Dear Linda,
Thank you for your quick reply! Just to give you a few more details; The yellow stakes are before the water right in front of the green and the other side (before the green) is staked half yellow, half red. I think the red stakes (used to be yellow) are there in case somebody hits into the water from the next hole (lateral). Normally we just cross the water again, but the other day I played with a lady who wanted to drop on the far side, next to the red stakes and we all love to know what is right. The golf rules are not very clear in this case, have made a lot of research!
We also have an island hole, (the green is on an island). The stakes are yellow in front of the island, but the island itself does not have any stakes. If the ball lands on the island, but rolls into the water, should one cross the water again? That's how we normally play it. Just thought that would be the equivalent to the other hole.
I'm originally from Sweden (married to a South African) and live here since 18 years. Never played golf in Sweden, but started here (in the province of Granada) some 10 years ago. Pity you never played in Sevilla as they have some of the nicest golf courses in Spain. Maybe you will go there one day?
Lulu
Dear Lulu,
It is permissible to define part of a water hazard as a water hazard in the play of one hole and as a lateral water hazard in the play of another hole (Decision 33-2a/7). If this is a permanent designation, then it would probably be best if it were printed on the scorecard.
With regard to your island green, the Committee has several options. If they mark the side of the hazard that abuts the green with yellow stakes, you must return to the tee to hit your next shot; if they mark it with red stakes, you would have the additional option under Rule 26-1c of dropping within two club-lengths and no closer to the hole; if they mark it with red stakes and it is not possible to drop the ball without dropping it nearer to the hole, they can establish one or more dropping zones. Since there is no indication of how the hazard should be treated if you hit the green and roll back into the water, then you are proceeding correctly by returning to the tee to hit your next shot.
You are making it sound very tempting to play golf in Sevilla. Perhaps I will return one day.
Linda
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