Dear Linda
If an immovable obstruction (IO) interferes with the player's stance, he will get relief under Rule 24-2b. However, in the "Exception", it is stated that a player may not take relief if it is clearly unreasonable for him to make a stroke.
If now the player's ball lies in a deep divot hole in the middle of the fairway and an IO interferes with his stance, can we consider that NO relief will be granted because his ball lies in the divot hole?
Thank you Linda for your opinion, which is always highly appreciated!
Lulu
Dear Lulu,
The Exception to Rule 24-2b is referring to an unplayable lie, not a poor lie. For example, let’s say the ball was lying amongst tree roots and was clearly unplayable because of the roots. If there were an immovable obstruction nearby that interfered with the player’s backswing, he would not be entitled to free relief [Decision 24-2b/16].
A ball in a divot hole is in a poor lie, not an unplayable lie. Generally, a player can hit such a ball. If his ball lands in a divot, and an immovable obstruction interferes with his stance or the area of his intended swing, he is entitled to free relief. This is one of those rare situations where the Rules may bring you good fortune.
Linda
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