NYSPHSAA and Section V Boys Golf Policy on Range Finders

NYSPHSAA and Section V Boys Golf does not permit the use of range finders during any of their events, which include the Section V Individual and Team Championships and the NYSPHSAA Boys Golf Championship.  Individual leagues may vote to approve their use prior to the start of seasonal play.  The USGA and RDGA has approved rangefinding devices for use, but as agreed upon at the NYSPHSAA 2008 Coordinators Meeting, the prior rule will continue to exist.  Please refer to USGA Rule 14-3 in regards to this matter when violation of this rule is in question.

Rule 14-3. Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and Unusual Use of Equipment -— Amended to refer to the unusual use of equipment (see also new Exception on use of equipment in a traditionally accepted manner) and new Exception added for players with a legitimate medical reason to use an artificial device or unusual equipment.

Note added to clarify that a Local Rule may be introduced allowing the use of distance-measuring devices; previously authorized by Decision only.

Text in 2004
Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment:

Text in 2008
Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment, or use any equipment in an unusual manner:

Exceptions in 2008:
1. A player is not in breach of this Rule if (a) the equipment or device is designed for or has the effect of alleviating a medical condition, (b) the player has a legitimate medical reason to use the equipment or device, and (c) the Committee is satisfied that its use does not give the player any undue advantage over other players.

2. A player is not in breach of this Rule if he uses equipment in a traditionally accepted manner.

Penalty for Breach of Rule 14-3:

Disqualification.