Competition rules

Question
I today played in a single knockout competition which I won 3 and 2.  When I went to write up my name for the next round we noticed that the max handicap was 24 and I play off 25.  This would have meant that we could have competitively played the last two holes but the game was conceeded on the 16th. We asked in the club house and were told that I should forfeit the game, despite both of us not realising the 24 max.  In the end we have decided to replay it.  Could you tell me what the ruling should have been?  Thanks.  Peter

Answer
Hi Peter:  Under the Rules of Golf, the Committees decision is final.  In your case, whatever the ruling that was given to you that day should have been final.  I am not sure you gave me a ruling.  The clubhouse said you should forfeit the match, however, then you say you both decided to replay it.  I would check with the Director of Golf at the facility for an official ruling and if you don't get an answer there, I would call the USGA office during business hours and ask them for the ruling.  Again, this is a ruling decision for the committee to make.  If the rules state that the handicap max was 24, then you should be disqualified from the match and lose that match.  It doesn't matter if neither of you noticed, you both should have known the rules of the event before entering it.  But since you both played, and then asked at the club house, whatever ruling was given should be final.  It is never up to the players as to what they want to do.  I would do what's right, not what you both think is fair.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member