LET Access Series Regulations 2019
This document has been designed to incorporate as much information as possible for members of the LET Access Series in a form that is easy to understand and to use for reference.
The LET Access Series (LETAS), the official developmental tour of the Ladies European Tour, has been created to give professionals the opportunity to play and gain an exemption category on the Ladies European Tour and/or exemptions from the First Stage of the LET Lalla Aicha Tour School.
Its main objectives are to promote professional golf and professionalism in golf.
Contents:
I. Management II. Member’s Regulations III. Ranking System IV. Exemption Categories l. Management
LET Access Series is managed by the Ladies European Tour who:
- Establish, advise and control the general policy of the association - May install committees which are not mentioned below - Approve the Regulations of the LET Access Series and of the Tour association - Select and approve the Sanctioned events
LETAS Steering Committee
The LETAS Steering Committee is composed of representatives of the Tours and/or events that have joined the LET Access Series and the Ladies European Tour’s representatives. The LETAS Steering Committee will comprise a maximum of eleven representatives from the Federations and partners that are members of LETAS. Federations and partners with two or more events on the LET Access Series may allocate two representatives.
The LETAS Steering Committee looks after the rules and regulations of the LET Access Series. The regulations may change from time to time and the members will be informed in advance of any changes.
The LETAS Steering Committee is a forum to discuss the conditions of play and regulations. Note: LET has the final decision on matters relating to the LET Access Series.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 1 PLAYER PRIVACY
The LET Access Series is committed to protecting Members’ privacy. As a professional body, LETAS takes the protection of personal data seriously. This Regulation sets out LETAS’ commitments to Members, in compliance with and beyond the General Data Protection Regulation (commonly known as the “GDPR”) and explains how LETAS collects, stores and uses Member’s personal information.
Collecting specific, relevant personal information is a necessary part of LETAS being able to provide Members with services Members may request from LETAS or in providing services to LETAS members or just managing LETAS’ relationship with Members.
When LETAS holds or uses a Member’s personal information as a data controller (see below for a description of what this is) that Member is entitled to know in detail what information LETAS holds (such as contact details, address, etc.), how her personal information may be used and the reasons for these uses, together with details of her rights.
Where LETAS collects personal information from a Member directly, LETAS will provide a privacy notice at the time it collects the personal information from the Member. Where LETAS receives personal information indirectly, LETAS will provide this privacy notice when it first contacts the relevant Member, first passes the data to someone else or within a month, whichever is the earlier. LETAS will only provide this privacy notice to a Member once, generally at the start of LETAS’ relationship with a Member.
However, if the applicable privacy notice is updated substantially, then LETAS may provide Members with details of the updated version. Members are encouraged to check the Members’ website regularly for updates.
By submitting personal information to LETAS or where information is received by LETAS in accordance with the LETAS Privacy Policy and Cookies Policy (as published on the Members’ website), each Member consents to LETAS using the information provided in the manner described below. If LETAS amends the privacy policy, any changes will either be notified to Members by email or published on the Official Site.
Where a Member has given LETAS consent to use personal information in a particular manner, a Member has the right to withdraw this consent at any time, which she may do by contacting LETAS as described here. If at any time a Member wishes to exercise this right, or otherwise to update the information which LETAS holds about her, or if she wishes to opt out of receiving additional information relating to future LETAS tournaments (under the heading "Performing the services you have requested"), please contact LETAS at [email protected].
If a Member is aged under 18, she must obtain consent from her parent or guardian to apply to be a Member of LETAS. If she is under 16, she must also obtain the approval of a parent or guardian before she sends us any of your personal information (such as your name, e-mail address, home address, date of birth etc). LETAS will not use (or pass to any third party) personal information on persons known to be children under the age of 16 for any commercial purposes.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 2 OUR PRINCIPLES a. To ensure that personal data is obtained and processed fairly and lawfully as required under the GDPR and other relevant legislation. b. To keep and process personal data only for legitimate purposes outlined in this document. c. Not to disclose personal data without the permission of the individual to which it relates except in limited circumstances as permitted or required by law. We may share information with third parties, in order to pursue legitimate interests of LETAS Members. d. To maintain appropriate procedures to ensure that personal data we hold is accurate and up-to-date. e. Where LETAS chooses to have certain services provided by third parties, to do so in accordance with current legislation and will take all reasonable steps to ensure that the practices employed by that provider protect personal data which is shared with such service provider. f. To maintain the technical and organisational safeguards to protect personal data against theft, loss, unauthorised access, disclosure, copying, use or modification. g. Not to sell personal data. h. Personal information will not be kept for any longer than is necessary to keep within the legitimate requirements of LETAS, or legal statutory requirements. i. To undertake not to transfer personal data outside the European Economic Area without ensuring adequate security and protection systems are in place.
THE DATA CONTROLLER
A data controller is a person who controls how personal information is processed and used. A data processor is a person who processes and uses personal information in accordance with the instructions of a third party, i.e. the data controller. This distinction is important. Members have certain rights in relation to their personal information, for example the right to be provided with the personal information held that Member and details of its use and the right to have certain personal information either erased or anonymised, commonly referred to as the right to be forgotten. These rights can generally only be exercised against a data controller.
In most cases LETAS will be a data controller of Member personal information. In any case where LETAS is not a data controller this means that Members cannot exercise these rights against LETAS directly (i.e. where LETAS only acts as a data processor), but Members can do so against the data controller (i.e. the person who controls how LETAS processes the personal information). In these cases, LETAS will endeavour to inform Members who is the data controller of that Member’s personal information so that the Member can direct any such requests to them.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 3 Also, it is only a data controller that will provide a privacy notice about Member personal information, so where LETAS processes your personal information as a data controller LETAS will provide Members with a privacy notice. Where LETAS processes Member personal information as a data processor for a third party, that third party should provide Members with a privacy notice which will set out details regarding the processing of Member personal information, which should also include the processing to be carried out by LETAS on their behalf.
WHAT PERSONAL DATA IS STORED
LETAS may collect personal information about Members from the Official Website, the Member website, telephone conversations, emails, and written and verbal communications. Members may provide LETAS with or LETAS may obtain personal information about Members, such as:
Professional contact details (including Management Company/work contact information), personal contact information (including home address, home and mobile telephone number, email address), date of birth, gender, records of interactions with LETAS such as telephone conversations, emails and other correspondence, career history, Tournament history, bank account information, credit/debit card information, records of attendance at events or competitions, images in video and/or photographic form and voice recordings, details of any disciplinary matters, passport copy and performance statistics and such personal biographical details and details of family and lifestyle circumstances.
WHAT THE PERSONAL DATA IS USED FOR
The LET Access Series uses the information for the legitimate purpose of: a. Administering professional golf Tournaments, including Membership and entry administration purposes (collection of Membership fees, mailing of all Membership communications); b. Processing of Disciplinary Actions and investigations; and c. Press and PR purposes including the licensing of film, media and property rights.
The LET Access Series shall also use any personal biographical details and lifestyle circumstances which are disclosed by the Member to LETAS for the purposes of advertising and marketing LETAS’ business interests (namely to promote the affairs, business and interests of the Members) which shall include the publication of such information on the LETAS website and disclosure of such information to the media.
WHERE THE PERSONAL DATA IS STORED
All Membership records and financial information are stored using appropriate security measures at:
Buckinghamshire Golf Club, Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG and on secure offsite servers.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 4 Personal information collected may be transferred to and stored in countries outside of the UK and the European Union. Some of these jurisdictions require different levels of protection in respect of personal information and, in certain instances, the laws in those countries may be less protective than the jurisdiction you are typically resident in. LETAS takes all reasonable steps to ensure that personal information is only used in accordance with this privacy notice and applicable data protection laws and is respected and kept secure and where a third-party processes data on behalf of LETAS, LETAS will put in place appropriate safeguards as required under data protection laws.
HOW LONG THE INFORMATION WILL BE KEPT
The duration for which LETAS retains personal information will differ depending on the type of information and the reason why it was collected. However, in some cases personal information may be retained on a long-term basis: for example, personal information that is retained for legal purposes will normally be retained for at least six (6) years, in accordance with usual commercial practice and regulatory requirements. Information pertinent to current Members is retained on record for an indefinite period to enable communication with the Membership and for press/PR matters. Records are archived after Membership has lapsed or after a Member has resigned or died. Records maintained for this purpose will include last known address, date of first year of Membership, and total years of Membership with other relevant records describing the Member’s history of Membership.
WHO HAS ACCESS TO THE DATA
The LETAS entries department has access to all manual files and computerised Membership records; computerised financial and banking information is only accessible by the LET finance department and entries department. Electronic data can only be accessed by way of a specific user name and password that allows LETAS staff access to the database.
Members have the following rights in relation to their own personal information:
- the right to be informed about how their personal information is being used; - the right to access the personal information LETAS holds about that Member; - the right to request the correction of inaccurate personal information held about that Member; - the right to request the erasure of personal information in certain limited circumstances; - the right to restrict processing of personal information where certain requirements are met; - the right to object to the processing of personal information; - the right to request that LETAS transfer elements of that Member’s data either to the Member or another service provider; and - the right to object to certain automated decision-making processes using personal information.
Some of these rights, for example the right to require LETAS to transfer data to another service provider or the right to object to automated decision making, may not apply as they have specific requirements and exemptions which apply to them and they may not apply to
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 5 personal information recorded and stored by LETAS. For example, LETAS does not use automated decision making in relation to Member personal data. However, some have no conditions attached, so a Member’s right to withdraw consent or object to processing for direct marketing are absolute rights. There are exceptions to right of access; these include confidential references, or any item protected by professional privilege (e.g correspondence with a solicitor). Whilst this Regulation sets out a general summary of Member legal rights in respect of personal information, this is a very complex area of law. More information about Member legal rights relating to personal information can be found on the Information Commissioner’s website at https://ico.org.uk/for-the-public/.
To exercise any of the above rights, or if a Member has questions relating to her rights, the Member should contact the LETAS by email. If a Member is unhappy with the way LETAS is using her personal information, she can also complain to the UK Information Commissioner’s Office or her local data protection regulator. LETAS encourages Members to contact LETAS to resolve your complaint first. LETAS can charge up to €15 (to cover administration costs) for each request, under the GDPR.
WHO DISCLOSES THE PERSONAL DATA AND TO WHOM
LETAS staff will use the information for the legitimate purpose of administering professional golf Tournaments and to this extent they will disclose your personal and/or professional contact details to LETAS and LET colleagues and other Members (subject to the provisions below) and where necessary to promoters and / or their agents for the purpose of complying with tax and other legislation and to enable the payment of prize monies.
Unless the submission of personal data is necessary to comply with tax legislation and / or arrange payment of the prize monies, only professional contact details will be released to sponsors, promoters and carefully selected third party organisations, including other Tours, bona fide golfing organisations, visa application agents and travel agents. Personal data contained in the database will not be sold to third parties.
On the rare occasion that payment of prize money for an event that is not principally administered by LETAS is made directly by the organisers to the Members, we may release your bank account details to the Finance Department of that organisation for the purpose of making the payment. If you do not wish for your bank account details to be released for this purpose, then please write to the Finance Manager at LET, Buckinghamshire Golf Club, Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG.
Members agree that personal contact details may be given to other Members on their request. Any Members requesting other Members’ personal contact information will be asked to provide several personal details to confirm identity. Detailed information requests will only be handled in writing. Information will only be given to the individual Member.
If a Member does not wish for her personal contact details to be released to other Members then please write to the Tour Director at LET Access Series, Buckinghamshire Golf Club, Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 6 Members agree LETAS may share Members’ professional contact information for marketing purposes with legitimate third-party organisations who are involved with and/or support the Tour. Contact by these carefully selected groups may be by post, telephone, fax or email.
If you do not wish to receive these marketing approaches then please write to the Tour Director at LETAS, Buckinghamshire Golf Club, Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG.
Results of LETAS Approved Tournaments may be published in the press, newsletters and Yearbooks and/or on the LETAS website. For full details of the LET policy relating to the Film, Media & Property rights, please refer to Regulation 8 of these Regulations.
MEDICAL AND PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT INFORMATION
Any player who receives medical attention or who applies for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) from the Medical Officer of the LET will have their contact information and details of any medical condition or treatment administered recorded manually by the doctors. If at any time such files are kept electronically, the files will be password protected, and retained in line with statutory guidelines. The medical team will only access these files. Details will only be passed on with the express written permission of the player concerned. Information shared with any medical experts for a further opinion will have all personal data, which identifies a Member removed first.
ANTI DOPING INFORMATION
Any Members who are tested under the LET Anti-Doping policy in accordance with WADA standards will have their name, date and venue of test and test result stored in electronic format on a secure, password-protected system accessed by the LET Anti-Doping Advisor.
It is occasionally necessary for the LET Anti-Doping Advisor to share information with external experts for advice. In such cases, the identity and contact information of the individual remain anonymous unless and until a disciplinary case is confirmed.
If a disciplinary case should arise, the Player’s name, test results and circumstances are released to authorised legal and medical experts participating in the case.
At any time after a Player has received a ‘Notice’ that they may have committed an Anti- Doping violation, LETAS may advise the International Golf Federation or any of its members of the pending case against the Player unless the Player agrees in advance not to participate in any tournaments of those organisations pending the resolution of the case.
LETAS may issue an announcement regarding the specifics of a pending case in response to public comments attributed to the Player or Player’s representative. In each case where a period of ineligibility has been imposed or Tournament results have been disqualified, LETAS will, at a minimum, publish the name of the Player, the Anti-Doping Rule violation and the sanction imposed. As an exception, LETAS may decide not to publish information on cases involving illicit and recreational drugs.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 7 LETAS may publish statistical information about the Policy, including a list of occasions on which each Player has been tested.
Records detailing those Players attending education sessions will have their name and the date and venue of the meeting recorded and kept in electronic format on a secure, password- protected system accessed by the LET Anti-Doping Advisor.
HEALTH & SAFETY, INSURANCE AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
LETAS sanctions or co-sanctions all golf tournaments which are LETAS Approved Tournaments to standardise conditions and to boost opportunities and incentives for Members. LETAS also strives to enhance the exposure of tournament professional golf across Europe. The majority of LET Approved Tournaments are actually organised, staged and managed by independent promoters and Federations who enter into agreements with the owner of golf courses and related facilities where tournaments are to be held. It is the responsibility of the promoter of each LETAS Approved Tournament to arrange the provision of all facilities required to stage the tournament such as scoreboards, catering, outlets, hospitality facilities and merchandising units. It is also the promoter’s responsibility to ensure that event facilities provided for players, spectators and officials are supported with appropriate infrastructure including toilets, car parking and utilities services (electricity, water, gas, sewerage, communication etc.) and that all such facilities are of an appropriate and safe standard.
Each promoter of a LETAS Approved Tournament must communicate, co-operate and co- ordinate work activities with LETAS to ensure that tournament administration requirements are met. Where appropriate, the promoter must also liaise with the broadcasting production companies to accommodate the infrastructure and arrangements necessary to enable the tournament to be transmitted worldwide.
Under UK health and safety (“H&S”) law, the party responsible for controlling activities at the tournament venue is generally the owner/manager (controller of premises) of the golf course and its related facilities. They have a duty of care to all persons who enter their premises and have a responsibility to ensure that, as far as is possible, they maintain a venue which is safe for use and without unnecessary risk to the health and safety of any person entering the premises.
Each promoter of a LETAS Approved Tournament also has responsibilities to ensure that the safety standards are appropriate in all the circumstances relating to the tournament and that risk management measures are implemented and monitored at all stages of the tournament.
The H&S responsibilities of each promoter of a LETAS Approved Tournament extends to include pre-event assembly works and post-event dismantling and site clearance. Often tournament promoters will engage with specialist suppliers and/or contractors for the design and provision of temporary infrastructure. Whilst each supplier and/or contractor will have H&S obligations for the services or infrastructure they provide, the tournament promoter will retain an overall duty of care and responsibility to ensure that each contracted organization is competent, adequately resourced and sufficiently insured for their undertakings in respect of the tournament.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 8 Tournament infrastructure, which is often obtained from specialist suppliers, includes (but is not limited to): grandstands, marquees, temporary footbridges, event signage and scoreboards etc.
Responsibility for suitable and sufficient risk assessments of venues, facilities and event operations remains with the promoter of each LETAS Approved Tournament.
As the sanctioning body, LETAS’ responsibility in respect of any of the aforementioned matters is restricted to plant and equipment supplied for the use at the tournaments by LETAS. However, for LETAS Approved Tournaments at which the LETAS also acts as the tournament promoter, the responsibilities set out above will apply to LETAS.
Any detailed assessments of venues, facilities and structures etc. for H&S purposes and for any of the tasks, operations or activities of owners (controller of premises) are the responsibility of the promoter of each LETAS Approved Tournament and the managers of any venue (or related facilities).
LETAS accepts no responsibility for any accident, death or injury suffered by any individual during the course of, in preparation for or in connection with a LETAS Approved Tournament unless the same occurs as direct result of the negligence of LETAS or its employees whilst they are acting in the course of their employment.
HEALTH & SAFETY (H&S) OVERSEAS
Standards of H&S differ from country to country. Members are advised to take additional care for their own safety and the safety of any companions (Caddie, family, agents, etc.) when travelling to and competing in LETAS Approved Tournaments overseas or when staying away from home in connection with such tournaments.
Regrettably terrorism, civil unrest and crime (including violent crime) are fact of life in many countries and destinations where LETAS Approved Tournaments are held. Political, religious and social situations and stability can change at very short notice. Vigilance needs to be maintained in all areas and in some areas particular protection against endemic disease, such as malaria, should be taken.
Members are responsible for ensuring that they have all relevant up to date information about H&S considerations, or other threats, concerning their travel arrangements or destinations and about the potential for harmful events to occur. LETAS accepts no responsibility for the consequences of such matters and further, accepts no responsibility for advising or informing Members of the potential for, or existence of such matters. Members and their companions should check up to date information before deciding whether or not to travel.
Appropriate information is available from number of sources including:
- The UK government departments’ website: www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo - The National Travel Health and Network Centre website: www.nathnac.org/travel/index.htm - Call the Hospital for Tropical Disease, London:
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 9 +44(0)20. 7950 7799. For call costs see: www.thehtd.org/travel/traveladvice.htm before calling - Other national government advisory services.
Members are reminded that they may need to plan their travels well in advance. Those intending to visit some destinations may require inoculations or a course of other preventive medication (e.g. malaria tablets). Members should consult with their medical adviser well in advance of travel and leave enough time to complete any recommended course of treatment prior to the date of travel. Lead times are likely to apply to other safety and security measures.
INSURANCE
All Members must have an adequate insurance in place prior participating in any LETAS tournament, including LETAS Approved Tournament and Joint Sanctioned Events. [The LET Public Liability Insurance, which covers all its Members and their caddies (excluding when they hire the caddie at the tournament venue, in such case the caddie is covered by the promoter’s insurance), provides (subject to its terms and conditions) an indemnity to third parties for up to £5 million in relation to any one occurrence of a public liability insurable risk, but LETAS accepts no responsibility for arranging any personal insurances for its Members, including insurance for travel, medical or personal accidents.
If any Members require assistance in this respect, we recommend they contact the LET insurance brokers, Integro Group; contact details as below:
Mr Will Sanderson (WS) Mr Ian Naven (IN) Century House, Pepper Road, Hazel Grove SK7 5BW Mobile – (WS) 07946 316 354 Mobile- (IN) 07766 071 069
(Members should ensure that all the companions travelling with them are also covered by a comprehensive policy of insurance.)
LIMITATION OF LIABILTY
The LET’s Public Liability limit of Indemnity is £5,000,000 covering members legal liability for accidental death or personal injury to any person excluding employees and accidental loss or damage to third party material property.
COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL LAW AND CUSTOMS
Members and their companions should familiarise themselves with local laws and customs before travelling to a LETAS Approved Tournament. Members must ensure compliance with the law at all times and respect religious, cultural and ethnic differences in the host country of any LETAS Approved Tournament.
In some countries, consumption of alcohol is either forbidden or is culturally unacceptable. Whilst the use of illicit and recreational or performance enhancing drugs by Members is strictly
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 10 prohibited under the LET Anti-Doping Policy, Members should also be aware that the importation and/or use of such substances is illegal in some jurisdictions. Members who are taking medication and in doubt as their clinical status, may wish to seek advice from:
DR. MARK WOTHERSPOON [email protected] +44(0)7771 344 739 OR MICHELE VERROKEN [email protected] Tel. +44(0)7785 326 569
II. Member’s Regulations
All Entrance Fees and Annual Subscription Fees are non-refundable
1. MEMBERSHIP
For Membership purposes, all Members will either be placed in LET Access Series Membership Category A if they are a Professional or LET Access Series Amateur Membership Category B if they are an Amateur.
A) Non-LET Members
2019 season - Membership Fee € 200 - Joining Fee €100 a) To become a member of LETAS, a non-LET member must complete the online Membership application form. b). An amateur who wishes to become a member of the LETAS must also complete the online Prize Money waiver form prior to participation in any tournament. It is the responsibility of any amateur who wishes to become an LETAS member to ensure participation in the tournament and/or the LET Access Series will not breach the governing body’s rules governing amateur status. In accordance with the Rules of Amateur Status, amateurs will be placed in a category of membership limited to amateur golfers. c). To obtain full membership rights players must have paid their membership fee in full. A player joining LETAS after their first tournament will only start gaining ranking points once the player has paid the membership fee. (Any tournaments played before the player is a member will not count towards their ranking). d). A non-member may join LETAS during the 2019 season. Membership will close once there are only five (5) events open for entry on the official 2019 schedule.
B) LET Members
Membership fee for LET Members: Nil
A full member of the Ladies European Tour will be regarded as a member of LETAS for the current official season upon participation in an LETAS tournament.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 11 • Only members of LETAS can obtain ranking points and appear on the official Order of Merit.
• To be included in the final 2019 official Order of Merit, and to participate in such benefits derived there from; a full member must compete in a minimum of six (6) LETAS ranking tournaments in the 2019 official season (unless the player’s LETAS category status does not allow a member to participate in six (6) ranking tournaments).
2. ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP
A. LET Access Series Members
To be eligible to participate in the LET Access Series and to be eligible to apply for Membership of LETAS, an applicant must be female and a) Have been female at birth OR b) Have undergone sex reassignment (male to female). • For the avoidance of doubt, the LET Access Series reserves the right to carry out a confidential case-by-case evaluation at any time either prior to or after the grant of membership if in its reasonable opinion such an evaluation is or becomes necessary. c) Be at least 18 years of age * as at the date of the first LETAS event during the year. d) Pay the appropriate entrance fee and/or current annual subscription fee or stated portion thereof at the required time. e) If already a professional, be a member of a National/International Professional Golf Association/Tour. This application must be supported by a reference from the Professional Golf Association/Tour/Federation as applicable, along with a copy of the player’s handicap certificate before turning professional. Similarly, if an amateur has recently turned professional but is not a member of a recognised Professional Golf Association/Tour her application must be supported by a recent handicap certificate of 2 or better. f) If an amateur, hold a current handicap of 2 or better. This application must be supported by a copy of the handicap certificate. g) Applications for membership shall be made on the official LET Access Series online membership form and be accompanied by payment of the appropriate fees.
* Applicants between the ages of 16 and 18 who meet all other entry requirements, may be granted special permission to apply for LETAS membership by satisfactorily demonstrating to the Tour Director their capacity to assume professional and financial responsibilities required of all Tour Members, should they be successful and subject always to any legal requirements imposed from time to time; any under-18 applicant will be required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times until their 18th birthday; for the avoidance of doubt such under- 18 applicant will not be allowed to play if she is not accompanied at any Tournament site by her parent or authorised guardian (whom may be nominated by the Players’ National Federation). The under 18 applicant will be required to fill in the Under 18 application form and subject always to any legal requirements imposed from time to time.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 12 For avoidance of doubt any player under 18 will not automatically obtain an LET exemption.
Note: The LET Access Series reserves the right to refuse membership.
3. RENEWAL OF MEMBERSHIP
To be eligible for renewal of membership an applicant must be an existing female member not currently under suspension nor owing any outstanding debt to LETAS. In the latter circumstances renewal of membership may only be considered once the debt has been paid in full. i) LETAS shall notify Members of the subscription fee for the next season in a good and timely manner. ii) No Member shall be entitled to the rights and privileges of membership until her fees are paid and the renewal of her membership ratified.
If a member re-joins the LET Access Series via an online facility in the Members area the member is agreeing to the following declarations;
• I acknowledge the sole authority of the LET Access Series to establish the Tournament Rules and Conditions as published in the annual Members Regulations and agree to abide by these and any amendments made by them/or persons acting with their authority that may, from time to time, be made.
• I accept that at any Tournament in which I participate I will abide by the decisions of the Tour Director, Tournament Director and any other authorised persons.
• I certify that I will conduct myself in accordance with the Code of Ethics of the LET Access Series.
• I agree to submit to drug testing, which will be conducted by or on behalf of the LET in accordance with the LET Anti-Doping Policy 2019. I agree that all and any disciplinary proceedings and/or disputes that may arise as a result of any such drugs test shall be resolved in accordance with the terms of the Anti-Doping Policy 2019.
4. TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
A player eligible to be a Member of LETAS as defined above shall not become or may cease to be a Member on the occurrence of one or more of the following: a) Failure to renew membership and pay the appropriate fees or any outstanding fine by the due date in the relevant year. b) Resignation by the Member. c) Expulsion as a result of breach of the LETAS Code of Ethics following standard Disciplinary Proceedings.
5. ADMINISTRATION AND CONDUCT
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 13 A. TOURNAMENT ADMINISTRATION
Players must abide by the Tournament Regulations as set out by the Tournament Director. These include but are not limited to the 2019 Tournament Regulations as set out in the LETAS Regulations Hard Card. The decision of the Tournament Director is final.
1. STARTING FIELDS FOR LET ACCESS SERIES RANKING TOURNAMENTS 2019
LETAS members will make up a minimum of 50% of each LETAS tournament field, the remaining 50% being made up from the Host Tour.
The Exemption Categories in section IV will fill the starting fields for the 2019 LETAS tournaments.
If a LETAS/LET member is also part of the Host Tour, entry will be via the Host Tour. The tournament will still count towards the ranking. (i.e. entries will be first via host tour followed by LETAS).
Both the Host Tour and LETAS will have a reserve list to fill the field following withdrawals. If a player withdraws from either field the respective next reserve player will fill the place in the field.
If a LETAS member becomes eligible to compete in a Ladies European Tour event or similar, the member will be allowed to withdraw from the LETAS tournament without penalty.
PLAYING STANDARDS Any Tournament participant who records a score of +18 or over in the first round of a Tournament will be retired. This regulation shall be implemented at the Tournament Director’s discretion having taken into consideration certain factors including prevailing weather conditions.
3. ENTRY REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES
A. Method of Entry and Withdrawal for LET/LETAS members
Members must enter and withdraw personally. Any Member wishing to enter or withdraw from a Tournament must do so, prior to the relevant closing date as published: - i) Via the LETAS Members area ii) By telephoning LETAS Headquarters during office hours (UK time 09:00 – 17:00 Monday to Friday). Messages on the answering machine will not be accepted as entries or withdrawals. LETAS staff will not return answer machine messages from members wishing to enter or withdraw.
Tour Headquarters Telephone: +44 (0) 1895 831028 E-mail: [email protected]
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 14 B. Method of Entry and Withdrawal for members of the Host Tour
Members must enter and withdraw personally. Any Member wishing to enter or withdraw from a Tournament must do so, prior to the relevant closing date as published, in one of the following ways: - i). Via the Members area on the official event website ii). By e-mail to the Host Tour
Host Tour contact details will be available in the LETAS member’s area.
C. Confirmation of Entry
For all entries via the LETAS member’s area, a confirmation of entry will be sent to the Member by return e-mail to her latest address as advised to LETAS. Members are required to retain the confirmation email as proof of entry.
D. Closing Date for Entries to tournaments
For all events entries, will close at 12:00 UK Time on Friday two (2) weeks prior to the Tournament unless otherwise informed to the membership.
E. Players' Responsibility
The onus is on the player to make sure LETAS or the Host Tour has received her entry by the closing date.
WITHDRAWALS
Confirmation of withdrawal
For all withdrawals via the Host Tour, a confirmation of withdrawal should be received by the player by return e-mail to her latest address, as advised to the Host Tour. Members are required to retain the confirmation email as proof of withdrawal.
A player who withdraws her entry after the closing date for entries will be fined €150, doubling up for subsequent offences, unless such withdrawal is supported by the official LET Medical Form (available in the Members Area of the website) completed by a doctor within 48 hours of the date of withdrawal and received by the Tour Headquarters within ten (10) days of the date of withdrawal. The official Medical Form must be translated into English. Failure to send the completed official Medical Form within the required ten (10) day period will result in an automatic fine whether or not the official Medical Form is received in due course.
REGISTRATION
The registration form, which must be completed by the player giving details such as contact address, email address and telephone number for the event and the entry fee must be completed online before close of registration.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 15 Players who fail to meet the above deadline will be fined €30 and may be removed from the draw and replaced with the first available reserve in order of eligibility.
Payment of Entry Fees
LETAS will be responsible for the collection of entry fees for non-members. LETAS members and invites will pay their entry fees online via the LETAS member’s area.
Payment for Yardage Books
Payment for event yardage books will be taken online when members register and pay for their entry fee.
4. OFFICIAL SCORES AND STATISTICS
Each Member is requested to submit a completed Official Statistics Card online in the member’s area for each round of the relevant Tournament.
Players must co-operate when asked for details of their scores by the Official Recorders on the course. Note: Scoreboard Officials are regarded as Official Recorders on the Course.
Disciplinary Action: €50 fine per round, doubling for subsequent offences (per round)
5. PAYMENT OF PRIZE MONEY
The LET Access Series will make payment of prize money. The Host Tour will deduct any withholding tax due from the prize money. All information required for payment of prize money to LETAS members must be completed on their Player Profile page in the LETAS member’s area. Each member is required to inform LETAS when they update their bank details on their Player Profile page. For non-members, the information will be taken on site at each tournament. A Tournament Official at each tournament will post the prize money breakdown and number of players making the cut. Both prize money breakdown and cut may vary from tournament to tournament.
a). Any amateur invited to compete in an LET Access Series tournament via the Host Tour must complete the Prize Money amateur waiver online. LETAS amateur members and invited amateur players must complete the Amateur Waiver Form online.
6. PRIZE PRESENTATIONS
Leading players must be available to attend prize presentations at Tournaments, Tournament Pro-Ams and One-or Two-Day Pro-Ams as required by notice from the Tournament Director at the event.
7. DRESS
LETAS is a professional organisation and one’s attire, conduct and manner should reflect this. Players are expected to be smartly dressed and groomed at all times, both on and off the golf course. Shoes must be clean and polished. Clothing must be tailored, clean, tidy and most
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 16 importantly appropriate to the game of golf. Blue denim jeans are not acceptable at any time other than travelling days (arrival and departure from golf course ONLY).
The standard of dress will be monitored by the Tournament staff who are present at each event. The Tournament Director shall have full authority to interpret this regulation and any standard of dress, which is considered inappropriate, will incur disciplinary action, which may be a verbal warning in the first instance; subsequent offences by the same player will automatically incur a fine.
Dress requirements for a particular function will be specified in full in the relevant Player Fact Sheet in categories as defined below. The following dress category will apply:
Category 1: Golf
Casual smart golf clothing appropriate to the game of golf.
Category 2: Cocktail Parties and Dinners
Smart dress trousers/dresses/skirts. (Any type of trainers and/or golf wear is NOT acceptable).
Disciplinary Action: Minimum €250 fine; doubling for repeated offences, leading to a breach of the Code of Ethics.
8. MEDIA and PUBLIC RELATIONS
The importance of full co-operation of Members with press, radio, social media and television needs no underlining. Members must make themselves available for media/sponsor/tour related activities at each LETAS Approved Tournament and must comply with all reasonable requests from LETAS to participate in any such activities.
Members must attend the Press/Media Centre and co-operate with the media immediately on completion of each round of a LETAS Approved Tournament as may be reasonably required by LETAS.
In addition to post round interviews, if requested by LETAS, Members must make themselves available to perform a minimum of three (3) additional media/sponsor/tour related activities per LETAS Approved Tournament as specified below:
- Pre-Tournament Interview - TV/Radio Tours - One-on-One Interviews - Up to Two Photo Shoots per year - LETAS Special Events or awards ceremonies - Participation in content for use on social media
Any fourth or additional activities are optional but strongly recommended. All of these activities apply to those which are scheduled by LETAS, and not to those which are scheduled
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 17 directly by a Member or their manager. LETAS will always attempt to schedule the activity to match the preference of the Member.
Members should not make derogatory or contentious remarks about the LETAS or its staff, any sponsors of LETAS or any LETAS Approved Tournament, the Course for any LETAS Approved Tournament or fellow professionals.
Members shall make themselves available as reasonably required by the LETAS to support public relations activities organised by any sponsor of the LETAS or sponsor of an LETAS Approved Tournament. This is necessary to ensure maximum goodwill and to preserve the good name and reputation of LETAS.
Each Member hereby acknowledges and agrees, and by entering any LETAS Approved Tournament acknowledges and agrees, and shall obtain written acknowledgements and releases from her Caddie, sponsors, licensees and other commercial partners, that LETAS, its licensees and its authorised agents, including its authorised broadcasters and other content providers, shall be entitled, without payment of fees to any person including the applicable Member and/or her Caddie, sponsors, licensees or other commercial partners, to reproduce, broadcast, transmit, print, publish and/or disseminate worldwide in any medium the name, image, likeness, voice and biographical details of the Member and her Caddie and any logos on her equipment or of her sponsors, licensees or other commercial partners for the purposes of broadcasting or otherwise transmitting the whole or any part or parts of a LETAS Approved Tournament or other activity related to a LETAS Approved Tournament and/or the LETAS in any medium, live or by way of delayed coverage, and in the distribution, exploitation, advertising and promotion of such coverage.
Each Member hereby acknowledges and agrees, and by entering any LETAS Approved Tournament acknowledges and agrees, and shall obtain written acknowledgements and releases from her Caddie, sponsors, licensees and other commercial partners, that LETAS and its authorised agents, sponsors, licensees, other commercial partners and any promoter of an LETAS Approved Tournament, shall be entitled, without payment of fees to any person including the applicable Member and/or her Caddie, sponsors, licensees or other commercial partners to reproduce, print, publish or disseminate worldwide in any medium the name, image, likeness, voice and biographical details of the Member and her Caddie and any logos on her equipment or of her sponsors, licensees or other commercial partners within audio and/or visual (still and/or moving) images for the purposes of promoting and advertising LETAS, the LETAS Approved Tournaments and/or any other activity related to LETAS.
Disciplinary Action: €200 fine
9. FILM and MEDIA RIGHTS
The television, radio, film and all other digital and electronic media rights of all players participating in events forming part of LETAS, or any other golf event run in conjunction with or under the auspices of LETAS, shall be assigned to LETAS and shall be retained by LETAS in relation to archive material. No person is authorised to make any use, commercial or otherwise, of LETAS name or logo without the advance written approval of LETAS.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 18 Disciplinary Action: Minimum - €100 fine.
10. THANK YOU LETTERS and E-MAILS
All players are expected to write a thank you e-mail or letter to the sponsor of every event in which they participate as soon as possible after the event. The name and address/e-mail address of the sponsor will be provided in the Player Fact Sheet for each event. The name, title and address of the person to whom you are required to write will be stated. This simple act creates a great deal of goodwill and is very helpful to the selling and growth of the event in future years.
11. COMPLAINTS and OTHER RELATED MATTERS
Any complaints should be made in writing to the LETAS Tour Director at LETAS Headquarters.
12. CADDIES
A caddy, including a trolley puller, is the responsibility of the member for whom they are caddying. Any breach of the Code of Ethics by a caddy will be deemed to be a breach by the LETAS member and the LETAS member will be penalised accordingly.
Caddies must not wear footwear that may leave an impression on the greens. Footwear must be flat soled and without dimples.
Caddies must not use the practice facilities, including the practice putting green and chipping area, during the tournament week.
Note: Players who have completed a round may not caddy for a fellow competitor in the same round.
Caddies must observe all the rules of the host club and are expected to dress appropriately when at a tournament venue. Clothing must be tailored, clean and tidy. Shoes must be clean. Football shirts, flip-flops and sandals are not acceptable on site at any time. Blue denim jeans are not acceptable at any time other than travelling days (arrival and departure from golf course ONLY).
Disciplinary Action: Minimum - €100 fine.
13. PLAY, FORESHORTENED OR CANCELLED - GUIDELINES a) The general objective in cases of suspended play is to complete as many rounds as possible at the scheduled time. The final objective is to finish the Tournament on the scheduled day. b) If play is suspended, every effort will be made to resume play the same day, even when that round cannot be completed before dark. c) If it is impossible for the entire field to finish a scheduled round, there are two alternatives: i. To cancel the round and play it in its entirety the next day, or
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 19 ii. To finish the suspended round when conditions permit. d) The decision whether or not to cancel a round in circumstances where it may be grossly unfair not to cancel it will be at the discretion of the LETAS Tournament Director.
Note: It should be borne in mind that the prime objective on all occasions is to complete the stipulated 54 holes within the three days.
In the event that 54 holes are deemed to be unattainable in the time available, then the completion of 36 holes will become the prime objective. To achieve this objective a cut may be introduced after 18 holes.
In the event that a tournament is shortened due to cancellation of a round/rounds there may be a reduction in prize money.
14. PRACTICE REGULATIONS
Practice shall be permitted by Players and Reserves from the field only in designated practice areas only and at designated times.
The following system shall be operated and monitored closely:
a) Unless posted, practice starting lists will not operate. First and last practice times will be notified however and all groups MUST start from the 1st tee (unless otherwise advised by the Tournament Director and posted on the official notice board).
b) If play is suspended for a dangerous situation or in the event such a situation occurs outside the hours of play, players must cease from using all practice facilities immediately. Notification of all practice facilities re-opening after closure will be issued by a member of the LETAS staff or through the official notice board.
c) Players must always be aware of their position on the course and pace of play during practice rounds. Any damage, such as divots or pitch marks MUST be repaired. Failure to do so will result in a fine.
d) No additional practice strokes shall be played if the group behind is waiting to play.
e) Any group MUST leave the green as soon as the group behind is ready to hit to the green.
f) Where pro-am teams catch up with Members in a practice round, those Members must immediately leave the course and allow the pro-am to proceed without any interruption.
g) Players who have missed the cut must give priority to those who have qualified for the final day’s play.
h) Any practice which threatens to damage putting greens is unacceptable (for example, remaining for an excessive length of time at any one point on the green).
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 20 i) Shot Gun Start pro-ams: use of the practice range when there is a Shot Gun Start pro- am is limited to competitors ONLY for one hour before the Shot-Gun start.
j) Pro-Ams: Players should not normally practice whilst playing in a pro-am, consideration by the Tournament Director will only be given to situations where hitting the occasional shot/putt does not compromise the amateur’s enjoyment of the pro-am or the pace of play.
Players are encouraged:
• To wear flat soled shoes for practice sessions after practice/Tournament rounds. • To be aware of the damage caused by the persistent use of chalk lines. • To be aware that playing loud music on a mobile device during practice can be disturbing to fellow competitors.
Any Member, other than reserves, not participating in a LETAS Approved Tournament, will not be allowed to use tournament facilities (e.g. Practice range or Players’ lounge), other than in exceptional circumstances and as authorised by the Tournament Director.
Disciplinary Action: Minimum €200 fine, doubling on each subsequent occasion. Maximum: Breach of the Code of Ethics
15. PACE OF PLAY
Prompt Pace of Play (5.6b(1)) – in the current edition of the Rules of Golf Book
At all events sanctioned by LETAS, there will be two types of Pace of Play timing, “Monitoring” and “Timing”; both will be performed by referees with stopwatches.
“Monitoring” by referees will take place as soon as a group has been seen to be out of position (the time allowed will be determined by the Tournament Director and will be published on the official notice board. The first group will be considered Out of Position if, at any time during the round, the group’s cumulative time exceeds the time allowed for the number of holes completed. Any following group will be considered Out of Position if it is more than the starting interval behind the group in front) and for any reason. All Players will be notified that they are to be “Monitored” but the “Monitoring” will not be recorded on a player’s Pace of Play record.
• However, any player exceeding the time permitted for a stroke (50 seconds on a “first to play approach shot – including par 3 shot – chip or putt”, or 40 seconds if it is a tee shot or “second or third to play shot”) while being “Monitored”, will be assessed a “Monitoring Penalty”. • Any player having a “Monitoring Penalty” will be “Timed” from the next stroke onwards unless the group has regained its position. • If a “Monitored” group loses further time, the group or those players within the group who are deemed to be the cause of the delay will be timed. “Monitored” group fails to gain time, the official will decide whether to continue “Monitoring” or alternatively, commence timing. All players will be so informed. • Any player timed will have that timing recorded on the Player’s Pace of Play record.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 21 A group who is found to be substantially out of position might not be “Monitored” but may be timed as an alternative.
If a group (or an individual) is liable to be timed, from the commencement of timing, if any player exceeds 50 seconds on a “first to play approach shot (including par 3 shot), chip or putt”, or 40 seconds if it is a tee shot or “second or third to play shot”, she is deemed to have had a “bad time”.
In addition, in the absence of mitigating circumstances, a player is liable to receive a “Bad Time” if she exceeds 59 seconds for any shot during play, even if she (or her group) is not being timed nor monitored. Under such circumstances, the position of the player’s group relative to the group in front (or relative to the time allowed for the number of holes completed if in the first group), will not be taken into consideration.
Penalty for breach of Condition (Stroke Play): One “Bad Time” – Verbal Warning Two “Bad Times” – One Stroke Penalty Three “Bad Times” – Two Stroke Penalty Four “Bad Times” – Disqualification
Note: i. A player(s) who is timed will carry any eventual monitoring penalty or bad time forward in the round even if the group subsequently arrives back in position or within time. ii. A session of timing will only be recorded if it extends into a second hole however if the individual player(s) has to be timed again during that stipulated round a minimum of one session will be recorded. iii. During a stipulated round if a Player who is being timed exceeds the maximum time allowed for an individual stroke by up to the otherwise permitted 10% on 3 separate occasions, she will incur a bad time. iv. In some circumstances, an individual player, or two players within a group of three, may be timed instead of the entire group. v. Timings will be taken from the moment it is deemed by the Official that it is the player’s turn to play. vi. If a player wishes to know her position, she should ask an Official. vii. Any player wishing to question any timing applied to her must do so with the Referee/Tournament Director no later than 30 minutes after the completion of her round. After this time the record will stand.
A “Monitoring Penalty” will have the same status as a “Bad Time” except it will not count towards any golfing penalty. A player having either three “Monitoring Penalties” or “Bad Times” or a combination of both, will be fined €300 rising by €200 for each successive “Monitoring Penalty” or “Bad Time”.
Any player who is fined for breaches of the Pace of Play Regulation during the current season, will, in the event of a similar breach during the following season, have the applicable fine levied at double the amount.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 22 B. MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS – CODE OF ETHICS
Members shall adhere to a Code of Ethics and Standard of Conduct. a. On becoming a Member of LETAS each person is bound to observe LETAS Regulations and standards of behaviour and ethical conduct, which will gain respect for the profession. Each Member's professional integrity and loyalty to the game of golf must always transcend thought of material gain. b. It would be impossible to define exactly the standard of conduct expected from Members in all circumstances or to list all acts which would amount to a breach of the Code of Ethics and lead to disciplinary action. Any Member who has any doubts as to the conduct, which is expected of her, should contact Tour Headquarters for advice. c. Each player will be on her honour to report herself for breach of the Code of Ethics and Membership Standards. If she does not do so, it is the obligation of her fellow competitors or any other LETAS Member who witnesses such a breach to report the incident in writing to a Tournament Director for further investigation and, where appropriate, disciplinary action taken.
In most circumstances the following acts or omissions will be considered to be contrary to the Code of Ethics and if established will lead to disciplinary action:
1. Failure to comply with normally accepted standards of courtesy and golf etiquette.
2. Convictions of a criminal offence by a court of law.
3. Cheating.
4. Conduct likely to injure or discredit the reputation of LETAS, LET, its staff or any of its Members. Members should make only constructive comments regarding fellow professionals, LETAS, its sponsors and venues and deal with all persons in a fair manner.
5. Members must act at all times in the best interests of LETAS and the game of golf and try to enhance the goodwill, which attaches to the same.
6. Failure to meet all financial obligations promptly (which shall include but not be limited to: payments to caddies, whether professional or voluntary caddies; payment of accommodation/hotel costs, including cancellation charges).
7. Players, caddies, coaches, sport managers, referees, officials and organisers, cannot:
- bet directly or through an intermediary, on a competition, on which they exercise direct or indirect influence. - they cannot communicate to others privileged information obtained by performing their job and which is unknown to the community. (Please refer to the LETAS Anti Gaming Policy)
8. Failure to publicise and promote attendance at events and tournaments scheduled in her area where reasonably feasible.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 23 9. Failure to present an image through conduct or dress, which would gain respect and elevate the profession.
Disciplinary Action: Minimum - €100 fine Maximum - Suspension or expulsion from the Tour
ETIQUETTE
If a Member or her caddie is seen or reported for breaking any of the under noted Rules of Etiquette the Member shall be subject to disciplinary action:
1. Not repairing pitch marks on the green
2. Not raking bunkers
3. Failure to allow groups to play through when waiting for a ruling
4. Failure to control temper anywhere within the environs of the golf club or the course
5. Failure to pay a courtesy visit to the Club Professional whenever visiting a golf club or other golf establishment
6. Players must pay attention to keep the clubhouse, course, driving range, chipping and putting greens clean. Empty bottles or cans, bananas and all rubbish must be thrown in the bins.
7. Any behaviour viewed as unprofessional in the opinion of LETAS.
Rules of Etiquette 1, 2, 4 and 6 and associated disciplinary action shall also apply to practice rounds.
USE OF MOBILE PHONES
Tournament days The use of mobile phones is strictly forbidden unless being used to call a referee during a tournament round, in assisting with a public emergency or in case of extreme personal circumstance.
The referee’s contact numbers will be supplied either on the tournament notice board or within the supplementary local rules.
Disciplinary Action: Failure to Rake Bunkers - €200 automatic fine; Otherwise: Minimum - €50 fine doubling up for subsequent offences Maximum - Breach of the Code of Ethics
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 24 ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
The consumption of alcohol on the course and practice areas during an LET Access Series Official Tournament is not permitted.
Disciplinary Action: Minimum - €150 fine Maximum - Breach of the Code of Ethics NB: This regulation also applies to caddies and officials.
TOBACCO CONSUMPTION
To uphold the reputation of the game of golf and the LET Access Series and in order to take care of the health of the competitors, the LET Access Series will apply the regulation regarding the consumption of cigarettes, cigars and chewing tobacco during tournaments.
Tournament participants are NOT allowed to smoke (including electronic cigarettes) or chew tobacco during any round (including practice rounds and pro-am events) of an LET Access Series Official tournament in the following areas:
On course during the stipulated round (except between the 9th green and 10th tee and between the 18th green and the 1st tee). Smoking must not delay the pace of play at these times.
Disciplinary Action: Minimum - €150 fine Maximum - Breach of the Code of Ethics NB: This regulation also applies to caddies.
C. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
1. Minor Breach
Where it appears that a Member may have committed a breach of Tour Regulations or the Code of Ethics it may be considered that a reprimand only or the stated Disciplinary Action within Tour Regulations should be applied by the Tour Director.
Notification shall be given to the Member in writing by post, or by e-mail to the relevant contact details supplied by the Member to LETAS or to the next applicable tournament and shall be within five (5) days of the date of the breach. Payment of the fine should be made within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of the notification. If the Member is dissatisfied with the decision she may Appeal in writing to the Tour Director within fourteen (14) days of the date of notification of the fine.
The Tour Director shall tender their decision on the Appeal within twenty-eight (28) days of her receipt of the Appeal and her decision in the matter shall be final.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 25 If required, payment of the fine must be made within fourteen (14) days of the date of the letter of decision. Failure to pay the fine within the prescribed time will result in exclusion from LETAS Approved Events until such time as the fine has been paid in full.
2. Serious Breach
If it is considered that any breach be regarded as a Serious Breach of the Code of Ethics and/or may warrant the imposition of a penalty greater than the stated Disciplinary Action within Tour Regulations, the Series shall inform the member concerned within 28 days of the date of the incident that disciplinary action is being applied and shall cause to be carried out a detailed investigation by the Tour Director to include the preparation of a report which shall be accompanied by such written statements as may be appropriate from witnesses. If, upon consideration of the report and written statements, the Tour Director considers that a serious breach of the Code of Ethics has been established she may impose such penalty as she may think appropriate having regard to the circumstances. Such penalties may range from a reprimand, censure, fine, suspension of membership, suspension from participation in one or more tournaments or for a given period, expulsion from the Tour or otherwise as she shall determine.
If in the opinion of the Tour Director the breach is very serious she may refer the matter to the Player’s Council for advice and guidance prior to imposition of any penalty.
In any event the Tour Director shall confirm her decision in writing within twenty-eight (28) days of completion of the detailed report.
3. Right of Appeal
The Member may appeal to the Appeal Committee against any decision of the Tour Director pursuant to clause 2 hereof by giving notice of her intention to do so within seven (7) days of receipt of the decision of the Tour Director or within twenty-one (21) days of her decision having been posted to the Member at her last registered address, whichever is the sooner. The Member shall then be notified of a Hearing date, which shall be within twenty-eight (28) days thereafter.
The Appeal Committee shall consist of three impartial people and have the power to fix the time and place of any Hearing to review decisions, and shall prescribe its own rules of procedure provided the time, place and procedures afford due process to the appealing Member.
It is the express intent under this Constitution to afford a Member full and fair opportunity to be heard by an impartial committee whose members are not in competition with her.
Upon receipt of a Notice of Appeal implementation of the decision of the Tour Director and enforcement of any penalty imposed shall be stayed until the Appeal has been heard.
4. Notice of Appeal must state the grounds of the Appeal which shall be:- i) On a matter of fact including the introduction of new evidence.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 26 ii) On a question of the application of interpretation of LETAS's Constitution or Rules and Regulations made thereunder, including the Code of Ethics. iii) Against the severity of the punishment requesting a reduction in the fine or other penalty imposed or any combination of the three.
5. The Appeal will be by the way of Hearing before the Appeal Committee.
6. Procedure of Hearing
There shall be no fixed rules of procedure save that the Hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of natural justice. Witnesses will not normally be called but if the Member feels that she cannot do justice to her case unless a particular witness is present at the Hearing she may give to the Committee notice to that effect not later than seven (7) days before the date fixed for the Hearing. The Appeal Committee, if so requested, will use its best endeavours to procure the attendance of such a witness to give evidence before it in the presence of the Member and at its absolute discretion may adjourn the Hearing to another date to enable such attendance. At the Hearing the Member will be allowed to present her case in such manner as she thinks appropriate, putting forward her own version of what has occurred. She will be allowed to question any of the witnesses and may herself be subject to questioning by the Appeal Committee, as may any of the witnesses giving evidence.
7. The Appeal Committee may give its decision at the conclusion of the Hearing or subsequently as it may think fit. In either case, the decision will be confirmed in writing. In arriving at its decision the Appeal Committee may either uphold the decision of the Tour Director and disallow the Appeal or it may allow the Appeal in whole or in part. A decision of the Appeal Committee should be reached unanimously or by a majority. If the Appeal Committee cannot reach a decision by a majority and is equally divided, then the Chairman as then appointed shall have the casting vote. The Appeal Committee in its absolute discretion may remit, reduce, increase or otherwise vary any penalty imposed by the Tour Director. In any event, its decision shall be final.
8. The Appeal Committee in its absolute discretion may either award costs to a successful Applicant out of Ladies European Tour funds or impose costs on an unsuccessful Applicant of such amount and on such terms of payment it shall think fit.
9. Any fine and costs imposed shall be payable within the time stipulated (except in the case of an Appeal when payment shall be suspended pending the hearing of that Appeal) and in default of such payment on its due date the Member shall be immediately suspended from participation in LETAS events until such time as the fine has been paid in full or expelled from Membership.
10. TOURNAMENT PRO-AM(S)
LET Access Series Pro Am Policy
The pro-am field will consist of 50% LETAS members and 50% Host Tour members. Once the pro-am list is finalised and published by the Tournament Director, players are required to
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 27 participate in the pro-am. If a player does not play in the pro-am as requested the player may be fined or withdrawn from the LET Access Series tournament.
The Tournament Director may authorise five pro-am exemptions per Tournament, granted in order of effective date of Tournament entry.
The Tournament season will be divided into the relevant sections and only one (1) exemption may be allowed in each section. Exemptions may not be carried forward into the next section.
Exemptions may not be confirmed until after the closing date for entries for each Tournament.
Once the pro-am list is finalised and published by the Tournament Director, players are required to participate in the pro-am.
The onus is on Members to check whether or not they are required to participate in the pro- am.
Any player who has been granted a medical exemption from pro-am participation will not be permitted to use the practice facilities.
Such applications will be restricted to a maximum of one (1) exemption per season. Subsequent applications for medical pro-am exemptions will only be granted in conjunction with the player’s withdrawal from the Tournament.
Pro-Am Reserves will be required to attend on the day for a period to be notified by the Tournament Director.
Late arrival on the tee is a serious breach of the Code of Ethics and may result in Disciplinary Action.
Disciplinary Action:
Minimum - €400 fine
Maximum - disqualification from the Tournament or the following Tournament whichever shall be applicable. This will apply to the first Tournament of the following season where necessary.
AMATEUR PARTNERS IN PRO-AMS
Members are reminded that it is extremely important to their own livelihood and the success of LETAS that they endeavour to make pro-ams as enjoyable as possible for the amateurs participating. Members should not practice during the pro-am round. Members should eat with their team and socialise with their amateur team members.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 28 11. EXTENSION TO EXEMPTION CATEGORIES i). INJURY, ILLNESS
In the majority of situations, LETAS Members will not be given an extension of their Membership because they have been prevented from playing due to injury or illness. However, in exceptional circumstances, the LET Medical Adviser may, in his/her absolute discretion, grant an extension to a Members playing rights, where the Member has suffered serious illness or injury that has prevented her from competing in any golf event (for the avoidance of doubt, this includes LETAS Ranking Tournaments, LETAS Approved Tournaments, other Tours’ events and any Pro-Am or similar). Any Full Member who suffers an injury or illness, which causes her to be unable to compete in any golf event, may apply for an extension to her Exemption Category for the relevant season.
Applications must:
- Be in writing and forwarded to Tour Headquarters. - Be supported by medical reports, which must be submitted in English (including diagnosis, expected duration and period of treatment, scans etc). - Be submitted by no later than the date advised to the Members via email or newsletter.
A player who qualifies for an extension to her Exemption Category due to injury or illness, will be given for the following season the same current Exemption Category. The Member will be placed at the end of the category.
THE ONUS IS ON THE MEMBER TO ENSURE AND TO CONFIRM THAT APPLICATIONS ARE RECEIVED AT TOUR HEADQUARTERS WITHIN THE SPECIFIED TIME LIMIT.
Please also note:
1. If the applicant has already played in the minimum number of events to be eligible to appear on the LETAS Order of Merit her performance during the year of application will be taken into consideration.
2. If an applicant has played in a minimum of six (6) golf events (for the avoidance of doubt, this includes LETAS Ranking Tournaments, LETAS Approved Tournaments, other Tours’ events and any Pro-Am and similar) she will not be considered for an exemption on the grounds of illness or injury. If an applicant has played in ten (10) or more golf events (for the avoidance of doubt, this includes LETAS Ranking Tournaments, LETAS Approved Tournaments other Tours’ events and any Pro-Am and similar), she may not be considered for an exemption on the grounds of pregnancy/maternity.
3. An applicant will never be granted an extension to a higher category than the one previously held. Applicants for an extension to any Exemption Category below category 13b will not be considered.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 29 4. Extensions shall not be carried over for a further year unless there are exceptional circumstances. Any re-application must follow the same procedure as outlined above.
5. Following submission of her application, should an applicant enter and/or play in any golf event (for the avoidance of doubt, this include LETAS Ranking Tournaments, other Tours’ events and any Pro-Am or similar) without the consent of the LET Medical Adviser, her application may be invalidated. ii). PREGNANCY AND MATERNITY
Both pregnancy and maternity will be considered valid reasons for application. No more than two consecutive years will be considered and each year must be applied for separately. Any application or re-application for a consecutive year must follow the same procedure as outlined above and must be received at Tour Headquarters by no later than the Closing Date for applications as advised to the Members via email by the Tour Director. Each application will be considered on its individual merits. iii). OTHER SERIOUS PERSONAL REASONS
In many situations, Members will not be given an extension of their Membership because they have been prevented from playing due to serious personal reasons (i.e. illness or loss of a family member, mental breakdown etc.). However, in exceptional circumstances, LETAS may, in their absolute discretion, grant an extension to a Member’s playing rights, where the Member has suffered serious personal reasons that have prevented her from competing in any golf event (for the avoidance of doubt, this include LETAS Ranking Tournaments, LETAS Approved Tournaments, other Tours’ events and any Pro-Am or similar). Any Member who suffers personal reasons, which causes her to be unable to compete in any golf event, may apply to LETAS for an extension to her Exemption Category for the relevant season. If the Member gets the extension under these circumstances, she will be placed at the end of the category.
III. LET ACCESS SERIES RANKING SYSTEM
The 2019 LET Access Series will give the players the opportunity to earn the following benefits for the 2020 season:
1. Ladies European Tour Exemption Category (relevant category as published in the 2020 LET Exemption Category List)
The top five (5) Players on the LET Access Series Official Order of Merit following the final official event will be offered the relevant Exemption Category on the Ladies European Tour for 2020 provided that:
a. They do not already hold a higher LET exempt status for the 2020 season b. They become an LET Member for the 2020 Season i). In the event of a tie (equal points), a player’s placing shall be determined in order of the following criteria based on the 2019 season;
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 30 Most wins Most top five finishes Most top ten finishes
If any players are tied after the above criteria, the final event in which both players compete will be used to determine the exemption. It will be decided upon the final round count back. ii). If the top five (5) players are otherwise exempt the Exemption Category will be extended to the next ranked player on the official LETAS Order of Merit.
2. Exemption through to the Final Stage of the LET Tour School.
Players finishing in positions 6th to 20th on the LET Access Series Official Order of Merit following the final official event will be exempt from the first stage of the LET Tour School and will be offered a place in the final stage of the LET Tour School, provided that they have entered the pre-qualifying stage of the Tour School by the closing date. In the event of a tie (equal points) for 20th position, a player’s placing shall be determined in order of the criteria in 1.i). i). If the players finishing in 6th to 20th position are otherwise exempt a place in the final stage of LET Tour School will be extended to the next ranked player on the official LETAS Order of Merit.
If players are tied on the final 2019 LETAS Order of Merit, the criteria in 1. i) above will be used to determine the player’s finishing position.
Qualifying Period
The Qualifying Period shall begin on the date of the first official ranking event in 2019 and shall end after the final official event.
To obtain inclusion in the final 2019 official LETAS Order of Merit and to participate in such benefits derived there from; a full member must compete in a minimum of six (6) LET Access Series Ranking tournaments in the 2019 official season.
If an amateur joins LETAS and then turns professional at any stage during the 2019 season, any points earned in either status will count towards the Official LETAS Order of Merit.
Ranking Events Ranking Events are those tournaments, which are part of the LET Access Series Official Schedule, presented by the Ladies European Tour.
IV. LETAS Exemption Categories 2019:
1) Host Tour
2) Host Tour Amateurs
3) Winners of the LET Access Series Order of Merit:
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 31 Three-year exemption
4) LET Access Series Ranking Tournament Winners: One calendar year exemption
5) Top 1 player from the top 10 from previous tournament
6) A maximum of six invitations. This may include amateurs with a handicap of 2 or less ranked by a priority list according to the Women’s Amateur Golf Rankings. Any spots not taken up will pass to the players in reserve list order as at closing date of entries.
7) 5 LET Members in Category 1 – 6 by 2019 LET Exemption Category in 132 player full field events. For all other field sizes, 3 LET Members in Category 1 – 6 by 2019 LET Exemption Category.
8) Top 50 from the final 2018 LETAS Exemption List
9) Top five (5) in the top 50 on the current LETAS Order of Merit at the closing date for entries, not otherwise exempt.
10) LET Members in Category 8 - 9 by 2019 LET Exemption Category
11) Re-rank of Categories 13 and 14. This category will be formed after a mid-season re- rank.
12) Top two (2) ranked in the top 50 according to the 2018 LETAS Career Money List. For those in equal positions the effective date of tournament entry will be used where necessary.
13a) LET and/or LETAS Members ranked by a priority list from 2019 LET Final Tour School determined by finishing position.
13b) Top 100 from the final 2018 LETAS Order of Merit, not otherwise exempt.
13c) LET and/or LETAS Members ranked by a priority list from 2019 LET Pre-Qualifying Tour School determined by finishing position.
14) LETAS Members who have not attended 2019 LET Tour School from a priority list based on when membership was applied for.
Categories 13 and 14 will be re-ranked mid-season to create a new category (11) which will be ranked according to LETAS Order of Merit points earned in 2019 to the mid-way point. Members will be advised in advance of the re-rank.
To obtain inclusion in the final 2019 LET Access Series Order of Merit, and to participate in such benefits derived from, a Member must compete in a minimum of six (6) Ranking tournaments in the 2019 season.
Exception: This number will be lower for any player whose total possible number of starts in standard Ranking tournaments has been restricted to less than six (6) solely due to her
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 32 Exemption Category; for the avoidance of doubt, a member’s position as at closing date for entries for each event shall be applicable and a member who is on the reserve list after the closing date for entries may withdraw from that event. To clarify, the following point will be taken into consideration to determine eligibility for exception rule:
If a member’s exemption category would have allowed her to participate in a minimum of six (6) Ranking Tournaments according to the final field place at closing date for entries for each tournament, the exception rule will not apply.
LET Access Series Points LET Access Series points shall be awarded to all LETAS members who make the cut in a Ranking event.
LET Access Series Points Distribution Table
Position Points 1 5000 2 3700 3 2800 4 2200 5 1900 6 1700 7 1580 8 1460 9 1365 10 1295 11 1230 12 1170 13 1120 14 1070 15 1020 16 980 17 940 18 900 19 860 20 820 21 790 22 760 23 740 24 720 25 700 26 680 27 660 28 640 29 620 30 600 31 580
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 33 32 560 33 540 34 520 35 500 36 480 37 460 38 440 39 420 40 400 41 390 42 380 43 370 44 360 45 350 46 340 47 330 48 320 49 310 50 300
Competitors who make the cut will be allocated the above points. 51st position will receive 290 points with each further position to 70th position receiving a reduction of ten points. 71st position will receive 95 points with each further position receiving a reduction of five points.
Events with prize money of €60,000 - €80,000 will receive one and a half times point’s allocation. Events with prize money above €80,000 will receive two times point’s allocation.
Non – Member Points Any points won by a non-member of the LET Access Series will not be included in the Official LETAS Order of Merit.
LET Access Series Regulations 2019 34