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Spirit of the game21/11/2003

The Rules of Golf are reviewed every four years by golf's governing bodies, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club and The United States Golf Association. The latest edition comes into effect on 1 January 2004 and copies will be given to golfers on the Links by the starter.
Among the extensive changes is that the etiquette section of the book has been amended and expanded, offering golfers broader guidance on the issue and to clarify that a Committee may disqualify a player for a serious breach of etiquette.

Under a section called the Spirit of the Game, a new paragraph reads:
'Unlike many sports golf is played for the most part without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and abide by the rules. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times irrespective of how competitive they may be. This is the spirit of the game of golf.

Linked to this is a penalty clause:
If players follow the guidelines in this section, it will make the game more enjoyable for everyone. If a player consistently disregards these guidelines during a round or over a period of time to the detriment of others, it is recommended that the Committee considers taking appropriate disciplinary actions against the offending player. Such action may, for example, include prohibiting play for a limited time on the course in a certain number of competitions. This is considered to be justifiable in terms of protecting the interest of the majority of golfers who wish to play in accordance with these guidelines. In the case of a serious breach of etiquette the committee may disqualify a player under rule 33-7.