International Ground Golf Federation
Constitution & Bylaws
This publication contains the various regulations and provisions that comprise the basic management policies of
the International Ground Golf Federation.
In addition to the rules and regulations of the International Ground Golf Federation, the international standards for
Ground Golf equipment have been included to ensure the safety and peace of mind of all involved when hosting a
tournament. A template for hosting tournaments has also been included in order to help ensure that tournaments areheld in a consistent manner, regardless of the country hosting the event.
Furthermore, in response to the large number of inquiries received related to the availability of safe and reliable
Ground Golf equipment, information regarding the framework for selling and providing equipment through a
company based in the birthplace of Ground Golf, Yurihama (Japan), has also been included in this publication.
We hope that Ground Golf enthusiasts throughout the world will master the information contained herein to allow
an even greater number of individuals to enjoy tournaments across the globe.
It is also our wish that the International Ground Golf Federation continues to grow and develop as an organizationand that the number of Ground Golf enthusiasts continues to increase all around the world.
1. International Ground Golf Federation – General Provisions …………………………………… 1
2. The Rules of Ground Golf ……………………………………………………………………… 7
3. International Standards for Ground Golf Equipment …………………………………………… 10
Supplement 1: Framework for the Worldwide Provision & Sale of Ground Golf Equipment …… 18
Supplement 2: Ground Golf Tournament Management Guide …………………………………… 20– Key Points for Hosting a Successful Tournament –Supplement 3: Guidelines for the Proper Management of Ground Golf Tournaments …………… 23
Reference:
Office of the International Ground Golf Federation ……………………………… 24

Globally expanding the circle of friendship, health, and peace through Ground Golf ! !

International Ground Golf Federation

1. International Ground Golf Federation – General Provisions
Chapter 1: Name and Location of the Federation(Name, Location, Languages Used)
Article 1: The official name of the federation shall be the “International Ground Golf Federation” (hereinafter referred
to as the IGGF). Its official Japanese name shall be the “国際グラウンド・ゴルフ連盟 (Kokusai Guraundo
Gorufu Renmei).”

2: The IGGF shall be comprised of Ground Golf organizations representing countries and regions regarded assuch.
3: The headquarters of the IGGF shall be located in Tokyo, Japan.
4: The official languages of the IGGF shall be English and Japanese.

Chapter 2: Mission & Objectives(Mission)
Article 2: As the authoritative oversight organization for Ground Golf activities throughout the world, the mission of
the IGGF is to contribute to the improved health and physical stamina across generations of individuals throughthe worldwide promotion of Ground Golf while advancing the original philosophy at the heart of Ground Golf asa sport first developed in Japan. The IGGF will further strive to contribute to the cultivation of a bright andprosperous international society via the friendly exchange fostered by international tournaments as well as therealization of an active and long-lived society engaged in sports through the promotion of Ground Golf.
(Objectives)
Article 3: The IGGF will pursue the following objectives in order to achieve its mission as stated in the previous article.
(1) Promote Ground Golf throughout the world(2) Establish international Ground Golf rules and equipment standards(3) Host international Ground Golf tournaments(4) Educate and nurture Ground Golf instructors(5) Approve and certify Ground Golf equipment(6) Create promotional materials and conduct marketing activities related to Ground Golf
(7) Any other initiatives deemed necessary to achieve the mission of the IGGF

Chapter 3: Members(Members)
Article 4: The member classifications established within the IGGF shall be as follows:(1) Regular Members① Regular members shall be Ground Golf organizations representing countries and regions (hereinafter referred
to as member organizations) that agree to the mission of the IGGF and swear to uphold its rules, equipment
standards, etc.
② The name of member organizations must include both the name of its respective country or region and thewords “Ground Golf.”③ Member organizations must have an office function, an established means of communication, and the financial
ability to pay the membership fees of the IGGF.
(2) Supporting Members
Supporting members shall be those individuals, organizations, and businesses that agree to the mission of the
IGGF and support its initiatives and objectives.

1

(Obtaining Membership Qualifications & Membership Fees)
Article 5: Those wishing to become a regular or supporting member of the IGGF must apply by submitting the proper
documentation as separately stipulated by the board of directors and receive the necessary approval.
2: Regular members must pay the membership fee as stipulated by the board of directors in order to cover
expenses necessary for the management of the IGGF and its activities.
3: Supporting members must pay the supporting membership fee as stipulated by the board of directors.

(Membership Withdrawal)
Article 6: If a member chooses to withdraw its membership from the federation, then the member must submit thenecessary documentation as separately stipulated by the board of directors.
(Expulsion & Loss of Membership Qualifications)
Article 7: Members may be dismissed from the federation by decision of the board of directors for committing any of
the following acts:(1) Violating the rules and regulations of the IGGF
(2) Dishonoring the name of the IGGF or acting in a way that goes against its mission(3) Other acts and reasons worthy of expulsion
2: In addition to the items listed above, members may lose their membership qualifications by decision of theboard of directors for the following acts:(1) Regular members disband(2) Failure to pay membership fees or supporting membership fees as applicable(3) Unanimous decision by the members of the board of directors

Chapter 4: Officers(Officers)
Article 8: The officer positions established within the IGGF shall be as follows:(1) Directors
12 or fewer(2) Auditor(s) 2 or fewer
2: The president, three vice presidents, and the secretary general shall be elected from the directors.
(Election of Officers)
Article 9: The officers shall be elected during a meeting of the board of directors as follows:(1) As a general rule, the president shall be chosen through an election; however, the president may also be
selected through mutual agreement.
(2) The vice presidents shall include one representative of Japan and two representatives elected from
Ground Golf organizations outside of Japan.
(3) The secretary general shall be appointed by the president after consulting with the board of directors.
(4) Regarding the officers other than those mentioned in Item 2 of Article 8, there shall be three directors
elected from Japan and four directors elected from Ground Golf organizations outside of Japan.
(5) The auditor(s) shall be appointed by the president from knowledgeable persons familiar with accounting.
2: The term of the officers shall be three years. This does not preclude re-election.
Officers shall carry out their respective duties until their successor has been elected, regardless of whether
the officer’s term has expired. The term for officers elected to fill a temporary vacancy shall end when theirpredecessor’s original term would have ended.
(Officer Duties)
Article 10: The duties of the officers are as follows:(1) The president shall represent and preside over the IGGF.
(2) The vice presidents shall assist the president in his/her duties.
(3) The directors shall make up the board of directors and carry out its duties and responsibilities.
2

(4) The secretary general shall oversee the projects of the IGGF and manage its administrative and financial
affairs.
(5) The auditor(s) shall audit the accounting and affairs of the IGGF.

(Advisors)
Article 11: The IGGF may employ advisors if deemed necessary.
2: The president, with the consent of the board of directors, may commission advisors or consultant withexperience in helping to establish or manage the IGGF.

Chapter 5: Board of Directors(Organization & Powers of the Board of Directors)
Article 12: A board of directors shall be established within the IGGF.
2: The board of directors shall be comprised of the officers. The quorum for meetings of the board of directors
shall be one half of its members.
3: The board of directors holds the following powers:(1) Decisions regarding the approval, withdrawal, and expulsion of members(2) Election of officers(3) Approval of project and budget proposals(4) Approval of project reports and settlement of accounts(5) Approval of other important matters related to the management of the IGGF not included herein(Convocation of the Board of Directors)
Article 13: The president shall convene meetings of the board of directors.
2: The president of the IGGF shall be the chair of the board of directors.
3: Resolutions of the board of directors shall require the approval of over one half of the directors inattendance to be adopted.
4. Decisions by the board of directors shall be recorded in the minutes, which shall be signed by both thepresident and the auditor(s).

Chapter 6: Office of the IGGA
(Office Employees)
Article 14: Employees shall be placed in the office of the IGGA to handle its affairs.
2: The administrative duties of the IGGF shall be performed by the employees of the Japan Ground Golf
Association (hereinafter referred to as the JGGA).

Chapter 7: Funds & Accounting(Accounting, Settlement of Accounts & Fiscal Year of the IGGF)
Article 15: The costs and expenses associated with the management and initiatives of the IGGF shall be covered byfunds from the following sources:(1) Membership fees from regular and supporting members(2) Revenue from projects and events(3) Contributions & donations(4) Other
2: Financial statements for the IGGF shall be prepared and presented to the board of directors.
3: The fiscal year of the IGGF shall begin on April 1 each year and end on March 31 of the following year.

3Chapter 8: Other Miscellaneous Items(Amendments to the Constitution)
Article 16: The provisions and regulations contained herein may be amended with the approval of at least one half ofthe directors.
Supplementary Provisions
1. These provisions shall be effective from May 24, 2019.
2. Regardless of the provision as stipulated in Article 9 Item 1, the officers at the time of the establishment of the
IGGF shall strive for the smooth management of the IGGF and shall serve until May 30, 2021, as separately
determined.
Additionally, the officers of the JGGA shall, until otherwise decided, attend the meetings of the board of
directors in order to support the operation and management of the IGGF.

JGGA 30th Anniversary International Goodwill Tournament Participants（National Stadium Main Stands: October 1, 2013）4

International Ground Golf Federation Constitution Bylaws

Matters Related to Article 5 Item 1
Those wishing to join the International Ground Golf Federation must submit the following application forms to theBoard of Directors, along with any other documentation specified therein.
(1) Regular Members . . . . . Attachment 1(2) Supporting Members . . . Attachment 2
Matters Related to Article 5 Item 2
Until otherwise decided, the membership fee for regular members shall be as follows:
500 USD/year
Matters Related to Article 5 Item 3
The membership fee for supporting members shall be as follows:
For Individuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 USD/year
For organizations, businesses, etc. . . . . 500 USD/year
Matters Related to Article 6
Members wishing to leave the International Ground Golf Federation must submit a written notification ofwithdrawal containing the following items to the board of directors.
(1) Regular Members . . . . . a) Name of country or region, b) name of representative or office manager,
and c) reason for withdrawal of membership(2) Supporting Members . . . a) Name of individual, organization, or business, and b) reason for withdrawalof membership
Matters Related to Supplementary Provisions Item 2
The officers of the International Ground Golf Federation at the time of establishment shall be as follows:
President . . . . . . . . . . . An officer from the Japan Ground Golf Association representing the home of Ground
Golf
Vice Presidents . . . . . . Officers shall be elected from representatives of national Ground Golf associations
Secretary General. . . . The head office director of the Japan Ground Golf Association
Directors . . . . . . . . . . . Officers shall be elected from representatives of the Japan Ground Golf Association
and representatives recommended by national Ground Golf associations of countries
and regions outside of Japan
Auditor . . . . . . . . . . . . CPA currently commissioned by the Japan Ground Golf Association

5

<Attachment 1>
Date (YYYY/MM/DD):To the President of the International Ground Golf Federation
Name of Member Organization:
Personal Stampor Signature

Name of Organization President:

Application to Join the International Ground Golf Federation (Regular Member)
Our association hereby applies to become a regular member of the International Ground Golf Federation and swears
to strictly adhere to and uphold the provisions, rules, equipment standards, and tournament management policies of theInternational Ground Golf Federation and to pay the stipulated membership fee.
Name of Country or Region
Name of Organization (Association)
Number of Members
Name of Representative
Address of Office & Name of In-Charge Staff
Phone, FAX, & E-mail Address
Other Items & Comments(Note) Applicants must also attach the rules of their organization as well as a list of its members to this form.

<Attachment 2>
Date (YYYY/MM/DD):To the President of the International Ground Golf Federation
Name of Individual, Organization, or Business:
Name of Representative:

Personal Stampor Signature

Application to Join the International Ground Golf Federation (Supporting Member)
I (we) hereby agree to advance the mission of the International Ground Golf Federation and apply to join as asupporting member.
Name of Individual, Organization, or Business
Name of Representative
Address/Location
Phone, FAX, & E-mail Address
Reason & Purpose for Joining
Other Items & Comments(Note) Organizations and businesses must also attach documents that provide an overview of their organization.

6

２． The Rules of Ground Golf

Section 1: Etiquette
Article 1
Once their turn has ended, players should move quickly out of the way as to not obstruct the following player.
Article 2Players should not talk nor stand next to or behind either the ball or the hole post during another player’s turn.
Players should also wait to start playing a hole until any groups in front of them have finished playing the hole.

Article 3Players shall repair any divots or footprints left on the course before moving on to the next hole.

Section 2: Rules Related to Gameplay

Article 4: Gameplay
Following a predetermined order of play, players tee-off from the start mat and count the number of strokes
taken until their ball comes to rest within the boundaries of the metal hole post (called tomari).
Article 5: Equipment
The game shall be played using approved clubs, balls, hole-posts, and start mats.
Article 6: Practice Hits During Gameplay
Practice swings that come in contact with the ball are not allowed during gameplay. Violation of this rule will
result in the addition of one penalty stroke to the player's score.
Article 7: Giving or Receiving Help
Players are not allowed to receive or ask for help during their turn, including any form of advice or physicalassistance. This includes using boards for stable footing, being physically supported by other players, or getting
protection from wind and rain. Violation of this rule will result in the addition of one penalty stroke to the player'sscore.
Article 8: Play the Ball as It Lies
If a player's ball comes to rest in a thicket or long grass, then the player may only touch such obstructions toconfirm the ball's location and that it is indeed his/her ball. Players may not cut grass, bend branches, or remove
obstructions. Violation of this rule will result in the addition of one penalty stroke to the player's score.
Article 9: Hitting the Ball
When swinging, players should use the head of the club to properly hit the ball. They should not push or
sweep it forward. Violation of this rule will result in the addition of one penalty stroke to the player's score.
However, strokes that miss the ball completely shall not be counted against the player's score.
Article 10: Lost and Out-of-Bounds Balls
If a player loses a ball or hits it out of bounds, then one penalty stroke shall be added to the player's score.
The ball should be placed back on the course at a spot where play is possible, but that does not move the ballcloser to the hole post. The player's next hit should be taken from the spot where the ball was placed.

7Article 11: Balls Obstructing Gameplay
If necessary, a player may request that balls obstructing gameplay be temporarily removed from the course. The
player whose ball is interfering with play should place a marker directly behind the ball in relation to the hole post
before removing the ball.

Article 12: If Ball in Play Hits Another Player's Ball
If the ball in play hits another player's ball, then the ball in play must be played from wherever it comes to rest.
The ball that was hit, however, should be returned to its original position.
Article 13: If Wind Moves a Ball at Rest
Once a player has hit his/her ball, he/she may not hit their ball again while it is in motion. However, if the ballis subsequently moved by the wind, then the player should play the ball wherever it comes to rest. If the windmoves a ball into the hole post, then it is tomari (the player holes out).
Article 14: If Ball Enters Hole Post on First Swing
If a player hits the ball into the hole post on his/her first stroke (a hole-in-one), then three strokes per hole-inone shall be subtracted from the player's overall final score.
Article 15: Decisions During Gameplay
Gameplay is self-officiated. When there is a difficult call to make, the player should seek a consensus withother players.
Article 16: Standard Course
A standard course is made up of a total of 8 holes, including 2 holes for each distance of 50m, 30m, 25m,
and 15m.

〔Example of a Standard Course〕

8

〔Example of a Scorecard〕

Scorecard
International Ground Golf Federation
Tournament Name (

No.

Name

) Course Name ()

Starting Hole No. (

)

Year

Month

No. of Actual No. of HoleStrokes
in-OnesHole No.

Day (

Total

)

Confirmation
SignatureNotes(1) How to Mark the Scorecard
The number of strokes for the roundshould be marked using Arabic numerals
Accumulative Total(2) If a player gets a hole-in-one, then he/she should fill in the "Strokes" column with a ①. He/she should also then add one to the running total and write that in the "Accumulative Total" column.
The total number of strokes after subtracting three strokes for each hole-in-one should be written in the "Total" column for the player's final overall score.

9

3. International Standards for Ground Golf Equipment
The international standards and specifications for Ground Golf equipment as stipulated in Article 5 of the Rules of theInternational Ground Golf Federation are as follows:① Equipment Standards② Equipment Standards Bylaws③ Equipment Standards and Approval Methods

3-1 Equipment Standards
Regulations relating to the Ground Golf equipment standards are as follows:
1. Club
The shaft and club head shall be made from smooth wood. The total length of the club should be at least 50cm
but no greater than 100cm. However, these limitations do not apply to equipment specially designed forindividuals with physical disabilities.
1) Shaft
A non-slip grip may be attached to the top end of the shaft. Except for the grip portion, cross-sections of
the shaft should be perfect circles no greater than 30mm in diameter.
The connection between the club head and the shaft may be reinforced with metal or resin.
2) Head
The head should be at least 14cm but no greater than 16cm at its longest point horizontally (from side toside) and at least 7cm but no greater than 8cm at its tallest point vertically (from the bottom (sole) to the topof the head). The thickness (sides) of the head should be at least 4cm but no greater than 4.5cm.
An inclined plane may not be attached to the striking face of the club. The striking face must be smoothand flat. The back of the head, however, may have grooves and indentations provided that such designs do
not exceed one half of the thickness of the club.
The striking face may be reinforced with resin.
The bottom (sole) of the club head may be reinforced with either resin or metal.
3) See Image 1 for the standard shape of the club.
2. Ball1) Balls should be made from smooth resin.
The ball should not bounce on the ground and should weigh at least 75g but no more than 95g. It should
be a perfect sphere with a diameter of 6cm (±1mm).
2) See Image 2 for the standard shape of the ball.
3. Hole Post
The hole post includes the rings at the bottom of the structure (the “hole”) and the pole.
1) The “Hole”
The bottom ring should have an outer diameter of 36cm (±6mm), and the upper ring should have anouter diameter of 20cm (±6mm). The thickness of the metal ring itself should be within 6mm. The distance
between the under part of the bottom ring touching the ground and the under part of the upper ring shouldbe 11cm (±3mm). The upper ring should be supported by three metal pillars (legs). These should each havea diameter of at least 6mm and should each support an equal part of the weight of the structure. A metal
chime with a diameter of 4cm (±5mm) should be placed in the center of the “hole.” There should also be a
distance of 2cm (±2mm) between the bottom of the chime and the ground.
2) The PoleThe height of the portion of the pole extending out from above the upper ring should be at least 50cm but
no greater than 150cm. There should be a flag showing the number of the hole attached to the pole.
3) See Image 3 for the standard shape of the hole post.

10

4. Start Mat
1) The start mat should be within 65cm x 30cm, have a height of within 15mm, and be made of rubbermaterials. The height of the tee should be no greater than 15mm as measured from the top of the mat. The
number of the corresponding hole should also be displayed on the top of the mat.
2) See Image 4 for the standard shape of the start mat.

【 Equipment Form & Specifications 】

Image 1: Club

Image 2: Ball

Image 3: Hole Post

Image 4: Start Mat

113-2 Equipment Standards Bylaws
The bylaws of the equipment standards are as follows:
1. Club Clubs may be made from plywood, glued laminated timber, or laminated veneer lumber; however, the use ofwooden materials made from woodchips held together with resin or other similar materials is not allowed.
 The use of bamboo is not allowed.
 The use of a design that allows the disassembly of the head, shaft, or any portion of either is not allowed.
 The use of a design that allows one to modify the balance and/or weight of the club is not allowed.
 The total length of the club refers to the length from the outer edge of bottom (sole) of the club head to the top of
the grip-end of the shaft. (Figure 1)
1) Shaft Players may wrap grip tape or attach a mold made from rubber, etc., to the shaft; however, the length of suchitems must not exceed 40cm as measured from the top end of the shaft. Any attachments must also be asingle piece and within 45mm as measured from side to side.
 The reinforced portion of the shaft may extend from the tip attached to the club head to up to 12cm beyond
the top of the club head in the direction of the grip.
2) Head The striking face must be designed so that it is placed along the horizontal portion of the club head.
 If the club head is designed so that there is a striking face on both the front and back of the head, then bothshall be referred to as striking faces.
 When the club head is placed at the lie angle as specified in the design, the length of the side of the club thatlies between the striking face and the flat surface that runs parallel to it on the other side of the club head isreferred to as the “thickness” of the club head (Figure 4). The horizontal length between the two planes oneither side of the club head that run perpendicular to the horizontal plane is referred to as the “width” of theclub head (Figure 2), and the vertical length of the club head that lies between the two horizontal planes isreferred to as the “height” of the club head (Figure 3).
 The striking face may not be made from materials that are highly friction-resistant, wear down quickly, orthat otherwise noticeably affect how the ball spins as compared to a typical wooden striking face.
 Any designs on the striking face, such as a face line or brand name, must not leave any bumps or grooves.
 However, grooved designs and marks that serve to help aim when hitting with a part of the club head otherthan the striking face are allowed.
 The reinforced portion of the striking face may be made from resin, fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP, etc.), resin
impregnated wood, or compressed laminated wood; however, the use of metal is not permitted.
 The reinforced portion of the striking face must be within 10mm thick.
 Metal screws may be used to stabilize the reinforced area; however, the screws should be placed as close to
the outer edge of the striking face as possible.
 The part of the bottom (sole) of the club head that regularly comes in contact with the ground when swinging
may be reinforced.
 The striking face must be touching the surface perpendicular to it from the bottom (sole) of the club head tohalfway up the side (thickness) of the club head. However, a groove per the design within 2mm is permitted.
 The thickness of any reinforcement to the bottom (sole) of the club head must be within 15mm.
 Metal bits such as screws connecting the club head and the shaft must structurally serve to prevent the headfrom popping off.
2. Ball Decorative designs are permitted provided that there are no resulting grooves or bumps.
 The internal mass distribution of the ball must not significantly differ throughout the ball.
 The bounciness of the ball must be within all specifications.

123. Hole Post For each of the three legs, the base width of the incline of the leg at the point where a vertical line extendingstraight down from a height of 70mm meets the ground should be within 40mm. (Figure 5).
 For each of the three legs, the leg itself must not stick out into the area formed by drawing a line straight downfrom a height of 70mm to the point where the leg attaches to the inside part of the bottom ring. (Figure 6)
 Each of the three legs (from the bottom ring to the upper ring) must align along a vertical plane in line with thepole in the middle of the hole post. (Figure 7)
4. Start Mat
No further details deemed necessary at this time.

13

Figure 1: Total Club Length

Figure 2: Club Head Width

Figure 3: Club Head Height

Figure 4: Thickness

Figure 5: Base Width of Inclined Plane

Figure 7: Distorted Hole Post

Figure 6: Distorted Hole Post

70mm

14

3-3 Equipment Standards and Approval Methods
In addition to the Equipment Standards and it bylaws, equipment must conform to the following standards andspecifications.
A. Club
ItemStandards & Specifications

Method of Approval

Notes

1. Appearance

1- (1) No pointed features,bumps, etc.
1- (2) No gap where shaft
connects to club head.
1- (3) Surface plane of thestriking face runs parallelto shaft.

1- (1) Visual and tactile confirmation.
(n = 3)
1- (2) Visual confirmation.
(n = 3)
1- (3) Secure the striking face along a flat
surface and confirm that the difference
between the distance between the flat
surface and the middle of the shaft iswithin 15mm at both the top of the
shaft as well as where the shaft
connects to the club head.
(n = 3)n = Number ofSample Items
Tested2- (1) Club head weighs nomore than 350g.

2- (1) Measure and confirm the weight ofthe club head by use of a scale.
(n = 3)2- (2) Measure and confirm the weight ofthe shaft by use of a scale.
(n = 3)

2. Weight

2- (2) Shaft weighs no morethan 400g.

3. Strength(Club Head)

3- (1) The tensile strength ofthe connection between
the shaft and the clubhead is greater than orequal to 4.9kN (500kgf).

3- (1) Secure the club head so that it bears ★Pullno impact on its connection to the shaft Velocity:and measure how much force is needed 10.0mm/min
to pull the shaft out of the club head.
(Image 2)(n = 3)3- (2) Any deformation on the 3- (2) Apply a load of 3.92kN (400kgf) tosurface of the striking face
the club head for a period of one
after compression testing
minute using a ball with a diameter ofis less than or equal to50mm. One minute after removing the
0.5mm.
load, confirm that any resulting dent
where the load had been applied is lessthan or equal to 0.5mm.
(n = 3)(Shaft)3- (3) The shaft of a club with
one end fixed in placedoes not break or snap
when a load of 0.147kN(15kgf) is applied.

(Image 1)

3- (3) Secure the portion of the shaft
attached to the club head into position.
Apply a load of 0.147kN (15kgf) toeither the unsecured end of the club orat the point 590mm away from where
the shaft connects to the club head.
Confirm that the shaft does not break
and that any resulting bend is within
200mm.
(n=3)

15

★Load

Velocity:
10.0mm/min★Measure
with the shaft
attached.
(Image 3)(Image 4)

B. Ball
ItemStandards & Specifications

Method of Approval

Notes

1. Appearance

1- (1) No pointed features,bumps, etc.

2. Strength

2- (1) Any deformation on the 2- (1) Apply a load of 3.92kN (400kg) to a ★Loadsurface of the ball afterball situated on a flat surface for a
Velocity:
applying a load of 3.92kN
period of one minute. One minute after 1.0mm/min(400kgf) is no greater thanremoving the load, confirm that the
1mm for resin balls andresulting displacement is no greaterno greater than 2mm forthan 1mm for balls made from resin
wooden balls.
and no greater than 2mm for balls
made from wood.
(n = 3)(Image 5)3- (1) The bounce of the ballafter dropping it from a3- (1) Drop the ball from a height of 120cm
height of 120cm does notonto a steel plate that is at least 100mm
exceed 80cm.
in both width and length and that is atleast 25mm thick. Measure the bounceheight and confirm that it is less than
80cm.
(n = 3)

3. Bounce

1- (1) Visual and tactile confirmation.
(n = 3)3- (2) Measure the bounce height for eachball at 6 points (the top, bottom, front,
back, left and right sides) for each ball.
(n = 3)16

17

Supplement １：
Framework for the Worldwide Provision & Sale of Ground Golf
Equipment

Purpose of the Provision & Sale of Ground Golf Equipment
To provide and sell equipment certified by the Japan Ground Golf Association (JGGA) at the lowest pricepossible to assist countries actively participating in the promotion of Ground Golf.
Point of Contact for Purchasing Ground Golf Equipment
Company Name:

Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd.

Address:

Yurihama Town Hall – Tōgō Branch 2F Room A
500 Ryūtō, Yurihama, Tōhaku District,
Tottori Prefecture 689-0714
JAPAN

Telephone:

0858-48-6210

E-mail:yuyuyurihama@gmail.com

Process for Purchasing Ground Golf Equipment from the Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd.
①
Ground Golf associations hoping to purchase JGGA-certified Ground Golf equipment should contact the
Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd. via email② The Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd., will send brochures containing information for products made by
JGGA-certified equipment manufacturers, the corresponding price list, the order form, and the Japan Post’s
international parcel shipping cost list.
②

The Ground Golf association should send the order form to the Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd. via
email, after it has selected its desired equipment and confirmed the estimated cost of shipping.

③

The Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd., will inform the inquiring Ground Golf association about whether
the requested items are in-stock (available) or not.

④

The Ground Golf association should inform the Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd. via email, when they
have confirmed the final order.

⑤

The Yurihama Machizukuri Co., Ltd., will inform the Ground Golf association of the final invoice amount(including shipping & handling costs). The Ground Golf association should then transfer the money to thedesignated account.

⑦ After receipt of payment has been confirmed, the equipment will be send as an international parcel throughthe Japan Post (via air or SAL mail).

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Image: GG Equipment Purchase Process

メーカー別
メーカー別
メーカー別
価格表
Price List by
価格表
価格表
Manufacturer

JGGA-Approved
JGGA-Approved
JGGA-Approved
Equipment Manufacturers
JGGA-Approved
Equipment
Manufacturers
JGGA-Approved
Equipment
Manufacturers
EquipmentManufacturers
Manufacturers
Equipment

メーカー別
メーカー別
メーカー別
パンフレットPamphlets by
パンフレット
パンフレットManufacturer

JAPAN POST
InternationalParcel
ShippingCost List①② Request for Catalogues & Documents③ Send Order Form
④ Inform whether goods are in stock
Ground Golf
Organization⑤ Confirm Order⑥ Notification of Final Invoice Amount⑥ Payment (via Bank Transfer)⑦ Confirmation of Payment・Shipment

19

Yurihama Machizukuri Co.,Ltd.

Supplement ２：
Ground Golf Tournament Management Guide- Key Points for Hosting a Successful Tournament Tournaments hosted by the International Ground Golf Federation (hereinafter referred to as the IGGF) and its member
organizations shall be held in accordance with the rules of the International Ground Golf Federation (hereinafter referred
to as the IGGF Rules) and with special attention to the items listed herein. Hosting organizations should also strive for thereasonable, fair, impartial, and safe management of tournaments held.
Section 1: Tournament Event Details
When planning a tournament, hosting organizations should prepare a document containing each of the following event
details and properly manage the tournament in accordance with information provided.
(1) Purpose
Present the purpose of the tournament in a clear and concise manner that participants and related parties caneasily understand.
(2) Host, Organizer & Other Related Parties
The host (the organization putting on the tournament), the organizer (the organization actually managing thetournament), the partners (the organizations and public institutions supporting the tournament), the sponsors (theinstitutions and organizations that agree with the aim of the tournament and support the tournament in various
ways such as helping to cover expenses incurred) should be clearly stated.
(3) Date & Schedule- Dates and times should be set so that it is easy for individuals to participate.
- The schedule should include times for registration, the opening ceremony, the start and end of play, the closing
ceremony, and any other events or attractions.
(4) Venue- The venue should be selected to accommodate the scale of the tournament (number of players and courses).
- The venue should be selected with proper consideration given to methods of transportation and what would bedone in the event of severe weather.
(5) Qualifying Participants- Clearly specify the qualifications required to participate in the tournament (for example, whether only membersof the association may participate).
(6) Maximum Number of Participants- List the maximum number of participants that may participate in the tournament and take care to make surethat the limit is not exceeded.
(7) Registration Fee- Clearly state the registration fee per person as well as how and when to pay the fee.
- List any other items included in the cost (such as lunch, etc.).
(8) Rules- Clearly state that the tournament will adhere to the rules of the IGGF.
(9) About Gameplay- State the number of rounds and courses to be played.
- Indicate whether gameplay and ranking will be individual or by team.
(10) Awards- State what places will receive awards and whether prizes will be awarded for hole-in-ones, etc.
(11) How to Register- Clearly state the means of applying (via post, e-mail, FAX, etc.), where to send the application (name of staff
in-charge, address, phone number, FAX number, etc.), and the deadline for registering.
(12) Other Items- Mention items related to managing safety concerns, such as encouraging participants to enter into accident
insurance, stating what steps will be taken in case of severe weather, informing participants what to do in orderto help prevent heatstroke, etc.
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Section 2: Equipment Approved for Use at Tournaments
At tournaments hosted, co-hosted, or sponsored by the IGGF or its members , all hole posts, start mats, clubs, andballs used must meet the specifications as laid out in the IGGF Equipment Standards and its bylaws in accordance with
Article 5 of the IGGF Rules.
Section 3: Determining Ranking
1. Ranking for Individual Gameplay
When gameplay is individual, players are ranked according to who has the lowest total number of strokes at theend of the game. If players have the same total number of strokes, then the player who consistently hit lower
scores throughout the game should be ranked higher. This applies to the rest as well. If players are the same in all
respects, then the ranking should be decided in a way predetermined by the hosting organization.
2. Ranking for Group Gameplay
When gameplay is by group, teams are ranked according to which group has the lowest total number of strokes
at the end of the game. If teams have the same total number of strokes, then the scores of the lowest-scoring player
for each team shall be compared and the team that has the player with the lowest total number of strokes should be
ranked higher. If the scores are the same, then the scores of the second lowest-scoring player for each team shallbe compared and the team with the player with the lower number of strokes shall be ranked higher. This applies tothe rest as well. If all players are the same in all respects, then the ranking should be decided in a way
predetermined by the hosting organization.
Section 4: About the Courses
The courses used at tournaments shall follow the standard course as stipulated in Article 16 of the IGGF Rules.
Section 5: Explanatory Items Related to Tournament Administration
It is important to explain the specifics of gameplay to participants to help ensure the appropriate, impartial, and safe
management of a tournament. Those responsible for administering gameplay should explain the following items.
I. Items to Explain During the Opening Ceremony
Concisely explain to participants that gameplay will adhere to the IGGF Rules, that further details will be given
when players assemble, that players should confirm the meeting places and times listed in the program, and anyother important matters.
II. Items to Explain when Players Assemble
The following items should be explained in detail to help ensure the smooth management of the tournament.
1. Matters Related to the Courses(1) Explain which areas are to be used as courses, the number of courses, and the meaning of the flag colors.
(2) Explain how many players there are per group and how many groups will play each course.
2. Matters Related to the Rules(1) Explain that the tournament will adhere to the rules of the IGGF.
(2) Mention that each round of play will consist of one course (8 holes).
(3) Explain that the order of play should follow the order of names as listed on the scorecard and the playerthat goes first each round shall be decided follow the Rotating Order of Play method.
(4) Explain that play will start across all courses at the same time at the sound of an announcement or signal.
(5) If necessary, explain the boundaries of the course and where a ball would be considered out of bounds.
(6) Remind players that hitting the ball more than once in a row on the same turn is not allowed.
(7) Explain that players should mark their own balls during gameplay.
(8) Remind players to follow the hosting organization’s decision on whether practicing on the course before atournament is allowed.
3. Items to Record
Hosting organizations should provide an explanation regarding the following items:(1) How to Fill in the Scorecard① Scorecards used should be designated for use by groups. Members of a group fill a scorecard during
gameplay.
② The scorecard shall be filled in as shown in the IGGF Rules’ example scorecard.
③ At the end of each round, participants should confirm the actual number of hits, the number of hole- 21

in ones, and the calculated total score. Participants should then sign the scorecard as evidence of
their confirmation.
(2) Scorecard Submission① All players in a group should submit the scorecard together to the designated area after each round.
② If a calculation error is discovered after submission, the hosting organization reserves the right to fix
the error at its own discretion.
4. Hole-in-One Prize(1) The host should explain whether the hole-in-one prize is offered for all holes or just designated holes.
(2) The host should explain where participants should go to receive their hole-in-one prize.
5. Changes to Program Times
The hosting organization should advise players that they should listen to any announcements broadcasted
during the tournament as there may be a change in meeting times and locations depending on the progressionof the tournament or due to weather concerns.
6. Severe Weather Conditions
The hosting organization should advise players that there may be a change in the program in the event ofsevere weather.
7. Risk Management
The hosting organization should encourage participants to take proper care of their physical wellbeing.
Participants should stop playing if they do not feel well, without worrying about being a burden to their groupor colleagues.
Section 6: Other Items
Other important items not mentioned herein but that should nevertheless be conveyed to participants should be
included in attachments to the document containing the event details. See the following examples:
1. The hosting organization should decide and notify related parties in advance regarding what to do in the event ofa change in participants or notification method. There should also be a note regarding what to do in the event of achange in players who will take part in a group game, as the courses played are also affected by such changes.
2. As the success of a tournament depends on both the participants and the organizers working together, the hostingorganization should ask for everyone’s cooperation in the smooth operation of the tournament. The hostingorganization should also mention that it is proper etiquette to stay until the end of the closing ceremony.
3. Hosting organizations should ask that participants comply with all management policies and procedures.
4.Regarding the handling of personal information and portrait rights, appropriate measures such as obtaining writtenconsent in advance must be taken by hosting organization.
＜Ground Golf enthusiasts enjoying a round of Ground Golf. ＞

22

Supplement ３：
Guidelines for the Proper Management of Ground Golf Tournament- Enjoying gameplay together In addition to following the “Ground Golf Tournament Management Guide- Key Points for Hosting a Successful
Tournament” as included in the IGGF Constitution in striving towards the proper, fair, impartial, and safe operation of
Ground Golf tournaments, member countries and regions of the International Ground Golf Federation (hereafterIGGF) should also pay attention to the guidelines contained herein in order to properly promote Ground Golf
internationally as a lifelong sport that cultivates friendship, health, and peace.
1. The rules of the IGGF shall be strictly enforced at international tournaments and all other tournaments held orco-sponsored by IGGF member countries and regions.
2. All hole posts, start mats, clubs, and balls used at tournaments held or co-sponsored by the IGGF and/or its
member countries and regions shall conform to the IGGF Equipment Standards and its bylaws.
3. IGGF member countries and regions shall give sufficient consideration towards risk management, including
what to do in the event of severe weather and how to deal with sports-related injuries.
4. Other Items
1. Hosting organizations should keep opening and closing ceremonies as short as possible out ofconsideration to the health and wellbeing of the participants.
2. Ground golf is fundamentally a self-officiated sport and, as such, referees shall not be appointed to
officiate gameplay.
3. In accordance with the rules of the IGGF, three points shall be subtracted from the appropriate
player’s score for each hole-in-one.
4. Consecutive turns are not allowed during gameplay (except for instances where the ball comes torest near the hole-post and the player knocks his/her ball in before the next player’s turn).
5. If it appears as though a ball will obstruct gameplay, then the player whose ball it is should markhis/her ball before removing it from the field.
6. Individuals not participating as players in the tournament shall not enter or walk across the courses.
7. Once gameplay has begun, players are not allowed to practice hitting the ball while waiting for
his/her turn.
8. Money (cash prizes) shall not be awarded to tournament winners. Additionally, prizes awarded shallnot include high-value items.
9. The hole-post shall not be placed in a spot where it is difficult to get a hole-in-one, such as on
slanted surfaces or where it cannot be seen from the start mat.
10. Keeping in mind that the rules of Ground Golf begin with a section on etiquette, in addition to theaforementioned items, it is important to remind players to approach tournaments with a mindset
of upholding good manners and fair play.

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Reference: Office of the International Ground Golf Federation
IGGF Headquarters（ Japan Sport Olympic Square 7F Rm.703 ）Address: 4-2 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0013 JAPANE-mail: info@groundgolf.or.jp
Tel+ 81‐3‐5843‐1097 5843‐1098
Fax + 81‐3‐5843‐1095

Area Map

Access○ Approx. 10min. from Exit 3 of Gaienmae Station, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line○ Approx. 15min. from Exit A2 of Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station, Toei Oedo Subway Line○ Approx. 20min. from the JR Shinanomachi Station or Sendagaya Station( Photograph & map provided courtesy of the Japan Sport Association )24