Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Terms of the Competition are the committee’s published conditions for a particular event. They set matters such as eligibility, entry, schedule, format, handicap arrangements, and how ties will be decided. They supplement the Rules of Golf and should be made available before play.
How it matters in match play
In match play, the Terms of the Competition can state the number and order of holes, the draw or flights, deadlines for completing matches, tees and handicap arrangements, and what happens if the match is tied. Unless the terms say otherwise, a tied match is extended hole by hole under Rule 3.2a(4).
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Terms of the Competition |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 1.3a; Rule 3.2a(4); Committee Procedures, Section 5A |
| Related concepts | Committee, Local Rule, Match Play, Extra Hole, Tiebreaker |
Worked example
The committee’s terms say that Alex and Ben must complete an 18-hole match by Saturday and that a tie continues from the first hole. They are all square after 18, so they play extra holes until one wins; that is an illustrative application of the published terms, not a historical event.
Rule reference: Rule 1.3a; Rule 3.2a(4); Committee Procedures, Section 5A
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Are Terms of the Competition the same as the Rules of Golf?
No. The Rules of Golf provide the governing rules, while the committee’s Terms of the Competition set event-specific conditions such as eligibility, format, deadlines and tie procedures. The terms may include applicable Local Rules, but they cannot simply waive a Rule or penalty where the Rules do not allow that.
Can Terms of the Competition change how a tied match is decided?
Yes. For match play, the default is an extra-hole continuation, but the terms may allow a tie, specify a different starting hole, or set a fixed-hole play-off and explain what happens if it remains tied. Players should check the published terms before the competition.
When should players read the Terms of the Competition?
Before entering or starting the event. The committee is expected to make clear terms available in advance, and they may affect eligibility, entry deadlines, tees, handicap arrangements, match deadlines, draws, prizes and tie procedures.
Can players agree to ignore a Rule because the terms are unclear?
No. Players may ask a referee or the committee for help. If players knowingly agree to ignore an applicable Rule or penalty after the round has started, Rule 1.3b can disqualify them; an unclear term should be referred to the committee rather than privately rewritten.
Do Terms of the Competition decide every local playing detail?
They can specify many event details, but not every detail is mandatory in every competition. The committee should state the matters needed for that event, including any Local Rules and tie method, and avoid assuming that a club custom applies unless it is actually included in the published terms.
Do Terms of the Competition automatically create a handicap allowance?
No. They may specify the format and handicap arrangements where applicable, but any allowance must be supported by the relevant handicap rules or governing-body guidance. A casual event should not invent or silently transplant an allowance from another format.