On the green you have the right to a clear path to the cup. If loose obstructions are blocking your path, the Rules of Golf allow you to remove them.
You probably knew that.
But what if we turned that scenario on its head? What happens if your playing partner, in front of you, removes a loose natural object that you think will benefit you – for example, a leaf or twig that could guide your ball into the hole? Can you put that loose object back where it was?
Admittedly, this is rare. But as with all rule-related matters, it pays to know your rights, especially if the answer may surprise you.
That’s where Jay Roberts comes into the picture. As the USGA’s senior manager of rules, technology, content and education, Roberts has become the familiar face of the organization’s short, insightful rules videos, which clearly explain how the game’s written guidelines apply in practice.
In the video below – one of the USGA’s most-watched videos of the year, with more than a million views – Roberts makes a subtle but important point. His playing partner putsts first and removes a small stick from his line. When it is Roberts’ turn, he places the stick back in position before making his stroke.
Surprising? Maybe. Allowed? Absolute.
The rules make it clear that you have the right to play your shot under the circumstances you encountered. If there was already a loose impediment in your line of play when your ball came to rest on the putting green, and another player removes it before your turn, you may replace it.
Consider it a reminder that a working knowledge of the rules isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s also about understanding your options and decisions that could lead to lower scores.
#surprising #rule #drain #putts