MABGA Golf Outing Rules and Guidelines

Revised 01/26/2025

Photo of Eve Lipman with coach explaining the benefits of MABGA

Key Rules for Blind/Low Vision Golfers at Host Golf Courses

To ensure safety and maintain the integrity of our partnerships with host golf courses, the following rules must be strictly adhered to:

Golf Cart Usage

• Under no circumstances are blind/low vision golfers permitted to drive golf carts.

Penalties:

• First offense: 3-month suspension from all MABGA activities.
• Second offense: 1-year suspension.

Coach Proximity

• Blind/low vision golfers must remain within arm’s length of their coach on the course, except when standing on the green.
• While on the premises, blind golfers must use a white cane or walk with a sighted guide.

Penalties:

• First offense: Forfeiture of two outings for both the blind/low vision golfer and coach.
• Additional offenses: Double the penalty for each subsequent violation.

Alcohol Consumption

• The consumption of alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor) is prohibited during regular golf outings.

Exceptions:

• Cocktail hour at the Annual Invitational Golf Tournament and the Green Valley Golf Outing.

Penalty:

• One outing forfeiture for both the blind/low vision golfer and coach for any violation.

Pace of Play

• Foursomes falling more than one full hole behind must skip the current hole and move to the next tee.
• Groups delaying play and refusing instructions from the Marshall or coach will be moved to the top of the bump list for the next overbooked outing.

Rule Enforcement

• The Marshall and Assistant Marshall, supported by all coaches, are responsible for enforcing these rules.
• The Board of Governors fully supports the enforcement of penalties.
• All golfers and coaches are accountable for adhering to these regulations.

Additional Guidelines for Golf Outings

General Regulations

Unless advised otherwise by the Club Pro, the Marshall or the Outing Committee, the following regulations are to be observed at all golf outings:

Style of Play:

• Except for specific tournaments (Annual Golf Tournament, Pro-Am Tournament, Green Valley CC outing), play will consist of foursomes with two teams (one blind/low vision golfer and one coach per team).
• The Select Drive-Alternate Shot System is used:
  • Each player tees off.
  • Teams select the best drive and alternate shots until completing the hole.
• Any blind/low vision golfer who wants to test his or her individual skills may play an optional style of play where only the blind/low vision golfer plays. However, that blind/low vision golfer must play at the end of the group.

Tees:

• All players use red tees unless otherwise instructed by the Marshall.

On the Green:

• Tend or remove the flag while putting.
• Avoid stepping on the line of putt and dragging feet.
• Line up your putt while others are putting to save time.
• The putter whose ball is furthest away putts first (unless that golfer is not ready).
• On par-3 holes, allow golfers behind to play through before putting out.

Modified USGA Rules of Play

All USGA rules must be followed except for the following:

• Blind/low vision golfers are allowed one whiff per shot (including sand traps) without penalty.
  • A second consecutive whiff counts as one stroke, and the coach takes the next shot.
• A 10-stroke limit applies per hole for all team or individual play unless stated otherwise.
• Players have unpenalized relief from trees, shrubs, rocks, etc., that interfere with a full swing.
  • The ball may not be advanced or moved from rough to fairway.
  • Be familiar with the course map.
  • Golf balls may be moved from far side of fairway to cart path side when carts are not permitted off pathway.
  • Make 90-degree turns unless advised otherwise.
• Lost balls:
  • Spend no more than 2 minutes searching.
  • Drop a provisional ball with no penalty.
  • Keep extra balls and tees handy to save time.
• Make your club selection at the cart not on the tee.
• Play Ready Golf, anyone prepared to hit should go.
• No practice shots or teaching instructions on the course (reserve these for the driving range).

Golf Course Etiquette

Proper Behavior

Respect for the Host Club:

• Blind/low vision golfers and coaches must keep in mind the fact that we are guests at each host club.
• Golfing at host clubs is a privilege. Follow all dress codes, rules, and etiquette.

Time Management:

• Limit practice swings to two.
• Do not waste time between shots.

Cart Rules:

• Keep carts on designated paths or rough unless otherwise instructed by the Marshall or the host Pro.
• Park the golf cart along the back or rear side of the green, allowing the golfers behind you to shoot for the green as soon as you are finished playing.
• Do not drive or park carts within 30 feet of any green.
• Always secure the parking brake on inclines and turn the front wheel to the side for better traction.
• Park your cart even and along side of the tee (not on the tee). Watch for bumps, hills, ditches, etc.

Course Maintenance:

• Rake sand bunkers or smooth them with your club or feet if no rake is available.
• Blind/low vision golfers must remind their coaches to rake traps and to keep the golf course in good condition.
• Coaches must replace or repair all divots on the tees, the fairways or in the rough.
• Coaches must pick up all tees (broken or not). .
• Coaches should repair at least two ball marks on greens, even if unrelated to their play. This will help to make a good impression on our host clubs and their members.

Interactions with Other Golfers:

• Allow members of the host club to play through when necessary.
• Speak softly, especially around tees and greens. Cursing or loud behavior is inappropriate.

Practical Tips for Golf Outings

Preparation:

• Arrive on time and prepare your cart and bags before reporting to the Marshall.
• Wear appropriate attire (collared shirts, dress shorts, no jeans).
• Soft spikes are required; no metal spikes allowed.
• Check directions to the club before departure.

Use Proper Golfing Etiquette in the Clubhouse:

• Be respectful to the staff and fellow golfers in the clubhouse.
• Don’t engage in loud or disruptive behavior while socializing after your round.
• Tip staff members appropriately such as waiters, bag handlers, and locker room attendants.

Questions and Assistance:

• If you have any questions while on the golf course, please see our Golf Marshall, Ranger, or a member of the Golf Outing Committee. They are available to assist you throughout the outing.

Reporting Misbehavior or Irregularities:

• If you notice any misbehavior or irregularities on the course, kindly report them to the Golf Marshall, Ranger, or a member of the Golf Outing Committee as soon as possible.

Maintaining Sportsmanship:

• All participants are expected to uphold the values of fairness, respect, and good sportsmanship throughout the event.

Play with Different Opponents at Each Outing:

• Blind/vision impaired golfers and coaches should aim to play with a different opponent each time.
• This helps build connections within the golf community.
• It fosters a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants.
• Be open and eager to play with whomever you are grouped with.

Leave Your Cell Phone Behind:

• Most clubs prohibit the use of cell phones on the course.
• Cell phones can disrupt play and hold up the game.
• Keep your phone off, on vibrate mode, or leave it behind to maintain a distraction-free environment.

Scorecards and Handicaps

• Obtain a scorecard and course map before starting.
• Coaches must fill out scorecards legibly and submit them to the Marshall after each outing.

Final Notes

These guidelines are designed to ensure safe, efficient, and enjoyable outings for all MABGA participants. Always prioritize safety, follow proper etiquette, and use common sense when addressing situations not covered by these rules. Remember, golf outings are about fostering camaraderie and respect both on and off the course.