NWO Golf Links February 2017

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Some say golf isn’t fun unless
you have something riding
on the outcome, while others
wouldn’t even consider a small
wager during their round.
Regardless of your school of
thought, the United States Golf
Association (USGA) does have
rules on the topic that may
guide your actions or provide
you with a mulligan, should
the topic arise on the first tee.
Whether you’re playing Skins,
Wolf, Bingo-Bango-Bongo,
or any of the other various
betting games, the USGA does
permit golfers to informally
gamble, when certain actions
are followed.
Th
states:
» » the players, in general,
know each other (remem-
ber to always introduce
yourself on the first tee-box
if playing with strangers),
» » participation is optional
(regardless of how much
peer-pressure is exerted),
» » participation is limited to
the players (that means no
side bets on the outcome
of your game by others),
» » the money comes from the
players (no outside sources
are allowed to contribute
to the pot),
» » the amount of money is not
considered to be excessive
(to each their own! I’ve
reluctantly shucked out
one dollar after a round),
» » the gambling does not
interfere or conflict with
the rules of golf (don’t turn
the match into a free-for-
all, chaotic scrimmage),
» » The primary purpose of
is still the playing of the
game for enjoyment, not
simply to win the bet.
Additionally, some state or
local laws may vary and can
get you into trouble if broken,
even in a friendly game.
Organized events, designed or
promoted to create cash prizes
are not always acceptable. It is
wise to make sure your league
or outing doesn’t get carried
away with excessive prizes.
A public course once found itself
in court, when it was determined
their leagues had frequent cash
prizes. Remember, Al Capone
was indicted under Federal
Taxation statues.
If you are one of the elite
amateurs that play competitively,
make sure you know and follow
the
the events you play.
For the rest of us weekend
warriors, do what feels right
for you, promptly discharge all
just debts, and enjoy the game.
Gambling on the
Golf Course?
By Richard Todd
NWO Golf Links