R&A backtracks on cash prizes over fears cheats would prosper

Golf ’s governing bodies have backtracked on proposals to allow cash prizes in handicap competitions, over fears that the money would make rule-breaking and rule-bending yet more irresistible for cheats and “bandits”.

Yesterday, the R&A and United States Golf Association announced regulations that will come into force on Jan 1 permitting amateurs to win up to £700 in scratch events.

However, after revealing the plan in February to relax restrictions across the board, the powers-that-be thought better of it after taking advice from different sections of the sport, including normal clubs where the “leather wedge” brigade and handicap-fiddlers still represent a big problem in midweek and weekend shoot-outs.

Because of them, the monthly medal will still feature only proshop vouchers as rewards. Balls, gloves, caps and, if they collect enough vouchers, maybe even clubs – but no hard currency.

“There was a concern, particularly with handicap golf,” Grant

Moir, the R&A’S director of rules, admitted. “Cash prizes might just create a greater temptation than ordinary prizes. And obviously we’re very keen to protect and maintain the integrity of the game in relation to how the rules of golf are applied and how the rules of handicapping are applied.”

Moir also claimed that the ever-struggling pro shops were a factor. “There was a concern that there would be more money leaving the golf industry,” he said. “It’s a fine balance in a self-policing game.

“The vouchers and the merchandise that are traditionally given as prizes keep the money within the club and the industry.”

If there was bad news for hacker fraudsters and swindlers, there was a significant step forward for elite amateurs, particularly those prodigies struggling for finance. As well as the ability to put money in their pockets, they will also be able to receive unlimited sponsorship.

“It almost redefines amateurism at the elite level,” Moir told BBC Sport, “particularly in relation to the removal of restrictions on contracts, promotion and advertising.”