Arizona Women’s Golf Association Reconsiders Position on the use of distance measuring devices in AWGA sponsored events.

Beginning April 1, 2006, conditions of play for AWGA organized events will invoke the USGA recommended wording for the Local Rule allowing distance measuring devices.

The USGA decisions on the Rules of Golf effective January 1, 2006 allows a Committee to permit the use of distance measuring devices by Local Rule.

This applies to devices that measure distance only, not other conditions that might affect a player’s play (e.g., wind or gradient).

During the initial two months since the USGA Rules of Golf have allowed this Local Rule, feedback from AWGA members and tournament players has been overwhelmingly calling for the Association to allow the Local Rule. Players feel that the use of distance measuring devices will speed play, enhance and equalize course knowledge, and is good for the game.  It has also become apparent that the trend is heavily toward allowing the Local Rule, not only in local club events, but at the regional and national level, as well as in most other state amateur golf association’s events.

The AWGA agrees with the USGA that in the absence of this Local Rule, the use of distance measuring devices of any kind remains contrary to the Rules of Golf.

Beginning 4/1/06 April 1, 2006, conditions of play for AWGA organized events will invoke the following USGA recommended wording for the Local Rule allowing distance measuring devices, as follows.

”Distance-Measuring Devices:  For this competition, a player may obtain distanceinformation by using a device that measures distance only. However, if, during a stipulated round, a player uses a distance-measuring device that is designed to gauge or measure other conditions that might affect her play (e.g., gradient, wind-speed, temperature, etc.), the player is in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is disqualification, regardless of whether any such additional functions are actually used.”

In establishing these guidelines, the AWGA does not endorse or approve any brand of distance- measuring-devices. Manufacturers are not permitted to use the terms “AWGA Approved” or the like in any product advertising.

The Arizona Women’s Golf Association, a not-for- profit organization,provides golf related services and benefits to 25,000 women golfers and is a USGA licensed State Association, established in 1924 to promote and maintain the best interests and true spirit of the game of golf among women in Arizona.

Contact Mary Long
602-253-5655.