A couple of questions have been raised concerning the PGA/USGA Rules Workshop. So here are a couple more thoughts.Should an everyday, recreational golfer attend one of these workshops? Well, yes and we are 70-30 on that answer. If you have a love for the game, which would naturally include a knowledge of the rules and a desire to play by the rules, then the answer is definitively YES! If you play with a few buddies only occasionally and do it solely so you can say you play golf, don't bother.
Here is a litmus test of sorts although it is not 100% foolproof. Let's examine the word “mulligan.” When you play do take a mulligan every now and then? Do you know which rule addresses the taking of mulligans? Most importantly, do you care?
Take about five minutes to think about all of this and then make a decision. But consider a couple of other points ...
The Rules Workshop is intense – three days of eight hours per day covering virtually every word in the Rules of Golf. It does not seem long. If you're paying attention, time flies. There is an optional fourth day which involves testing.
The cost can be a bit steep $300 for the entire Workshop. If you attendance requires travel, lodging, meals and incidentals, that should be factored into the decision.
You will not learn “How” to study the rules. You will get a very healthy dose of the rules and learn how to maneuver your way through the Rules and Decisions. And, if you choose to attend, we would suggest you have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the rules. Perhaps the best preparation would be to study the Definitions. That should prepare you sufficiently.
Any other questions or thoughts, please leave a comment.
2 comments:
I have just returned from taking the USGA Rules Exam and failing to get a passing score (80) for the third time. Very frustrating. The USGA's view of what constitutes an adequate knowledge of the Rules of Golf is rather detailed, to say the least. Nonetheless, I will keep plugging away. Anyone who continues to play the game of golf is already a glutton for punishment! If anyone knows of a Rules study guide that someone may have put together, I would love to hear about it. The test can only be taken once a year. So, I have plenty of time to get ready again. The seminars are usually very good, but do vary based on the instructors you get. Thankfully, they all seem to keep the 'what if' questions to a minimum.
One really useful source for lots of practice and useful information on rule study is www.throughthegreen.org
This is maintained by Dr. Lew Blakey, considered by all who know him to be a great rules guru.
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