo: Members playing in tournaments shall wear shirts that have the JJGC logo (club shirts). Members not wearing club shirts during tournament play shall be assessed a $5 fine, which shall be contributed to the championship pot.

9.2.2 Exception – New Members: Members new to the JJGC shall have a six-month grace period beginning from the time they are voted into the club to obtain club shirts. During this grace period, this rule and associated penalties will not be enforced on them.

9.2.3 Exception – Outerwear: Members may wear pullovers, vests, jackets or similar outerwear that does not have the JJGC logo.

9.3 Uniforms

9.3.1 Special Occasions: On occasion, the JJGC president may call for the members to wear a specific color club shirt during a tournament round. Members not wearing the color club shirt designated by the president shall be assessed a $5 fine, which shall be contributed to the championship pot. This rule shall not apply to members who have not previously been given the opportunity to obtain that color club shirt.

9.3.2 Team Events: For JJGC team events, team members shall wear the same color club shirt. The team members shall decide prior to the round what color shirt they will wear.

USGA DIAGRAMS

JJGC RULE 1.3.1

JJGC RULE 1.3.1

JJGC RULE 1.3.1

JJGC RULE 1.3.4

JJGC RULE 1.3.5

JJGC RULE 1.3.6

JJGC RULE 1.10.1

JJGC RULE 1.10.2

JJGC RULE 1.12

JJGC RULE 2.1.4

JJGC RULE 2.1.5

JJGC RULE 3.3

JJGC RULE 3.4

JJGC RULE 4.2.4

JJGC RULE 4.3.1

JJGC RULE 4.3.1

JJGC RULE 4.4.1

JJGC RULE 4.5

JJGC RULE 4.5.7

VIDEO LINKS

The below USGA video links to rule explanations are set forth above in these rules, but listed again below for your convenience. Other helpful links are also provided below.

USGA Videos

Playing the Course as You Find It (1 minute, 34 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9UqE-30oG4&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=5 >

Nearest Point of Relief (1 minute, 16 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS3es7UOI8M&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=7 >

Abnormal Course Conditions (1 minute, 28 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFKVq4HmMjY&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=11 >

Movable Obstructions and Loose Impediments (1 minute, 30 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiWcVQZcj9A&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=6 >

Penalty Areas (1 minute, 29 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfjY8G79MEI&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=8 >

Bunkers (53 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9_gXqAE6ZY&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=10 >

Ball Lost or Out-of-Bounds and Provisional Ball (1 minute, 37 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEwNzgC9ge4&list=PLnU5qUEfww3f5x5gRldQB9yWr5YdBwWwV&index=12 >

Local Rule for Ball Lost or Out-of-Bounds (1 minute, 19 seconds)

< https://rules.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/rules-modernization/major-changes/golfs-new-rules-stroke-and-distance.html >

Other Video Links

7 Rules (Even Experienced) Golfers Find Confusing (15 minutes, 57 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsGrA5kTpW0 >

Note: In the scenario in the video on virtual certainty where it is unclear whether the ball went into the water or is lost in the rough, under our Local Rule you would not go back to the tee and take stroke and distance. Instead, you would proceed under Rule 4.3 above.

8 Rules Golfers Break Without Realizing (15 minutes, 12 seconds)

< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAioXOIqMFw >

Note: A couple of these are repeats of rules covered in the video immediately above, but there are others not covered above.

Taking Relief from Sprinkler Heads Around the Green (6 minutes, 21 seconds)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gI793wSBvuE

FOOTNOTES