Let’s start off with some definitions, so we’re all talking about the same things:
Caps: Caps are used to limit the spots available for registration. They may be assigned for the event overall, or for sub-sets of players in the event, such as Class (Pro vs Am), Pools (Course Groups), or specific divisions.
Clear and precise course rules are important for fair tournament play. As a TD, you should write your course rules in a way that is understandable to all players and leaves no room for misinterpretation. A poorly written rule that can be interpreted in different ways can lead to misplays and penalties for your players.
TDs should follow these general principles when writing course rules:
This is a companion that follows the PDGA guide for How to Plan For a PDGA Event. This document assumes that the TD is running a two-day event, but the guidelines apply regardless of how many days your event might be.
Note: These are merely suggestions and best practices.
Imagine you're on your 18th hole, walking towards where you'll be putting to finish the round, and suddenly you hear the dreaded sound of three air horn blasts; lightning delay. It's frustrating, right? You only have maybe two minutes left until your round is over but now you have to wait for the lightning delay to end before going all the way back your putter to tap in? As frustrating as it is, for both the people on the course and for the tournament staff that is blowing the air horn, erroring on the side of caution is is ALWAYS the right thing to do. Lightning is no joke, and we will continue to do everything we can to keep our players safe.