GUI to take tougher line with `bandits'

Whenever the term "golfing bandit" is used, the reaction of the person in whose direction it is pointed can be one of embarrassment or guilt, or, worse still, complete indifference. It is, however, probably the most derisory expression in the sport; and, especially in team events, where some players appear to be beyond the handicapping rules, it has led to a near-continuous outcry from the general body but apparently with little or no effect.

Now, the Golfing Union of Ireland - adopting the role of law enforcers - intend to toughen up their approach. The GUI's annual general meeting takes place in the Grand Hotel, Malahide, on Thursday and Friday next and some constructive work on the issue, which has been conducted by the SSS and Handicapping Committee, will be debated in a determined effort to finally combat the problem.

Last year, the GUI did issue guidelines to clubs (in a softly, softly kind of way) on the matter of Golf Classics and similar team events. However, the results didn't prove too successful - and now the GUI's annual delegates will be asked to consider far more stringent measures in an attempt to beat the so-called "bandits".

The bottom line is that the GUI is seeking to gain more control by requesting the assistance of all affiliated clubs in the administration of classics and other such team competitions held on their courses. Indeed, delegates will be asked to sanction a clearance certificate which will demand clubs and organisers of any classics to return a result form to the winners' (first, second and third) home club and relevant provincial branch secretary.

An indication of the "get tough" approach being adopted by the GUI is that the attentions of all club secretaries will be drawn to Clause 12.1.2 of the Union constitution which clearly states: "In the case of a club which permits a breach of the Rules of Amateur Status, as approved by the R & A, to take place on its course or links or in the Clubhouse or if it fails to comply with CONGU's SSS and Handicapping Scheme, the club shall be held to have infringed the provisions of this Constitution and shall be liable to have its membership terminated."

I understand the SSS and Handicapping Committee are encouraging a new tough approach which will place an increased onus on the host club to ensure the Rules of Golf are adhered to. And, certainly, the vast majority of players (there is widespread concern throughout the GUI's membership on the matter) would applaud an approach that should, quite quickly, ease existing concerns.

While the work of the SSS and Handicapping Committee is likely to cause a great deal of discussion among the delegates, another issue which will be brought up at the annual general meeting is Ireland's participation in the Eisenhower Trophy (world amateur team championship).

At the a.g.m. two years ago, the GUI voted to "go it alone" and break away from the traditional Britain and Ireland team. As such, it was thought that Keith Nolan - who competed on the team in the Philippines that year - would be the last Irish player to do so. However, that decision was taken by the GUI in the belief that the other `home' unions would follow suit, something which didn't happen.

However, at last October's ordinary general meeting, the respective provincial bodies were asked to bring the matter back to their clubs for a new assessment of the situation and, it is believed, the consensus is that the GUI should maintain the traditional tie-up with the other unions. This week's a.g.m. will again discuss the matter, but the expectation is that the status quo will exist when the world championships take place in Santiago, Chile, next November.

Meanwhile, Percy Shannon, the long-standing Munster Branch official, will succeed Peter O'Hara as President of the GUI at this week's annual general meeting.