Rules Notes from Jan

July 23, 2008

Hello Fellow ABWGC Golfers, Summer is in full swing with bright, sunny days and not a hint of rain. (What’s that?) For those of you have been gone on vacations, welcome back. Those who are preparing for a getaway have a safe trip and, if taking the sticks along, play well. I gave some thought as to what I should talk about in this edition. A few things came to mind that I’ve observed recently-the drop zone, things to remember on the green and pace of play. Let’s get started.

The drop zone. This area is bigger than you think. Anytime you take a drop, it’s important to understand that you can play your next shot from an area, not just one precise spot. This area is determined by the type of drop you have to take.

For example, your tee shot goes into the lateral water hazard (red stakes) on # 13. First, you determine where your ball crossed the hazard. Then, using any club to measure the distance, drop and play your next shot within two club lengths of that spot, keeping the ball no closer to the hole than the point where it crossed the hazard.

With most drops, this procedure creates a drop zone that is shaped like a pie wedge. If your ball ends up closer to the hole, re-drop with no penalty. (excerpt Golf Digest May 2007)

Let’s Go Green! Here are a few things to remember when you on the green. If you hit your ball with a practice putting stroke, it’s a one stroke penalty; replace the ball to its original position.

For those with steady hands, you may hold the flagstick with one hand and hole the putt with the other.

Want to play a shot like Minnesota Fats? Sorry but that pool-cue putt is illegal. (I don’t think any of us can get down that low to even attempt that one!)

If you hit the flagstick with a putt attempted from on the putting surface, whether the stick is in the hole or on the ground, it’s two stroke penalty.

Pace of Play and Etiquette. Waiting to play a shot on the course is like being put on hold on the phone…one minute can seem like an eternity. Here @ Admiral Baker we do have some advantages to help speed up play, we are familiar with the course, carts have GPS and the rough isn’t shin high. Here are some suggestions to help quicken the pace …

Be efficient with your pre-shot routine

Take only one practice swing

Be ready to play when it’s your turn (play "ready golf")

Leave your clubs (and cart) on the side of the green towards the next tee.

If riding, take several clubs with you to your ball.

Leave putting green promptly after holing out. Get the scores @ the next tee.

Play without delay and keep up with the group in front of you.

Invite faster players to play through especially if you are a hole or more behind.

Replace the flagstick carefully in an upright position.

If we all speed up a minute or two every hole we can get to lunch (and that glass of wine or iced tea) that much quicker! Thanks for listening. Keep it in the short grass. Jan