The rules of golf are difficult! Luckily we have the guru. Our Rules Man knows the book from cover to cover. Do you have a question? He has all the answers.
Are there rules for playing music on the court? It seems to me that this should not be allowed as it can distract or help players. Do I have a case? —Paul Dehner Sr., via email
With apologies to the late Robert Palmer, we have a bad example of loving this question. And as always, Doctor Doctor is here to give you the news: you may have a case. Playing music specifically to eliminate distractions or assist with pacing violations Rule 4.3a(4).
That said, playing music in itself is not a violation, but it should still be done with consideration for others.
For more guidance from our guru, read on…
My friend and I played an early morning round. We all wore sweaters to combat the cold. On the 7th hole he took off his jersey and, because his bag was on the other side of the green, placed it over the flagstick as he stabbed it with the pin. Neither of us knew if this was allowed. —Bruce Reeder, Seattle
Rules Guy’s beloved aunt, Style Lady, informs us that it is allowed if the color of the jersey does not clash with that of the flag.
From the perspective of the Rules, the only possible punishment we can think of is an intent-based punishment; for example, your buddy may have done this intentionally to move the flagpole to a position other than center or to cast a shadow to aim at.
Absent the desire to support his play, there would be no problem treating the flagpole as a coat hanger, although it feels a bit presumptuous.
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