The long-awaited spring golf season is finally approaching in many parts of the United States. With active handicap seasons reopening, the practice of posting scores comes back into play, under a new set of Rules.
Here are three things to keep in mind when you hit the course this spring.
Golf’s New Rules
On Jan. 1, 2019, the updated Rules of Golf went into effect for all players. These revisions were made in an effort to simplify the game and improve pace of play. Before you head out to play your first round of 2019, you should quickly review the major changes that can affect your round.
The new dropping procedure is one Rule change that can catch people off guard. When you take relief, make sure you drop that ball from knee height. If you forget, you can avoid a penalty by redropping at knee height before playing your next shot. Get your copy of the new Rules here.
Active Handicapping Season is Back
No one can predict what Mother Nature has in store for the spring golf season. As courses reopen, you may find yourself playing under preferred lies, also known as “winter rules,” during those first few weeks of the season. It’s important to remember that these scores are acceptable for handicap purposes and must be posted.
Something else to consider for 2019 is the new Maximum Score form of stroke play. The Committee in charge of the competition may set a maximum hole score, and players are encouraged to pick up once they reach the limit to help speed up play. For handicap-posting purposes, the player will record their most likely score from that point, while making sure the score does not exceed their Equitable Stroke Control limit.
