New Amateur Status 2012-15

Principal Changes Introduced into the 2012 Code

Rules of Amateur Status

Definitions

Amateur Golfer

The Definition is amended to establish more clearly that an “amateur golfer”,
regardless of whether he plays competitively or recreationally, is one who plays
golf for the challenge it presents, not as a profession and not for financial gain.


Golf Skill or Reputation

A time limit of five years is introduced for the retention of “golf reputation”
after the player’s golf skill has diminished.


Prize Vouchers

The Definition is expanded to allow prize vouchers to be used for the
purchase of goods or services from a golf club.


Rules

Rule 1-3 Amateurism; Purpose of the Rules

Rule 1-3 is amended to re-state why there is a distinction between amateur
and professional golf and why certain limits and restrictions are needed in the
amateur game.


Rule 2-1 Professionalism; General

The existing Rules on professionalism are consolidated and re-formatted into
new Rule 2-1.


Rule 2-2 Professionalism; Contracts and Agreements

National Golf Unions or Associations – New Rule 2-2(a) is added to allow
an amateur golfer to enter into a contract and/or agreement with his national
golf union or association, provided he does not obtain any financial gain,
directly or indirectly, while still an amateur golfer.

Professional Agents, Sponsors and Other Third Parties - New Rule 2-2(b) is
added to allow an amateur golfer, who is at least 18 years of age, to enter
into a contract and/or agreement with a third party solely in relation to
the golfer’s future as a professional golfer, provided he does not obtain any
financial gain, directly or indirectly, while still an amateur golfer.

VIDEO: Rule 2-2 Explained

Rule 3-2b Hole-in-One Prizes

New Rule 3-2b excludes from the general prize limit prizes (including cash prizes)
awarded for achieving a hole-in-one while playing a round of golf. This exception
is specific to prizes for holes-in-one (not longest drive or nearest the hole) and
neither separate events nor multiple-entry events qualify.


Rule 4-3 Subsistence Expenses

New Rule added to allow an amateur golfer to receive subsistence expenses to
assist with general living costs, provided the expenses are approved by and paid
through the player’s national golf union or association

VIDEO: Rule 4-3 Explained

VIDEO: General Overview of The Rules of Amateur Status


Click here to view the principal changes to the Rules of Golf 2012-2015.

To download a PDF version of the foreward and principal changes to the Rules of Amateur Status shown above click here