Breaking New Grounds: The First-Ever Level 2 Rules Seminar in Mongolia
The R&A
15 Sep 25
4 mins
Breaking New Grounds: The First-Ever Level 2 Rules Seminar in Mongolia
This August marked a significant milestone in the development of golf in Central Asia as The R&A, in partnership with the Mongolian Golf Association (MGA), hosted its first-ever Level 2 Rules Seminar at Mt. Bogd Golf and Country Club in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 21-22 August 2025. The event brought together 30 delegates from all over the country, for an intensive and hands-on learning experience aimed at deepening their understanding of the Rules of Golf.Over the two-day seminar, delegates engaged in comprehensive indoor sessions covering Rules 1 through 25, led by a team of experienced instructors. These sessions were designed not only to provide technical knowledge but to promote discussion, share experiences and strengthen the growing network of golfers and future referees within the country.The highlight of the seminar was the on-course role-play session, where participants stepped into the shoes of referees, responding to simulated scenarios and giving live rulings on the golf course. These practical exercises were then followed by constructive feedback sessions, encouraging reflection and reinforcing the application of Rules of Golf in real-life situations.The seminar was led by a strong panel of instructors:
Jin-Woo Kim, Assistant Director - Rules (Asia-Pacific), The R&A
Bach Coung Khang, Deputy Secretary and Chairman of Rules Committee, Vietnam Golf Association
Sarnai Ayurzana, Board Member and Level 3 Referee, Mongolian Golf Association
Khulan Gerel, Level 3 Referee, Mongolian Golf Association
Both Sarnai and Khulan are AAC Rules Scholars – a legacy project led by The R&A, funded by the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) that focuses on educating and developing individuals from the Asia-Pacific region, to become Rules representatives of their respective countries. The two scholars became referees/tournament administrators, supporting the national association with Rules and administration to bring local competitions to the highest standards, and even becoming responsible for the delivery of The R&A’s Rules Education programmes within the country. Working closely with Jin-Woo Kim over the past two years, their continued development and dedication have seen them officiate at multiple professional and elite amateur championships, including events run by The R&A (such as the AAC and Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific), a testament to the rising standard of Rules knowledge in Mongolia.“Hosting this seminar in Mongolia is a major step forward – not just for the country, but for the entire Central Asia region,” said Jin-Woo Kim. “We’re incredibly proud of the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the delegates and excited about what this means for the future of the sport in this part of the world.”Looking ahead, The R&A and MGA are exploring ways to expand the Rules education network across Central Asia, including into neighbouring countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. As interest in the sport grows in these regions, so too does the need for trained officials who can help maintain the integrity of golf at all levels.This inaugural Level 2 Seminar in Mongolia has laid a strong foundation and, with continued collaboration and support, it will serve as a springboard for even greater achievements in golf’s growth across Asia.
