Basic Concept and Equipment

What is Golf?

Golf is a sport played on a course consisting of 18 holes (sometimes fewer). The objective is to hit a ball with a club from the teeing area into the hole on the putting green in as few strokes as possible. Players are expected to play the course as they find it and the ball as it lies.

Player Conduct

Golf relies on honesty and respect. Players should:

• Always follow the Rules of Golf.

• Respect fellow players and maintain proper etiquette.

Players must also care for the course by:

• Replacing divots.
• Raking bunkers after use.
• Repairing ball marks on greens.

Clubs

• A player may carry up to 14 clubs in their bag.
• Lost clubs cannot be replaced during a round.
• Damaged clubs may be replaced unless the damage was caused by the player in anger.
• Penalty for a breach: The "General Penalty" is two strokes.

Balls

• You can switch balls between holes, but not during a hole unless:
  • The ball is cut or cracked.
  • You are taking relief under the Rules - e.g. from a penalty area.

Distance-Measuring Devices

• Devices such as rangefinders are generally allowed if they only measure distance.
• Features like slope (elevation) or wind direction are not permitted.

Alignment Aids

• Players may not use any device or object to assist with alignment during play.

Penalties for Equipment Breaches

• First breach: General Penalty (two strokes).
• Additional breaches: Disqualification.