The definitive local rules are printed on the course scorecard and notices at the club. Some of the key local rules include: - Ground Under Repair: this includes any area marked with blue stakes or otherwise explicitly marked; plantations used to be automatically GUR - this is NO LONGER the case
- stone in bunkers: may be moved without penalty.
- preferred lies: during the winter months preferred lies (or 'winter rules' or 'pick and place') operate such that if your ball lies on the fairway, you may mark it, clean it and replace it within 6 inches no nearer the hole. You may do this once only per shot. See the notice boards at the club concerning whether winter rules currently apply.
- Distance Measuring Devices: For all play at this course, a player may use a distance-measuring device to obtain distance information. However, if, during a stipulated round, a player uses a device that actually provides information on other conditions that might affect their play (e.g. gradient, wind etc), the player is in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is disqualification.
Other rules specifically important at Heydon: - It can be windy at Heydon. If you are on the green about to putt and the wind moves your ball you must play it as it lies without penalty. BUT, if you have already grounded your club you must replace the ball and add a penalty shot to your score. This is why experienced players hover the club in windy conditions and only ground it at the last minute.
- You can have a flag tended whether or not you are on the green. If you are on the green, you must have the flag removed or tended.
- If whilst playing the Herts course your ball comes to rest against the boundary of the driving range (normally the 1st, 7th or 9th, free relief is not allowed. Play the ball as it lies or declare it unplayable.
In addition to the rule books you can get from the R&A, the latest version is available on-line at the R&A. You can also now view the decisions on the Rules of Golf. |