From Val Ashton

Handicap and Rules Chairperson

 

Handicaps, Rules, and Enjoying the Game:

Golf is one of the few sports where we call penalties on ourselves, protect the field, and measure our performance through a system built on honesty and integrity. There are three areas that really define our experience on the course: the handicap system, the Rules of Golf, and how we can honor both while still having fun out there.”

 

Why the Handicap System Matters

The USGA Handicap System is designed to let golfers of all skill levels compete fairly. But it only works if we treat it with the same integrity we bring to the rest of the game. Posting scores consistently keeps your Handicap Index accurate.

  • Posting the correct type of score on the day you play — home rounds, away rounds, tournament rounds —ensures the system reflects your true ability.
  • Posting even when you didn’t play your best is essential. A handicap isn’t a trophy; it’s a tool.

A good way to think about it: Your handicap is only as honest as the scores you enter.

 

Playing by the Rules—But Still Enjoying Golf

The Rules of Golf aren’t meant to slow you down or make the game harder. They exist to create fairness, protect the field, and keep competition meaningful. The same integrity you bring to Pickleball, Tennis and even card games with friends. They all have rules that you must observe and follow.

But golf is also supposed to be fun. You can absolutely enjoy the game while still respecting the rules:

  • If you’re unsure about a rule, ask your playing partners.
    Most rules questions can be solved in 30 seconds with a quick friendly conversation, or you can purchase some handy Rules of Golf Bag Tags. Click the Blue letters or search for “Know your golf Rules” it only costs $17.95 on Amazon. These are the most common rules you will run into. Rules of Golf Bag Tag on Amazon
  • If there’s still doubt, play two balls.
    Under Rule 20.1c(3), in stroke play, you can play a second ball, declare which ball to count and get a ruling later.
  • Use the rules to your advantage.
    Relief options, free drops, and penalty-area choices are there to help you.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s effort, honesty, and consistency.

 

Protecting the Field

When you follow the rules and post scores accurately, you’re not just helping yourself, you’re protecting everyone else in the competition.

  • A player who doesn’t take proper penalties artificially lowers their score.
  • A player who doesn’t post bad rounds artificially lowers their handicap.
  • A player who takes liberties with drops or relief gains an unfair advantage.

Golf relies on the belief that your integrity protects the field. That’s why the rules matter even in casual rounds.

Examples of Rules We All Must Follow

These are everyday situations where the rules—and the consequences—are clear:

  • Penalty Areas (Rule 17) — You can play the ball as it lies or take relief with a one‑stroke penalty. Taking the wrong relief point can give you an unfair advantage.
  • Lost Ball (Rule 18) — If you can’t find it in 3 minutes, it’s stroke‑and‑distance. Dropping where you “think it should be” is not an option.
  • Unplayable Lies (Rule 19) — You get three relief options, all with a one‑stroke penalty. Improper drops can lead to serious scoring errors.
  • Relief from Abnormal Course Conditions (Rule 16) — Free relief is allowed, but only from the nearest point of complete relief—not the nicest point.
  • Putting Green Rules (Rule 13) — You can repair damage, but you must replace a ball moved accidentally. Ignoring this can change the outcome of a hole.

Each of these rules has a purpose: fairness, consistency, and protecting the field.

Consequences of Not Following the Rules

Most consequences aren’t dramatic—they’re practical:

  • Incorrect scores lead to inaccurate handicaps.
  • Improper relief gives an unfair advantage.
  • Repeated rule misunderstandings can create tension in groups or competitions.
  • In tournaments, serious breaches can lead to disqualification.

But the biggest consequence is this:
When we don’t follow the rules, we undermine the trust that makes golf unique.

 

A healthy golf culture is built on three things:

  • Post your scores honestly.
  • Play by the rules as best you can.
  • Ask questions when you’re unsure.

Do those three things, and you’ll enjoy the game more, compete more fairly, and help protect the integrity of every round you play.

 

 

I have included some simple rules that everyone should know. Please review them and if you have questions, first seek out the Rules of Golf (an App you can add to your phone) or Google the rules for a basic understanding. I am happy to discuss any rules clarification with you, as would other former H&R chairs or even the Pros.

Don’t be shy, even the PGA professionals ask for help.

 

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 Play your ball as it lies

 

1. Always play your ball as it lies, wherever it comes to rest (unless the Local Rules/Tournament Rules state otherwise).

 If your ball comes to rest and is then moved by natural forces like wind or water, the player normally must play it from its new spot. If a ball at rest is lifted or moved by anyone or any outside influence before the stroke is made, the ball must be replaced on its original spot

 

Playing 2 Balls When Unsure  

 

A player who is uncertain about the right procedure while playing a hole may complete the hole with two balls without penalty.

 

  1. Announce your intention to do so to your playing group BEFORE making a stroke
  2. Tell your group which ball you believe should count and note that on the score card
  3. Let the Pro/Tournament committee know that you played 2 balls even if you make the same score with both balls. The ball you identify as the one you think should count because you believe that is what the rule allows, will be used for your score. Even if you make a higher score with it.

 

Mark Your Ball 

Avoid playing a wrong ball by uniquely marking your ball. In match play, it is loss of hole and in stroke play it is a two-stroke penalty. Announce what ball you are playing to your playing group at the first tee.

 

 

Clubs In your Bag

You are allowed 14 clubs in your bag during a competitive round. You can have less, but if you have more than 14, you will get a penalty stroke for every hole you play.

 

15 Rules of Golf every golfer should know!