Rule 1. The Game

1-1. General.

The Game of Golf consists in playing a ball from the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or successive strokes in accordance with the Rules.

1-2. Exerting Influence on the ball.

No player or caddie shall take any action to influence the position or the movement of a ball except in accordance with the Rules.

Penalty for Breach of Rule 1-2: Match play-Loss of hole; Stroke play-Two strokes.

Note: In the case of a serious breach of Rule 1-2, the Committee may impose a penalty of disqualification.

1-3. Agreement to Waive Rules.

Players shall not agree to exclude the operation of any Rule or to waive any penalty incurred.

Penalty for Breach of Rule 1-3: Match play-Disqualification of both sides; Stroke play-Disqualification of competitors concerned.

(Agreeing to play out of turn in stroke play-Rule 10-2c.)

1-4. Points Not Covered by Rules.

If any point in dispute is not covered by the Rules, the decision shall be made in accordance with equity.