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Amateur Status Principal Changes

Definitions

Amateur Golfer

The Definition is amended to establish more clearly that an "amateur golfer",regardless of whether he plays competitively or recreationally, is one who playsgolf for the challenge it presents, not as a profession and not for financial gain.

Golf Skill or Reputation

A time limit of five years is introduced for the retention of "golf reputation"after the player’s golf skill has diminished.

Prize Vouchers

The Definition is expanded to allow prize vouchers to be used for thepurchase of goods or services from a golf club.

Rules

Rule 1-3 Amateurism; Purpose of the Rules Rule 1-3 is amended to re-state why there is a distinction between amateurand professional golf and why certain limits and restrictions are needed in theamateur game.

Rule 2-1 Professionalism; General

The existing Rules on professionalism are consolidated and re-formatted intonew Rule 2-1.

Rule 2-2 Professionalism; Contracts and Agreements

National Golf Unions or Associations – New Rule 2-2(a) is added to allowan amateur golfer to enter into a contract and/or agreement with his nationalgolf union or association, provided he does not obtain any financial gain,directly or indirectly, while still an amateur golfer.Professional Agents, Sponsors and Other Third Parties - New Rule 2-2(b) isadded to allow an amateur golfer, who is at least 18 years of age, to enterinto a contract and/or agreement with a third party solely in relation tothe golfer’s future as a professional golfer, provided he does not obtain anyfinancial gain, directly or indirectly, while still an amateur golfer.

Rule 3-2b Hole-in-One Prizes

New Rule 3-2b excludes from the general prize limit prizes (including cash prizes)awarded for achieving a hole-in-one while playing a round of golf. This exceptionis specific to prizes for holes-in-one (not longest drive or nearest the hole) andneither separate events nor multiple-entry events qualify.

Rule 4-3 Subsistence Expenses

New Rule added to allow an amateur golfer to receive subsistence expenses toassist with general living costs, provided the expenses are approved by and paidthrough the player’s national golf union or association.