Linda–
Embedded ball issues are covered by Rule 25-2.
Is Appendix I part A number 4 there to provide golfers relief "through the green” rather than just in any closely mown area through the green?
There is also the thought that balls not found in mucky conditions as seen in the spring and fall in the Pacific Northwest should be treated as embedded balls and one is entitled to free relief in the immediate vicinity. While I thought this was appropriate until I became increasingly familiar with the Rules, I now argue that if a ball is not found one must abide by Rule 25-1c.
Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Lou
Dear Lou,
Appendix I, Part A, #4 explains that mud and wet conditions might warrant relief for embedded balls through the green, and Part B, #4a explains how to word such a Local Rule.
Rule 25-2 permits the golfer to take relief for an embedded ball only in closely mown areas that are through the green. Examples of closely mown areas are fairways, aprons (short grass surrounding greens), and dew paths (paths mowed to enable golfers to walk through areas of rough, usually between the tee and the fairway).
The Local Rule in Appendix I, Part B, #4 extends the relief to all areas that are “through the green.” (Quick reminder: through the green includes all areas of the course except the tee and green of the hole you are playing plus all hazards.) Players are only permitted relief for a ball that is embedded in the rough when this Local Rule is adopted.
Rule 25-1c allows a golfer free relief when it is virtually certain that his ball has been lost in an abnormal ground condition. Casual water, ground under repair, or holes made by burrowing animals meet the definition of abnormal ground conditions.
I am not familiar with the “mucky” conditions in the Pacific Northwest. You would have to consult a knowledgeable rules official in your region to find out whether these areas are considered to be casual water. If so, then Rule 25-1c is applicable; if not, you have a lost ball and must proceed under stroke and distance [Rule 27-1]. If you do not see the ball embedded in its own pitch mark, you may not arbitrarily declare that you have an embedded ball.
Linda
Copyright © 2012 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
