STARTING POINT FOR A COURSE RECORD

Question
Our course for ladies does not have a recorded "course record". Can you please point me in the right direction to start one. I am aware of the need to be off the Plates, no preferred lies, or shortened holes, must be competition etc. Is there a benchmark to start? Our course is a PAR 71. If say the first time we announce it - would the first competition scratch winner automatically get the record regardless of their score? Or do we set a mark to be bettered?
I appreciate your help - thank you.
Helen

Answer
Helen,

The term "course record" is not defined in the Rules of Golf. However, it is generally accepted that a record score should be recognized as the official "course record" only if made in an individual stroke-play competition (excluding bogey, par or Stableford competitions) with the holes and tee-markers in their proper medal or championship positions.

It is recommended that a record score should not be recognized as the official "course record" if a Local Rule permitting preferred lies is in operation.

I believe this covers all of your questions. If not, send me a follow up and I'll respond to that.

Michael Hoffman