BIDSTON GOLF CLUB

Every Month we take a look at a selection of Rules and Penalties as defined by

“The Rules of Golf”

This Month we look at Frequently Asked Questions”

What Qualifies as Casual Water?

Casual Water is any temporary water on the course which is not in a water hazard and that is visible before or after a player takes their stance.

Order of Play around the Putting Green?

This is a rule frequently misunderstood by club golfers. Everyone knows that the player who is ‘farthest away’ plays first, but when it comes to putting greens, many club golfers get the rules wrong. They believe that someone off the green plays before someone who is on the green. This is incorrect! It doesn’t matter if you are on the green or off - if your the farthest from the cup, then you play first. If your putt is longer than your partners bunker shot then you play first. See Rule 10

Can Spike Marks in line of Putt be Repaired?

It is permissible under the rules to repair spike marks or other similar problems with the greens in the line of a putt?? The answer is No! You are however allowed to repair pitch marks but must not tamp down blades of grass or other imperfections in the line of your putt. 

What are the Standards for Declaring a Ball Unplayable?

“Following my first putt on the green, my ball rolled into a green side bunker. Can I declare the ball unplayable and go back to the last spot where I last hit it to replay the shot? The short answer is Yes! A player may declare any ball unplayable at any time, for any reason, and anywhere on the course other than in a water hazard. The Penalty is One Stroke. 

I found the Ball my opponent is searching for - Do I have to tell him

The Rules of Golf do not specifically require you to help your opponent search for a ball, or to tell them where his ball is, if you find it. So the answer according to the Rules is a qualified NO! However, sportsmanship, golf etiquette and the spirit of the game all say Yes! Unlike many sports, golf is played for the most part, without the supervision of a referee of 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.