After two months of the new rules of golf being in effect, the golfing world has seen some controversy. It is interesting to see what players and fans are choosing to worry about, but that is always the case when major change happens within a community. Golf is no different. Unfortunately, we are still snow bound in the northern climes so it has not affected us that much. But, the potential storm is just on the horizon.
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Was the Haotong Li Penalty Under Rule 10.2b(4) Correct?
A great controversy occurred during the Dubai Classic that does not want to leave the news cycle. If you did not see it, basically a professional golfer was assessed a two-stroke penalty for his caddie still being in his line as he started to set up for his putt. The penalty dropped Haotong Li from T3 to T12 and cost the player a fair bit of money (about €100,000 ($150k Cdn – $114k USD). However, that is the least of my concerns because if a golfer breaks the rules, they should be penalized. This is where the controversy stems – the interpretation of the new rule 10.2b(4). Continue reading
Rule 16.3 – Embedded Ball
The third instalment of the new 2019 rules focuses on an embedded ball. This rule is often misunderstood and as a result, the golf governing bodies have decided tried to simplify the Rule 16.3 for all levels of players. I understand the reasoning for the change, but do not necessarily agree that it meets their intent. Continue reading
New Golf Rule 7.2 – Ball Moved During Search
Golf’s governing bodies change of accidentally moving your ball during a search is a spot on. Their approach takes the “fluke” or “inadvertent” interference out of the game and I for one agree with this rule change. I believe golf penalty strokes should be awarded for intent as much as a poor stroke and removing the penalty for accidentally touching or moving your golf ball just makes sense Continue reading
The Unofficial 2019 New Rules Test
The new rules are almost upon us and I came across a video that will see if you are ready for the new changes. It is, of course, unofficial but lots of fun. So, take a look at this 30 second video and see how many of the 2016 rules are broken. I am interested to hear what you have to say. I will post the your answers after Christmas. Continue reading
The Grateful Golfer 