Rules of Golf Changes for 2012

Its great to return to my blog in 2012 and I plan on doing much more to create a dialogue with all of you this year.

As the 2012 golf season begins, be aware of the new changes to the Rules of Golf. The United States Golf Association USGA and the R and A Rules Limited have finally come together with single rules of golf publication. A new Rules of Golf book has been published and you can even order two copies FREE of charge from the USGA. Order online.

Here is a listing of the principal changes in 2012:

Definitions

Addressing the Ball

Rules

Rule 1-2. Exerting Influence on Movement of Ball or Altering

Physical Conditions

Rule 6-3a. Time of Starting

Rule 12-1. Seeing Ball; Searching for Ball

Rule 13-4. Ball in Hazard; Prohibited Actions

Rule 18-2b. Ball Moving After Address

Rule 19-1. Ball in Motion Deflected or Stopped; By Outside Agency

Rule 20-7c. Playing from Wrong Place; Stroke Play

Appendix IV

A new Appendix is added to prescribe general regulations for the design of devices and other equipment, such as tees, gloves and distance measuring devices.

Go to the below link for a short description of each rules change.

The full Rules of Golf in PDF

I strongly suggest you take the time to review the 2012 changes;

they are important & likely to affect your daily rounds

Want to improve your knowledge of the rules? The USGA has online QUIZZES.

Going mobile? A Rules of Golf App is now available for the Android, BlackBerry or iPhones. Take “The Rules of Golf” and the “Decisions” with you wherever you go. (I especially like the feature that allows you to e-mail rules questions to the USGA or Rules to friends!)

Etiquette 101

The Spirit of the Game

Unlike many sports, golf is played, for the most part, without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and to abide by the Rules. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, irrespective of how competitive they may be. This is the spirit of the game of golf.

Other areas of focus:

• Safety
• Consideration for Other Players
• Pace of Play
• Priority on the Course
• Care for the Course