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Our Experts Explain:

The Rules of Golf

Our Experts Explain the Rules of Golf USGA rules experts provide insight and explanations on rules decisions and interpretations. The experts will also address commonly asked rules questions.

Handicapping

The USGA Handicap System™ enables golfers of all skill levels to compete on an equitable basis. USGA experts will help explain "The USGA Handicap System" manual – the USGA's handicapping equivalent of "The Rules of Golf" and address commonly asked questions. This section of the site will also features a Course Handicap™ calculator that allows players to convert their Handicap Index to the Course Handicap for any course that has been properly rated.

Equipment

The USGA tests balls, clubs, and other equipment for conformity to the Rules of Golf. Here, the Research and Test Center staff explains how golf equipment is tested, discusses its research about why and how golf equipment works the way it does and describes the USGA’s role in establishing equipment standards for the game of golf.



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Rule of the Day

7-1b/4 Stroke Play Over 36 Holes on Two Courses; Player Completes First Round, Practices on Same Course and Is Later in Play-Off on That Course
Q:

Stroke play to determine the qualifiers for match play was scheduled over 36 holes on consecutive days. Eighteen holes were to be played on the East Course and 18 on the North Course. Any play-off was to be held on the East Course.

Several competitors who played their first qualifying round on the East Course wanted to play more golf. They knew that they would be in breach of Rule 7-1b if they played the North Course, so they played the East Course again.

After the second qualifying round, one of the competitors was tied for the last qualifier's place. Should he be disqualified from the play-off on the East Course under Rule 7-1b?



A:

Yes.

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Today in Golf History

Nov 28, 2009
1921 Birthday of Peggy Kirk Bell, pioneer in women's golf and 1990 Bob Jones Award recipient
Peggy Kirk Bell was a member of the 1950 USA Curtis Cup team and won the North and South, the Eastern Women's and the Titleholder's. She became a charter member of the LPGA after turning professional in 1950. Bell has owned and operated Pine Needles Lodge & Country Club, a three-time Women's Open site, since 1955 and was honored with the USGA's Bob Jones Award in 1990.

Visit the USGA Museum to learn more about the history of golf.