The R&A Snapshot
When it comes to golf, this organization isn't just playing a round. The R&A is the governing body for golf in most parts of the world (the United States Golf Association, working in cooperation with The R&A, fulfills that role in the US and Mexico). It was formed by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews to take over the administration and business activities of golf. (Founded in 1754, the Royal and Ancient helped establish the game of golf and first codified its rules.) The R&A administers rules and helps to foster the development of the sport; it runs about 10 championships and international matches, including the Amateur and Open Championships. The R&A was established in 2004.