Please find the updated local rule on distance measuring devices.

For all play at Baberton Golf Club, a player may obtain distance information by using a device that measures distance only. If, during a stipulated round, a player uses a distance-measuring device that is designed to gauge or measure other conditions that might affect his play (e.g. gradient, windspeed, temperature, etc.), the player is in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is disqualification, regardless of whether any such additional function is actually used." 

It is a very important proviso that the device must be limited to measuring distance only. 

Features that would render use of the device contrary to the Local Rule include, but are not limited to:

 the gauging or measuring of slope

 the gauging or measuring of other conditions that might affect play such as wind speed or direction or other climate based information such as temperature, humidity and the like

 recommendations that might assist the player in making his stroke such as club selection, type of shot to be played, green reading or any advice related matter

 calculating the effective distance between two points based on slope or other conditions affecting shot distance

Such non-conforming features render the device contrary to the Rules, irrespective of whether or not:

 the features can be switched off or disengaged

 the features are switched off or disengaged

A multi-functional device such as a smartphone or PDA may be used as a distance measuring device provided it contains a distance measuring application that meets all of the above limitations (i.e. it must measure distance only). PLEASE NOTE that if a smartphone or PDA has any application or feature that can supply any non-conforming data such as windspeed, temperature, compass, directions and the like, the device MUST NOT be used to measure distances whether or not the non-conforming application is used. In the light of this and to protect players from the risk of disqualification, it is essential that any player who wishes to use a mobile phone ensures that it meets all the limiting criteria prior to using it in competitions.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 14-3: DISQUALIFICATION

Alan Gammie

Chairman, Golf Committee

February 2012