Hi Linda,
On our 9-hole course we have one lateral water hole. Some of our fellow golfers change balls before teeing because they don't want to lose their “Precious Ball.” I have no problem in changing balls during a round, but after the water hole is completed they go back to their “Precious Ball.” In my opinion, if you change balls you should continue with the same ball that was used to complete the water hole until the ball is either lost or declared unfit.
Thank you,
Regards
Lulu
Dear Lulu,
A player may not change balls during play of a hole unless her ball has become unfit for play (cut, cracked, or out of shape). If the player has forgotten to tee off with a “water ball,” she may not switch balls when she nears the hazard.
Players are permitted to start play of each hole with a different ball. This ball may be one she has used on a prior hole. If the ball is one she previously took it out of play because it was unfit, she may not again declare it unfit for the same reason [Decision 5-3/2].
It’s a good idea to mention to your fellow golfers that you are putting a different ball into play.
Linda
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