A couple of weeks back, our Senior Golf newsletter introduced you to Rohit Modwel. Intrigued by his extensive work as a Golf Rules Official, we decided to delve deeper into his journey.
In this exclusive interview, Rohit delves into what it truly means to be a Rules Official, the common pitfalls golfers encounter with the rules, and some of the exciting moments from his career.
Q: Could you tell us about your journey as a Golf Rules Official and what inspired you to take this path?
Back in Kolkata from 1982 to 1995, I got my first taste of officiating in Open tournaments, including those on the Asian circuit. At that time, the Golf Captain at the Royal Calcutta Golf Club (RCGC) was recruiting volunteers, and I jumped at the opportunity. We received about a week’s training from officials of the Indian Golf Union (IGU). Among the highlights was working on the Indian Open, which moved between RCGC and Delhi Golf Club (DGC).
After taking a long hiatus due to work commitments and family, I found my way back to officiating during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. My return coincided with my retirement from professional life in Delhi. DGC organized a Level 1 Rules Qualification seminar for its members, which I completed. By this time, the IGU had a more structured Rules Qualification process in place, developed in collaboration with The R&A.
Q: What does it entail to become a Level 2 Rules Official?
Globally, the Rules of Golf remain consistent, although different governing bodies administer them. The USGA is responsible for the U.S., its territories, and Mexico, while The R&A handles the rest of the world alongside affiliated organizations.
In 2022, the IGU introduced its annual Level 2 Rules Seminar. Having Level 1 qualification was mandatory. This seminar added depth to my understanding and opened doors for tournament officiating. Encouraged by friends, I saw it as my way to contribute to the sport I hold dear.
Upon passing, I became involved at club and league tournament levels, even revising the Local Rules for DGC’s courses. Fast forward to 2024, after officiating several State and National tournaments through IGU’s "Apprenticeship" program, I became an empaneled IGU Rules Official.
There are now 53 empaneled officials in India: 28 at Level 3 (TARS – Tournament Administration & Rules School) and the others as Level 2 "A" officials. Only empaneled officials are eligible to officiate national-level tournaments.
Looking forward, The R&A is set to introduce Level 3 TARS in India in April 2025, and I’ve signed up. If I achieve an 80% score or higher, I’ll be qualified to officiate internationally.
Q: Any unique or challenging rules situation comes to mind?
Several come to mind, but one memorable incident occurred during a Junior Feeder Tour event.
In this incident, during stroke play, a player couldn’t locate his ball after a tee shot. His caddie, thinking the ball was lost, dropped another ball where he thought the original one was. The player hit this replacement, and that’s when an opponent called me over.
The ruling:
- The caddie dropping the ball constituted a 1-stroke penalty.
- The player hitting a wrongly substituted ball from a wrong place, as a lost ball needs stroke-and-distance relief, warranted a 2-stroke penalty.
- But, since both breaches were related (Rule 1.3c(4)), the total penalty was only 2 strokes.
- Consequently, the player needed to return to the tee to hit his actual stroke-and-distance shot—taking his fifth stroke.
It was heartbreaking to see the young player in tears afterward, but rules are rules.
Q: What golf rule mistakes do you frequently see amateur golfers making?
The most frequent mistake involves not correctly identifying the nearest point of complete relief when dropping from a cart path. Many golfers assume relief offers a better lie, forgetting that the rules require the ball remains in a similar condition to its original spot.
Q: Any recent rule changes you think have been notably beneficial or controversial?
Rule 11.1 (a & b) now permits players to play the ball as it lies, without penalty, if it accidentally hits a player or an outside agency. This update has sparked some confusion among golfers, who instinctively assume a penalty should still apply.
Q: How can golfers better grasp the rules without feeling daunted?
Understanding the Rules of Golf can indeed be daunting. I suggest:
- Downloading The R&A Rules app, which is free and user-friendly.
- Starting with the Definitions section, as getting a handle on key terms makes a big difference.
- Focusing on rules specific to one’s game—small steps that can help avoid unnecessary disputes on the course.
Q: Have you had the privilege of officiating famous players or events? Any stories?
Once during the Indian Open Pro-Am, a South African partner was curious if RCGC had a reputation for snakes. I reassured him, hinting that we occasionally see them, but they were nothing to fret about, especially for someone from South Africa!
A couple of holes later, a cobra decided to make an appearance about 25-30 feet away from us, leaving my partner visibly unsettled. He wasn’t too reassured for the next few holes!
Q: If there was one golf rule you could change, what would it be?
I would look at modifying Rule 18.3 regarding the Provisional Ball. At present, if a player finds their original ball but declares it unplayable, they can’t continue with their provisional ball. Allowing them to do so might help speed up the game.
Q: What brings you the most satisfaction as a Rules Official?
For me, it’s more than just upholding rules:
- It keeps my mind sharp, constantly learning.
- It’s an avenue to connect with different players and integrate into the vibrant golf community.
- Most significantly, it commands unexpected respect on the course. When players understand the reasons behind rulings and see their impact, they not only accept decisions but learn from them.
Golf embodies skill, integrity, and tradition. Being part of upholding these values keeps me returning.
Bio – Rohit Modwel, Level 2 Golf Rules Official
Rohit Modwel, with over four decades in golf, is a seasoned member of the Delhi Golf Club and Tollygunge Club. Accredited as a Level 2 Golf Rules Official with distinction from The R&A and Indian Golf Union, he regularly conducts Golf Rules Clinics and officiates at both national and club-level events. Beyond the greens, Rohit is a First Class Management Post Graduate, spent over 44 years in industrial firms, and is a qualified private pilot.
Golf Rules 101 Resources
- Rules of Golf App by R & A
- Golf Rules HUB
