5/28/13 – Golf Distance Measure Devices and Voice Communication Devices

May 15, 2013 Golf Blog Updates

Distance-Measuring Devices:

For all KHSAA postseason competition, a player may obtain distance information by using a distance-measuring device that shall be capable of measuring distance only.  If, during a stipulated round, a player uses a distance-measuring device that is designed to gauge or measure other conditions that might affect play (e.g., gradient/slope, wind-speed, temperature, etc.), the player is in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is disqualification. This penalty is to be imposed whether or not any such additional function is actually used. NOTE: The restriction on the use of distance-measuring devices that are capable of measuring anything but distance will be reiterated in the published instructions and KHSAA hard card, and golfers directed to not use any of the restricted devices while they are on the course. Helpful information concerning the use of these devices can be found on the KHSAA web site at http://khsaa.org/golf/, and then click General Information.

For all regular season competition involving KHSAA member schools, host facilities are permitted to address the permissive or restrictive use of distance measuring devices, but are not permitted to allow any distance-measuring device that is designed to gauge or measure other conditions that might affect play (e.g., gradient/slope, wind-speed, temperature, etc.) NOTE: Tournament directors are encouraged to take all preventive steps possible including notification to coaches and players to prevent violation, but failure to issue such notice shall not constitute a waiver of the restriction.

Communication Devices:

For all KHSAA postseason competition, voice communication devices (including all types of cell phones, two-way radios, and other devices) may not be turned on or used by a player, his side or caddie during any stipulated round or match. If used during a round or match, for anything other than at the direction of tournament management or a life or health and safety threatening emergency, the player is in breach of Rule 33-7, for which the penalty is: 1st Offense, Warning, 2nd Offense, Disqualification for serious breach of etiquette. NOTE: The restriction on the use of voice communication devices will be reiterated in the published instructions and KHSAA hard card, and golfers directed to ensure that if the device is in the bag of the golfer for use at the direction of tournament management or in an emergency, it remain in an off position and available solely for use in the case of an actual emergency.

For all regular season competition involving KHSAA member schools, host facilities are encouraged to address the permissive or restrictive use of communication devices, but are not permitted to allow any communication device during play unless it is at the direction of tournament management or a life or health and safety threatening emergency. NOTE: Tournament directors are encouraged to take all preventive steps possible including notification to coaches and players to prevent violation, but failure to issue such notice shall not constitute a waiver of the restriction.