INCORRECT SCORECARD PROVES COSTLY

When a golfer plays a casual round of golf, they often take recording their scores for granted. However, during a competition the players cannot take recording their scores on an official scorecard lightly.

One Rule competitors often overlook involves signing their scorecard and checking the score for each hole. Rule 6 defines all of the responsibilities each player has during a round. In particular, Rule 6-6 refers to each player’s responsibility for scoring in stroke play.

Scoring in Stroke Play
b. Signing and Returning Card
After completion of the round, the competitor should check his score for each hole and settle any doubtful points with the Committee. He shall ensure that the marker has signed the card, countersign the card himself and return it to the Committee as soon as possible.

d. Wrong Score for Hole
The competitor is responsible for the correctness of the score recorded for each hole on his card. If he returns a score for any hole lower than actually taken, he shall be disqualified. If he returns a score for any hole higher than actually taken, the score returned shall stand. Note 1: The Committee is responsible for the addition of scores and application of handicap recorded on the card – See Rule 33-5.

Two Examples
At the 2002 NOGA Stroke Play Championship at Barrington, a competitor signed for a four on the third hole, when a five was actually taken. After the mistake was discovered by a playing partner nearly an hour later, the player realized he had signed an incorrect scorecard. The resulting ruling turned a top-five finish into a disqualification.

The same situation arose at the 2002 U.S. Amateur Public Links qualifier at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course. After discovering his error on the scoreboard nearly 15 minutes after being posted, a competitor found he had signed for a three when a four was taken. The first-round 75 resulted in disqualification.

Examples like these are reasons to know the Rules of Golf.

For other questions on the Rules of Golf, check out the other articles in NOGA's USGA Rules Corner! Play well, and get to know the Rules of Golf!