Caddy Policy
Similar to on the PGA Tour, participants in age groups 6-12 of Red Hills Junior Golf events are encouraged to have a caddy to help them play their best. Players eight and under must have a caddy at all times. We suggest players select a parent, grandparent, other family members, or friend at least thirteen years of age as their caddy, so that both can experience the fun of competition.
Caddies are permitted only in age groups 6-12 years old. Players 13-18 must carry (or pull) their clubs with no outside assistance. Shuttles from greens to tee boxes are permitted only when provided for by RHJT event staff. Spectators may not shuttle players between holes unless specifically authorized at the start of tournament play. No exceptions. First offense – warning. Second offense – 2 stroke penalty. Subsequent offenses – double par on that hole.
Pull carts are allowed unless prohibited by the host golf course.
Caddies must refrain from over-coaching the participant for whom they are caddying. It is the caddy's duty to help the player hit each shot within a reasonable period of time. The player shall play without undue delay, which is defined as taking no more than 45 seconds to play a shot. If a player takes more than 45 seconds, he or she may be subject to a penalty. First offense: warning, second offense: two stroke penalty, subsequent offenses: score of ten on that hole. All penalties will be at the discretion of the tournament director or rules official. The 45-second rule is put into place to prevent over-coaching and slow play.
Allowing a caddy is a special component of our events as our commitment to encourage family interaction. Please review the rules below to help make the experience more enjoyable.
Important USGA Caddy Related Rules
1. Rule 14-2b states that in “making a stroke,” a player shall not allow his caddy to position himself on or close to an extension of the line of play or the line of putt behind the ball. A caddy may position himself in this manner before the player commits to beginning his swing but must move away once the player is set to begin his swing. Failure to do so will result in a two-stroke penalty.
2. Rule 8-2b states that when a player's ball is on the putting green, the player or his caddy may before, but not during, the stroke, point out a line for putting, but in doing so the putting green shall not be touched. No mark shall be placed anywhere to indicate a line for putting. Violation of this rule will result in a two-stroke penalty.
3. Rule 17-3 states that the player's ball shall not strike the flagstick or attendant when the flagstick is attended or the flagstick is in the hole, unattended, or when the ball has been played from the putting green. Should this occur, the player is assessed a two-stroke penalty, and the ball is played as it lies.
4. Rule 8-1 states that a Caddy is one who carries or handles a player's clubs during play and otherwise assistshim in accordance with the rules. A player may only have one caddy at any given time. A caddy may be replaced or eliminated at any time by the player. No other person may offer advice or help to a player other than his caddy.
Always remember that a rules violation by the caddy is the same as if the player violated the rule. A caddy must be aware of the rules and assist his player in accordance with the rules. Rules officials are in place throughout the course to help players when needed.
Special Circumstances:
At the committee's discresion, the RHJT Caddy/Cart Policy may be suspended due to excesive heat or other weather-related circumstances where the health/saftey of the player(s) may be at risk.