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Arizona Women's Golf Association Reconsiders
Position on the use of distance measuring devices in AWGA
sponsored events.
Beginning April 1, 2006, conditions of play for AWGA organized
events will invoke the USGA recommended wording for the Local
Rule allowing distance measuring devices.
The USGA decisions on the Rules of Golf effective January 1,
2006 allows a Committee to permit the use of distance measuring
devices by Local Rule.
This applies to devices that measure distance only, not other
conditions that might affect a player's play (e.g., wind or
gradient).
During the initial two months since the USGA Rules of Golf have
allowed this Local Rule, feedback from AWGA members and
tournament players has been overwhelmingly calling for the
Association to allow the Local Rule. Players feel that the use
of distance measuring devices will speed play, enhance and
equalize course knowledge, and is good for the game. It
has also become apparent that the trend is heavily toward
allowing the Local Rule, not only in local club events, but at
the regional and national level, as well as in most other state
amateur golf association’s events.
The AWGA agrees with the USGA that in the absence of this Local
Rule, the use of distance measuring devices of any kind remains
contrary to the Rules of Golf.
Beginning 4/1/06 April 1, 2006, conditions of play for AWGA
organized events will invoke the following USGA recommended
wording for the Local Rule allowing distance measuring devices,
as follows.
”Distance-Measuring Devices: For this competition, a
player may obtain distanceinformation by using a device that
measures distance only. However, if, during a stipulated round,
a player uses a distance-measuring device that is designed to
gauge or measure other conditions that might affect her play
(e.g., gradient, wind-speed, temperature, etc.), the player is
in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is
disqualification, regardless of whether any such additional
functions are actually used.”
In establishing these guidelines, the AWGA does not endorse or
approve any brand of distance- measuring-devices. Manufacturers
are not permitted to use the terms "AWGA Approved" or the like
in any product advertising.
The Arizona Women's Golf Association, a not-for- profit
organization,provides golf related services and benefits to
25,000 women golfers and is a USGA licensed State Association,
established in 1924 to promote and maintain the best interests
and true spirit of the game of golf among women in Arizona.
Contact Mary Long
602-253-5655.
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