SAGA steps up R&A Working for Golf programme

Following the successful introduction of the Level One Rules Courses in South Africa last year, the South African Golf Association (SAGA) further extended its commitment to the R&A Working for Golf campaign with the launch of the Level Two course in July.

SAGA Assistant Executive Director Neil Homann, who has presented 10 Level One Rules courses at across the country since August last year, facilitated the first Level Two course at De Zalze Golf Club on 23-24 July.

“The R&A Three-tiered Rules Education Programme takes people through a process from learning the basics to refereeing at the highest level,” explained Homann.

“The Level One course is an Introductory Rules School and appropriate for people who want to know more about the basic principles behind the Rules of Golf, etiquette and the most frequently occurring situations that arise on the golf course.

“The Level Two course is the next step in guiding the attendees to become referees. The course material focusses in depth on the rules and touches on the practical application of running of golf tournaments with respect to course set-up, local rules, etc.”

The two-day course was attended by 35 delegates and Homann was assisted by WPGU Director of Golf, Eric Lefson, and Carol Goldsbury from the Western Province Golf Referees Association.

“The course consists of several theoretical and practical sessions over the two days and culminates with an examination,” Homann said.

“The demonstration and role play sessions are extremely useful in helping the delegates to understand the practical applications of the Rules of Golf.”

Homann was pleased that the majority of the delegates passed the Level Two course.

“We were pleased that 25 of the participants passed the examination, because it is a very intensive course and a lot to take in over the two days,” he said.

“The Level Two course of the R&A Three-tiered Rules Education Programme is a step in the right direction for people who want to attend the Level Three TARS course (Tournament Administrators and Referees School), which the R&A is planning to conduct in South Africa towards the end of 2016.

“I would to thank the staff at De Zalze Golf Club for their assistance in ensuring the successful hosting of the first Level Two course.”

The next three Level Two courses are scheduled for Royal Durban (7-8 August), Benoni Country Club (29-30 August) and Kyalami Country Club (7-8 September).

Anyone interested to attend, can contact their relevant golf union or download the registration form at http://www.saga.co.za/ (see Notice Board)

Written and released by Lali Stander on behalf of the South African Golf Association.

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