#Drop Gate

Match Referee Announcement re: #DropGate The defendant: Mr Thomas Arnold Key Witnesses: Mr Adam Churcher, Mr John Hanson, Mr Liam Hope and Mr Jamie Way The matter in question: It has been suggested that during the Easter Open at Wildwood Golf and Country Club, Mr Thomas Arnold breached Rule 27 of the R&A Rules of Golf by incorrectly replacing his ball during play of the 18th hole. Subsequently, Mr Arnold made a double bogey 7, with the outcome of 1 x Stableford point. Verdict: Having analysed witness statement from those mentioned above, it has been decided that Mr Arnold did in fact breach Rule 27, and gained a considerable advantage by doing so. Whilst Mr Arnold did contravene official R&A rules, it is noted that ‘unusual’ circumstances may have contributed to this oversight. It is also noted that Mr Arnold’s card was marked by Mr Hanson, and submitted to the Chairman at close of play without mention of the subject in question. Penalty: The following penalties have been decided: • Mr Arnold’s score for the 18th hole will become void. Therefore reducing him to 31 points for the tournament • Mr Arnold will be subject to 1 x large fine, to be decided by the chairman Penalty Outcome: • As the penalty does not alter the final tournament standings, Mr Arnold’s society points will remain • However, Mr Arnold’s award of the ball marker shall be rescinded and recycled by the society. Additional Comments: The Match Referee would also like to state fines for the following society members: • Mr Jamie Way – for involving himself in another groupings matter, based mainly on hearsay and other members information • Mr Adam Churcher – for providing a leading and outcome driven statement • Mr Jon Hanson – for providing a lazy statement, and not raising this matter at the preferred time