The rules of golf can be modified locally by any committee. For example, on smaller courses, the managers or the superintendents create them. It is their prerogative to make their course easier or more difficult to play. For the 2018 US Open at Shinnecock Hills, the USGA implemented a local rule that changes how players interact with stones in the numerous natural bunkers. If you’re curious as to why then I recommend you read on.

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