Rules of the Polonia Open Golf Tournament by Żywiec
The Polonia Open Golf Tournament by ŻYWIEC
The tournament will be played according to USGA regulations.
ETIQUETTE
Golf is played largely without referees, relying on the integrity of players to uphold the rules and show consideration for others. All participants must conduct themselves with courtesy, discipline, and sportsmanship, regardless of competitiveness. This is the spirit of the game of golf.
FORMAT
- Three rounds of individual stroke play at Trump National Doral, Florida.
- No cut – all players complete all rounds.
DRESS CODE
- No metal spikes at any time.
- Collared golf shirts required – strictly enforced.
- No jeans, cargo shorts, or cargo pants at any time, including practice rounds, night golf, ceremonies, or tournament play.
- Closing Ceremony: Sport jackets are encouraged for men (tie optional).
- The Country Club enforces dress code policies and may restrict clubhouse entry for non-compliance.
PACE OF PLAY – STRICTLY ENFORCED
Players must keep pace with the group ahead. Rangers and referees will monitor pace throughout the tournament.
- Each hole: 14 minutes per group.
- Pace of Play Warnings & Penalties:
- First warning – no penalty.
- Second warning – 1-stroke penalty for all players in the group.
- Third warning – Additional 1-stroke penalty for all players.
- Fourth warning – Disqualification.
Tips to Maintain Pace of Play:
✅ Always keep up with the group in front of you.
✅ Play a provisional ball if your shot may be lost or out of bounds.
✅ Mark your ball for easy identification.
✅ Take all clubs you may need when approaching the green.
✅ Be ready to hit when it is your turn.
PROHIBITED DEVICES
🚫 No music, speakers, or cell phones during play. Phones should only be used for emergencies or contacting tournament officials.
🚫 GPS devices may only provide distance information. Features such as slope, wind speed, or direction are strictly prohibited. Penalty: Disqualification.
TEE TIMES & CHECK-IN
- Shotgun format each tournament day.
- Players must report to their assigned cart at least 10 minutes before tee time.
- Failure to do so: 2-stroke penalty or disqualification.
SCORING & RULES
- Scorecards must be signed and returned immediately after each round at the clubhouse scorer’s table.
- Failure to return promptly may result in disqualification.
- If uncertain about a ruling and an official is unavailable, players may play two balls and announce their intended scoreball to their group.
- Drop Zones: Players are encouraged to use designated drop zones when applicable.
- Mark your ball to prevent misidentification.
COURSE RULES & RELIEF
- Embedded Ball Rule: Free relief for embedded balls anywhere through the green (except hazards).
- Bulkheads, Wood Chips & Mulch:
- Loose impediments – no relief.
- Immovable Obstructions:
- Paved surfaces, bridges, buildings, and fences (not surrounding the course) allow 1 club-length relief, no closer to the hole (no penalty).
- Flower Beds:
- Free relief only if marked with a white line (1 club-length, no closer to the hole).
PRACTICE ROUND
- Available to paid participants before the tournament (green fees not included).
- Players must contact the pro shop to schedule.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
- In case of dangerous weather (heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning), the committee will pause play under guidance from the club pro.
- Play will resume as soon as safe and possible.
LOCAL RULES & UPDATES
- Any local rule changes will be posted on the Polonia Open website and communicated to all players.
📢 CHECK THE “POLONIA OPEN by ŻYWIEC” WEBSITE DAILY FOR UPDATES. Save
⚠️ THE COMMITTEE CANNOT WAIVE A RULE OF GOLF.