Mesquite Amateur FAQ

The 2011 Mesquite Amateur is dedicated to answering your questions to ensure the most exciting tournament to date. Additional details will be posted as they become available and the FAQ will include any new questions frequently asked by players.

Q: What are the dates for the 2011 Mesquite Amateur?
A: The dates of the EVENT are May 30 to June 3rd.
Registration and practice rounds are May 30th.
Tournament play is May 31st to June 2nd.
The championship round is June 3rd.

Q: What is the entry fee?
A: The entry fee is $475 per player if you sign up before March 31, 2011 and $525 if you sign up after March 31.
Guests may join the nightly parties for $125.

Q: What is included in the entry fee?
A: Each player receives a welcome packet with gifts valued at $175; three rounds of golf at three different courses including a cart and range balls; admission to all special events and nightly dinners; participation in special tournaments; and the chance to play in the final championship round.

Q: Is lodging included in the entry fee?
A: Breakfast, lodging, transportation to and from the event, and additional meals are not included. However, several area hotels are offering discounted rates for confirmed registrants.

Q: What is the last day to register for the event?
A: Registration at the $475 per player rate will be available through March 31, 2011. Players may register after March 31 for $525 per player, pending space availability, but must still have an established USGA Handicap Index by May 1, 2011.

Q: What is the average rate for hotel accommodations?
A: Rates vary in the Mesquite area, with several hotels and resorts offering specials during tournament dates. Room rates will likely average $99 per night, with some hotels and resorts providing discounts of up to 40 percent. You may check rates through the Mesquite Amateur Hotel tab. Please identify yourself as a Mesquite Amateur entrant.

Q: What types of prizes will be available?
A: Prizes will be given away in each flight. Prizes will be awarded in scrip to be used in the Champions Room following the awards presentation on Thursday evening. Prize winners will be able to order and purchase golf equipment and accessories from top manufacturers. There will also be a long drive and closest to the hole contest, nightly door prizes, and a grand prize. A full listing of prize values will be listed in the player’s handbook.

Q: What is the format of the tournament?
A: The tournament will consist of three days (May 31st - June 2nd) of net stroke play with the top players from each flight advancing to the Championship round at the CasaBlanca Golf Course on Friday, June 3rd. The overall champion will be crowned at the conclusion of play.

Q: What are the age divisions?
A: The tournament field will consist of five divisions: Men (ages 49 and under), Senior Men (ages 50-59) Super Senior Men (ages 60 and over), Masters (ages 70 and over), and Women (ages, 21 and over). Players who qualify for the Senior Men or Super Senior Men may request to play in the regular Men division.

Q: What are the handicaps for each flight?
A: Fight sizes will vary depending on the number of participants. Flights will be based on USGA Handicap Index. Each entrant will play their tournament rounds with a daily handicap determined by the USGA Slope Rating of that entrant's assigned golf courses. While a player may have an index that would convert to a handicap greater than 36 for men and 40 for women, the maximum handicap men will play with is 36 and women 40, regardless of index.

Q: Are practice rounds included in the tournament?
A: Practice rounds are not included in the tournament, but there are discounts available from all participating courses. Rates for each facility are subject to availability.

Q: Can we choose who we wish to pair with?
A: Players may not request a pairing partner. However, players may request to play in the same flight.

Q: Is transportation provided?
A: Transportation is not provided from area hotels to area courses but the tournament does offer a ride share program that you can sign for at registration.

Q: Can spectators watch the tournament?
A: Guests are encouraged to watch the tournament provided they do not interfere with the play, caddy, or ride in the carts (golf carts will not be provided for spectators).

Q: Where can I find answers to other questions?
A: The rules of the tournament are posted under the Rules tab. If you have any other questions, please contact Christian Adderson under the Contact tab.

 

Christian Adderson
Sporting Events Manager
CasaBlanca/Oasis Resort
950 W. Mesquite Blvd.
Mesquite, NV 89027
Toll Free: 888-711-4653 Ext. 51
cadderson@casablancaresort.com

 

Mesquite Amateur Rules & Regulations


All amateur golfers with an established USGA  Handicap Index (or equivalent) are eligible to compete in the Mesquite Amateur. All entrants and guests must be a minimum of 21 years of age. Full rules and regulations are in the printed player’s handbook.

An amateur is considered to be any golfer who plays the game as a non-remunerative and non-profit making sport and does not receive remuneration for teaching golf or other activities because of golf skill or reputation, except as allowed by USGA Rules of Play.

• Handicap Requirements.

The tournament will be conducted using the USGA Handicap System. Based on their USGA Handicap Index, each entrant will play their tournament rounds with a daily handicap determined by the USGA Slope Rating of that entrant’s assigned golf courses.

All entrants must have an established USGA Handicap Index prior to May 1st, 2011. Players should contact their local PGA professional for assistance in establishing a USGA Handicap Index. If a player maintains two handicaps, the lower USGA Handicap must be used.

The tournament committee reserves the right to adjust handicaps at any time during the event.

 

• Divisions And Flights

The tournament field will consist of five divisions: Men (ages 49 and under), Senior Men (ages 50-59), Super Senior Men (60 -69), Masters (ages 70 and over), and Women (ages 21 and over). Divisions are based on the entrant’s age as of May 29th, 2011.

Rules of Play

Unless otherwise indicated, USGA Rules of Golf will govern play. Local rules for each golf course will be distributed at each course. All disputes regarding any aspect of tournament play will be reviewed by the tournament committee. All rules decisions by the tournament committee are final.

Dress Code

Spikeless shoes are required at all six tournament courses. Attire for the week is golf club casual, including the parties. Bermuda-length shorts may be worn during tournament rounds. Collared shirts are required and no denim is allowed at tournament courses. Weather range is a high of 100 and low of 80.

Tie Break Procedures

Ties for the top ten places in each flight after Thursday will be broken by comparing third round net scores. If a tie still exists, the next scores will be broken by the net scores from round two. If a tie still exists, the nine-hole net score beginning with the back nine of round three and going backwards until the tie is broken.

Championship Round

The top four net scores from each flight will advance to the championship round. Champion, runner-up, and low gross awards will be announced at a special awards luncheon. Ties for any trophy will be decided by a sudden-death playoff.

Practice Rounds

Rule 7-2 of the USGA Rules of Golf will be modified to allow practice rounds to be played on competition courses between rounds. The courses will be offering special tournament practice round rates.

Amateur Prizes

In keeping with the spirit of play, symbolic prizes such as a trophy meant for display are allowed. An amateur golfer must not accept a prize of a retail value greater than $750 (except for symbolic prizes).

Local Rules

The USGA Rules of Golf and its decisions will govern play. See applicable “Notice to Competitors” at each golf course for additional local rules and conditions. Players are to disregard any local rules on the golf course score card that are not listed on the “Notice to Competitors” for that course

Refunds

If written cancellation is received before May 1 a full refund will be given minus a $20 processing fee.  If a cancellation is received May 2nd-14th, 2011 you will receive a refund less $100 processing fee.  No refunds, regardless of circumstance, will be provided May 15th 2011 or after.  All cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing.  Please allow 30 days to process requests.

*These abbreviated rules will be updated as necessary. A complete set of rules will be provided in each player’s welcome package.

 

Mesquite Amateur Schedule

 

While guaranteed play on at least three championship golf courses along the Nevada-Utah border would be enough to make the Mesquite Amateur the most sought after tournament in the country, Mesquite is also a first class resort destination that blends the best of the wild west with a renowned spa and resort town.

• Monday, May 30th

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tournament registration begins in the showroom at the CasaBlanca Resort. Players pick  up their pairing partners, tee times, course and flight assignments.
Early arrivals can also take advantage of special arrangements with all area courses in Mesquite, St. George, and Coyote Springs. Monday is the best opportunity for practice rounds (It is up to the individual to book their own practice round and it is not included in the entry fee).

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The CasaBlanca Resort will host a welcome reception dinner in the CasaBlanca Events Center, featuring a catered menu developed by area chefs.

• Tuesday, May 31st

7:30 a.m. Round one play begins with a shotgun start at all five courses in Mesquite and Coyote Springs. St. George courses begin at 9 a.m. to allow for transportation.

8 a.m.- Yoga $15 per person- by the CasaBlanca Pool- An ancient form of mental and physical development.  Movements involve balance, strength, flexibility and proper breathing.  Yoga offers physical discipline to keep bodies healthy.  This class is related at a beginner/intermediate level.

11 a.m.- Margarita Mix Off $45 per person- CasaBlanca Meeting Room- Spend the day “South of the Border” and compete in the 1st Annual Margarita and Salsa Mix-off.  Do not fear no prior experience is necessary!  You will be paired up with other mixologists and provided with all of the necessities to create your dream cocktail, complete with complimenting salsa.  After an hour of creative expression your liquid libations and sumptuous salsa will be brought in-front of the panel of judges who will cast down the final verdict and hand out the awards for those that reign supreme.  To keep the party going, a Tex Mex inspired buffet will be served to all contestants upon the activities completion.

6 p.m. Dinner will be served in the CasaBlanca Events Center.

• Wednesday, June 1st

7:30 a.m. Round two play begins with a shotgun start at all five courses in Mesquite and Coyote Springs.  St. George courses begin at 9 a.m. to allow for transportation.

8 a.m. Zumba $15 per person-by the CasaBlanca Pool- This new and exciting fitness class combines high energy and motivating Latin and international music with unique moves that are fun and easy to do.  Moves include salsa, meringue, soca, kumbia, just to name a few.  You get a great workout that feels like a party!  This class is rated at a beginner/intermediate level.

11 a.m. Zoolander Lunch $50 per person- CasaBlanca Show -  Come and participate in the Project Runway inspired event that is sure to be the most exciting and fun filled event of the week!  In a race against the clock you and your team will compete to develop and model your own line of clothing in hopes of winning over the judges and being crowned the Designer Showdown Champions.  Everyone will be provided with a variety of different fabrics and clothing samples as well as a full line of cosmetics and accessories to help develop their award-winning outfits and models.  This activity is sure to be the hit of the week so sign-up now, space is limited.  Prizes for the winners and a beautifully prepared lunch will also compliment the event.

2:45 p.m. The Mesquite Amateur will host a Texas Hold ‘Em Championship in the new Eureka Hotel and Casino poker room. Players will check in at the poker room by 2:45 p.m. and compete for a variety of cash and gift prizes.
6 p.m. Dinner will be served in the CasaBlanca Events Center.

• Thursday, June 2nd

7:30 a.m. Round three play begins with a shotgun start at all five courses in Mesquite and Coyote Springs. St. George courses begin at 9 a.m. to allow for transportation.

8 a.m. Water Aerobics $15 per person- CasaBlanca Pool-  A great cardiovascular workout that’s easy on the joints, this shallow water class uses water’s natural resistance to get your heart rate up and strengthen your muscles.  Swimming skills not required.  This class is rated at a beginner/intermediate level.

Noon. The CasaBlanca Resort will host a special wine pairing luncheon presented in cooperation with Southern Wine & Spirits at Katherine’s Steak House. Katherine’s is the highest rated restaurant in Mesquite.

6 p.m. Dinner will be served in the CasaBlanca Events Center.

• Friday, June 3rd

7:30 a.m. Championship round will begin with a shotgun start at the CasaBlanca Golf Club. Participants will include the top four finishers from each flight. Immediately following the championship, finalists will be treated to lunch at the CasaBlanca Golf Course Deli.

1:30 p.m. The winners of the Mesquite Amateur will be announced immediately following lunch. The overall champion will be crowned.

 

Additional Events
As the tournament progresses, additional activities and evening events will be announced. In previous years, the tournament has included surprise concerts, special prizes for top finishers on each day of play, and event lists at properties throughout Mesquite so golfers may meet up and discuss the day’s events.