Clothing

Question
Is there a rule against leaving the course of play to change clothing? I live on the course, and we had two groups of 4 waiting on the tee box in front of us on the hole I live on. Is there a rule prohibiting me from leaving the course to change clothing? It would not have slowed the pace at all.

Answer
Hello Kim:

Thanks for asking this question.

I did some research and found the rule that can explain your situation best.

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Rule 6-8 Discontinuance of Play: Resumption of Play.
a.  When Permitted:
The player must not discontinue play unless:
(i) the Committee has suspended play;
(ii) he believes there is danger from lightning;
(iii) he is seeking a decision from the Committee on a doubtful or disputed point
(iv) sudden illness

If Player report to Committee and the Committee considers his reason satisfactory, there is no penalty.  Other wise, the player is DQ.

Exception in match play:  Players discontinuing match play by agreement are not subject to disqualification unless by so doing the competition is delayed.

Note: Leaving the course does not itself constitute discontinuation of play.
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Thus, I think you can leave the course to change clothing.

Thanks.

Dan