Each year, the United States Golf Association and

the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrew s,

Scotland receive thousands of phone calls and letters

regarding clarification of the Rules of Golf. In order

to help millions of golfers around the world better

understand how these detailed Rules are applied

and interpreted, the USGA and R&A developed the

comprehensive Decisions on the Rules of Golf. The topics

of Etiquette, Definitions, and the Rules of Play are

discussed at length. The format is geared towards

questions and answers and is designed to be used as

a reference at home, or right on the golf course.

Since 1951 the USGA and R&A have been meeting

regularly in order to establish a uniform code of

Rules. Decisions on the Rules of Golf is the result of

these meetings. However, each year brings about

a whole new round of questions not specifically

addressed in the Rules of Golf. Committees meet from

both organizations to discuss these new questions --

anything from water hazards, and points of relief, to

how to play a ball near a dead elk -- and arrive at a

decision with which both the USGA and R&A agree.

Decisions on the Rules of Golf is amended every year in

order to keep up on the ever evolving game of golf.

The partnership of the USGA and the R&A has

worked to further the understanding and enjoyment

of the game of golf. With their official expertise,

golf enthusiasts can rest assured that even the most

unusual situation can be addressed. Whether it s a

question of casual water, loose impediments, or line

of play, no answer is out of bounds.