ARNPRIOR – Golf Canada has adopted new rules for the game of golf that will be less harsh, conducive to faster play and improve the enjoyment of the game in 2019.

The Ottawa Valley Golf Association (OVGA) will lead a presentation at the Madawaska Golf Club on Friday, April 26 from 7 to 9 p.m. to discuss the changes that will affect golfers who play at any competitive level including those whose only competition is their father-in-law.

“C’mon down and learn first hand some of the great changes that will not only help the speed of the game but also possibly lower your score,” Madawaska Men’s Club President Dan McCaskill said.

The rules of golf officially changed on Jan. 1.

“The changes affect everyone who plays the game and the committees that set-up courses and administer tournaments,” the OVGA released in a statement. “To learn more about the changes or to obtain the new Rules of Golf publications or to access resources to help you as a club committee to mark your course or update your Local Rules or educate your members click here. One of the main objectives of the Rules Modernization Initiative is to create consistency around the world in many facets of the Rules of Golf, including educating and training referees and a new three-tiered approach.”

Many of the rule changes involve lost balls, replacing balls, relief and rules governing balls at rest. Accidentally moving or hitting a ball often no longer incurs penalties. Lost ball searches have dropped to three minutes.

There is no longer a penalty for putting with the flagstick still in the hole.

These and the many other rules will be discussed with the aid of a Power Point presentation by OVGA officials.

​The OVGA was formed in 1948. The OVGA is a non-profit organization committed to promoting the growth and development of golf in the Ottawa Valley Region. Supported by Golf Québec, Golf Ontario, and Golf Canada, the OVGA is responsible for golf tournaments, junior programs, handicap supervision, the rules of golf, and course rating in the district.

“In these efforts, the OVGA supports and works with its approximately 80 member clubs and is proud and appreciative of its 4,000 boys, girls, women and men that participate in and volunteer for our competitions,” the OVGA said.