The Rules of Golf are littered with references to “The Committee”. I know I’ve wondered about this mythical committee and wondered who they think they are to tell me what to do. Well, I eventually took the time to find out so let’s take a look.

The Rules define the committee:

The “Committee’’ is the committee in charge of the competition or, if the matter does not arise in a competition, the committee in charge of the course.

The word “committee” gives the impression that things are organized and official, but this isn’t always the case. It’s more so in formalized competition and on courses where there is an established greens committee. But at many courses and during many competitions, the Committee just consists of whomever the decision makers are.

The Committee has numerous obligations spelled out in the Rules of Golf. Rule 33 spells out its purpose.

The Committee:

• Establishes the conditions of competition. (Rule 33-1)
• Sets up the course. This includes defining bounds, margins, areas of ground under repair, and obstructions (as well as integral parts of the course - i.e. man made things that are not obstructions). In addtion, the Committee handles hole locations, establishment of the practice ground and makes the decision as to whether the course is unplayable. (Rule 33-2)
• Sets the groups and the starting times. (Rule 33-3)
• Publishes the handicap stroke table. (Rule 33-4)
• Determination of what happens in the case of a tie (i.e. the playoff format, date, and time). (Rule 33-5)
• Has the right to waive or impose a disqualification penalty. (Rule 33-6)
• Establishes “local rules”. (Rule 33-7)

A couple of interesting Committee factoids:

• According to Rule 33-1, the Committee may not waive any rule. So, those of us who play in leagues where they allow clubs to be grounded and lies improved in bunkers or don’t enforce stroke and distance for lost balls or shots hit out of bounds (among other things) are playing in opposition to the Rules of Golf.
• The Committee is responsible for defining the margins of hazards but suppose it doesn’t do it. Does that mean an unmarked hazard gets you off on a technicality? Unfortunately, no. Decision 26/3 establishes that. So while it is the responsibility of the Committee, there is no punishment for neglected duties and no undue benefit to the players.

That’s all there is to it. Now, when you read your copy of the Rules of Golf each night before bed, it should make just a little more sense when the Committee is referenced.

On a serious note, next time you play in a tournament and the course is set up well, the obligations in Rule 33 are all met, and the operation is run smoothly, don’t be afraid to drop by and let the Committee know you appreciate its hard work. Operating a competitive tournament is no small matter.

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Further Reading:

The Rules of Golf (United States Golf Association)
The Rules of Golf (R&A)
More on the Rules (Life in the Rough)

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