Golf Etiquette
Posted by awguthrie in Golf Rules on August 1, 2009
Unlike many sports, golf is for the most part played without the supervision of a referee, umpire or coach. The game relies on the individual golfer to show consideration for other players and to abide by the rules. New golfers are often in need of advice about customary behavior and practices to follow on course so that play proceeds safely and without delay. Here are 10 tips to help all players get the maximum enjoyment from the game.
The Spirit of the Game
Unlike many sports, golf is played, for the most part, without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and to abide by the Rules. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, irrespective of how competitive they may be. This is the spirit of the game of golf.
Safety
Players should ensure that no one is standing close by or in a position to be hit by the club, the ball or any stones, pebbles, twigs or the like when they make a stroke or practice swing.
Players should not play until the players in front are out of range.
Players should always alert greenstaff nearby or ahead when they are about to make a stroke that might endanger them.
If a player plays a ball in a direction where there is a danger of hitting someone, he should immediately shout a warning. The traditional word of warning in such a situation is "fore."
Consideration for Other Players
No Disturbance or Distraction
Players should always show consideration for other players on the course and should not disturb their play by moving, talking or making any unnecessary noise.
Players should ensure that any electronic device taken onto the course does not distract other players.
On the teeing ground, a player should not tee his ball until it is his turn to play.
Players should not stand close to or directly behind the ball, or directly behind the hole, when a player is about to play.
On the Putting Green
On the putting green, players should not stand on another player’s line of putt or when he is making a stroke, cast a shadow over his line of putt.
Players should remain on or close to the putting green until all other players in the group have holed out.
Scoring
In stroke play, a player who is acting as a marker should, if necessary, on the way to the next tee, check the score with the player concerned and record it.
Pace of Play
Play at Good Pace and Keep Up
Players should play at a good pace. The Committee may establish pace of play guidelines that all players should follow.
It is a group’s responsibility to keep up with the group in front. If it loses a clear hole and it is delaying the group behind, it should invite the group behind to play through, irrespective of the number of players in that group.
Be Ready to Play
Players should be ready to play as soon as it is their turn to play. When playing on or near the putting green, they should leave their bags or carts in such a position as will enable quick movement off the green and towards the next tee. When the play of a hole has been completed, players should immediately leave the putting green.
Lost Ball
If a player believes his ball may be lost outside a water hazard or is out of bounds, to save time, he should play a provisional ball.
Players searching for a ball should signal the players in the group behind them to play through as soon as it becomes apparent that the ball will not easily be found.
They should not search for five minutes before doing so. Having allowed the group behind to play through, they should not continue play until that group has passed and is out of range.
Priority on the Course
Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, priority on the course is determined by a group’s pace of play. Any group playing a whole round is entitled to pass a group playing a shorter round.
Care of the Course
Bunkers
Before leaving a bunker, players should carefully fill up and smooth over all holes and footprints made by them and any nearby made by others. If a rake is within reasonable proximity of the bunker, the rake should be used for this purpose.
Repair of Divots, Ball-Marks and Damage by Shoes
Players should carefully repair any divot holes made by them and any damage to the putting green made by the impact of a ball (whether or not made by the player himself). On completion of the hole by all players in the group, damage to the putting green caused by golf shoes should be repaired.
Preventing Unnecessary Damage
Players should avoid causing damage to the course by removing divots when taking practice swings or by hitting the head of a club into the ground, whether in anger or for any other reason.
Players should ensure that no damage is done to the putting green when putting down bags or the flagstick.
In order to avoid damaging the hole, players and caddies should not stand too close to the hole and should take care during the handling of the flagstick and the removal of a ball from the hole. The head of a club should not be used to remove a ball from the hole.
Players should not lean on their clubs when on the putting green, particularly when removing the ball from the hole.
The flagstick should be properly replaced in the hole before players leave the putting green.
Local notices regulating the movement of golf carts should be strictly observed.
Conclusion; Penalties for Breach
If players follow the guidelines in this Section, it will make the game more enjoyable for everyone.
If a player consistently disregards these guidelines during a round or over a period of time to the detriment of others, it is recommended that the Committee consider taking appropriate disciplinary action against the offending player. Such action may, for example, include prohibiting play for a limited time on the course or in a certain number of competitions. This is considered to be justifiable in terms of protecting the interest of the majority of golfers who wish to play in accordance with these guidelines.
In the case of a serious breach of Etiquette, the Committee may disqualify a player under Rule 33-7.
Refinishing School Deski
Posted by awguthrie in Uncategorized on June 4, 2009
Club Fitting Questionnaire
How do you play golf?
Right-Handed Left-HandedHow often do you play golf?
Less than once a week 2-3 times a week, more than 4 times a weekAre you currently taking golf lessons?
Yes NoDo you plan on taking lessons in the near future?
Yes NoWhat has been your handicap range over the past 12 months?
______________________________At this time, your handicap is moving:
upward downward staying samePlease note your Low and High golf score within the past 12 months:
Low _____________ High _____________Do you have any physical limitations that affect your golf swing?
Yes NoIf yes, explain
CURRENT EQUIPMENT:
Set Make-Up:
___________________________________ Driver: (Brand/Model) ______________________ /______________________Driver Shaft:
Graphite Steel Driver Shaft Flex: L A R S XDriver Length:
Standard ____________ Over length ____________ Under length ____________Fairway Woods:
(Brand/Model) ____________________________ /____________________________Fairway Woods Shaft:
Graphite Steel Fairway Woods Shaft Flex: L A R S XFairway Woods Length:
Standard __________ Over length __________ Under length __________Irons:
(Brand/Model) __________________ / __________________ Iron Lie Angle: Standard ______ Upright ______ Flat ______Iron Shaft:
Graphite Steel Iron Shaft Flex: L A R S XIron Length:
Standard ________ Over length ________ Under length ________Wedges:
(Brand/Model) __________________ / __________________ Putter: (Brand/Model) _________________ /_________________Putter:
(Length/Lie/Loft) _________________ / _________________ /_________________Ball:
(Brand/Model) __________________ /__________________ Bag: (Brand/Model) __________________ /__________________Please describe what you LIKE or DISLIKE about your current equipment:________________________________________________
Which best describes your current shot pattern with your driver?
(Please check one)Hook Pull Draw Straight Fade Push Slice
Which best describes your shot pattern with your fairway woods?
(Please check one)Hook Pull Draw Straight Fade Push Slice
Which best describes your current shot pattern with your long irons (#1-#4 irons)?
(Please check one)Hook Pull Draw Straight Fade Push Slice
Which best describes your current shot pattern with your mid-irons (#5-#7 irons)?
(Please check one)Hook Pull Draw Straight Fade Push Slice
Which best describes your current shot pattern with your short irons (#8-Lob Wedge)?
(Please check one)Hook Pull Draw Straight Fade Push Slice
Which best describes the trajectory with your current driver?
(Please check one)High ball flight, little roll Mid ball flight, average roll Low ball flight, a lot of roll
Which best describes the trajectory with your current fairway woods?
(Please check one)Too high High Mid Low Too Low
Which best describes the trajectory with your current long irons?
(Please check one)High ball flight, a lot of spin High ball flight, too much spin Low ball flight, enough spin
Mid ball flight, average spin Low ball flight, not enough spin
Which best describes the trajectory with your current mid-irons?
(Please check one)High ball flight, a lot of spin High ball flight, too much spin Low ball flight, enough spin
Mid ball flight, average spin Low ball flight, not enough spin
Which best describes the trajectory with your current short irons?
(Please check one)High ball flight, a lot of spin High ball flight, too much spin Low ball flight, enough spin
Mid ball flight, average spin Low ball flight, not enough spin
Which of the ball flights listed below is easiest for you to hit?
(Please check one)Slice Fade Straight Hook Draw
Which of the ball flights listed below would you prefer to hit?
(Please check one)Slice Fade Straight Hook Draw
Typical contact point on clubface of iron shots:
(express as a percentage)Solid _____% Thin _____% Fat _____% Toe _____% Heel _____%
Typical contact point on clubface of wood shots:
(express as a percentage)Solid _____% Thin _____% Fat _____% Toe _____% Heel _____%
When you miss a putt, the majority of the time it is:
No consistent tendency or, if there is a consistent tendency, check all that apply below:
Short Long Right Left High Side Low Side
When you miss a putt, do you feel that you most commonly:
(please check one)miss-read the putt or miss-hit the putt
Are you better on
Left to right putts or Right to left putts
Are you better on
Uphill putts or Downhill putts
Please rank the strength of your game by segment:
(10 being the strongest segment of your game & 1 being the weakest segment of your game)Driving __________ Fairway Woods _______ Long Irons __________ Mid Irons _________ Short Irons ________
Pitch Shots ______ Chip Shots __________ Bunker Shots _______ Long Putts _________ Short Putts ________
Key performance categories:
Average number of Fairways hit per round ________ Average number of Greens in Regulation per round ________
Average number of Putts per round ________
Percentage of iron shots in relation to the desired target:
Left _____% Right _____% Somewhat Straight _____ %
Please describe your method for tracking on-course performance. How do you measure your performance for each round of golf
you play?
(If you do not Track or Measure your performance, please skip to the next question.)Which holes do you play the best?
(Please rank 1, 2 & 3 with 1 being best & 3 being worst)Par 5’s _____ Par 4’s _____ Par 3’s _____
Do you plan your approach shots so you are left with your strength?
Yes NoIdentify your flag location preference: Left Center Right
Identify your flag location preference: Front Middle Back
Please check your personal preferences for a DRIVER:
Graphite shaft or Steel shaft Stiff feel or Flexible feel
Heavy feel or Light feel High trajectory or Low trajectory
Fade or Draw Large grip or Small grip
Please check your personal preferences for FAIRWAY WOODS:
Graphite shaft or Steel shaft Stiff feel or Flexible feel
Heavy feel or Light feel High trajectory or Low trajectory
Fade or Draw Large grip or Small grip
Please check your personal preferences for IRONS:
Graphite shaft or Steel shaft Stiff feel or Flexible feel
Heavy feel or Light feel High trajectory or Low trajectory
Fade or Draw Large grip or Small grip
Please check the response below that you feel is MOST important:
Shaft or Clubhead Performance or Feel
Performance or Appearance Feel or Appearance
Which is more important to you?
(please check one)Distance or Direction
If you indicated DISTANCE, how many additional yards do you think you would need to lower your
average score by several strokes?
_____ yardsIf you indicated DIRECTION, how many feet or yards closer to the target do you think you would need in order to lower your
average score by several strokes?
_____ feet _____ yardsWhat percentage of your golfing time is devoted to the following:
(Please express as a percentage)Play _____% Practice _____% Lessons _____%
What percentage of your total PRACTICE time is devoted to the following:
(Please express as a percentage)Putting _____% Chipping _____% Pitching _____% Short Irons _____%
Mid Irons _____% Long Irons _____% Driver _____% Fairway Woods _____%
What is the approximate yardage range for each club listed below?
(Carry distance)Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know
Driver ________ – ________ #2 Iron ________ – ________ #8 Iron ________ – ________
#3 Wood ________ – ________ #3 Iron ________ – ________ #9 Iron ________ – ________
#5 Wood ________ – ________ #4 Iron ________ – ________ PW ________ – ________
#7 Wood ________ – ________ #5 Iron ________ – ________ SW ________ – ________
#9 Wood ________ – ________ #6 Iron ________ – ________ LW ________ – ________
L-Wood ________ – ________ #7 Iron ________ – ________
Do these yardage’s meet your expectations?
Yes No If no, why? ______________________________________________COURSE LAYOUT & CONDITIONS:
Throughout a round on your home course, do you hit most of the clubs in your bag?
Yes NoIf no, it is because of: course layout you don’t feel comfortable with certain clubs
other
Is your course
hilly or flat?Do you struggle more with the ball
above your feet or the ball below your feet?What type of grass are the fairways you most commonly play?
Zoysia Bermuda Bent BluegrassWhat type of grass are the greens you most commonly play?
Bermuda Bent Poa Anna Other__________What is the average speed of the greens you play?
Slow Medium Fast Stimp Meter # (if known) _____________What course conditions do you normally play?
Hard & Fast Soft & WetWhat type of sand do you normally play?
Soft & Fluffy Pebbled Hard, Packed, WetAt what ELEVATION do you normally play?
__________ feetIn what area(s) of your game would you like to see improvement?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What benefits do you hope to realize from being fitted & then purchasing new equipment?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Grip Size + Shaft Size = Final Grip Size
Grip: On Shaft:
Size .560 .580 .600 .620 .690-.710
56 Std. +1/64 +1/32 NR NR
58 -1/64 Std. +1/64 +1/32 NR
60 NR -1/64 Std. +1/64 NR
62 NR NR -1/64 Std. NR
Regripping or Gripping Clubs
1. Secure the club in a vise near the grip using a protective rubber vise clamp. Position the clubface prependicular to the floor in the playing position. Remove the old grip with a grip knife, hacksaw or stripper (metal shafts only) and scrape off all the old grip tape and residue, taking care to always cut away from yourself. For graphites, remove the old grip with a hooked blade in a utility knife, peel off the old tape by hand and clean up the residue with a cloth and some grip solvent. Do not scrape the shaft, as scraping can cut into the graphite fibers and weaken the shaft.
2. Remove the old grip with a grip knife, hacksaw or stripper (metal shafts only) and scrape off all the old grip tape and residue, taking care to always cut away from yourself. For graphites, remove the old grip with a hooked blade in a utility knife, peel off the old tape by hand and clean up the residue with a cloth and some grip solvent. Do not scrape the shaft, as scraping can cut into the graphite fibers and weaken the shaft.
3. Hold the new grip next to the cleaned shaft butt to determine how much area will be covered by tape.
4. Apply build-up tape (masking tape) if the grip needs to be made larger. Use either 2" or .75" tape and apply as shown. Be sure to account for shaft butt diameter and grip core diameter.
Vertical Wrap: Apply 2" tape vertically, centered along the top of the shaft butt so that the slight overlap occurs along the back of the shaft.
5. Apply one layer of two-sided "miracle" grip tape, either 2" or .75", as shown. Leave an extra one to two inches of tape over the shaft butt.
Spiral Wrap: Spiral-wrap .75" tape up the shaft butt (bottom), leaving a slight gap between the edges.
6. Peel the backing off the tape and cover the shaft butt with the overlapped portion of tape.
7. Squirt a generous amount of nonflammable grip solvent inside the grip, sealing the vent hole in the butt of the grip with your finger or a golf tee. Close the small (mouth) end of the grip, and shake to wet the entire inside of the grip walls. Never use a flammable fluid in grip application.
8. Pour the excess solvent over the entire length of the two-sided tape. Use extra solvent from the can as needed, using a metal tray to catch excess fluid. Solvent may be re-used.
Installing The New Grip
9. Hold the grip with the alignment pattern up and squeeze the mouth of the grip between the thumb and forefinger to obtain a flared shape. With the applied tape still wet with solvent, push the flared mouth up and over the shaft butt.
10. Slip the grip on quickly and methodically while the solvent is wet, but do not rush. Rushing causes mistakes.
11. Push the grip firmly onto the shaft to make sure the grip butt cap is all the way up against the shaft butt.
12. Make sure the grip is on straight and the alignment pattern is squared to the clubface. The grip can be adjusted for a few minutes after installation while the tape is still activated. If the grip is to be made smaller, it may be stretched down the shaft and held in place for a minute or so. Allow ample drying time (varies by brand – consult instructions on solvent bottle).
“Why did it go that way?” AWG
Ball Flight Dynamics
Or
“Why did it go that way?”
Basic Ball Flight Rules
The initial part of a ball flight is based only on swing path (direction the club hits the ball).
After the inertia (from direction of the swing path) decreases (ball slows) the angle of the clubface takes over and determines on which axis to rotate. Open face- the ball rotates to and spins clockwise. Closed and it goes counterclockwise.
- Straight Swing Path +
- open face = Ball starts straight then goes right
- closed face = Ball starts straight then goes left
- Square = Ball starts straight and stays straight
Inside to Outside Path
Outside to Inside Path
Ball goes straight left.
Couple of choices: (in order of probability)
1. You didn’t finish the turn away (did you left should get at least to the ball), but did turn on the downswing.
2. Your first move from the top of the swing was by pulling the club with the right hand.
3. Try it… you will reroute the clubhead so it comes from the outside.
Learn to identify what causes the ball to fly like it does, and how to remedy it.
Pick a Putter
Spring is for love, and many are searching for the putter that will have made all these years and pretenders worth it. You are about to embark on the most personal of pairings…a new relationship with a putter…and this time love will last! I often said, "you must really like your spouse, but you had better love your putter"!
I hope to provide some information about putter design, grip size, putter length, lie, and loft that will help you find a good match.
Here are a few tips to help find a putter that is a good match for you.
There are countless varieties of putters in all shapes and sizes. From a weighting standpoint putters are either "face balanced, or toe weighted". What is the benefit of a face balanced putter? A player with a "straight back-straight through" or pendulum stroke may be more effective with the face-balanced putter. Putters with this design tend to maintain a stable face angle throughout the putting stroke. Golfers with an inside-to-square-to-inside stroke may benefit from a heel-shafted putter whose face tends to swing open and close with the stroke.
Grip size is another variable that runs the full range of possibilities. The size of the grip tends to impact hand/wrist release. Smaller grip more release, larger grip less release. Pendulum style putters tend to prefer larger grip that "quiets" the hands, while the open to close putter prefers a smaller type.
The length of the putter is primarily determined by a player’s height, but posture and hand position can affect that as well. Ideal length allows you to practice! Generally the ball directly below the eyes at address is considered ideal.
The lie angle on the putter is important for the same reason it is on irons..to reduce twisting as the sole makes contact with the ground. The more centered to sole is in striking the easier it is to stay square.
The proper loft depends on your preferred hand position and the speed of the greens most frequently played. For most golfers on average putting surfaces the standard loft of 3.0 – 3.5 degrees is fine. Players with a pronounced forward press (that they maintain through impact) may benefit from additional loft while those that play on faster putting surfaces may benefit from less loft.
These are guidelines that hope help you find the right putter…. Though I do believe the right one will beckon. The putter you choose has to help you visually line, stroke the ball, and make the putt.
If it goes in it was a perfect putt…period.
Best Golf Book EVER
Jimmy Ballard’s
“Seven Common Denominators” of all good swings and the book that expounds on them is the single best compilation of the swing. Just look at what they sell for!! It’s not collectability it is functionality.
1. The golfer must create a connection at the outset through a braced connected address position.
2. The golfer must start the swing by taking the triangle and center away together.
3. The golfer must coil the triangle and center behind the ball in the brace of the right leg.
4. The golfer must reverse the club with the right foot and right knee to create the proper position at the top of the swing.
5. The golfer must, after initiating the change of direction with the right foot and right knee, immediately release the right side and center, insuring that the triangle returns to the original position squaring the club at impact.
6. The golfer must, at waist high past the ball, have maintained the triangle with the belt buckle and the center facing toward the target.
7. The golfer must complete the swing with the knees, hips and shoulders level, and the weight entirely on the left side. The straight balanced finish is proof that connection has been preserved during the swing.
Rules Changes for 2008
Posted by awguthrie in Uncategorized on December 1, 2007
PRINCIPAL CHANGES
General
The changes to the Rules generally fall into two broad categories: (1) those that improve the clarity of the Rules and (2) those that reduce the penalties in certain circumstances to ensure that they are proportionate.
Definitions
Advice -— Amended to allow the exchange of information on distance, as it is not considered to be “advice.”
Text in 2008
Information on the Rules, distance or matters of public
information, such as . . ., is not advice.
Lost Ball -— Amended to clarify substituted ball issues and to include the concept of “stroke-and-distance” (see corresponding changes to Rules 18-1, 24-3, 25-1c, 26 and 27-1).
Text in 2008
A ball is deemed “lost’’ if:
a. It is not found or identified as his by the player within five minutes after the player’s side or his or their caddies have begun to search for it; or
b. The player has made a stroke at a provisional ball from the place where the original ball is likely to be or from a point nearer the hole than that place (see Rule 27-2b); or
c. The player has put another ball into play under penalty of stroke and distance (see Rule 27-1a); or
d. The player has put another ball into play because it is known or virtually certain that the ball, which has not been found, has been moved by an outside agency (see
Rule 18-1), is in an obstruction (see Rule 24-3), is in an abnormal ground condition (see Rule 25-1c) or is in a water hazard (see Rule 26-1); or
e. The player has made a stroke at a substituted ball.
Matches -— Definition withdrawn and replaced by two new Definitions, “Forms of Match Play” and “Forms of Stroke Play.”
Text in 2008
Matches
Forms of Match Play
Single: A match in which one player plays against another player.
Threesome: A match in which one player plays against twoother players, and each side plays one ball.
Foursome: A match in which two players play against two other players, and each side plays one ball.
Three-Ball: Three players play a match against one another, each playing his own ball. Each player is playing two distinct matches.
Best-Ball: A match in which one player plays against the better ball of two other players or the best ball of three other players.
Four-Ball: A match in which two players play their better ball against the better ball of two other players.
Forms of Stroke Play
Individual: A competition in which each competitor plays as an individual.
Foursome: A competition in which two competitors play as partners and play one ball.
Four-Ball: A competition in which two competitors play as partners, each playing his own ball. The lower score of the partners is the score for the hole. If one partner fails
to complete the play of the hole, there is no penalty.
Note: For bogey, par and Stableford competitions, see Rule 32-1.
Rules
Rule 1-2. Exerting Influence on Ball -— Note added to clarify what constitutes a serious breach of Rule 1-2.
Text in 2008
*Penalty for Breach of Rule 1-2:
Match play — Loss of hole; Stroke play — Two strokes.
*In the case of a serious breach of Rule 1-2, the Committee may impose a penalty of disqualification.
Note: A player is deemed to have committed a serious breach of Rule 1-2 if the Committee considers that his act of influencing the position or movement of the ball has
allowed him or another player to gain a significant advantage or has placed another player, other than his partner, at a significant disadvantage.
Rule 4-1. Form and Make of Clubs -— Amended to reduce the penalty for carrying, but not using, a nonconforming club or a club in breach of Rule 4-2, from disqualification to the same as carrying more than 14 clubs.
Text in 2008
4-1. Form and Make of Clubs
a. General
The player’s clubs must conform with this Rule and the provisions, specifications and interpretations set forth in Appendix II.
Note: The Committee may require, in the conditions of a competition (Rule 33-1), that any driver the player carries must have a clubhead, identified by model and loft, that is named on
the current List of Conforming Driver Heads issued by the USGA.
b. Wear and Alteration
A club that conforms with the Rules when new is deemed to conform after wear through normal use. Any part of a club that has been purposely altered is regarded as new and must,
in its altered state, conform with the Rules.
4-2. Playing Characteristics Changed and Foreign Material
a. Playing Characteristics Changed
During a stipulated round, the playing characteristics of a club must not be purposely changed by adjustment or by any other means.
b. Foreign Material
Foreign material must not be applied to the club face for the purpose of influencing the movement of the ball.
*PENALTY FOR CARRYING, BUT NOT MAKING STROKE
WITH, CLUB OR CLUBS IN BREACH OF RULE 4-1 or 4-2:
Match play — At the conclusion of the hole at which the breach is discovered, the state of the match is adjusted by deducting one hole for each hole at which a breach occurred;
maximum deduction per round — Two holes.
Stroke play — Two strokes for each hole at which any breach occurred; maximum penalty per round — Four strokes.
Match or stroke play — In the event of a breach between the play of two holes, the penalty applies to the next hole.
Bogey and par competitions — See Note 1 to Rule 32-1a.
Stableford competitions — See Note 1 to Rule 32-1b.
*Any club or clubs carried in breach of Rule 4-1 or 4-2 must be declared out of play by the player to his opponent in match play or his marker or a fellow-competitor in stroke play
immediately upon discovery that a breach has occurred. If the player fails to do so, he is disqualified.
PENALTY FOR making stroke with club in BREACH OF
RULE 4-1 or 4-2: Disqualification.
Rule 12-1. Searching for Ball; Seeing Ball -— Amended to include searching for a ball in an obstruction.
Text in 2008
If a ball lying in an abnormal ground condition is accidentally moved during search, there is no penalty; the ball must be replaced, unless the player elects to proceed under Rule 25-1b. If the player replaces the ball, he may still proceed under Rule 25-1b if applicable.
If a ball lying in or on an obstruction or in an abnormal ground condition is accidentally moved during search, there is no penalty; the ball must be replaced, unless the player
elects to proceed under Rule 24-1b, 24-2b or 25-1b as applicable. If the player replaces the ball, he may still proceed under Rule 24-1b, 24-2b or 25-1b if applicable.
Rule 12-2. Identifying Ball -— Amended to allow a player to lift his ball for identification in a hazard (see corresponding change to Rule 15-3, removing the exemption from penalty for playing a wrong ball in a hazard).
Text in 2008
Except in a hazard, if a player has reason to believe a ball is his, he may lift . . .
If the player fails to comply with all or any part of this procedure, or if he lifts his ball for
identification in a hazard, he incurs a penalty of one stroke.
If a player has reason to believe a ball at rest is his and it is necessary to lift the ball in order to identify it, he may lift.
If the ball is the player’s ball and he fails to comply with all or any part of this procedure or he lifts his ball in order to identify it when not necessary to do so, he incurs a penalty
of one stroke.
Note: If the original lie of a ball to be placed or replaced has been altered, see Rule 20-3b.
Rule 13-4. Ball in Hazard; Prohibited Actions -— Exception 1 amended for clarification; Exception 2
amended to refer to Rule 13-2; Exception 3 added to exempt a player from penalty under Rule 13-4a (testing the condition of the hazard) in certain circumstances.
Text in 2008
Rule 13-4 Exception 1
(a) touches the ground or loose impediments in any hazard or water in a water hazard as a result of or to prevent falling, in removing an obstruction, in measuring or in
marking the position of, retrieving, lifting, placing or replacing a ball under any Rule . . .
Rule 13-4 Exception 2
After making the stroke, if the ball is still in the hazard or has been lifted from the hazard and may be dropped or placed in the hazard, the player may smooth sand or soil in
the hazard, provided nothing is done to breach Rule 13-2 with respect to his next stroke. If the ball is outside the hazard after the stroke, the player may smooth sand or soil
in the hazard without restriction.
Rule 13-4 Exception 3
If the player makes a stroke from a hazard and the ball comes to rest in another hazard, Rule 13-4a does not apply to any subsequent actions taken in the hazard from which
the stroke was made.
Rule 14-3. Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and Unusual Use of Equipment -— Amended to refer to
the unusual use of equipment (see also new Exception on use of equipment in a traditionally accepted manner)
and new Exception added for players with a legitimate medical reason to use an artificial device or unusual equipment.
Note added to clarify that a Local Rule may be introduced allowing the use of distance-measuring devices; previously authorized by Decision only.
Text in 2008
Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the player must not use any
artificial device or unusual equipment: Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment, or use any equipment in an unusual manner:
Exceptions:
1. A player is not in breach of this Rule if (a) the equipment or device is designed for or has the effect of alleviating a medical condition, (b) the player has a legitimate medical
reason to use the equipment or device, and (c) the Committee is satisfied that its use does not give the player any undue advantage over other players.
2. A player is not in breach of this Rule if he uses equipment in a traditionally accepted manner.
Rule 15-2. Substituted Ball -— Exception added to avoid a “double penalty” when the player incorrectly substitutes a ball and plays from a wrong place (see corresponding
change to Rule 20-7c).
Text in 2008
. If the mistake is not corrected as provided in Rule 20-6 and the player makes a stroke at a wrongly substituted ball, he incurs the penalty prescribed by the applicable Rule . . .
. If the mistake is not corrected as provided in Rule 20-6 and the player makes a stroke at a wrongly substituted ball, he loses the hole in match play or incurs a penalty of two
strokes in stroke play under the applicable Rule . . .
Exception: If a player incurs a penalty for making a stroke from a wrong place, there is no additional penalty for substituting a ball when not permitted.
Rule 15-3. Wrong Ball -— Amended to remove the exemption from penalty for playing a wrong ball in a hazard (see corresponding change to Rule 12-2, allowing the player to lift a ball for identification in a hazard).
Text in 2008
a. Match Play
If a player makes a stroke at a wrong ball, he loses the hole.
Exception: There is no penalty if a player makes a stroke at a wrong ball that is moving in water in a water hazard. Any strokes made at a wrong ball moving in water in a water
hazard do not count in the player’s score. The player must correct his mistake by playing the correct ball or by proceeding under the Rules.
b. Stroke Play
If a competitor makes a stroke or strokes at a wrong ball, he incurs a penalty of two strokes.
Exception: There is no penalty if a competitor makes a stroke at a wrong ball that is moving in water in a water hazard. Any strokes made at a wrong ball moving in water
in a water hazard do not count in the competitor’s score.
Rule 16-1e. Standing Astride or on Line of Putt -— Exception added to apply no penalty if the act was inadvertent or to avoid standing on another player’s line of putt; previously authorized by Decision only.
Text in 2008
– There is no penalty if the stance is inadvertently taken on or astride the line of putt (or an extension of that line behind the ball) or is taken to avoid standing on another player’s line of putt or prospective line of putt.
Rule 18. Ball at Rest Moved -— Penalty statement amended to avoid a “double penalty” when the player lifts a ball without authority and incorrectly substitutes a ball (see related changes to Rules 15-2 and 20-7c).
Text in 2008
*PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
*If . . . fails to do so, he incurs the general penalty for breach of Rule 18. There is no
additional penalty under Rule 18, except in the case of a wrongly substituted ball (Rule 15-2).
*PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
*If . . . fails to do so, or if he makes a stroke at a ball substituted under Rule 18 when such substitution is not permitted, he incurs the general penalty for breach of Rule
18, but there is no additional penalty under this Rule.
Rule 18-1. Ball at Rest Moved; By Outside Agency -— Note added to clarify the procedure when a ball might have been moved by an outside agency.
Text in 2008
— Note: It is a question of fact whether a ball has been moved by an outside agency. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that an outside agency has moved the ball. In the absence of such knowledge or certainty, the
player must play the ball as it lies or, if the ball is not found, proceed under Rule 27-1.
Rule 19-2. Ball in Motion Deflected or Stopped By Player, Partner, Caddie or Equipment -— Amended to reduce the penalty in both match play and stroke play to one stroke.
Text in 2008
a. Match Play
If a player’s ball is accidentally deflected or stopped by himself, his partner or either of their caddies or equipment, he loses the hole.
b. Stroke Play
If a competitor’s ball is accidentally deflected or stopped by himself, his partner or either of their caddies or equipment, the competitor incurs a penalty of two strokes. The ball must be played as it lies, except when it comes to rest in or on the competitor’s, his partner’s or either of their caddies’ clothes or equipment, in which case the
competitor must through the green or in a hazard drop the ball, or on the putting green place the ball, as near as possible to where the article was when the ball came to rest in or…If a player’s ball is accidentally deflected or stopped by himself, his partner or either of their caddies or equipment, the player incurs a penalty of one stroke. The ball must be
played as it lies, except when it comes to rest in or on the player’s, his partner’s or either of their caddies’ clothes or equipment, in which case the ball must through the green or
in a hazard be dropped, or on the putting green be placed, as near as possible to the spot directly under the place wherethe ball came to rest in or. . .
Rule 20-3a. Placing and Replacing; By Whom and Where – Amended to reduce the penalty for having the wrong person place or replace a ball to one stroke.
Text in 2008
A ball to be placed under the Rules must be placed by the player or his partner. If a ball is to be replaced, the player, his partner or the person
who lifted or moved it must place it on the spot from which it was lifted or moved. In any such case, the player is responsible for any breach of the Rules.
A ball to be placed under the Rules must be placed by the player or his partner. If a ball is to be replaced, the player, his partner or the person who lifted or moved it must place
it on the spot from which it was lifted or moved. If the ball is placed or replaced by any other person and the error is not corrected as provided in Rule 20-6, the player incurs a
penalty of one stroke. In any such case, the player is responsible for any other breach of the Rules that occurs as a result of the placing or replacing of the ball. If a ball to be replaced is placed other than on the spot from which it was lifted or moved and the error is not corrected as provided in Rule 20-6, the player incurs the general penalty,
loss of hole in match play or two strokes in stroke play, for a breach of the applicable Rule.
Rule 20-7c. Playing from Wrong Place; Stroke Play -— Note added to avoid a “double penalty” when the player plays from a wrong place and incorrectly substitutes a ball (see corresponding change to Rule 15-2).
Text in 2008
— Note 3: If a player incurs a penalty for making a stroke from a wrong place, there is no additional penalty for substituting a ball when not permitted.
Rule 24-1. Movable Obstruction -— Amended to allow a flagstick, whether attended, removed or held up, to be moved when a ball is in motion.
Text in 2008
When a ball is in motion, an obstruction that might influence the movement of the ball, other than an attended flagstick or equipment of the players, must not be removed.
When a ball is in motion, an obstruction that might influence the movement of the ball, other than equipment of any player or the flagstick when attended, removed or held
up, must not be moved.
Rule 24-3. Ball in Obstruction Not Found;
Rule 25-1c. Ball in Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found;
Rule 26-1. Water Hazards (Including Lateral Water Hazards);
Rule 27-1. Stroke and Distance; Ball Out of Bounds; Ball Not Found Within Five Minutes –
The term “reasonable evidence” has been replaced by “known or virtually certain” when determining whether a ball that has not been found may be treated as lost in an obstruction (Rule 24-3), an abnormal ground condition (Rule 25-1) or a water hazard (Rule 26-1). See corresponding change to Definition of “Lost Ball” and Rule 18-1.
Text in 2008
Rule 24-3. Ball in Obstruction Not Found
It is a question of fact whether a ball lost after having been struck toward an obstruction is lost in the obstruction. In order to treat the ball as lost in the obstruction, there must be reasonable evidence to that effect. In the absence of such evidence, the ball must be treated as a lost ball and Rule 27 applies.
a. Ball Lost in Movable Obstruction
If a ball is lost in a movable obstruction, a player may, without penalty, remove…
b. Ball Lost in Immovable Obstruction
If a ball is lost in an immovable obstruction, the spot…
Rule 24-3. Ball in Obstruction Not Found
It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found after having been struck toward an obstruction is in the obstruction. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that the ball is in the obstruction. In the absence of such knowledge or certainty, the player must proceed under Rule 27-1.
a. Ball in Movable Obstruction Not Found
If it is known or virtually certain that the original ball that has not been found is in a movable obstruction, the player may substitute another ball and take relief, without penalty under this Rule. If he elects to do so, he must remove…
b. Ball in Immovable Obstruction Not Found
If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in an immovable obstruction, the player may take relief under this Rule. If he elects to do so, the spot…
Rule 25-1
c. Ball Lost
It is a question of fact whether a ball lost after having been struck toward an abnormal ground condition is lost in such a condition. In order to treat the ball as lost in the abnormal ground condition, there must be reasonable evidence to that effect. In the absence of such evidence, the ball must be treated as a lost ball and Rule 27 applies.
If a ball is lost in an abnormal ground condition, the spot…
Rule 25-1
c. Ball in Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found
It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found after having been struck toward an abnormal ground condition is in such a condition. In order to apply this Rule,
it must be known or virtually certain that the ball is in the abnormal ground condition. In the absence of such knowledge or certainty, the player must proceed under Rule 27-1.
If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in an abnormal ground condition, the player may take relief under this Rule. If he elects to do so, the spot…
Rule 26-1
It is a question of fact whether a ball lost after having been struck toward a water hazard is lost inside or outside the hazard. In order to treat the ball as lost in the hazard, there must be reasonable evidence that the ball lodged in it. In the absence of such evidence, the ball must be treated as a lost ball and Rule 27 applies.
If a ball is in or is lost in a water hazard…The ball may be lifted and cleaned…
Rule 26-1
It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found
after having been struck toward a water hazard is in the hazard. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that the ball is in the hazard. In the absence
of such knowledge or certainty, the player must proceed under Rule 27-1.
If a ball is in a water hazard or if it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in a water hazard……may lift and clean his ball or substitute a ball.
Rule 27-1
If a ball is lost or is out of bounds, the player…
Exceptions:
2. If there is reasonable evidence that the original ball is lost in an . . .
1. If there is reasonable evidence that the original ball is lost in a water hazard . . .
Rule 27-1
a. Proceeding Under Stroke and Distance
At any time, a player may, under penalty of one stroke, play a ball as nearly as possible at the spot from which the original ball was last played (see Rule 20-5), i.e., proceed
under penalty of stroke and distance. Except as otherwise provided in the Rules, if a player makes a stroke at a ball from the spot at which the original ball was last played, he is deemed to have proceeded under penalty of stroke and distance.
b. Ball Out of Bounds
If a ball is out of bounds, the player . . .
c. Ball Not Found Within Five Minutes
If a ball is lost as a result of not being found or identified as his by the player within five minutes after the player’s side or his or their caddies have begun to search for it, the player must play a ball, under penalty of one stroke, as nearly as possible at the spot from which the original ball was last played (see Rule 20-5).
Exceptions:
1. If it is known or virtually certain that the original ball that has not been found is in an.
2. If it is known or virtually certain that the original ball that has not been found has been moved by an outside agency (Rule 18-1) or is in a water hazard…
Appendix I
Seams of Cut Turf -— New Specimen Local Rule added.
Text in 2008
— Appendix I; Part B; Section 4e. Seams of Cut Turf
If a Committee wishes to allow relief from seams of cut turf, but not from the cut turf itself, the following Local Rule is recommended:
Through the green, seams of cut turf (not the turf itself) are deemed to be ground under repair. However, interference by a seam with the player’s stance is deemed not to be, of itself, interference under Rule 25-1. If the ball lies in or touches the seam or the seam interferes with the area of intended swing, relief is available under Rule 25-1. All seams within the cut turf area are considered the same seam.
PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
Match play – Loss of hole; Stroke play – Two strokes.”
Temporary Immovable Obstruction -— Clause II of the Specimen Local Rule amended to include an additional requirement that, for intervention relief to be granted, the temporary immovable obstruction must be on the player’s line of play.
Text in 2008
Appendix I; Part B; Section 6a Temporary Immovable Obstructions
Appendix I; Part B; Section 7a.
Temporary Immovable Obstructions
II. Interference
Interference by a TIO occurs when (a) the ball lies in front of and so close to the TIO that the TIO interferes with the player’s stance or the area of his intended swing, or (b) the
ball lies in, on, under or behind the TIO so that any part of the TIO intervenes directly between the player’s ball and the hole and is on his line of play; interference also exists if the ball lies within one club-length of a spot equidistant from the hole where such intervention would exist.
Note: A ball is under a TIO when it is below the outer most edges of the TIO, even if those edges do not extend downwards to the ground.
Appendix II
Adjustability — Amended to allow forms of adjustability other than weight adjustment, subject to evaluation by the USGA.
Clubhead; Plain in Shape — Amended to clarify meaning of “plain in shape” and list some of the features that are not permitted;
previously detailed in guidelines on equipment Rules.
Clubhead; Dimensions, Volume and Moment of Inertia — Sections added on moment of inertia and putter head dimensions;
previously detailed in guidelines on equipment Rules and test protocols.
Clubhead; Spring Effect and Dynamic Properties — New section added on spring effect. The limit, as detailed in the Pendulum Test
Protocol, now applies to all clubs (except putters) and in all forms of the game; previously covered by condition of competition.
Rules of Amateur Status
Rule 3-2a -— Exception amended to clarify a cash prize for a hole-in-one made while playing golf is permissible.
Rule 4-2b -— Note added regarding the rules of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Rule 4-2c -— Note added regarding the rules of the NCAA.
Rule 6-2 -— Exception added for a player promoting (a) his national, state or county union or association, (b) certain types of golf competitions or events or (c) a recognized charity.
