The Amateur Status Committee of The RCGA defines an amateur as someone who plays the game as a non-remunerative and non-profit-making sport and who does not receive remuneration for teaching golf or for other activities because of golf skill or reputation.

Prizes in amateur events are limited to a retail value of $1000.

Those who accept prizes with higher values than the rules allow - a car for a hole-in-one for instance - lose their amateur status. They have no official handicap and cannot take part in amateur events, but they do not become professionals.

Yet players may receive expenses to play in competitions, accept golf scholarships and make inquiries as to the possibilities of becoming a professional, including playing in a qualifying event provided, if prize money is available, a waiver to any prize money is signed prior to playing.

The purpose and spirit of the rules is to keep the amateur game as free as possible from the abuses which may follow from uncontrolled sponsorship and financial incentive and to safeguard the rules of play and handicapping so that golf can be fully enjoyed by all amateur golfers.