United States Golf Association

The United States Golf Association (USGA) is the national governing body of golf in the United States, its territories and Mexico. It was formed in 1894 and is a non-profit organisation run by golfers for golfers. It conducts 13 national championships every year. The USGA sponsors a number of programmes that are intended to benefit every golfer. These programmes include the writing and interpretation the rules of golf.

The USGA also supports grassroots programmes through its 'For the Good of the Game' initiative and determines standards for course maintenance. It has made available more than $50 million through grants for programmes intended to benefit underprivileged youth and disabled individuals.

The establishment of the United States Golf Association on December 22, 1894, was an indication of the formalisation of American golf, with the USGA gaining responsibility for the rules of the game, the conduct at national championships and the establishment of a nationally accepted system of handicapping.

Another role the United States Golf Association plays is that of historian for the game in the United States, and it collects, displays and preserves an assortment of artefacts and memorabilia associated with the game at its museum and archives in Far Hills, New Jersey.

The United States Golf Association has David B. Fay as its executive director and Walter Driver Jr. as its president. The headquarters are located at Golf House in Far Hills, New Jersey.

The United States Golf Association presents a number of golf awards and the Bob Jones award is the highest honour that can be received from the association. It is presented in recognition of distinguished golfing sportsmanship and was first given in 1955.

The 2008 US Open venue is Torrey Pines, San Diego.